It's one of the busiest days of the year for retailers. But the order of the day on this day after Christmas is returns, refunds and exchanges, and as with anything, there are ways to make it easer for all concerned. "It's very important to keep receipts. If you're purchasing a gift, make certain that you include a gift receipt with that," says Rand Hoth with the Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin. "It's always important to hold onto packaging and the tags that may have come with a purchase."
Hoth also reminds us that a smile and patience will go a long way today. "It makes a big difference. When you're talking with a store or you're standing in line at a service counter, be polite, be firm. But we also want everybody to remember that there are two sides to the equation when it comes to happy returns."
Hoth says it's always a good idea to be clear on return, refund and exchange policies at the time of purchase. And beware the "restocking fee," some stores may charge up to fifteen percent the cost of an item. Buying on-line? You may have as little as thirty days to seek a refund and get an authorized return.
