Christmas is a time for reflection and giving, but it’s also about getting! Sometimes, unfortunately, you just don’t get what you want. Whether it’s because you were on the naughty list, a new BMW was out of your boyfriends price range, or it’s a duplicate gift, chances are a lot of you will be returning gifts come January 1st. Whether you bought it or got it, here are a few tips on successfully returning products purchased on the Web.
Before Purchasing, Check the Return Policy
Granted, this doesn’t apply if it is a gift you received but, before doing any online shopping, always check the merchant’s return policy. Most people don’t read the terms and conditions mumbo jumbo before clicking “agree” on everyday websites – that is something we are all guilty of – but this is one of those times you actually do want to read the fine print. By law, merchants must accept returns of items misrepresented or defective. But other than that, most policies vary by company. Make sure you understand the store’s regular return policy and its holiday sales return policy, especially if they differ.
Instructions: What to Do and What You’ll Need
Gather everything that came with the purchase, including the product’s packing slip and its original packaging if possible. Email or call the online merchant’s customer service department to ask for any special instructions they may have on returning products and when you should expect a refund. Ask for a return merchandise authorization number and make sure to include it in the package. Besides just writing it on the packing slip you include in the box, write your RMA number in large, legible numbers on the outside of the package to make sure it can’t be missed.
Check Your Credit Card Statements
During the holiday season, these things can take time. The merchant should have an expected time frame for returns posted on its website, but if not then check with customer service. Request that you be notified when your shipment arrives, and regularly check your credit card statements to see if the payment has been refunded. Because of the increase of online shopping during this season, be aware of unauthorized charges or charges that are higher than expected showing up on your card statements. Often scammers get a hold of personal information and sneak past the owner by charging multiple mid-priced charges instead of outrageously high charges. An identity-theft service, such as Lifelock.com, can help you monitor your online presence and will alert you if there’s ever anything suspicious.You can also follow these companies on Facebook and Twitter to stay updated and informed on online shopping safety and tips.
Watch Out for Phishing Scams
The ease of shopping online means we are doing more of it – but it also means that keeping track of purchases can be more difficult. Manage your purchases and be aware of what has been ordered, what is on the way and what has been received. This is important because when your inbox gets overloaded with emails confirming your purchase, you’ll know which ones are legitimate and which ones aren’t. Often scammers will send phishing emails that appear to look like a confirmation of an order but are really just trying to get you to click on a bad link. Keeping track of purchases will help you avoid this problem. On the other hand, look out for legitimate emails about problems with your order or package delivery delay, which sometimes land in junk mail folders.