Big Lots Return Policy: Simplified

Big Lots is a treasure trove of deals, offering everything from cozy furniture to tasty snacks and fun toys. But what if that comfy armchair doesn’t quite fit in your living room, or the game you bought is missing a piece? Don’t worry! Big Lots return policy is designed to make things right. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about returning items to Big Lots, so you can shop with confidence.

Understanding the Return Policy

Big Lots wants you to be happy with your purchases. That’s why they offer a 30-day return window for most items. To make a return, there are a few key things to keep in mind:  

• Time Frame: You have 30 days from the date of purchase to return your item.
• Original Condition: It’s super important to return items in the same condition they were in when you bought them. This means keeping all the original packaging, accessories, and instructions. Think of it like borrowing a friend’s game – you’d want to return it with all the pieces and in the original box, right?  
• Receipt: Hang on to your receipt! It’s the best way to ensure a smooth and quick return process.  
• Return Monitoring: Big Lots uses a special service to keep track of returns. This helps them make sure everyone is treated fairly and prevents people from taking advantage of the return policy.  
• Verification: Big Lots wants to make sure returns are legitimate, so they might ask to see your driver’s license or another form of ID.  
• Return Approval: It’s important to remember that all returns are ultimately approved by Big Lots. They want to be fair, but they also need to protect their business.  

What Can You Return?

Big Lots accepts returns on a wide variety of items, making it easy to shop without worry. While a comprehensive list isn’t available, here are some examples of typically returnable items:

• Furniture: That comfy couch, a stylish coffee table, or a new bed frame – if it doesn’t work out, you can usually bring it back.
• Home Décor: Spruce up your space with rugs, curtains, lamps, and more, knowing you can return them if you change your mind.
• Clothing: Found a shirt that doesn’t fit quite right? No problem, Big Lots likely accepts returns on clothing.
• Toys: From action figures to board games, you can usually return toys if they aren’t quite the right fit.
• Food: Sometimes those tempting snacks don’t live up to expectations. In many cases, you can return unopened food items to Big Lots.

To be absolutely sure an item is returnable, it’s always a good idea to check with customer service or review the return information on your receipt.

What Can’t You Return?

While Big Lots has a flexible return policy, there are a few exceptions to keep in mind:

• Mattresses: Due to hygiene reasons, mattresses usually can’t be returned.
• Gift Cards: Gift cards are generally non-returnable.
• Damaged or Missing Parts: If an item is damaged or missing parts when you buy it, it’s best to address it right away, as it might not be eligible for a standard return later.
• Used Items: Items that have been used may not be eligible for return.
• Items from Closing Stores: If you buy something from a Big Lots store that’s closing down, pay close attention to your receipt. It will likely say “All Sales Final,” meaning you can’t return the item. This is because closing stores often have special sales and deals.  

To make it easier to understand, here’s a table summarizing the different scenarios:

How to Return Items

There are two ways to return items:

1. In-Store Returns

• Bring the item to any Big Lots store.
• Include:
  • Receipt
  • Original packaging
  • Any parts or accessories
• If you used a credit card or Big Rewards account, staff can help locate your receipt within 30 days.
• No Receipt? You’ll receive a refund in the form of a merchandise credit (gift card).

2. Mail Returns

• Log in to your Big Lots account and view your order history.

• Select the order and click Return Item.
• Follow the instructions provided to ship the item back.
• Exchanges can only be made in-store.

Rules and Restrictions

Big Lots has some specific rules for returns:

• After 30 days, refunds are issued as merchandise credit (gift card).
• Returns without a receipt are refunded at 80% of the current selling price as merchandise credit.
• Shipping and handling fees are usually non-refundable.
• If you return a gift, the refund is issued as a merchandise credit.
• Open airbeds can only be exchanged, not returned.
• A photo might be required for some returns.
• Items bought in-store cannot be returned by mail.

Special Situations

Damaged, Defective, or Incorrect Items

If you receive an item that is damaged, defective, or not what you ordered:

• Return it for a refund or exchange.
• Your shipping charges will also be refunded.

Progressive Leasing Items

• Items bought through Progressive Leasing are not covered under the standard return policy.
• Check your Leasing Agreement or contact Progressive Leasing at 877-898-1970 for return details.

Special Order Items

• Additional rules apply for items purchased through the Special Order Program.
• Check your Special Order Terms & Conditions for more information.

Big Delivery Items

• If you can’t return a delivered item to a store, contact Big Lots Customer Care at 1-866-BIG-LOTS (244-5687).
• Additional fees may apply.

Understanding the Refund Process

Big Lots aims to make refunds as easy as possible. Here’s what you can expect:

• Within 30 Days with Receipt: If you return an item within 30 days of purchase and have your receipt, you’ll receive a refund in the original form of payment. This means if you paid with cash, you’ll get cash back. If you used a credit card, the refund will be credited back to your card.  
• After 30 Days or Without a Receipt: If you return an item after 30 days or don’t have your receipt, you’ll receive a merchandise credit. This is like a gift card that you can use to buy other great things at Big Lots. The merchandise credit will be for the current selling price of the item minus 20%.  
• Online Returns: For items purchased online, it’s important to note that shipping and handling fees might not be refundable.  

Price Adjustments

Big Lots offers a Price Promise for adjustments. Refer to their Price Promise page for details.

What Customers Are Saying

Customer feedback on the Big Lots return policy is mixed. Some shoppers have reported positive experiences, finding the process easy and the staff helpful. Others have encountered challenges, particularly when returning items without a receipt or from closing stores. Some customers have expressed concern about the potential 20% deduction for returns without a receipt.  

It’s important to remember that individual experiences can vary, and Big Lots strives to handle returns fairly and efficiently.

Contacting Big Lots

If you have questions or need assistance:

• Customer Care: 1-866-BIG-LOTS (244-5687)
  • Hours: Mon-Fri 9 AM – 7 PM ET; Weekends 9 AM – 5 PM ET
• Live Chat: Available on their website.
• Contact Form: Submit a request

If you have any more questions about the returns, you can visit Big Lots return policy on their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about the Big Lots return policy:

Shop Smart, Return Easy

The Big Lots return policy is designed to provide a safety net for shoppers, allowing you to explore their great deals with peace of mind. By understanding the policy and following these simple tips, you can ensure a hassle-free return experience if needed.

Remember to keep your receipts, original packaging, and be kind to the customer service team – they’re there to help!