Kroger Return Policy: Simple Guide for Everyday Shoppers
Kroger return policy made simple. Get refunds, exchanges & online returns made easy. Read before your next visit!

Kroger is one of the largest grocery store chains in the U.S., known for its wide range of products and everyday low prices.
Shopping at Kroger is easy. But what if you bought something you don’t need or it didn’t turn out the way you hoped? Don’t worry! Kroger has a friendly return policy that helps you get a refund or exchange, fast and easy.
Let’s go over everything you need to know.
Quick Overview of Kroger Return Policy
Return Topic | What You Need to Know |
---|---|
Return Time Limit | 30 days from purchase |
With Receipt | Full refund to original payment method |
Without Receipt | – Cash for items under $10 – Over $10 will get Kroger Co. Family of Stores Merchandise Gift Card – ID is required |
WIC Purchases | No refunds; exchange for the exact same item is allowed |
Baby Formula | Can only be returned/exchanged with a receipt |
Alcohol/Tobacco | Returns allowed only if local/state law permits |
Online/Delivery Orders | Request refund through Purchase History or by calling 1-800-KROGERS |
Where to Return | Go to your local store’s customer service desk |
Note: Please note, for some special items (like opened perishables or health/safety products), returns may not be allowed even within the 30-day window. Always check with your local store if you have questions about specific products.
How Returns Work With a Receipt
If you kept your paper or digital receipt, returning your item is very easy.
Here’s what happens:
- Go to the customer service desk at your local Kroger store.
- Bring the item, your receipt, and Shopper’s Card (if used).
- You will get your money back in the same way you paid:
- Paid with a credit card? You’ll get it back to that card.
- Paid with cash? You’ll get cash.
- Paid with check? Your refund may be processed as cash for your convenience.
- Paid with a gift card? You’ll get a gift card refund.
Remember: You must return the item within 30 days of buying it.

Don’t Have a Receipt? You Can Still Return It
Yes! Kroger lets you return items even without a receipt.
Here’s how it works:
- If the item costs less than $10, you’ll get cash back.
- If the item costs $10 or more, you’ll get a Kroger Merchandise Gift Card.
- You must show a valid photo ID (like a driver’s license or state ID).
- Kroger may keep a record of your return.
- Your return may be limited to a certain number per year for security reasons. Returns without a receipt are tracked in the system.
What About WIC or Baby Formula Purchases?
Some items have special rules.
WIC Purchases:
- No refunds are allowed for items bought using WIC (Women, Infants, and Children benefits).
- But you can exchange them for the exact same item if it was damaged or incorrect.
Baby Formula:
- Return/Exchange: Only with a receipt, and only if not purchased with WIC.
- WIC Purchases: If you paid using WIC, you cannot return the formula due to USDA rules. But can be exchanged for the exact same item if it is damaged or incorrect.
- Opened/Used: Typically not returnable or exchangeable, except for defective or damaged sealed items.
Always keep your receipt when buying baby items just in case!
Can I Return Alcohol or Tobacco?
Yes, but it depends on where you live.
Kroger follows local and state laws for alcohol and tobacco returns. Some states allow it, others don’t. So:
- If your state allows returns, you can return these items.
- If your state does not allow it, Kroger will follow the law and may say no.
To be sure, check with your local Kroger store before trying to return these items. Usually, opened alcohol and tobacco products are almost always non-returnable for safety and legal reasons.
Returning Online or Delivery Orders
If you ordered from Kroger online or had groceries delivered, you can still get a refund.
You have three main ways to return your items:
- Through your Kroger account:
- Go to your Purchase History on the Kroger website or app.
- Find the item.
- Click “Request a Refund.”
- Call customer service:
- Dial 1-800-KROGERS (1-800-576-4377)
- Customer care will help with your return.
- In person at your local store:
- Bring the item and your proof of purchase (order confirmation or receipt) to the customer service desk at any Kroger family store.
- The store will process your refund or exchange
- For online or delivery returns, refunds may take 5–10 business days to process after the item is received by Kroger.
Note for Damaged or Missing Items:
Online orders are covered under Kroger’s Fresh Guarantee. If something arrived damaged or was missing, they want to fix it. Contact customer service or use your account to report the issue for immediate assistance.
Where Do I Return My Items?
You should return your items to the customer service desk at your local Kroger store. This applies to most purchases, including those made online or through delivery that you wish to return in person.
What to Bring:
- The item you want to return
- Your receipt (paper or digital), if you have it
- Your Shopper’s Card (if you used it for the purchase)
- A valid photo ID (if you do not have a receipt)
For Online or Delivery Orders:
You can also return online or delivery purchases at your local Kroger store’s customer service desk. Just bring the item and your proof of purchase (such as your order confirmation or receipt).
Remember:
Always check with your local store if you have questions about specific items or the return process.
Important Tips to Remember
- Always keep your receipt for 30 days, just in case you want to return something.
- Check your local store’s rules, especially for alcohol or tobacco.
- Bring a valid photo ID if you’re returning without a receipt.
- Returns without a receipt might be tracked, so don’t abuse the system.
Certainly! Here’s a clear, well-organized section you can use in your article:
How to Contact Kroger for Help
If you need assistance with your order, returns, or any other questions, Kroger offers several ways to get in touch:
Online Chat
You can chat with a Kroger representative directly on their website.
How to start:
- Look for the “Launch Chat” or “Chat with us online” option on the Kroger website or app.
- Click to begin your chat session and get help from a customer service agent.
For any issues or concerns, you can send an email by filling out the form on Kroger’s Customer Comments page.
How to do it:
- Go to the Kroger website and find the “Customer Comments” or “Contact Us” page.
- Fill out the form with your details and question.
- Submit the form, and a Kroger representative will reply as soon as possible.
Pharmacy and Health Services
For help with the Pharmacy or The Little Clinic, visit the dedicated Contact Information page on the Kroger website for assistance.
Call Us
If your issue is more complex or you prefer to speak with someone directly, you can call Kroger’s customer service.
- Phone Number: 1-800-KRO-GERS (1-800-576-4377)
- Hours of Operation:
- Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – Midnight, EST
- Saturday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:30 PM, EST
Common Questions
Final Thoughts
Kroger’s return policy is simple and helpful. If you keep your receipt and return items within 30 days, you’ll have no trouble getting your money back. Even without a receipt, Kroger will work with you.
Always keep your receipts, bring your ID, and ask for help at the customer service desk if you’re unsure.
Please Note: Return policies can change over time. While this article aims to provide accurate information based on the policy at the time of writing, it’s always a good idea to double-check the return policy on official Kroger’s website for the most up-to-date return policy details. For any specific questions or situations not covered here, the official website or contacting Kroger’s Customer Service directly is the best resource.