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.
đź›’ 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 – Kroger gift card for items over $10 – ID required |
WIC Purchases | No refunds; exchange for the exact same item is allowed |
Baby Formula | Can only be returned 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 |
đź§ľ 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? You’ll get cash.
- Paid with a gift card? You’ll get a gift card refund.
đź•’ 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.
So even if you tossed your receipt, you still have a chance to get something back—either cash or store credit.
đź‘¶ 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:
- Returns are only allowed with a receipt.
- If you paid using WIC, you cannot return the formula due to USDA rules.
- You can still do an exchange for the same item, if needed.
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.
🛍 Returning Online or Delivery Orders
If you ordered from Kroger online or had groceries delivered, you can still get a refund.
Two ways to do it:
- 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.
Online orders are covered under Kroger’s Fresh Guarantee. If something arrived damaged or was missing, they want to fix it.
🏬 Where Do I Return My Items?
You should return your items to the customer service desk at your local Kroger store.
Don’t forget to bring:
- The item you want to return
- Your receipt, if you have it
- Your Shopper’s Card
- Photo ID (if no receipt)
Online purchases don’t have to be mailed back. You can handle everything through your account or customer service.
⚠️ 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.
Common Questions
âś… 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.