Lowe’s Return Policy Explained: Your Complete Guide (Updated 2025)

Lowe’s is a popular home improvement store that offers everything from power tools to patio plants. Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen or buying a lawn mower, it’s good to know what to do if something doesn’t work out. This guide will walk you through Lowes return policy in simple, clear language, so you can shop (and return) with confidence.

Lowe’s Return Policy Overview

Here’s a simple table to show you the basics of Lowe’s return policy at a glance:

The Basics of Lowe’s Return Policy

Lowe’s allows you to return most new, unused items within 90 days of purchase. You must have a valid proof of purchase, such as:

• A paper or digital receipt
• Order number
• Payment card or digital wallet used
• Phone number linked to the order
• MyLowe’s or Pro Rewards account

Without proof of purchase, Lowe’s won’t accept your return.

How Refunds Work

Here’s how Lowe’s processes your refund based on how you paid:

• Cash or check (within 3 days): In-store credit
• Cash or check (after 3 days): Cash or store credit (varies by verification)
• Cash > $1,000: Refunded via mailed check
• Scheduled delivery refunds: Refund voucher sent by email, redeemable in-store with ID
• Gift cards or store credits: Refunded as in-store credit
• Lowe’s Pay: Refund goes to financing provider (not in cash or store credit)
• MyLowe’s Money™: Returned to your digital wallet

Funds usually show up in your account within 7–10 days.

Special Return Windows You Need to Know

Lowe’s has four return windows depending on the item: 48 hours, 30 days, 90 days, and 365 days.

48-Hour Returns

Some items must be returned within 48 hours of pickup or delivery:

• Major appliances (fridges, washers, ovens, etc.)
• Air conditioners and evaporative coolers
• Paint sprayers
• Outdoor power equipment (generators, chainsaws, pressure washers, etc.)
• Motorized vehicles (golf carts, go-karts, utility vehicles—must include title if applicable)

Exceptions: If the item is unopened and factory sealed, you may return it within 30 days. Certain Lowe’s credit accounts (like LCA, MLPRC, LBR) also allow 30 days—but outdoor power equipment is excluded from this extension.

30-Day Returns

These items must be returned within 30 days of purchase:

• Liquid paint
• TVs and electronics
• Water heaters
• Outdoor equipment like mowers, blowers, trimmers, augers, and tillers
  (Excludes CRAFTSMAN® battery/electric tools—they have a 90-day window)

90-Day Returns

Items eligible for the standard 90-day return window include:

• Most new, unused merchandise
• Plants, except trees, shrubs, and perennials
• CRAFTSMAN® outdoor power equipment (corded and cordless)

365-Day Returns

You can return these items up to 1 year after purchase:

• Lowe’s Business Rewards (LBR)
• Trees, shrubs, and perennials (with receipt)
• Items bought with these accounts:
• Lowe’s Commercial Account (LCA)
• Lowe’s Business Advantage (LBA)
• MyLowe’s Rewards Credit Card (MLRCC)

What You Can’t Return

Some items are always nonreturnable, even if you have a receipt:

• Labor and installation charges
• Delivery and shipping fees (unless Lowe’s made an error)
• Gift cards (including Lowe’s, third-party, Visa®, Mastercard®)
• Refund or merchandise cards
• Safety masks or facial coverings
• Highway trailers, whole-house generators
• Paint samples
• As-is items from clearance or outlet sales
• Any used product with biohazardous exposure (like bodily fluids)

Special Order & Restocking Fees

If you order a Special Order Configured Product and cancel or return it after 72 hours, expect a 20% restocking fee. This fee is taxed in some states and applies to installed products unless your contract says otherwise.

Return Policy for Plants

• Trees, shrubs, and perennials: 365-day return with receipt
• All other plants: 90-day standard return window

Outlet Store Return Policy

Lowe’s Outlet items are usually final sale. But there’s a small exception:

Permitted Outlet Returns:

• Non-functional major appliances with mechanical or electrical damage
• Must be returned within 48 hours
• Must go back to the same Outlet location

You cannot return Outlet items to regular Lowe’s stores, and returns for cosmetic damage or size issues are not accepted.

How to Return an Item

Lowe’s offers two ways to return an item:

1. In-Store Returns

• Bring your item to any Lowe’s store.
• Provide proof of purchase (receipt, order number, payment card, or MyLowe’s account).
• Refunds are processed to the original payment method.

2. By Mail (For Online Orders)

1. Go to your Lowe’s online account order history page to start your return.
2. Select the item you want to return
3. Print the FedEx return label provided
4. Drop off the package at any FedEx location

No Returns Without Proof of Purchase

Lowe’s requires a valid proof of purchase to process any return. Without it, they won’t accept the item even if it’s brand new.

Accepted forms of proof include:

• Original receipt (paper or electronic)
• Order number
• Credit or debit card used for the purchase
• Phone number tied to the order
• MyLowe’s Rewards or Pro Rewards account

Tip: If you’re not sure whether your purchase can be located, bring any payment details you used (card, email confirmation, etc.) to help store associates look it up.

Exchanges

You can exchange most items in-store. Just bring both the original and the new item to the customer service desk.

Returning Defective Items

If your item turns out to be defective (not due to shipping damage), Lowe’s can help set up a factory-certified repair or service.

Here’s what to do:

1. Call Lowe’s Service Advantage at 1-888-77-LOWES (56937).
2. A technician will evaluate the issue and may schedule a repair appointment at your home.
3. If the defect is covered under the manufacturer’s warranty, the repair is done at no cost to you.
4. If it’s not covered, repair may still be available, but you’ll have to pay out of pocket.

Want to check a warranty yourself? You can often find details on the manufacturer’s website. For Kobalt® tools, visit: Lowes.com/kobaltguarantee

Other Important Things to Know

Here are a few extra details from Lowe’s return policy that don’t fit neatly into the main categories—but are still good to know:

Gift Cards

If your Lowe’s gift card is lost or stolen, it can only be replaced if you have the original receipt. Lowe’s will only refund the remaining balance.

APO/FPO Addresses

Items shipped to Army Post Office (APO) or Fleet Post Office (FPO) addresses aren’t eligible for free return pickups. You’ll need to arrange the return yourself.

Third-Party Sellers

If you buy something that’s sold and shipped by a third-party seller through Lowe’s (like on their online marketplace), the same return guidelines apply as if you bought it directly from Lowe’s.

Legal Language (Exclusive Remedies)

The policy also notes that the return options listed are your exclusive remedies. Lowe’s excludes other warranties—express or implied, including ones about merchantability or fitness for a specific use. That said, your legal rights may vary depending on your state.

How to Contact Lowe’s for Help

• Customer Care: 1-800-445-6937
• Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM ET, 7 days a week
• Order Status or Start a Return: Check Here
• More on Return Policy: Visit Policy Page

Common Questions

Pro Shopper Tips for Smooth Returns

Here are a few smart tricks:

1. Snap a pic of your receipt—just in case the paper one fades.
2. Open and inspect delivered items right away. Some only have 48 hours for return.
3. Use your Lowe’s online account so returns are faster—especially for big items.
4. Returning a plant? Keep the plant tag and receipt together. Trust me.
5. Outlet item? Triple-check everything in-store. You likely won’t get another shot.

Final Thoughts

Lowe’s has a fairly generous return policy, but it pays to know the exceptions—especially for appliances, electronics, and special orders. Keep your receipt, know your return windows, and act fast if something isn’t right. Whether you’re replanting a garden or returning a range, this guide should help you do it with ease.

Happy shopping—and smart returning!

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 Lowe’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 Lowe’s Customer Service directly is the best resource.