Lowes Return Policy: Simplified
Wondering about Lowes return policy? Get a complete breakdown of return windows, exceptions, refunds, and more in this easy-to-read guide!

Lowes has a return policy designed to make shopping worry-free. Whether you bought a tool, appliance, or home improvement item, knowing the return rules can save you time and hassle. This article will break down everything you need to know about Lowes return policy.
Lowe’s Return Policy Overview
Category | Return Window | Refund Method | Exceptions |
---|---|---|---|
Most Items | 90 days | Original payment method | See exceptions below |
Lowe’s Commercial & Business Accounts | 365 days | Original payment method | Some exclusions apply |
Major Appliances | 48 hours | Original payment method | Must be defective upon delivery |
Outdoor Power Equipment | 30 days | Original payment method | Excludes CRAFTSMAN battery & electric items (90-day policy) |
Liquid Paint | 30 days | Original payment method | |
TVs & Electronics | 30 days | Original payment method | |
Utility Vehicles, Golf Carts, Go-Karts, Motorized Bikes | 48 hours | Original payment method | Must return to original purchase location with all paperwork |
Air Conditioners & Evaporative Coolers | 48 hours | Original payment method | |
Paint Sprayers | 48 hours | Original payment method | |
CRAFTSMAN Battery & Electric Outdoor Power Equipment | 90 days | Original payment method | |
Water Heaters | 30 days | Original payment method | |
Outdoor Power Equipment | 30 days | Original payment method | Includes mowers, trimmers, edgers, blowers, snow throwers, tillers, chippers, subcompact tractors, etc. |
Plants | 1 year (trees, shrubs, perennials) | Original payment method | Other plants: 90 days |
Non-Returnable Items | No returns | N/A | See below for details |
Gift Cards | No returns | N/A | Lost/stolen cards replaced only with receipt |
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
- Start a return online through Lowe’s website.
- If eligible, Lowe’s will provide a FedEx return label.
- Drop the package at any FedEx location.
No Returns Without Proof of Purchase
Lowe’s requires a valid proof of purchase. Acceptable proof includes:
- Original receipt (paper or electronic)
- Order number
- Credit/debit card used for purchase
- Phone number linked to the order
- MyLowe’s Rewards or Pro Rewards account
Without proof of purchase, Lowe’s will not accept returns.

Exceptions & Special Return Rules
1. Lowe’s Outlet Store Purchases
- All sales are final, except for defective major appliances.
- Defective major appliances must be returned within 48 hours.
- Returns must be made to the same Outlet location.
2. Non-Returnable Items
The following items cannot be returned:
- Labor and installation services
- Delivery and shipping fees (unless due to Lowe’s error)
- In-store credits, refund cards, merchandise cards
- Any type of gift card (Lowe’s, Visa, Mastercard, third-party)
- Safety masks and face coverings
- Highway trailers
- As-is merchandise
- Paint samples
- Items that have been used and could pose a biohazard risk
3. Special Order Products
- Special order items canceled after 72 hours are subject to a 20% restocking fee.
4. Holiday Items
- Christmas & Halloween items must be returned before the holiday.
- Items bought after the holiday are final sales.
5. Defective Items
- For defective items, Lowe’s offers repairs under the manufacturer’s warranty.
- Call Lowe’s Service Advantage at 1-888-77-LOWES (56937) for repairs.
Lowe’s Refund Policy
- Refunds go to the original payment method.
- If you paid by check, refunds within 3 days are issued as store credit.
- Cash refunds over $1,000 are issued as a mailed check.
- Gift card purchases are refunded as store credit.
- Lowe’s Pay purchases are credited back to the financing institution.
- Refunds typically process within 7-10 days.
If you have any more questions about the returns, you can visit Lowes return policy on their website.
FAQs
Summary
Lowes return policy is flexible, but knowing the rules will help you avoid surprises. Keep your receipt, check for exceptions, and return items within the right timeframe.
If you have questions, call Lowe’s customer service at 1-800-445-6937 for assistance.