Michaels Return Policy: Simplified

Michaels is one of the largest arts and crafts retailers in North America, known for everything from DIY supplies to home décor. If something you bought didn’t work out, returning it is simple—once you know the rules.

This guide breaks down Michaels return policy in clear steps so you can avoid surprises and get your refund quickly.

Michaels Return Policy Overview

Returning Items to Michaels

Michaels allows returns for most items within 60 days of purchase. The items must be new, unused, and in original packaging.

How to Return an Item

• In-Store Return: Bring the item to any Michaels store along with the receipt.
• Online Return: Log in to your Michaels.com account, find your order, and start a return request.

If you don’t have a receipt, Michaels will try to find your purchase in their system. If they can’t, they may offer a store credit instead of a refund.

How to Return Items Bought on Michaels.com

If you bought something from Michaels.com, you can return it in a store or online. Here’s how to return online purchases:

1. Log into your account at Michaels.com and go to “Order History.”
2. Find the order with the item you want to return and click “View Details.”
3. Under the “Need Help?” box, select the Return button.
4. Check the boxes next to the items you want to return.
5. Choose the Return Reason and Condition of the items.
6. Add any notes or photos if necessary.
7. Submit the return, and you’ll get instructions on next steps, including the refund process.
8. Click “View Return Details” to track your return order.

You can also return online orders in-store, except for items from third-party sellers.

How to Return an Online Purchase In-Store

If you bought something online and prefer to return it in person, you can visit any Michaels store to make the return. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Pack Your Item: Make sure the item is in its original packaging, new, and unused.
2. Bring Your Receipt: Take the packing slip that came with your online order or a printed copy of your order confirmation email. This will make the return process faster.
3. Go to a Michaels Store: Visit any Michaels location. Use the store locator to find a store near you.
4. Head to Customer Service: Once you’re in the store, go to the Customer Service counter.
5. Present Your Item and Receipt: Give the item and your receipt (packing slip or order confirmation) to the Michaels team member.
6. Get Your Refund: Your refund will be processed in the same form of payment you used for the original purchase.

How to Return In-Store Purchases

If you bought an item from a Michaels store, you can return it to any Michaels location. Here’s what you need to know:

With Receipt

• Return in-store within 60 days.
• Refund is issued to your original payment method.
• Debit card purchases = refunded as cash.
• Gift card or gift receipt = refunded on a Store Return Card.
• Check purchases need 10 days to clear before a refund.
• PayPal purchases = refunded as cash (up to $500).

Without Receipt

• You’ll need to show a valid photo ID:
  • Driver’s License (U.S., Canada, Mexico)
  • U.S. State ID
  • Passport
  • Canadian Provincial ID
  • U.S. Military ID
• Michaels will try to look up your receipt if you used a credit/debit card or Rewards number.
• If they can’t find it, you’ll get a Store Return Card at the lowest price sold in the past 90 days.

Special Return Cases

MichaelsPro Orders

• You have 60 days to return.
• Must request a Return Authorization first.
• Call 1-833-MIKEPRO (645-3776).
• Restocking fees may apply.

Affirm Purchases

• If you still have the virtual card in your wallet, the refund will go there.
• If not, they can refund a different debit/credit card.
• No other card? Ask for a manager—they’ll try to help.

Third-Party Marketplace and MakerPlace Returns

• These items can’t be returned in-store.
• Start the return from your account:
  • Go to Orders > Create Return.
• You’ll get a pre-paid UPS label (for Marketplace).
• For MakerPlace:
  • Wait for the seller to approve the return.
  • You are responsible for return shipping.
• Each seller may have a different return policy, which was shown during checkout.

What You Can’t Return (Important Exceptions)

Some products have extra rules or are non-returnable:

• Cricut® items: Only returnable if unopened and with a receipt.
• Glowforge® machines and filters:
  • Return only within 14 days and sealed.
  • Can’t return in-store—must contact customer service.
  • For opened items or defects, contact Glowforge directly at 1-855-338-2122 or Glowforge Help
• Opened trading cards: Not returnable.
• Gift cards and prepaid cards: Not returnable unless required by law.
• Custom Framing: Can be reworked at the same store within 14 days.
• Classes: Refundable only before the class begins.
• Cut fabric: Final sale.
• Clearance items: Final sale, sold AS IS.
• Party reservations: Cancellable for a refund only 7+ days before the date.

How Refunds Work at Michaels

When you return an item to Michaels, your refund will usually go back to the original payment method—but there are a few exceptions to keep in mind.

Refund Details

• Credit card purchases: Refunded to your card.
• Debit card purchases: Refunded as cash.
• Gift card or gift receipt purchases: Refunded to a Store Return Card.
• Check purchases:
  • If returned within 10 days, refund will be on a Store Return Card.
  • After 10 days, you can get a regular refund to your original payment method.
• PayPal (online orders):
  • In-store returns = refunded in cash (up to $500).
  • Over $500? Contact customer care for help.

Other Important Refund Notes

• You’ll be refunded sales tax based on the items being returned.
• Shipping and handling fees may be deducted from your refund unless the return was due to Michaels’ error.
• Refund timing and steps may vary slightly depending on whether you’re returning online or in-store.

After submitting a return online, you’ll get an update with refund timing in your account.

No Exchange Option

Michaels does not offer exchanges. If you want something else, just:

1. Return the item.
2. Place a new order.

Easy enough, but good to know upfront!

How to Contact Michaels for Help

If you need assistance with a return, here are your options:

• General Customer Care:
  Call 1-800-MICHAELS (1-800-642-4235)
  Available for both online and in-store questions.
• MichaelsPro Orders:
  Call 1-833-MIKEPRO (1-833-645-3776)
• Glowforge Products Support:
  Call 1-855-338-2122 or visit Glowforge Support

You can also log in to your Michaels.com account to manage returns directly under your Order History.

Pro Tips for Hassle-Free Returns

Here are a few expert tricks (from me, a return-policy nerd) to save time and avoid problems:

1. Always keep your receipt or packing slip until you’re 100% sure you’re keeping the item.
2. Log into your Michaels account before you shop. Purchases linked to your account are easier to return—even without a receipt.
3. Don’t open Cricut or Glowforge boxes unless you’re sure you’ll keep them. Returns only work if they’re sealed.
4. Use the online return tool—it’s smart and saves you a trip (or the confusion at the register).
5. Watch the calendar—custom orders, parties, and seasonal items have tighter deadlines.

Common Questions

Final Thoughts

Michaels makes returns pretty flexible—especially if your item is unopened, unused, and you’re within 60 days. Just keep in mind that some exceptions apply (Cricut, Glowforge, and third-party sellers) and that exchanges aren’t offered. Whether you’re crafting, decorating, or hosting a party, you can shop confidently knowing their return policy is straightforward—as long as you stick to the rules.

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 Michaels website for the most up-to-date return policy details. For any specific questions or situations not covered here, the official website or contacting Michaels Customer Service directly is the best resource.