Steve Madden Return Policy: Everything You Need to Know
Shopping made easy! Learn everything about the Steve Madden return policy, including timelines, fees, and exclusions.

Steve Madden is a popular brand known for its bold, fashion-forward shoes, handbags, and accessories. If you ever need to send something back, understanding the Steve Madden return policy can help make the process smooth and stress-free.
Quick Overview of the Steve Madden Return Policy
Here’s the need-to-know info in one glance:
Policy Detail | What It Means |
---|---|
Return Window | 30 days from delivery |
Item Condition | Must be unworn and in original packaging (tags attached for clothing/accessories) |
Return Methods | Mail (FedEx) or in-store (some exclusions apply) |
Return Fee | $6.95 per mail return (deducted from refund) |
In-store Returns | Free (only in the USA, except Colorado, Utah, and Savannah, GA) |
Refund Type | Original payment method or store credit |
Exclusions | Clearance items (.99 endings), masks, mask filters, earrings, gift cards (final sale) |
Exchanges | Not offered (place a new order instead) |
Return Conditions
Before you start a return, make sure your item qualifies. Steve Madden has a few strict rules:
Items that can’t be returned:
- Clearance items (price ending in .99)
- Masks and mask filters
- Earrings
- Gift cards and e-gift cards
Tags & Packaging:
- Handbags, clothing, and accessories must have their original tags attached.
- Apparel and accessories should be returned in their original polybags with the UPC.
Final Sale: If you see “.99” at the end of the price or it’s a mask, mask filter, earring, or gift card – it’s final sale and can’t be returned or exchanged.
How to make a Return
Steve Madden offers three return methods:
1. Return In-Store (Free)
- Bring your items in original packaging (with tags attached) to any Steve Madden store in the U.S. (except Colorado, Utah, and Savannah, GA).
- Have your order number or email confirmation ready.
- Refunds will go back to your original payment method or as store credit.
Pro tip: In-store returns skip the $6.95 mail return fee and you don’t have to wait for shipping.
2. Return by Mail (Cost: $6.95)
- Visit the Steve Madden Returns Center.
- Enter your order ID and ZIP code to get a prepaid return label.
- Drop your package at any FedEx location.
- Fee: $6.95 per order (deducted from your refund).
- Timing: Ship it back within 7 days of getting your label to avoid delays.
3. Faster Refund Option
- Visit Reshop to use this feature.
- Use the Reshop option to get your refund faster.
- Refunds are processed before you even ship your item.
Exchanges
Steve Madden does not offer direct exchanges. Here’s what you can do instead:
- Place a new order for what you want.
- Call customer service at 1-888-SMADDEN with your new order number.
- They’ll give you a return authorization and a prepaid FedEx label for the original item.
- You’ll get a full refund once your return arrives at their warehouse.
What About Damaged or Defective Items?
If your item shows up damaged or defective:
- Contact Steve Madden right away by email, live chat, or phone (1-888-SMADDEN).
- They’ll send you a prepaid label.
- Once the item is returned, you’ll get a full refund.
How Refunds Work
Refunds are issued to the original form of payment once the return is processed.
Special notes:
- Paid with AfterPay, Klarna, or ShopPay? They’ll refund your installments and adjust or cancel remaining payments.
- Paid with Cash App Pay? Refunds go back to your Cash App balance or the linked card/bank account.
- Gift returns: Contact customer service for a “Gift Exchange” authorization. Once the gift is returned, you’ll get a promo code for the item’s value.
Gift Returns & Third-Party Purchases
Returning Gift Items
Got a Steve Madden gift that’s not quite your style? Here’s what to do:
- Contact customer service for a Gift Exchange return authorization.
- Once your return is received, Steve Madden will email you a Promotional Code for the value of the gift so you can pick out something else.
- Prefer in person? You can return the gift at a Steve Madden store in the U.S. (excluding Colorado, Utah, and Savannah, GA).
Items Bought from Other Retailers
Did you buy your Steve Madden shoes from a department store or another retailer?
- Those returns must go back to the original store, and their return policy will apply not Steve Madden’s.
How to Contact Steve Madden for Help
Need help? They make it pretty easy to reach them:
- Email: info@stevemaddendirect.com
- Chat: Live chat available 7 days a week, 9 AM – 10 PM ET
- Phone: 1-888-SMADDEN (888-762-3336), 7 days a week, 9 AM – 10 PM ET
Common Quesions
Pro Tips for Hassle-Free Returns
Here’s how to make Steve Madden returns smooth:
- Inspect your items ASAP so you don’t miss the 30-day window.
- Avoid clearance if you might change your mind those are final sale.
- Return in-store if possible it’s free and faster.
- Use the Returns Center it’s the simplest way to get your label.
- Keep your order email you’ll need it for in-store returns.
- Mail quickly once you get your label, you’ve got 7 days to ship it back.
- Consider Instant Refund if you need that money back right away.
- Call for exchanges if you need a different size or style, they’ll help you set it up.
Final Thoughts
Steve Madden makes returning items fairly simple if you know the rules: keep everything unworn, return within 30 days, and pay attention to exclusions like clearance or final sale items. Whether you return by mail, in-store, or opt for an instant refund, the process is designed to give you options. If you’re unsure at any point, their customer service team is available every day to walk you through it.
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 Steve Madden website for the most up-to-date return policy details. For any specific questions or situations not covered here, the official website or contacting Steve MaddenCustomer Service directly is the best resource.