Nordstrom is known for its wide selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories. It’s also known for its generous return policy that aims to keep customers happy. The department store is famous for letting customers return most items for any reason, with or without a receipt.
We went on a deep dive and discovered everything you need to know about the Nordstrom return policy, including various ways to return items and which items are not eligible for return. We also provided some answers to frequently asked questions — keep them in mind for your next shopping trip.
What Is Nordstrom’s Return Policy?
Nordstrom has one of the more benevolent return policies amongst department stores. The retailer states on its site, “We handle returns on a case-by-case basis with the ultimate goal of making our customers happy. We stand behind our goods and services, and want customers to be satisfied with them. We'll always do our best to take care of customers — our philosophy is to deal with them fairly and reasonably.” That includes not having a time limit on returns, and being able to return items without a receipt. However, Nordstrom's broad language does give the company leeway to not accept returns from time to time — read on for some of these exceptions.
@ajla_talks Nordstrom has an INSANE store refund policy. You can return anything even without proof of purchase!! #money #shopping #finance ♬ original sound - Ajla - all things $$
Ways To Make a Return
Returning items at Nordstrom is always free, and there are multiple ways to do it. You can return items in-store at the nearest Nordstrom (including at a curbside drop-off kiosk), or return online purchases a few ways. Pop the package in the mail with a prepaid shipping label, or show a QR code at an eligible USPS or FedEx location, where they will print the label for you. Additionally, you can return Nordstrom and Nordstrom.com items to Nordstrom Rack locations (designer or items and fine jewelry excluded). The store also specifies that items bought in Canada can’t be returned in the U.S., and specialty boutique items must be returned at the location they were bought.
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Photo credit: Jennifer Magid
Items That Are Not Eligible for Return
Generally, the store’s policy is to accept most returns, even without receipts. Nordstrom notes that from time to time, they may not accept a return based on their discretion. As previously mentioned, fine jewelry and designer items purchased at Nordstrom or Nordstrom.com cannot be returned to Nordstrom Rack. Additionally, the company specifies that they will not accept returns of any Nordstrom gift card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you return an item after two years?
Nordstrom states that there is no time limit for returns or exchanges; of course, the store reserves the right to accept returns on a case by case basis. However, the site specifies that returns or exchanges for Balsam Hill products (which are mainly holiday decorations) are accepted within 30 days of purchase or prior to December 25th (whichever comes first).
Are policies different for Nordstrom Rack?
Yes, Nordstrom Rack has its own set of policies. Items purchased online must be returned by 40 days after order date, and items purchased in stores must be returned by 30 days after purchase. For a Nordstrom Rack return received up to 60 days after the order or purchase date, you'll get a refund credited to a gift card in the amount of your purchase. After that, items won’t be accepted. Additionally, for online returns, there’s a shipping charge of $9.95 deducted from your refund per prepaid shipping label used, so it's not free like Nordstrom.
Do you need a receipt for Nordstrom returns?
No, you don't need a receipt. If there’s no record of sale, the store will ask for personal identification and a refund will be given at the current price on a Nordstrom gift card. If you have your receipt, you will receive your refund in your original form of payment, such as your credit card.
Does Nordstrom accept returns for worn items?
For special occasion dresses or designer items, the store asks that the item be in the same condition as when the customer bought it, with tags attached. The store notes on their site: "Over the years, we have also found that we received a disproportionate number of returns that appeared to have been previously worn in these categories, compared to other categories we sell. To meet our customers' expectations, we implemented a tag or card to help ensure these items are returned in original condition.” A reasonable request.
The Bottom Line
Nordstrom's return policy is one of the most generous in the retail industry. Customers can return most items for any reason, within a reasonable amount of time. This makes it easy to shop at Nordstrom with confidence, knowing that you can return an item if you're not happy with it. You can even return an item without a receipt, a policy that's rare to find. It's also free to make returns online, whether you print the label or have the QR code scanned. Just be aware that Nordstrom Rack has different policies regarding returns, so don't confuse one store with the other. But when it comes to shopping at Nordstrom, you really can't lose — the retailer wants its customers happy.
Related: 17 Things To Know About the Costco Return Policy
