Staples allows returns within 365 days of purchase for most items. You can return in-store purchases to any Staples retail store, and online orders to any Staples store or by free mail. Some categories such as technology and small appliances have shorter return windows of 14 days.
How returns work
You may return in-store purchases to any Staples retail store. Online and catalog orders can be returned to any Staples retail store or sent back by mail with free return shipping available for online and phone purchases. Before returning, verify the Return Eligibility Expiry Date listed on your Order Details page.
Exclusions and restrictions
Staples does not accept returns on gift cards, prepaid cards, phone cards, inflated balloons, opened or downloadable software, or AppleCare+ purchased elsewhere. Technology and business machines have a 14-day return window, as do small appliances. Unopened software returns are accepted within 30 days. Unopened and unexpired ink and toner cartridges may be returned anytime. Halloween costumes must be unopened and returned before October 31. AppleCare+ purchased at Staples may be refunded within 30 days.
Refunds
Refunds are issued to your original payment method. Credit card purchases are credited to the original card. Debit card refunds are credited to your account when the card and PIN are presented at return. Staples gift card purchases receive an emailed gift card. Staples Easy Rewards purchases are credited as points within 3 business days. Checks over 500 dollars are issued as corporate checks and mailed within 7 to 10 days. Without a receipt, you receive in-store credit only at the lowest price from the last 30 days, provided you show valid government-issued ID.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to return an item to Staples?
The standard return window is 365 days from purchase. However, some categories have shorter windows: technology and business machines allow 14 days, small appliances allow 14 days, and unopened software allows 30 days. Check your Order Details page for the specific Return Eligibility Expiry Date for your item.
Can I return an online order to a Staples store?
Yes. Online and catalog orders may be returned to any Staples retail store. In-store purchases must also be returned to a Staples store. Alternatively, online purchases may be returned by free mail.
Do I need a receipt to return something?
For most returns, a receipt or original packaging helps. If you do not have a receipt, you can receive in-store credit only at the lowest price from the last 30 days if you present a valid government-issued ID. Exchanges require either a receipt or original packaging.
Is return shipping free?
Free return shipping is available for online and phone purchases. In-store returns do not involve shipping.
What payment methods get refunded to the original source?
Refunds go back to your original payment method: credit cards are credited to the original card, debit cards are credited to your account, Staples gift card purchases receive an emailed gift card, and Staples Easy Rewards purchases are credited as points within 3 business days.
Can I exchange an item instead of returning it?
Yes. Exchanges are available within 365 days with a receipt or original packaging, provided the item is in sellable condition.
Are gift cards returnable?
No. Gift cards, prepaid cards, and phone cards are nonrefundable and nonreturnable. If a promotional gift card was applied to your purchase, its value is deducted from any refund you receive.