"Planning ahead can be a great help:" Easy returns make for happy holidays

MILWAUKEE --  The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection asks shoppers to pay close attention to the different stores’ policies while they shop, to ask for gift receipts at the register and to keep all sales documentation organized and accessible throughout the holiday season.

“Return and exchange policies vary from store to store, and can even vary within a store based on the type of product purchased,” said Frank Frassetto, Division Administrator for Trade and Consumer Protection.  “Understanding a business’s policy and keeping receipts on file is the best way to ensure that you or your loved ones don’t face disappointment at the return counter if there is a problem with the gift.”

Remember to keep your receipts handy and to pick up a gift receipt at the time of purchase.  Before you wrap the item, pack the gift receipt in the box or tape it to the front or side of the box to ensure that the recipient doesn’t overlook it.  Some stores will not honor a return or refund request without a receipt.

“A gift receipt can mean the difference between a smooth return and a pounding headache,” said Frassetto.  “Giving this document to your gift recipient is a simple and helpful courtesy that can save them time and ensure that they get the best value back for the item.”

Additional return tips include:

If you believe a retailer is not honoring its posted return policy, file a complaint with the Consumer Protection Bureau at https://datcp.wi.gov, send an e-mail to datcphotline@wisconsin.gov or call the Consumer Protection Hotline toll-free at 1-800-422-7128.