LAS VEGAS — Major retailers across the valley are preparing for a wave of post-Christmas returns.
According to a 2025 report from the National Retail Federation and Happy Returns, a UPS company, retailers estimate that 15% of their annual sales will be returned. The report also reveals that retailers expect 17% of holiday sales to be returned.
Retailers like Amazon have extended return windows and offer free, no-box returns at over 8,000 locations across the country. Most items purchased between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31 can be returned through Jan. 31, 2026. Apple-branded products, however, must be returned by Jan. 15, 2026.
Walmart has also extended the return windows through Jan. 31, 2026. Exceptions to Walmart’s policy include major appliances, protection plans, seasonal goods, Dyson products, and food products. Best Buy follows suit with a return window open until Jan. 31, 2026, and has exclusions, such as activable devices and holiday decorations.
Having the receipt or gift receipt can make the return smooth and avoid delays. Gift recipients can still return products to Amazon using the 17-digit order number on the packing slip or the digital gift receipt. Retailers remind customers to keep all receipts, packaging, and manuals for a successful return.
To avoid delays, it is recommended to return early during the extended return window and use online return options. For in-store returns, visiting locations during midweek mornings may help shoppers avoid longer lines.
