Is a store required to give a refund by law?
When Refunds Are Required
There is no federal law that requires a store to give a refund just because you changed your mind. However, many states have laws that require refunds if the item is defective, not as described, or if the store has a posted policy promising refunds. For example, some states require refunds within a certain number of days if the store doesn't post a no-refund policy.
If you bought an item online, the FTC's Mail, Internet, or Telephone Order Merchandise Rule requires sellers to ship within the time promised or give you the option to cancel for a full refund. But this applies to shipping delays, not to buyer's remorse.
- Defective or misrepresented items: refund required under state law.
- Store's posted policy: if it says refunds, they must honor it.
- Online orders: FTC rule requires refund if shipment is delayed beyond 30 days (or promised date).
- Some states (e.g., California) require refunds within 7 days for certain purchases if no policy is posted.
Store Policies and Your Options
Most stores set their own refund policies, which can range from 'no refunds' to 'full refund within 30 days with receipt.' They must follow their own policy. If a store refuses a refund but you believe you have a legal right to one, you can file a complaint with your state attorney general or consumer protection agency.
If you paid by credit card, you might have additional leverage through a chargeback, but that's not a legal refund requirement. Chargebacks are for cases like fraud or goods never received.
Common mistakes
- Thinking all stores must give refunds for any reason—most don't unless defective or stated in policy.
- Assuming online purchases always have a cooling-off period—they usually don't.
- Confusing store return policies with legal rights—policies are voluntary unless state law says otherwise.
