After a thorough research on Walmart’s return policy, We have found a few interesting facts that might interest any person looking to purchase a laptop or computer from the popular store. One is required to pay close attention to the time limit allowed for return, items expected to accompany the laptop or computer during return, the types and modes of refund, and limitations that could hinder a buyer from succeeding in a return. Details are discussed below.
How long do I have?
Timing is essential for Walmart if you are looking to return an electronic bought from them, especially devices with memory such as mobile phones, laptops, tablets and computers. Their policy dictates that laptops and computers can only be returned within 15 days from the day of purchase. This means that they will not accept a return beyond the prescribed period. Thus, ensure you unpack and test your item within the shortest time possible so as to quickly identify faults, if any, and be on time for a return.
Does Walmart offer exceptions for the time limit?
The only exception that exists is for holiday purchases, in which buyers are allowed a few extra days to return the device if it was purchased during the holiday period of November and December. Their site states that most items with less than a 90-day return period purchased or delivered from November 1st through December 25th begin the return period on December 26th.
However, all other purchases must confine to the restricted 15-day limit, or else the buyer risks Walmart’s rejection of the return. In case you are late to return your item, you can contact your local Walmart store to find out if they have other exceptions or can be lenient enough to accommodate your case based on the circumstances.
What should accompany the laptop or computer?
Walmart requires you to carry three things in company of the laptop or computer you wish to return. They are:-
Its original packaging
All accessories that accompanied the device during purchase (examples are mouse, keyboard, etc)
Receipt
These items will be helpful in ascertaining the purchase. You should be aware that failure to provide either one of them might result in Walmart not honoring the return. It is important to keep the original packaging, receipt and accessories until you are certain the device is in good condition and you will not be in need of a return or refund.
If you miss the original packaging or one of its accompanying accessories, Walmart will most definitely reject the return. However, a receipt is not compulsory but you will receive store credit as refund instead of a cash refund.
Return policy for opened computers and laptops
Walmart often accepts return of an opened computer or laptop, which will thereafter be resold as an open box item. However, the device must be in good condition and still new. If the device appears damaged, dirty or misused, the store can refuse to honor the return even if the customer is within the 15-day limit and possesses the receipt, original packaging and accompanying accessories.
Return policy for computer accessories
A majority of the accessories purchased with a laptop or computer have a 90-day return policy. In simple words, you have 90 days from the day of purchase (for in-store purchases) or from the day of delivery (for online purchases) to return the said accessories. However, there are certain exceptions to this which includes tablets and printers, which can only be returned within 15 days.
Am I assured of a cash refund?
Walmart offers two refund options; cash refund and store credit. Laptops and computers are rather pricey, thus clients often prefer a cash refund to store credit. To increase your chances of getting the former, it is advisable you return the device as new as possible and carry with you its original packaging, all its accessories and the receipt. This will create confidence with the store and they can easily confirm the purchase was made with them, thus making the refund process easier.
How to receive your refund after return?
Refund is applied to the original method of payment during purchase. This can either be through cash/cheque, debit card, credit card or gift card. If you paid using cash or cheque, you will receive a cash refund.
Customers who use either a debit card or a credit card for purchase have their refunds channeled to the original card or on a shopping card/gift card if one is unable to provide the original card to the customer service desk.
In the event you had used a gift card, the refund is applied either to the original gift card or a new one is issued, depending on the mode one has used to apply for return of the item. Walmart advises their customers to keep their gift cards until they are certain they will retain all items purchased using them.
Limitations of the return policy
Buyers ought to be aware that return and refund is not a 100% guarantee. As is indicated in their site, Walmart reserves the right to limit or decline returns or exchanges regardless of whether the customer has a receipt. They also reserve a right to modify the return policy. Further, store managers retain the final authority and are allowed at their discretion to either accept or decline an item. In this regard, it is important to contact your local store beforehand to ensure you have met all the prerequisites needed to qualify for a return so as to avoid any chance of rejection.
We find it necessary to assure you that you need not worry should you find yourself unsatisfied with a laptop or computer purchased from Walmart. Despite the highlighted limitations, many times the stores are accommodative of customer needs and are willing to accept your return in order to attract and maintain your loyalty. All you need to do is ensure you are conversant with their return/refund policy and you meet all requirements necessary to qualify for a return.
