How to return unwanted gifts and guarantee a refund

Whether you received an item which you simply did not want or opened a parcel with a much-coveted item which turned out to be broken, the chances are you are facing the prospect of tactfully returning the item to the retailer.

According to MoneySuperMarket, one in six Brits run out of money before the January payday, meaning the money received from refunding unwanted gifts can come in very handy.

In fact, last year, the price comparison site reported, Royal Mail estimated online returns surged by 52% on the 2 January, compared with the average daily volume of return parcels throughout December.

So, if you are making returns, you are not alone. And, to help you, Kara Gammell, personal finance expert at MoneySuperMarket has shared five simple ways to stay on top of returns this January and avoid refund delays catching up with you.

1. Check the cut-off date

“While many retailers may extend their return policy over Christmas, these extensions still have firm cut-off dates,” Gammell said.

“Make sure you check the exact cut-off date for your purchases – missing it could mean losing out on a refund. A quick look at the retailer’s website or your receipt can save you from an expensive mistake.”

2. Keep a record

When posting an online return or taking it back to a shop, Gammell advises you keep the proof that you’ve returned it.

She said: “For online purchases, save the confirmation emails or take screenshots of your refund updates – they’re your safety net if something goes wrong.

“For in-store returns, hold on to the receipt or take a quick photo of it. Credit card refunds can take several days to appear, so having clear evidence makes it much easier to chase up any delays.”

3. Track deadlines

Gammell explained most retailers aimed to refund you within 14 days of processing a return. But, she warned, policies can vary.

“Make a note of when you sent the item back and when the refund should arrive, and don’t hesitate to follow up if that deadline passes without an update,” she said.

“If you’re waiting on a refund, mark the expected date in your calendar as a reminder to check in – it’s a simple way to avoid delays and keep your finances on track. Staying organised helps ensure you get your money back as expected.”

4. Monitor your bank statements

Once you have physically made the return, Gammell advises keeping an eye on your bank statements to avoid overspending or hitting your limit in case the refund takes time to process.

She explained: “If you’ve used a Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) service, you may still need to make a payment while the return is being processed.

“Missing a payment could harm your credit score, so keep an eye on due dates and statements to stay on track.”

5. Use retailer apps for real-time updates

Meanwhile, keep an eye out for updates on the progress. Gammell said: “Many retailers now offer detailed return tracking through their apps, showing when an item has been received and when a refund is being processed.

“Using these tools can help you stay on top of your returns and spot any issues early – such as postal delays – so that you can act quickly if something goes wrong.”