Salvation Army Return Policy 2024: A Guide to Returning Items
If you’re considering a return to the Salvation Army, it’s important to understand their policy.
Generally, they allow returns for items determined to be defective before receipt. However, there are conditions: claims for shortages or issues must be made within 5 business days of receiving the merchandise, and no returns are accepted without prior approval.
Additionally, except for defective products, all returns are subject to a 20% restocking fee and must be made within 30 days of receiving the merchandise in its original condition. Clothing items must not have been worn or washed, and no returns are accepted for custom or clearance items.
What Is Salvation Army Return Policy
The Salvation Army’s return policy is quite specific and varies depending on the type of item. Generally, they allow returns for items that are found to be defective before receipt. All claims for shortages or other issues must be reported within 5 business days of receiving the merchandise.
However, no returns are accepted without prior approval. Non-defective items are subject to a 20% restocking fee and must be returned within 30 days in the condition they were received. Clothing items must not have been worn or washed. Notably, custom items and clearance items are not eligible for return.
Unfortunately, the available sources did not provide detailed information about the return policy for Salvation Army thrift stores, which might differ from their online store policies.
Salvation Army Return Policy Without Receipt
The Salvation Army’s return policy for items purchased from their thrift stores varies by location, so it’s essential to contact your local Salvation Army Thrift Store for their specific policies. Generally, they accept returns for items determined to be defective before purchase. Customers must contact customer service with their invoice or packing slip for such returns.
All claims for defects or shortages must be made within five business days of receiving the merchandise. A restocking fee of 20% applies to all returns except for defective products, and returns must be made within 30 days of receipt in the condition they were received in. Clothing items must not have been worn or washed.
Custom items and clearance items are not eligible for returns. For more information, it’s advisable to check directly with your local Salvation Army store or visit their website.
Salvation Army Return Policy After 30 Days
The Salvation Army’s return policy generally requires that merchandise returns and exchanges be completed within 30 days from the date of the invoice. This policy necessitates the inclusion of a copy of the invoice or picking ticket with the returned items.
It’s important to note that certain products, such as discontinued items, special orders, altered or custom-tailored uniform items, and sale items, are not eligible for return or exchange. Moreover, all returned merchandise must be in salable condition, with tags still attached.
For items determined to have been defective before receipt, exceptions may apply, and customers should contact customer service for assistance. It’s also worth noting that a restocking fee might apply to some returns.
What Is the Salvation Army Exchange Policy
The Salvation Army’s exchange policy varies slightly based on the type of store. For their general merchandise (like apparel, accessories, etc.), customers can return items within 30 days of the invoice date, provided they are in new and unused condition with original tags and labels attached.
However, customers are responsible for the return shipping charges. There is also a provision for defective items, where they can be returned without a restocking fee, but this needs prior approval and should be reported within 5 business days of receiving the merchandise. On the other hand, the Salvation Army Thrift Stores have a more specific policy for exchanges.
They offer a 30-day exchange or store credit for clothing, footwear, bedding, and linens, with the condition that the receipt and tag must be attached. Other items are considered final sale and are not eligible for return or exchange.
What Is Salvation Army Holiday Return Policy
The Salvation Army’s return policy for holiday items is quite specific. If an item is defective upon receipt, customers are advised to contact customer service with their invoice or packing slip. Claims for any shortages or other issues must be made within five business days of receiving the merchandise.
All returns, except for defective products, are subject to a 20% restocking fee and must be made within 30 days in the original condition. Clothing items must not have been worn or washed. Custom items and clearance items are not eligible for return.
How to Return an Item to Salvation Army
Returning an item to the Salvation Army, whether online or in-store, involves a few key steps to ensure a smooth process. Here’s a guide to help you:
Online Returns
- Contact Customer Service: If you encounter a problem with an online order, contact Salvation Army’s customer service at 800-334-4431. Have your invoice or packing slip ready.
- Approval and Condition: Returns require prior approval and must be made within 30 days of receipt. Items should be in the condition they were received in.
- Restocking Fee: Except for defective products, all returns are subject to a 20% restocking fee.
- Non-Returnable Items: Custom items or clearance items cannot be returned.
In-Store Returns
Check Local Policy: Since donation policies vary by location, check with your local Salvation Army Thrift Store for their specific guidelines.
Donation Process:
- Step 1: Call your local donation center or visit its website for operation hours and acceptable items.
- Step 2: Drop off your items at the donation center.
- Step 3: Receive a donation receipt for tax purposes and know that your contribution is making a difference.
Scheduling a Pickup
If you have larger items to donate and can’t make it to a store, you can schedule a pickup:
- Step 1: Enter your zip code in the “schedule a pick-up” box on the Salvation Army website.
- Step 2: Specify what items you are donating, and choose a pickup date from the available calendar.
FAQs
Can I Return Custom or Clearance Items?
No, custom items or clearance items are not eligible for return.
What Is the Timeframe for Reporting Issues With My Order?
Claims for shortages or other issues must be made within five business days of receiving the merchandise.
What Items Can I Donate to the Salvation Army Thrift Store?
Accepted items vary by location, but generally include gently used appliances, clothing, furniture, household goods, and more. Some items like large console model televisions, televisions older than 5 years, or appliances with mechanical difficulties are not accepted.
Are All Salvation Army Thrift Stores Open at the Same Time?
No, each store sets its own hours based on the needs and customs of their communities, and hours can be affected by major weather events or the pandemic.
Conlcusion
In conclusion, the Salvation Army’s return policy is designed with customer satisfaction in mind while maintaining certain limitations. For most items, returns must be initiated within 30 days of the invoice date and the items must be in new and unused condition with original tags and labels.
However, custom and clearance items are not eligible for return. Notably, any non-defective returns may be subject to a 20% restocking fee. This policy ensures a balance between flexibility for customers and operational efficiency for the organization.
To initiate a return, prior approval is required, and customers should contact customer service for guidance and authorization.
