You Won’t Believe What Michiganders Can’t Return at Target

If your holiday shopping strategy includes the phrase 'they can always return it,' now might be the moment for a quick reality check. With Christmas officially one week away, return counters are about to get busy, receipts are about to disappear, and some Michiganders are about to learn the hard way that not everything can go back to Target.

What Target Will Not Take Back

Target is known for its generous return policy, but there are some firm exceptions that tend to surprise people every December according to Target.com. For starters, trading cards are final sale. Pokémon cards, sports cards and binders, once they leave the store they are yours. No returns, no exchanges, even if someone already bought the exact same pack.

Collectibles are another gotcha. Special-edition dolls, action figures, and die-cast cars cannot be returned if they are opened or defective. Collector items stay collected. Personalized items and digital downloads are also non-returnable. That custom gift may feel thoughtful, but it is permanent.

READ MORE: Amazon & Walmart Among Major Online Retailers with New Return Policies

One of the biggest surprises every year is gift cards. Target gift cards, Visa or Mastercard gift cards, restaurant cards, once activated, cannot be returned or redeemed for cash, except where required by law.

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Some items fall into a middle category. Opened movies, music, video games, and software can only be exchanged for the same title. Electronics usually have a 30-day return window, while Apple and Beats products must be returned within 14 days. Mobile phones may also come with restocking fees if opened.

What Mid-Michigan Shoppers Should Remember When Purchasing Gifts

Locally, that is worth remembering for shoppers visiting the Target on Miller Road in Flint Township or the Owen Road store in Fenton. Bottom line, as Christmas gets closer, it is worth knowing which gifts are return-friendly and which ones are forever. Because sometimes the biggest holiday surprise isn't under the tree, it's at the return desk.