Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
Alex Cabrero ReportingNow that many of us have bought at least one Christmas gift, do you know how long you have if you need to return it? Or what if you're sending it to someone in another state; do you know the last day to mail the gift so it makes it in time for Christmas?
Any Christmas list is sure to include electronics. Santa doesn't need eight reindeer for nothing.
What Melissa Hoppe didn't know is how long she has if she wants to bring something back.
Neither did Andrew Schmitt.
Andrew Schmitt: "I don't know. I've never done it before so I don't know."
Depending on the store, the return policy is different. Take Target for instance. You have 90 days to bring things back, but if it's a camcorder, digital camera or portable DVD player, there might be a 15-percent restocking fee.
Music, movies, computer software and video games can't be unsealed.
James Cook, Target: "So you need to be aware that if it's been opened, certain items are non-refundable if they've been opened."
Wal-Mart's electronics policy is different. Certain items still can't be opened, but you only have 30 days to return camcorders and cameras, 15 days for portable DVD players and computers, but no re-stocking fee.
Circuit City gives you 14 days for its electronics. Opened movies, games, software and music can only be exchanged for the same thing.
Best Buy is about the same, 14 days for electronic returns. Just be aware of restocking fees for computers, camcorders and digital cameras.
Of course, then you have to make sure it's mailed in time for Christmas delivery. You need to send gifts by the 18th for domestic First Class mail, by the 20th for Priority mail, and the 22nd for Express mail.
Ronald Hubrich, United States Postal Service: "There are deadlines for everything."
Just make sure you know your deadlines and your policies, for a Merry Christmas.
One helpful thing is that many post offices are staying open longer so you can get your packages in on time.
Christmas Mailing Deadlines 2. Dec 13 Domestic Parcel Post and Global Priority Mail, International Canada 3. Dec 14 Global Express Mail, International 4. Dec 15 Global Express Mail, Canada 5. Dec 16 Global Express Guaranteed, International 6. Dec 18 First Class Mail and Global Express Guaranteed, Canada 7. Dec 20 Priority Mail, Domestic 8. Dec 22 Express Mail, Domestic
