If you've recently made a purchase from Target and are wondering about their return policy, you're in the right place. The Target return policy can seem a bit intricate, but we've broken it down to make it digestible and easy to understand for you.

Main Points of the Target Return Policy:

1. Standard Returns: Most unopened items in new condition, purchased from Target, can be returned within 90 days for a refund or exchange.
2. The return timer for online purchases starts when the order is invoiced – that means when it’s shipped, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or made ready for pick-up.
3. Beware of exceptions: Some items have a different return policy, which you can find on the receipt, packing slip, Target policy board, Target.com, or the item description.
4. No Receipt? Items without a receipt, or those that are opened or damaged, might not qualify for a return or exchange.

Further details on exceptions here.

Target Plus™ Partner Returns:

1. Unopened items from Target Plus Partners also have a 90-day return window.
2. Items from these partners must be returned to Target, either in-store or by mail.
3. Some partner items might have a different return policy, which you'll find on Target.com.
4. No receipt for an in-store return? Expect it to be denied. And remember, certain items like electronics might have a briefer return window.

Here's a step-by-step guide to start your return.

Niche Return Policies:

• Target Owned Brands: Dissatisfied? Bring it back within a year with your receipt.
• EBT Purchases: Items bought with an EBT card online must be returned within 90 days.
• RedCard Benefits: Cardholders get an extra 30 days to return almost all items.

Discover more about the holiday return window here.

Exceptions and Special Cases:

1. No-go on Returns: You can't return items like trading cards, open or defective collectibles, personalized items, digital downloads, certain gift cards, or opened breast pumps.
2. Exchange-only Items: Opened music, movies, video games, software, and airbeds can only be exchanged.
3. Limited Return Windows: Electronics have a 30-day window, Apple products (excluding phones) have 15 days, and mobile phones need to be back in 14 days.

Additional Mobile Phone Fees:

If you've bought a mobile phone with a carrier contract, you might face early termination fees if you return or exchange it. Plus, opened phones might come with a restocking fee of up to $35, though this doesn't apply if the product is unopened.

Given that we've already explored the nitty-gritty of the Target return policy, it's now essential to understand the actual process of making a return. If you've got an item that's eligible for return based on Target's stipulations, here's how you can go about it.

Returning an Item from Target.com:

Before diving in, remember that all returns must align with Target's return policy.

1. In-store Returns for Large/Heavy Items via EFW:

Large or heavy items shipped via EFW need special attention:

• Items can't be returned without a valid receipt, return barcode, or the credit/debit card used for the purchase.
• The return barcode becomes available once the order is shipped, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or is ready for pickup.
• To find the return barcode, follow the "Start a return online" instructions listed below.

2. Starting a Return Online:

If you've bought something from Target.com or through the Target app, it’s pretty straightforward:

1. Access Your Account: Log in to your Target account. Under 'Online', view your orders.
2. Locate Your Item: Find the specific item under 'Orders' on Target.com or 'Purchases' in the Target app.
3. Choose Your Return Option: You can either select 'Return' (to return in-store or by mail) or 'Fix an issue' for problems like missing or damaged items.
4. Complete the Return: Follow the prompts to finish your refund or replacement request or get your return barcode for in-store returns.

   • Replacement: If available, you’ll receive an even exchange without any extra charges. If you initially opt for a replacement but later decide to return the item in-store, your replacement request will be canceled.
   • Refund: In most cases, refunds revert to the original payment method. PayPal purchases made before September 13, 2022, however, will be converted to a Target GiftCard.
   • Instructions: You'll receive directions on what to do next. If mailing the item back is required, they'll send you a free return mailing label and detailed instructions.

3. Preparing the Mail Return:

If you’re mailing an item back to Target:

• Ensure the original item, its packaging, and any accessories are included.
• Remember, Target might issue your refund before receiving the returned item. If, upon inspection, your item doesn’t meet the Target return policy, they might charge back the refund.
• Attach the provided return label to your package's exterior.
• Drop the package at an authorized UPS location. For drop-off locations, visit UPS dropoff.

4. In-store Return:

If you choose to return an item to a physical Target store:

• Bring the return barcode to Guest Services where a team member will assist with the return.

Heads up! If you’ve sent an ineligible item to Target, they usually won’t keep it. They try to donate or recycle such items. If you need something back, you can contact Target at 1-800-591-3869, but remember, there's no guarantee.

So, there you have it! A step-by-step guide on navigating the Target return policy and processing your return seamlessly. Remember, you can always search for Target deals on DealsHQ.