County of Los Angeles Department of Consumer Affairs Information Sheet

Refunds

The law allows stores to set their own refund policy. They can choose to give you a refund, an exchange, store-credit, or nothing at all. What you get depends on the written policy of the store.

Stores must display their refund policy

A store has to let you know their refund policy before you make a purchase. They can do this by:

• Posting signs at the store entrance;
• Displaying signs at all cash registers or sales counters;
• Placing tags on the items; or
• Printing the policy on their order forms. Printing the refund policy on your sales receipt is not enough.

What if the store does not display its refund policy?

If a store does not display its refund policy, you are entitled to a cash refund if you return the item within seven days of purchase with your receipt.

Does the refund policy have to be the same for all items?

No. Stores don’t have to take back the following items, unless their refund policy says they will:

• Food, plants, and other perishables;
• Items that you have used or damaged;
• Items you do not return with the original packaging;
• Items the store cannot sell again for health reasons, like prescription drugs, swim suits, and underwear.

Can I get a refund on items marked “As Is” or “Final Sale”?

No. If you purchase an item marked “as is” or “final sale”, the store does not have to give you a refund.

Contact us for more information or speak with one of our counselors at (800) 593-8222.  If you live outside of Southern California, call us at (213) 974-1452.

For more information:
County of Los Angeles Department of Consumer Affairs
B-96 Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration
500 W. Temple Street * Los Angeles, CA 90012-2706
Telephone (800) 593-8222 (within LA County)
web site: dca.lacounty.gov