Black Friday is earlier this year, so return policies will be critical for a happy holiday

NOW: Black Friday is earlier this year, so return policies will be critical for a happy holiday
NEXT:

With Black Friday happening the day after Thanksgiving on November 24th, that means return policies will be more critical than ever for holiday shoppers.

Jim Temmer of the BBB Wisconsin says if stores have a 30 day return policy, you might want to hold off on buying closer to Christmas.

It's just one of several pieces of advice he shared on the Savvy Consumer Report live on the CBS 58 News at 4.

Be sure to check out the video that's attached to this story.

Here are some other tips:

• Create a budget and stick to it. Make a list, determine how much you can afford to spend on each person and….stick to it!

• Compare deals. There are many retailers and websites that will claim to capture the best deals. Comparison shop ahead of time, before you head out to the mall to make your Black Friday shopping more efficient.

• Maximize Advance Alerts. Do you have favorite retailers? Sign up for their email alerts and take advantage of special social network opportunities. Many stores work to reward your loyalty and you may get a jump on special offers.

• Know store return policies. Knowing the store polices on returns can help you decide where to buy. Retailers may include restocking fees, shorter return deadlines and other terms and conditions. Also, be sure you understand the return policy on seasonal sale items

. • Ask for gift receipts. Gift receipts generally include a description of the item purchased but do not disclose the price paid. Without proof-of-purchase, the recipient may be turned down for returning or exchanging an item or risk receiving an exchange or refund at a lower price.

And remember, there's also Small Business Saturday.

BBB Wisconsin says 90% of its accredited business members are small businesses and family owned shops that have reputations of good service. 

 

Share this article: