Good news for anyone who starts holiday shopping early. Amazon has confirmed that its extended holiday return window will now apply every year. As a result, you can return items you buy on Amazon.com between November 1 and December 31 until January 31.
Until now, Amazon announced the longer window season by season. With the Amazon holiday returns rule now permanent, shoppers can plan around it every year.
At a glance
Which Orders Qualify
The extension covers items bought on Amazon.com from November 1 to December 31, 2026. Normally, you have 30 days after delivery to send something back. Under the holiday rule, even an order from early November stays returnable until the end of January.
Also, it applies to items sold by Amazon and by other sellers on the site. Sellers don’t need to change anything, and the usual return conditions still apply, so items should be complete and in good condition.
Good to knowApple products are the exception. If you buy an iPhone, iPad or another Apple device in this period, you have to return it by January 15.
What About Amazon in Europe
However, the new rule is only for Amazon.com in the US. Amazon’s European stores set their own holiday return rules, and in past years many of them have offered a similar extended window. Before you buy, check the return policy page of your local Amazon store.
Shopping With an Amazon Gift Card
If you pay with an Amazon gift card balance, a refund for a returned item usually goes back to that balance. That makes gift cards a handy way to shop for presents without a bank card, while still keeping the long return window.
For Amazon.com
Amazon Gift Card US
Redeem the code in your Amazon.com account and the balance pays for your holiday orders.
Buy Amazon Gift Card USShopping on a European Amazon store instead? Pick the card for that store:
Amazon cards for other stores
Match your Amazon store
Keep in mind that each Amazon card only works in its own store. Our guide to Amazon gift card regions explains which card fits which account.
