Stricter Enforcement on Returns Sparks Member Complaints

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Costco Return Policy 2026: What Members Need to Know

Costco continues to maintain one of the most generous return policies in the retail industry. While recent social media rumors have suggested a “crackdown,” the core of Costco’s “Risk-Free 100% Satisfaction Guarantee” remains unchanged. However, there are specific rules and recent operational updates that every member should understand to ensure a smooth experience.

1. The Core Policy: “Satisfaction Guaranteed”

Costco allows members to return almost any product at any time if they are unsatisfied. Unlike most retailers that impose a 30-day limit, Costco typically does not have an expiration date on returns for general merchandise.

2. The “90-Day Rule” for Electronics

To prevent “rental” abuse (where customers buy a product for a short-term event and return it), Costco enforces a 90-day return window for the following categories:

• Televisions and Projectors
• Computers (Laptops and Desktops)
• Major Appliances (Refrigerators, Washers/Dryers, etc.)
• Touchscreen Tablets and Smartwatches
• Cameras, Aerial Cameras (Drones), and Camcorders
• MP3 Players and Cellular Phones

3. Notable Exceptions and Limitations

Not everything can be returned. The following items have strict limitations:

• Diamonds: Returns of 1.00ct or larger require original paperwork and undergo a 48-hour authenticity check by a Costco gemologist.
• Cigarettes and Alcohol: In many jurisdictions, returns are prohibited by law.
• Shop Cards: These are non-refundable and cannot be redeemed for cash.
• Custom Installations: Items manufactured to custom specifications (like flooring or blinds) cannot be returned.

4. Recent Operational Shifts (2025–2026)

While the formal policy hasn’t changed, Costco has introduced two key operational updates to improve efficiency and reduce fraud:

• Membership Scanning at Entry: Since late 2024, many warehouses have moved to digital scanners at the entrance. This links your visit to your digital history, making it easier for staff to verify purchases at the return desk even if you’ve lost your physical receipt.
• Digital Receipts via the App: Costco now encourages the use of the Costco App, where all historical receipts are stored. This has made the “no-receipt” return process much faster for employees to verify.

5. Can You Be Banned for Too Many Returns?

There is no “hard limit” on returns, but Costco’s membership is a privilege. If a member’s history shows a consistent pattern of returning used items or returning a high percentage of everything they buy, the Membership Counter may flag the account for a “membership review.” In extreme cases of abuse, Costco reserves the right to cancel a membership and refund the membership fee.