Zappos Return Policy 2026: 60-Day Returns Guide

Policy Last Verified: March 19, 2026 | Source: Zappos.com/c/shipping-and-returns (Last Updated: 07/09/2025)

We verify this guide monthly and update immediately when Zappos changes its policy.

Zappos Return Policy 2026: Quick Summary

If you're here because you need to return something to Zappos and don't have time for the full breakdown, here's what you need to know right now.

Zappos offers a 60-day return window for a full refund to your original payment method, with store credit available up to one year from purchase (account holders only). Items must be unworn and in original packaging. Return shipping is always free via UPS or Whole Foods. Final Sale items are non-returnable.

⚠️ IMPORTANT: Zappos no longer offers the 365-day full refund policy. If you've read that elsewhere, that information is outdated. The policy changed in mid-2025.

Here's the quick-reference breakdown:

For the full picture - including how the old 365-day policy stacks up, exactly how the return process works, and what to do if your return gets denied - keep reading.

Zappos is owned by Amazon, but it follows a completely different amazon return policy than its parent company. The two operate separate return systems, separate warehouses, and separate customer service teams. Don't assume one's rules apply to the other.

Source: Zappos Shipping and Returns

What Changed: Zappos's 365-Day Return Policy Is Gone

For over a decade, Zappos built its brand on one standout perk: a full 365-day return window with no questions asked. It was legendary. You could buy a pair of boots in January and return them the following December if they didn't work out. That policy attracted millions of loyal customers and became the gold standard for online retail returns.

That's no longer the case.

In mid-2025 - with the official policy page updated on July 9, 2025 - Zappos quietly shifted to a 60-day cash refund window with store credit available up to one year for account holders. No announcement. No press release. Just an updated webpage.

Did Zappos Change Their Return Policy?

Yes, Zappos changed its return policy in mid-2025. The 365-day full refund window no longer exists. Zappos now offers 60 days for a refund to your original payment method, with store credit available up to one year from purchase for account holders only.

When Did Zappos Change Their Return Policy?

The official Zappos Shipping and Returns page shows a "Last Updated" date of July 9, 2025. That's when the 60-day/1-year structure replaced the former 365-day policy.

Why Most Online Guides Are Wrong

Here's something that should concern anyone researching this topic: the majority of online resources still reference the old 365-day policy. We checked the top-ranking pages for "Zappos return policy" in March 2026, and most of them still claim you get a full year to return for a cash refund. That's flatly incorrect and could cause you to miss your actual refund window.

This guide exists because accuracy matters. We've verified every detail against the official Zappos policy page, and we'll continue checking it regularly.

Unlike Zappos's new fixed window, the nordstrom return policy takes a more flexible case-by-case approach to return timelines. Other shoe retailers like DSW also have specific windows - see our dsw return policy guide for a side-by-side comparison.

💡 Tip: Bookmark the official Zappos policy page to check for future updates. Policies can change without warning.

Sources: Zappos Shipping and Returns | Zappos General Questions

Zappos Return Window: 60-Day Refund vs 1-Year Store Credit

The return window is where most confusion lives - and where the stakes are highest. Miss the 60-day mark and you lose your cash refund option entirely. Miss the 1-year mark and you're out of luck altogether.

Let's break this down into the three time periods that matter.

How Long Do You Have to Return to Zappos?

Zappos gives you 60 days from your purchase date to return items for a full refund to your original payment method. Account holders can also return items for store credit up to one year from purchase. Guest checkout customers are limited to the 60-day refund window only.

Within 60 Days: Full Refund or Store Credit (Your Choice)

If you're an account holder and you return within 60 days of purchase, you pick how you want your money back. Original payment method? Done. Store credit? Also fine. The clock starts ticking from the date you placed the order - not the delivery date.

One critical detail: your return needs to be dropped off and scanned by the carrier within that 60-day window. Shipping transit time doesn't count against you, but you need to physically hand it off before day 60.

60 Days to 1 Year: Store Credit Only (Account Holders)

Missed the 60-day cash refund window? If you have a Zappos account, you can still return for store credit up to one year from your purchase date. You won't get cash back - only a credit balance on your Zappos account.

This is a decent safety net, but it's a significant downgrade from the old policy where you'd get a full cash refund at any point during the year.

Can You Return Zappos Items After 60 Days?

Yes - but only for store credit, and only if you have a Zappos account. Guest checkout customers cannot return anything after 60 days. Period.

Does Zappos Give Store Credit?

Yes. Account holders who return between 60 days and 1 year receive store credit. Within the first 60 days, you can also choose store credit voluntarily instead of a cash refund.

Guest Checkout: The Limitation Nobody Talks About

If you checked out as a guest - no Zappos account - your options are drastically limited:

• Only 60 days to return (no store credit extension)

• Only original payment method for refund (no store credit option at any point)

• After 60 days? You're stuck with the item

This catches a lot of first-time Zappos shoppers off guard. If you bought shoes as a guest and you're on day 55, don't wait. Start your return now.

⚠️ Guest checkout customers: You only have 60 days and cannot receive store credit. Create a free Zappos account before your next purchase to preserve the 1-year store credit option.

For comparison, the target return policy offers a 90-day standard window, and the walmart return policy provides a similar 90-day return period for most items. If you want truly generous windows, the costco return policy has no time limit on most merchandise.

My practical advice? If you're on the fence about an item, return within 60 days. Store credit is better than nothing, but cash back is always better than store credit.

Source: Zappos Shipping and Returns

How to Return Items to Zappos: Step-by-Step Guide

Zappos gives you multiple ways to send items back, and all of them are free. The method you choose depends on whether you have a printer, how close you are to a UPS Store or Whole Foods, and how much effort you want to put in.

We walked through the Zappos return portal to confirm each method's current availability and process.

Method 1: UPS with QR Code (Recommended)

This is the easiest UPS option - no printer required.

1. Log into your Zappos account and go to Order History

2. Find the order and select the item(s) you want to return

3. Choose your refund type - original payment or store credit

4. Select "Download QR Code" as your return method

5. Pack items in original packaging, then place that inside a shipping box (no tape or labels on the product packaging itself)

6. Bring the package and your phone to any UPS Store

7. Show the QR code - the associate scans it and prints the label right there

The whole thing takes about five minutes once you're at the UPS Store. You walk out with a receipt, and tracking updates automatically in your Zappos account.

Method 2: UPS with Printed Label

If you have a printer at home:

1. Follow the same steps above, but select "Print Label"

2. Print the prepaid UPS return label

3. Tape it to the outside of your shipping box (not the product box)

4. Drop off at any authorized UPS location

Important: Do NOT use a UPS Drop Box. Zappos specifically warns against this - drop boxes can delay processing and you won't get a scan receipt.

Method 3: Whole Foods Drop-Off (Label-Free, Box-Free)

This is the most convenient option if you live near a Whole Foods Market.

1. Start your return in your Zappos account as usual

2. If eligible, you'll see a "Label Free Box Free" option

3. Bring the item in its original manufacturer packaging (the shoe box, for example) to Whole Foods

4. Head to the customer service desk or the Pickup & Return kiosk

5. Show your QR code - an associate handles everything from there

No shipping box needed. No label needed. You literally walk in with the shoe box, show your phone, and walk out.

Whole Foods also accepts Amazon returns - see our amazon return policy guide for those details. Unlike some retailers where you can return online purchases in a dedicated store through the kohls return policy, Zappos is online-only and doesn't have its own physical locations.

Method 4: USPS (By Request Only)

Most people don't know this option exists. If UPS isn't convenient for your location, you can contact Zappos customer service and request a USPS return label instead.

Call 1-800-927-7671 or use the live chat at zappos.com/c/contact-us. They'll email you a USPS label as an alternative.

Guest Checkout Returns

Didn't create a Zappos account? Click the Order Number in any of your order-related emails (confirmation, shipping, or delivery notification). This takes you directly to the return portal where you can start the process.

Return Method Comparison

What NOT to Do

• Don't put packing tape on shoe boxes. Use a separate outer shipping box and tape that instead.

• Don't place postal labels on product packaging. Labels go on the shipping box.

• Don't remove security tags. Items with removed or damaged security tags may be denied.

• Don't use UPS Drop Boxes. Always hand your package to a person at an authorized UPS location.

💡 Pro Tip: Whole Foods drop-off is the simplest option available - no box, no label, no printer. If there's a Whole Foods near you, that's the move.

Sources: Zappos Return Options | Zappos General Questions

Zappos Refund Timeline: How Long Until You Get Your Money Back?

Refund speed is the #1 frustration point for Zappos customers. Based on customer reports across Trustpilot and shopping forums, slow refund processing is the most common complaint - and it's usually a misunderstanding of how the timeline works.

Here's the honest breakdown.

Fast Refunds: The Best-Case Scenario

If your order qualifies for Fast Refunds (typically VIP members), Zappos issues your refund the moment UPS scans your return package. You don't have to wait for the item to reach the warehouse. You don't have to wait for an inspection.

The refund is triggered at the carrier scan.

There's a catch, though: if the warehouse later inspects your return and finds the items don't meet condition requirements - visible wear, missing tags, damaged security tags - they can reverse the refund and recharge your payment method. This rarely happens, but it's worth knowing.

How Long Does a Zappos Refund Take?

Zappos refund timing depends on your payment method. After your return is processed (either through Fast Refund at carrier scan, or up to 30 days for standard processing at the warehouse):

These timelines start after Zappos processes the return - not after you drop off the package.

The Afterpay Warning Most Guides Miss

⚠️ Afterpay users: Your refund only covers what you've paid so far, not the full order total. If you've made two of four installments and return the item, you'll receive a refund for those two payments only. The remaining installments are simply cancelled. You won't get back money you haven't paid yet.

The 45-Day Charge Warning

Here's a detail that trips people up: if Zappos issues a Fast Refund but hasn't received your return package within 30 days, they'll send a warning email. If they still haven't received it within 45 days, a charge for the unreturned items will be applied to your original payment method.

So don't print the label and then forget to actually drop the package off. That refund you already received will evaporate.

How to Check Your Refund Status

Log into your Zappos account → go to Account → Orders and Returns → find the order → check the return status. You'll see tracking updates and refund confirmation here.

Common Delay Causes

Refunds taking longer than expected? The most frequent culprits are holiday warehouse backlogs (especially January through February), packages lost or delayed in UPS transit, and cases where the wrong item was accidentally returned. If your return shows "delivered" to Zappos but no refund has appeared after two weeks, contact customer service.

For comparison, the sephora return policy typically processes refunds faster for in-store returns since there's no shipping or warehouse processing involved.

Sources: Zappos Shipping and Returns | Zappos General Questions

Zappos Exchange Policy: How Exchanges Actually Work

If you need a different size or color, Zappos doesn't handle exchanges the way most retailers do. There's no "swap this for that" button. Instead, they use an e-Gift card system - and once you understand how it works, it's actually pretty clever.

How Do Zappos Exchanges Work?

1. Initiate a return through your account (same process as a regular return)

2. Select "exchange" when prompted for your return reason

3. Receive an e-Gift card immediately for the value of the returned item

4. Place a new order using the gift card for your replacement item

5. Return the original item within 14 days of the exchange being initiated

The key advantage: your replacement ships immediately. You don't wait for Zappos to receive your original item first. This means you could have your new pair on the way within minutes of starting the exchange.

The 14-Day Rule

This is the part that matters: once you initiate an exchange and receive the e-Gift card, you have 14 days to return the original item. If you don't return it within that window, Zappos will charge your original payment method for the item.

When the Price Doesn't Match

Here's a scenario that catches people: you bought shoes on sale for $80, and the replacement pair is now full price at $110. The e-Gift card covers the original $80 - you'll pay $30 out of pocket for the difference.

If this happens, call the Zappos Customer Loyalty Team at 1-800-927-7671 and ask for a price match. They have discretion to match the sale price, especially if you're exchanging for the same item in a different size.

Gift Card Orders

If you originally paid with a gift card, the exchange refund will be issued as an e-Gift card to the email address on your account.

Some retailers like Nike offer direct one-for-one exchanges at physical stores - see the nike return policy for how in-store exchanges work. Retailers like REI also handle exchanges differently - check the rei return policy for their approach.

💡 Tip: If you bought on sale and the price went up, call the Zappos Customer Loyalty Team at 1-800-927-7671 to request a price match before completing your exchange.

Source: Zappos General Questions

Zappos Return Policy by Product Category: Shoes, Clothing & More

While the 60-day/1-year timeline applies across the board, the condition requirements vary by product type. Getting these details wrong is the fastest way to have a return denied.

Shoes & Footwear

Footwear is Zappos's bread and butter - and they're particular about how it comes back.

• Original shoe box required - in its original condition

• No packing tape on the shoe box

• No postal labels on the shoe box

• Try shoes on clean indoor surfaces only - carpet is ideal

• Any visible wear on soles, scuff marks, or dirt means denial

The most common mistake we see? Shoppers throwing away the original shoe box. Keep it until you're 100% certain you're keeping the shoes.

For athletic shoes specifically, compare the foot locker return policy for in-store try-on options that let you test fit before committing.

The 30 Day Runlimited Guarantee: Discontinued

⚠️ The 30 Day Runlimited Guarantee for running shoes was discontinued in June 2024. This program used to let you take running shoes outside for a 30-day test run and still return them. It no longer exists. Running shoes now follow the same standard return rules as all other footwear - unworn, indoor try-on only.

Several competitor guides still reference this program. It's gone.

Clothing & Apparel

• All tags must remain attached

• Must be unworn and unwashed

• Security tags must be intact - don't remove them

• Return in original packaging

For activewear returns, see how the lululemon return policy compares for items like leggings and sports bras.

Accessories (Bags, Watches, Sunglasses, Jewelry)

• Original packaging and all tags required

• Security tags may be present and must remain intact

• Watches and jewelry often have additional protective packaging - keep all of it

Department stores like Macy's handle accessory returns differently - see the macy's return policy for their approach.

Final Sale Items

Final Sale items cannot be returned or exchanged under any circumstances. They're marked clearly on the product page and again at checkout. If you see "Final Sale," that purchase is permanent.

Sale vs. Final Sale: An Important Distinction

Items from site-wide sales or promotions ARE eligible for return unless they're specifically marked as Final Sale. A shoe that's 30% off during a seasonal sale can still be returned. A shoe marked "Final Sale" cannot. The label matters.

Brand-direct returns may also differ - if you bought directly from the manufacturer, check the skechers return policy for their specific rules.

Source: Zappos Shipping and Returns

Zappos Return Problems: Worn Shoes, No Box, Denied Returns & More

Returns don't always go smoothly. This section covers the most common problems Zappos customers run into - and what to actually do about each one.

For any return issue, your first call should be the Zappos Customer Loyalty Team at 1-800-927-7671 - they're available 24/7.

📞 For any return issue: Zappos Customer Loyalty Team - 1-800-927-7671 (24/7) | Text CHAT to 1-833-927-7898 | Live chat at zappos.com/c/contact-us

Problem 1: Can You Return Worn Shoes to Zappos?

Short answer: No. Zappos's policy requires items to be unworn, and they mean it. Light indoor try-on on clean carpet? Generally fine. But visible outdoor wear, dirty soles, or scuff marks will get your return denied.

That said, there's a difference between "worn" and "defective." If your shoes developed a manufacturing defect after wearing them - stitching came apart, sole separated, material cracked - contact customer service. Defective items fall into a different category, and representatives have discretion to issue replacements or refunds.

Electronics retailers face similar condition standards - the best buy return policy also requires items in like-new condition.

Problem 2: Lost the Original Shoe Box

Officially, footwear returns require the original shoe box. Practically, you might still have options.

Call 1-800-927-7671 before shipping anything back. Explain the situation. A one-time courtesy exception is sometimes granted - but it's not guaranteed and shouldn't be expected as standard practice. For future purchases, keep every box until you're absolutely sure the shoes are keepers.

Other retailers handle missing packaging differently - the home depot return policy may accept items without original boxes in certain situations.

Problem 3: Return After 60 Days

If you're past the 60-day mark with a Zappos account, you can still get store credit (up to 1 year from purchase). If you checked out as a guest, you're unfortunately out of options. There's no extension, no exception, no override.

For future orders: create a free Zappos account. It takes 30 seconds and preserves your access to the 1-year store credit window.

Problem 4: Gift Returns

Returning a gift from Zappos requires a phone call - there's no self-service option for this.

Call the Customer Loyalty Team at 1-800-927-7671 and have the following ready:

• The gifter's phone number, OR

• The gifter's first and last name, OR

• The tracking number, OR

• The shipping address the gift was sent from

The refund typically goes to the original purchaser's payment method, but if you ask, customer service can issue an e-Gift card to the recipient instead.

Problem 5: Account Flagged for Too Many Returns

This one isn't in any official policy document, but it's real. Based on customer reports on YouLookFab forums and Trustpilot, some Zappos customers with high return-to-purchase ratios find that their self-service return option gets disabled. Instead of the standard online process, they're required to call customer service for every return.

It's not a ban - you can still return items. But it adds significant friction: calling, waiting on hold, explaining each return. Customers who've experienced this report that the reps remain polite but the process takes much longer.

If this happens to you, explain that you're legitimately trying items for sizing purposes (buying shoes online means fit is never guaranteed). Maintain a reasonable buy-to-keep ratio going forward.

Online-only retailers can be strict about return patterns - compare the shein return policy for another example. Budget e-commerce platforms have their own challenges as well - see our temu return policy guide.

Problem 6: Wrong Item Returned by Mistake

If you accidentally shipped the wrong item to Zappos - your own shoes instead of theirs, for example - contact the Customer Loyalty Team immediately. Zappos doesn't store items mistakenly sent to them, and there's no guarantee of compensation or return of your item.

Act fast. The sooner you call, the better the chance of recovery.

Problem 7: Confusion About 60-Day vs 365-Day Policy

If a store rep or an online article told you that you have 365 days for a full refund, that information is outdated. The current policy is clear: 60 days for cash, up to 1 year for store credit. If there's a discrepancy between what someone tells you and what's written on the official policy page, the written policy wins.

Sources: Zappos General Questions | Zappos Contact Us

Zappos VIP Program: Fast Refunds & Return Benefits

Zappos VIP is a free loyalty program, and the return-related perks alone make it worth signing up - even if you only shop there occasionally.

What Is Zappos VIP?

It's a free program. No cost to join, no annual fee, no catch. You can sign up at zappos.com/c/vip or log in with your Amazon credentials.

VIP Return Benefits

The headline benefit for returns is Fast Refunds: when you drop off a return and UPS scans the package, your refund is triggered immediately. No waiting for warehouse processing. No 30-day inspection window.

Other VIP perks include free expedited shipping on orders and points that accumulate toward future discounts (1 point per $1 spent).

Is VIP Worth It for Returns?

Absolutely - and it's free, so there's no real downside. The standard refund timeline can take up to 30 days for processing at the warehouse, plus up to 10 additional business days for your bank to credit the refund. Fast Refunds bypasses the warehouse wait entirely.

The Caveat

If the warehouse later inspects your returned items and finds they don't meet condition requirements, the refund can be reversed. This means a charge reappears on your payment method. It doesn't happen often if you're returning items in proper condition, but it's worth knowing.

💡 Zappos VIP is free - sign up at zappos.com/c/vip to get Fast Refunds on your next return.

Membership programs often provide return perks at other retailers too - the sam's club return policy also rewards members with additional flexibility.

Source: Zappos VIP

What You Cannot Return to Zappos: Final Sale & Exceptions

Not everything qualifies for a return. Here's the complete list of items and situations that Zappos won't accept back.

Non-Returnable Items

• Final Sale items - Clearly marked on the product page and at checkout. Non-returnable and non-exchangeable, no exceptions.

• Worn or used items - Any visible wear, dirt, outdoor use, or washing means denial.

• Items without original packaging - Footwear specifically requires the original shoe box in original condition.

• Items with removed or damaged security tags - Some products ship with security tags that must remain attached and intact.

• Items returned after 1 year - Even store credit isn't available past the one-year mark.

• Guest checkout returns after 60 days - No extensions available.

How to Avoid Final Sale Surprises

Check the product page carefully before purchasing. The "Final Sale" label appears on the product listing and again during checkout. If you're even slightly unsure about fit or color, don't buy Final Sale items - there's no recourse.

⚠️ Always check for the "Final Sale" label before purchasing - these items cannot be returned under any circumstances.

Other fashion retailers also have non-returnable categories - see the zara return policy for comparison. Fast-fashion retailers vary widely on this front - check the h&m return policy for another approach.

Zappos Return Policy vs Nordstrom, DSW, Amazon & Nike

How does Zappos stack up against other retailers where you might buy shoes and clothing? We reviewed all four competitors' official policy pages in March 2026 to get an accurate comparison.

Zappos vs Amazon Fashion

Same parent company, completely different policies. Amazon Fashion typically offers a 30-day return window from delivery. Zappos gives you 60 days from purchase for a cash refund. Both offer free return shipping, but Zappos is more consistent - Amazon's free return eligibility varies by item. Full details in our amazon return policy guide.

Zappos vs Nordstrom

Nordstrom doesn't publish a fixed return window - they evaluate returns on a case-by-case basis. In practice, this means they sometimes accept returns months later and sometimes push back on items returned after a few weeks. Zappos's structure is more predictable: you know exactly where you stand. See our full nordstrom return policy guide for details. Note that the nordstrom rack return policy differs from Nordstrom's main store - Rack has a fixed 45-day window.

Zappos vs DSW

DSW offers 90 days for VIP members and 60 days for non-members. DSW's major advantage is physical stores - you can try shoes on before buying and return in person. Zappos counters with free shipping both ways and the Whole Foods drop-off option. Read our complete dsw return policy breakdown.

Zappos vs Nike.com

Nike offers a 60-day return window plus a separate 30-day wear test on certain running shoes - meaning you can actually run in them and still return them if the fit isn't right. That's something Zappos lost when they discontinued the Runlimited Guarantee. Nike also has physical stores for in-person returns. See our nike return policy guide for the full story.

Brand-Direct Comparisons

If you're buying specific shoe brands, returns may differ depending on whether you purchase through Zappos or directly from the brand. The new balance return policy has different rules for direct purchases. Compare with the adidas return policy for direct-from-brand purchases as well.

The Bottom Line

Zappos remains competitive - free shipping both ways, multiple return methods, and the 1-year store credit safety net are genuine advantages. But if in-store returns matter to you, Nordstrom, DSW, and Nike have the edge. And if you want a wear-test option for running shoes, Nike is now the better choice.

8 Tips for Smooth Zappos Returns

1. Return within 60 days to preserve your cash refund option. Once that window closes, you're limited to store credit.

2. Keep ALL original boxes and packaging until you're positive you're keeping the item. The shoe box matters more than you think.

3. Try shoes indoors on clean carpet only - never on outdoor surfaces, hardwood, or tile that could leave marks on the soles.

4. Use the QR code method at UPS to avoid needing a printer. The associate scans your phone and prints the label for you.

5. Choose Whole Foods drop-off for maximum convenience - no box, no label, no hassle required.

6. Sign up for free Zappos VIP to get Fast Refunds. It costs nothing and dramatically speeds up your refund timeline.

7. Create a Zappos account instead of guest checkout to access the 1-year store credit window. Guest checkout limits you to 60 days with no store credit option.

8. Never put packing tape or postal labels directly on the original shoe box. Use a separate outer shipping box for the return shipment.

Some brands like Patagonia are more forgiving about try-on wear - see the patagonia return policy for their satisfaction guarantee. Historically generous policies like the ll bean return policy have also tightened over the years, mirroring the trend Zappos followed.

FAQ: Zappos Return Policy - 15 Most-Asked Questions

Does Zappos still have a 365-day return policy?

No. As of mid-2025, Zappos offers 60 days for a refund to your original payment method. Account holders can return for store credit up to one year from purchase. The legacy 365-day full refund window no longer exists. The official policy page was last updated July 9, 2025.

How long do I have to return something to Zappos?

60 days for a full refund to your original payment method. Account holders can also return for store credit up to 1 year from purchase. Guest checkout customers: 60 days only, no store credit option.

Is Zappos return shipping free?

Yes, always. Use the prepaid UPS label (QR code or printed) or the Whole Foods label-free drop-off option. You'll never pay for return shipping.

Can I return Zappos items at Whole Foods?

Yes - and it's the most convenient option. Start your return online, select the Whole Foods option if eligible, bring items in original product packaging, and show your QR code at the customer service desk. No box needed. No label needed.

Can I return worn shoes to Zappos?

No. Items must be unworn and in original condition. Light indoor try-on is fine, but visible outdoor wear, dirt on soles, or scuffing means the return will be denied. For defective items, contact 1-800-927-7671 - defects are handled differently from wear.

Beauty retailers handle product testing differently - the ulta return policy allows opened products to be returned within their window.

Do I need the original shoe box to return to Zappos?

Yes. Footwear must include the original manufacturer's shoe box in its original condition, without packing tape or postal labels. If you've lost the box, call customer service at 1-800-927-7671 before shipping - a one-time exception is sometimes granted.

How long does a Zappos refund take?

Fast Refund eligible orders: Immediately upon UPS carrier scan. Standard processing: Up to 30 days, then: store credit up to 24 hours, credit/debit cards up to 10 business days, PayPal up to 30 business days, Afterpay up to 20 business days.

Can I return Zappos items after 60 days?

Account holders: yes, for store credit only (up to 1 year from purchase). Guest checkout customers: no - returns are only accepted within 60 days.

Can I return Final Sale items to Zappos?

No. Final Sale items are non-returnable and non-exchangeable under any circumstances. Always check for the "Final Sale" label on the product page before purchasing.

Other retailers also have non-returnable categories - the apple return policy has its own exceptions for certain product types.

How do Zappos exchanges work?

Zappos issues an e-Gift card immediately for the return value, which you use to order a replacement. Return the original within 14 days. If the new item costs more, you pay the difference. Call 1-800-927-7671 to request a price match if your original was purchased on sale.

Can I return a gift from Zappos?

Yes. Contact the Customer Loyalty Team at 1-800-927-7671. You'll need the gifter's phone number, name, tracking number, or shipping address. A gift card can be issued to the recipient instead of refunding the original purchaser.

Does Zappos charge a restocking fee?

No. Zappos does not charge any restocking fees on returns.

For bulky items at other retailers, some do charge fees - see the wayfair return policy for furniture returns. The ikea return policy also offers fee-free returns for most items.

Will Zappos ban me for too many returns?

Not exactly. Zappos may restrict your self-service return capability if your account has an unusually high return-to-purchase ratio. This means you'd need to call customer service for each return instead of using the online portal. It adds friction but doesn't prevent returns entirely.

Can I return Zappos items bought through Amazon?

Items sold by Zappos on Amazon follow Amazon's return policy, not Zappos's. Check the Amazon listing for applicable rules.

Marketplace purchases often follow different rules across platforms. The etsy return policy varies by seller, and similarly, the ebay return policy depends on individual seller policies.

Where can I drop off my Zappos return?

Visit ups.com/dropoff to find the nearest authorized UPS location, or check wholefoodsmarket.com/stores for your closest Whole Foods. Do not use UPS Drop Boxes - always hand your package to an associate.

Conclusion: Is the Zappos Return Policy Still Good in 2026?

The 365-day policy is gone, but Zappos still offers a solid return experience.

The shift from 365 days to 60 days stings - there's no way around that. Zappos lost a huge part of what made them special. But looking at the full picture, the current policy is still competitive: free return shipping on every order, no restocking fees, multiple return methods including the dead-simple Whole Foods drop-off, and a 1-year store credit safety net for account holders.

Where Zappos falls short compared to pre-2025 is the urgency it now places on decision-making. Sixty days is enough time for most people, but it's a far cry from the relaxed year-long window that made Zappos famous. If you're someone who likes to sit on purchases, this policy change means you need to be more intentional about trying items quickly and returning what doesn't work.

Start your return at zappos.com/returns or call the Customer Loyalty Team at 1-800-927-7671 for assistance.

Policy details verified on March 19, 2026 against the official Zappos Shipping and Returns page. We update this guide monthly.

Policy Change History:

• July 2025 - Zappos changed from 365-day full refund to 60-day full refund + 1-year store credit (account holders)

• June 2024 - 30 Day Runlimited Guarantee for running shoes discontinued

Policies can change at any time. Always verify at zappos.com/c/shipping-and-returns before initiating a time-sensitive return.

Bookmark this zappos return policy guide for future reference - we keep it updated so you don't have to dig through outdated information elsewhere.