5 Things Even Costco Won’t Let You Return

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Costco’s return policy is famously lax, but even Costco has its limits. See what items fall under these exceptions. [[{“value”:”

We all love Costco for its great prices and quality Kirkland items. But deals and discounts aren’t the only way Costco is good for your budget. The generous return policy is also a fantastic resource for ensuring you’re not paying for things that don’t satisfy you.

Indeed, Costco’s return policy is famous for its breadth, allowing most Costco purchases to be returned more or less indefinitely. (Social media is awash in stories about the absurd returns people have witnessed.)

Even Costco’s famous return policy isn’t completely without limits, however. It turns out there are things even Costco won’t take back. Here are a few notables.

1. Gold and silver

If you ever needed proof that Costco really does sell everything, it’s probably the fact that you can buy literal gold bars. Customers can also find gold and silver coins, though these tend to sell out quickly.

You need to be certain you really want your shinies. Costco won’t let you return gold or silver bullion, bars, or coins.

Oh, and before you ask, they’re not eligible for price adjustments, either. (Which makes sense, since the prices of silver and gold fluctuate constantly.)

2. Sports and event tickets

You can find a whole range of tickets to various sporting events and concerts, often with a bit of a discount. For instance, right now I can find tickets to Cirque du Soleil, as well as tickets for a New York Mets game.

Keep a close eye on the listings, though. Your tickets are likely nonrefundable.

This means you can’t get a refund even if you don’t attend the event. Indeed, even if the event is cancelled, you may need to deal with the venue and/or team directly to get your money back.

3. Custom and special order items

If you’ve ever spent hours agonizing over the perfect specs on your custom special order, just to see it realized and it doesn’t match the image in your head…well, I get how disappointing that can be. But if you ordered that item from Costco, you may be out of luck.

Most custom and special order items are completely nonrefundable. The only exception? If Costco didn’t meet the original specs (color, size, etc.) correctly.

If everything is as you requested, but you still don’t love it? You’re stuck with it anyway, friend.

4. Gift cards and Costco Shop Cards

You can get some truly awesome deals on gift cards at Costco — like, up to 25% off the face value. But you need to be sure you can use those gift cards up before you buy them, because there is no going back: Costco doesn’t allow gift card returns.

It doesn’t matter if you buy them online or in-store, if they’re digital or physical. You bought ’em, you’re stuck with ’em. (Unless you can figure out some other way to make use of it.)

This non-return-policy also extends to Costco Shop Cards, Costco’s own gift card. Once you’ve purchased it, you’ll need to use it up or give it to someone else, because you won’t be getting your money back via a refund.

5. Tobacco and alcohol (laws vary by state)

Costco has a great selection of decent booze, making it easy to save on stocking the liquor cabinet. But one thing to watch out for is the return policy; it will depend entirely on where you live.

For example, in some states, alcohol sales are final, period. Other states will allow the return of unopened items, while some will allow unopened corked items to be returned. Some may allow a return but only for store credit, no cash. And so on.

The best way to get an answer on this one may be to contact your local Costco to ask about the policy in your area.

Other items with limits or restrictions

In addition to these products that Costco simply won’t refund, there are quite a few items that otherwise have restrictions or limits on when or how they can be returned.

For example, major electronics and appliances, such as TVs and refrigerators, are usually limited to a 90-day return window. Diamonds (1.00ct or larger) can only be returned within 48 hours. And certain products, like tires and batteries, will have specific return policies based on the item and location.

Folks who are caught abusing the return policy will likely face restrictions on what they can — or, more specifically, can’t — return. Excessive abuse of the policy can even get your membership revoked.

Although it isn’t a blank check to return anything and everything, Costco still has one of the best return policies around. So, read up on what’s allowed and use a bit of common sense, and you should be fine.

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The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Brittney Myers has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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