Returning video games to Walmart is easy!
Walmart does not limit their return policy when it comes to video games, so as long as you follow the guidelines of Walmart’s standard return policy, then you should have no problem refunding or exchanging your game.
Here’s a quick overview of Walmart’s standard return policy:
- Most items can be returned within 90 days unless otherwise noted
- All returns must be accompanied by a receipt to qualify for a full refund
- Returns made without a receipt are only eligible for store credit or exchange
- Items like cell phones, computers, hardware, and prescription glasses have a shortened return window (for a full look at the policy’s exceptions, click here)
Here are a few exceptions to be aware of:
- Walmart does not accept returns on digital games, digital download cards, access codes, or any other digital product.
- Although it’s not stated in the official policy, many customers have noted that Walmart will only offer refunds for games that have not been opened.
- If your video game has been opened and/or used, then there is a chance you will only be eligible for an exchange.
- Walmart requires receipts for full refunds. If you are not able to provide a receipt, you will either receive a refund in the form of store credit or be offered an exchange.
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How Strict Is Walmart’s Return Policy For Video Games?
Walmart actually has a fairly flexible policy on video game returns compared to other stores. For example, Target limits their video game returns to just 30 days, as does Amazon.
So, right off the bat, Walmart has a leg up on the competition. But are they flexible beyond their 90 day policy?
Unfortunately, if you attempt to return a video game (or anything else for that matter) to Walmart after 90 days, chances are you won’t be granted a refund. Walmart’s return policy states that while store managers and supervisors have ultimate discretion over granting returns, they are not allowed to grant returns on items deemed ineligible by the official return policy.
It’s also important to note that while the official policy doesn’t state this, many Walmart stores limit returns on video games that have been opened.
So, while Walmart does offer a generous return window on video games and most other times, it’s best to stick to the rules of the return policy or else risk not being able to get your money back.
Can You Return A Video Game To Walmart Without A Receipt?
Unfortunately, Walmart’s return policy is fairly strict when it comes to receipts.
In order to qualify for a full refund, customers must provide a receipt.
However, if you can’t provide a receipt, you’re not completely out of luck.
Walmart’s return policy states that customers can provide a valid, government-issued ID in place of a receipt when making a return. If your ID can be verified, then your return will be accepted (within the allowed return window).
However, no-receipt returns are only eligible for cash refund if the price of the item is $10 or less. If the current price of the item is higher than $10, then you will be offered a refund in the form of a Walmart shopping card or gift card. You will also be given the option to exchange your item for another item of the same price.
Be aware that Walmart tracks no-receipt returns, which is why they ask for customer IDs.
How Does Walmart Refund A Returned Video Game?
If you are granted a refund for your returned video game, how you receive your reimbursement will vary based on how you paid originally.
For example, if you paid in cash, you will receive your refund in cash. If you paid with a credit card or debit card, then you will be refunded to your bank account.
Cash refunds are the fastest way to get your money back when making a return, so consider this when making your purchases. For items priced at $10 or more, cash refunds are only available for customers who pay in cash originally.
If you’re being refunded to a credit or debit card, be aware that bank processing times will affect how long it takes for you to receive your funds. Refunded transactions typically won’t post until the end of that business day, and then your bank may take 1-3 additional days to process the transaction back into your account.
If you return your video game by mail, you may have to wait up to several weeks to receive your refund, considering shipping and processing times.
Does Walmart Exchange Returned Video Games?
Exchanging games at Walmart instead of requesting a refund is always an option. Plus, it’s more likely that your request will be granted.
If you return an unopened video game to Walmart within the 90 day return window, then you will be able to exchange it for anything you’d like. However, if your game has been opened, you will only be able to exchange it for the same game title for the same console.
How To Return A Video Game To Walmart?
When returning anything to Walmart, you have a few different options for how to go about the return.
First, you can always return an item to any Walmart store location, whether you bought it in person or online.
To return your video game in person at Walmart, follow these steps:
- Gather your item, all of its original packaging, your original form of payment, and your purchase receipt
- Visit your neighborhood Walmart location
- Find the customer service desk and let them know you’d like to return an item
- The employee will walk you through the rest of the returns process
If you purchased your item through Walmart.com or the Walmart app, you can start your return online by following these steps provided by Walmart:
The return methods you’ll be offered include the following:
If you have any questions about the returns process, you can always contact Walmart customer service by calling 1-800-925-6278 (1-800-WALMART).
FAQs
Can you return a video game controller to Walmart?
Yes. However, all video game hardware, including video game controllers, must be returned or exchanged within 30 days of purchase.
Does Walmart limit the time of returning video games?
No. Video games can be returned any time during Walmart’s standard return window of 90 days.
Can you return digital games and access codes?
No. Walmart’s return policy excludes digital products.
Do you need the original packaging to make a return?
Yes. Walmart’s return policy states that in order to qualify for a refund or exchange, you must provide “all original packaging and accessories” at the time of your return.
Conclusion
Returning a video game to Walmart is super simple as long as you stick to the parameters of the return policy. Customers who can provide proof of purchase have 90 days to return video games for a full refund.
If you cannot provide a receipt and/or if your video game has been opened, you will likely only qualify for an exchange or a refund in the form of store credit.
Video games can be returned to any Walmart store whether they were purchased in person or online. Video games purchased in store cannot be returned through the online returns process.
