Apple Launches Extended Holiday Return Policy, Returns Accepted Until January 8 in U.S.

Apple today updated its Returns Policy for the holiday period, extending the time in which holiday gifts and purchases can be returned in the United States.

apple holiday iphone airpod snowflake
Items purchased from the Apple Online Store that are received between November 10 and December 25, 2020 can be returned to Apple until January 8, 2021, offering holiday shoppers more than two weeks to make returns.

These dates are applicable for the U.S. store, but Apple also extends return periods in other countries as well. The time available for a return can vary by country, so before making an Apple purchase as a gift, it's worth checking the return policy where you are located.

Items purchased at the Apple Online Store that are received between 10 November and 25 December 2020 may be returned up to 8 January 2021. Please note that all other terms and conditions provided in the Apple Online Store Sales and Refunds Policy are still applicable with respect to such items purchased. All purchases made after 25 December 2020 are subject to the Standard Returns Policy.

Some items are excluded from the return policy, such as Apple and App Store gift cards, but iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, and accessory purchases can be returned. Purchased devices can be opened and used prior to being returned, but they must be in their original packaging.

Purchases received prior to November 10, 2020 or after December 25, 2020 will be subject to Apple's standard 14 day return policy.

Along with announcing the new holiday return period, Apple today also shared its annual gift guide. The gift guide features holiday-themed Apple product graphics and suggestions for gifts like iPhones, AirPods, Apple gift cards, Apple Watch, HomePod mini, and more.

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Top Rated Comments

Gr81MB Avatar
60 months ago

What happens to returned phones?
Show up on refurb Section in a few months
Score: 4 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Aggie2010 Avatar
60 months ago

I ordered my 12 mini on saturday. I looked in the terms on apples website and can't find anything relating to the definition of "received" does this mean received by me, or the order received by apple. Seems very vague to me.
I placed an order on Sunday and received it today. I went online to start a return to see the date and it shows I have until January 8 to initiate a return. So it looks like it’s from the date it’s delivered/received.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
dinobear Avatar
60 months ago

Sucks for the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro folks, no?
Only if they want to return it extended beyond the time they originally thought they had to return it. It's only a benefit for some people. Not a negative towards anybody.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Europa13 Avatar
60 months ago

is there a restock fee? considering the 13" M1 MBP.
No restocking fee.
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)
triangletechie Avatar
60 months ago
Plenty of time to try out the new Air.
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)
7thson Avatar
60 months ago
It’s a huge consideration on Apples part that they do this and it’s no small gesture. Kudos Apple for this generous return period.
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)