Ace Hardware Return Policy In 2022: What You Need To Know

With over 5,000 stores across the United States, Ace Hardware is one of the leading hardware retailers offering tools, lawn & garden equipment, paint, and other home improvement essentials. But what happens if you need to return an item you bought at Ace Hardware?

As a hardware store giant with $7.8 billion in sales in 2021, Ace Hardware processes a high volume of returns every year. It‘s important for consumers to understand the store‘s return policy before making a purchase.

Here is an overview of Ace Hardware‘s return guidelines and what you need to do to get your money back.

Ace Hardware‘s Official Return Policy

According to Ace Hardware‘s official return policy outlined on their website, most merchandise can be returned within 30 days of purchase with a few exceptions. Returns must include the original receipt and be in new, unused condition with all parts and packaging.

Some key points on returns directly from Ace Hardware:

Returns are accepted at any Ace Hardware store, not just the original purchase location.
Returns without a receipt may be accepted as store credit. Photo ID is required.
Shipping fees are not refunded unless the return is due to an Ace Hardware error.
Hazardous materials can only be returned to the original purchasing location.

Ace Hardware also has special restrictions around returning the following:

Clearance or as-is items
Gas-powered equipment with fuel or oil already added
Made-to-order paint through Magnolia Home brand
Gift cards

So check your items carefully before purchasing if you think you may need to return them later on.

Struggles Customers Face With Ace Returns

While Ace Hardware‘s posted return policy seems straightforward, many customers complain of difficulties getting refunds approved even within the 30 day window.

According to posts on ConsumerAffairs.com, some of the top issues include:

Need to have a printed receipt, otherwise only store credit is issued
Being denied a return without the original packaging
Stores refusing to accept returns shipped from an online order
Challenges getting refunds for defective merchandise

One customer described their experience: "I attempted to return an unused item I had purchased a week earlier and they refused to take it back because I did not have the receipt nor the packaging it came in. Terrible customer service!"

To avoid these pitfalls, be sure to keep your receipt and original packaging until you are past the return period. Keeping the factory box and wrappers is key for larger items like grills, appliances and outdoor power equipment.

Return Items Purchased Online vs. In Stores

Where you bought your Ace Hardware purchase also impacts the return experience:

For in-store purchases:

Return to any Brick-and-Mortar Ace Hardware location
Have your receipt and original packaging
Allow 1-2 billing cycles for credit card refund

For online orders:

Start return process through AceHardware.com account
Print shipping label and authorization form
Ship back item with paperwork at your own expense
Once received, refund will be issued within 3-5 days

So if you want to skip the hassle of boxing up and shipping back items yourself, your best bet is returning directly to an Ace Hardware store location.

Making Returns Without a Receipt

Don‘t despair if you‘ve lost your receipt! Ace Hardware may still accept a return without the original proof of purchase.

Here are some tips to get store credit without a receipt:

Have a valid photo ID ready when requesting the return
Ensure the product is still new and unopened
Know approximate purchase date if possible
Be polite and explain why you lost the receipt
Opened products likely won‘t qualify for credit

Without a receipt, however, your only option is an even exchange or Ace Hardware store credit. No cash refunds are issued.

Steps to Make a Return at Ace Hardware

Ready to request a return from Ace Hardware? Follow these steps for a smooth process:

Check return eligibility – Confirm your item wasn‘t an online exclusive, clearance, or made-to-order specialty product. Also verify it has been less than 30 days.
Bring your packed up item – Have the original packaging along with all parts, manuals, etc. The more complete the condition, the better.
Visit Customer Service desk – Find the returns desk at any Ace Hardware location, no need to go to original store.
Provide receipt – Supply your original purchase receipt for refund back to original payment method.
Confirm with photo ID – Be ready to show your driver‘s license or valid government ID if required.
Get credited – You‘ll be refunded in your original payment form within 1-2 billing cycles once approved.

Following these guidelines will ensure you successfully get money back on eligible Ace Hardware returns within their 30 day policy window.

Conclusion

Ace Hardware accepts product returns at over 5,000 stores across the U.S. for up to 30 days after purchase. To guarantee you can get a refund or store credit, keep your receipt and original packaging.

Certain items like gift cards, clearance merchandise, and gas-powered equipment with fuel cannot be returned per Ace‘s policy exceptions. Without a receipt, you‘ll only receive store credit versus a refund to your card.

Knowing Ace Hardware‘s rules for returns and what to expect can ensure a quick, smooth process. Just be ready with all original items included, purchase proof available, and return within 30 days for the best results.