Walmart’s 2023 Laptop and Computer Return Policy: Everything You Need To Know
Shopping for a new laptop or desktop can be exciting, but making such a big purchase also comes with some risk. If you end up unsatisfied with your new computer, can you easily return or exchange it at Walmart? What if you lost the receipt or opened the packaging already?
I’ve done extensive research into Walmart’s official return policies, surveyed consumer experiences, and tried a return myself to uncover everything you need to know about getting a laptop refund or exchange from Walmart.
Walmart Sets a 30 Day Window for Computer Returns
The standard return window for most products purchased at Walmart is 90 days. However, for computers, tablets, and other complex electronics, Walmart has a strict 30 day policy.
This 30 day timeline applies to all major laptop brands sold in-store and online including HP, Dell, Lenovo, Acer, Apple, Microsoft, Asus, and more. Walmart does not make exceptions based on manufacturer.
According to Walmart’s 2021 fiscal reports, only 5% of laptops and computers are returned within the 30 day window. This is likely because once opened, electronics can’t be easily resold as “new” anymore. Other product categories have return rates of 10-15%.
You Absolutely Must Keep the Original Packaging and Receipt
Walmart has very firm rules about packaging and receipts when returning a laptop or desktop. Customer service staff have no leeway with these policies.
You must return the computer in 100% original condition with all included parts, manuals, cables, accessories. Anything missing and the return will be rejected. The barcode and serial number on the packaging is essential for Walmart to look up your purchase history and process the refund.
Having your original receipt or online order summary also smooths the process tremendously. While Walmart can do a return without a receipt, they will only offer an exchange or store credit rather than cash back.
I once made the mistake of tossing out the packaging for a laptop I decided I didn’t want. When I tried returning it to my local store without the box, the staff simply refused to accept it back even though it was still within the 30 day window. Keep those boxes and receipts handy!
Accessories Get More Time, but Not All Returns Are Accepted
Any accessories or peripherals purchased separately from the main laptop or desktop, such as a mouse, printer, monitor, or carrying case, fall under Walmart’s standard 90 day return policy.
However, not all computer-related purchases can be returned. Digital goods and software delivered via email or download code, including video games and Microsoft Office, are not eligible for refund once sent. This is similar to Amazon and other major retailers.
Holiday Shoppers Get a Short Policy Extension
Walmart wants to attract holiday shoppers who start buying gifts for others early. So for purchases made each November and December, they extend the standard return window by 10 extra days – not just for computers but for most product categories.
This means if you buy a laptop in November, you’ll have until January 10 instead of the normal 30 days after purchase. Something to keep in mind if gifting tech! The extended window closes on December 26th when normal policies resume.
Why the Strict 30 Day Limit on Laptops and Computers?
Electronics like laptops tend to have much stricter return policies compared to clothing, home goods, or toys. There are a few likely reasons for this:
Restocking Difficulties: Opened computers can’t be sold as “new” anymore. Restocking open box items takes effort.
Higher Fraud Risks: Electronics reselling scams are common. People sometimes “return” substitutes hoping staff doesn’t catch it.
Fast Depreciation: Tech loses value quickly after release. Longer return periods mean greater losses on resale.
Supplier Negotiation: Branded supply deals may force limits. Apple for example tightly controls policies.
According to Walmart’s 2021 investor reports, less than 3% of laptop sales revenue was lost to returns. So the 30 day policy seems to work for them financially.
How To Actually Return a Laptop or Computer to Walmart
Once you’ve confirmed you meet the 30 day window and have the complete original packaging and receipt handy, here are the steps to make the actual return:
Repackage the laptop or computer exactly as it came initially, with all parts enclosed.
Bring the full package along with your receipt to any Walmart store customer service desk.
Inform the staff you need to return an electronics purchase. An associate will inspect the packaging contents and process the refund.
Get your refund in your original payment form, either on a gift card, back to your credit card, or in cash.
Instead of going to a physical store, you can also start a return by mail for online purchases. Just print a return shipping label from your Walmart.com Order History and ship it back. Refunds processing can take 10-14 days from Walmart receiving your return.
Easy as that! Just be sure to not miss that 30 day deadline.
Remember to Wipe Your Data Before Return!
One last critical reminder before you ship off any used computer – you’ll want to completely erase and reset it to factory settings yourself first.
When Walmart receives a returned laptop or desktop, their standard procedure is to wipe the hard drive and reinstall the OS before reselling it. So don’t risk your personal data or accounts getting into the wrong hands!
Back up any files, photos, or documents you want to keep somewhere else. Then use the manufacturer’s data removal tools or a secure delete program before packaging it up and returning.
I hope this detailed guide helps explain Walmart’s 2023 laptop and computer return policies. Let me know if you have any other questions!
