American Eagle is known for offering trendy and stylish clothing that caters to a broad audience. While many people love shopping at American Eagle, there are instances where you may need to return or exchange an item. Whether you bought something that didn’t fit quite right or simply changed your mind, understanding American Eagle’s return policy is essential for a smooth return process. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the American Eagle return policy, so you know what to expect and how to navigate the process with ease.
What is American Eagle’s Return Policy?
American Eagle has a customer-friendly return policy that allows customers to return or exchange items both in-store and online. The policy offers flexibility, giving shoppers peace of mind when making purchases. Here are the key points:
- Time Frame: You can return or exchange items within 30 days of the purchase date.
- Condition of Items: All items must be unworn, unwashed, and in their original condition with tags still attached. This ensures that the items can be resold.
- Original Receipt: Having the original receipt or proof of purchase makes the return process much smoother. Without it, you may be limited to store credit at the current sale price.
- Refund Method: Refunds are issued in the original form of payment, whether it’s credit card, PayPal, or cash. However, for returns without a receipt, you may only receive store credit.
Exceptions to the Return Policy
Although the general return policy is straightforward, there are a few exceptions you should be aware of:
- Swimwear and Intimates: These items can only be returned if they are unworn and have the original hygienic liner intact.
- Gift Cards: Gift cards are non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for cash.
- Final Sale Items: Items marked as final sale are not eligible for return or exchange. Be mindful of this when shopping during sales or promotions.
How to Return Items Bought Online
American Eagle’s online return process is simple and user-friendly. Whether you ordered clothing, accessories, or shoes, you can return them by following these steps.
Step 1: Visit the American Eagle Returns Portal
To initiate a return, visit the official American Eagle Returns Portal. This portal allows you to generate a return shipping label and track your return.
Step 2: Enter Your Order Details
You’ll need to provide your order number and email address or phone number associated with the purchase. This information can be found in your order confirmation email or by logging into your American Eagle account.
Step 3: Select Items for Return
Once logged in, select the items you want to return and specify the reason for the return. Whether it’s a size issue, a defect, or simply a change of mind, this step helps American Eagle understand why returns are being made.
Step 4: Print Your Return Label
After completing the return request, you’ll be able to print a prepaid return shipping label. Attach this label to your package and ensure all items are securely packed.
Step 5: Ship the Package
Take your package to the nearest UPS drop-off location or schedule a pickup. You can track the status of your return through the American Eagle Returns Portal.
Step 6: Receive Your Refund
Once the return is processed, you’ll receive a refund in the original form of payment. The refund process can take up to two weeks, depending on your payment method and bank processing times.
Return Shipping Costs
For most online returns, American Eagle deducts a flat shipping fee from your refund. However, if the return is due to a defective item or a mistake made by American Eagle, the return shipping fee may be waived.
In-Store Returns and Exchanges
Returning or exchanging items at an American Eagle store is a convenient option if you live near one of their locations. Here’s how the in-store return process works.
Step 1: Bring Your Items and Receipt
Take the items you wish to return, along with the original receipt or packing slip, to any American Eagle store. Having the receipt will ensure you receive a full refund in the original form of payment.
Step 2: Speak to a Sales Associate
Once at the store, approach a sales associate and let them know you would like to return or exchange the items. The associate will inspect the items to ensure they are in their original condition.
Step 3: Receive Your Refund or Exchange
For refunds, the process is straightforward and typically completed in a few minutes. For exchanges, you can choose a new item right away, making the process quick and hassle-free.
Benefits of In-Store Returns
- Instant Refunds: Unlike online returns, where you need to wait for shipping and processing, in-store returns result in an instant refund.
- No Return Shipping Fees: By returning items in-store, you avoid paying any return shipping fees, making it a cost-effective option.
- Immediate Exchanges: If you need a different size or color, you can exchange the item on the spot without waiting for shipping.
Returning Gifts at American Eagle
If you received an item from American Eagle as a gift and need to return it, the process is slightly different but still simple.
Step 1: Gift Receipt or No Receipt
If the gift giver included a gift receipt, you can return the item for store credit or exchange it for something else. If you don’t have a receipt, you may still return the item, but the refund will be in the form of store credit based on the current selling price.
Step 2: Choose Store Credit or Exchange
Once your return is approved, you can choose to receive store credit or exchange the item. Store credit can be used for future purchases online or in-store, allowing you to find something you truly love.
Benefits of Gift Returns
- Store Credit Flexibility: If you don’t want an immediate exchange, store credit allows you to shop at your convenience, both online and in-store.
- Hassle-Free Returns: American Eagle’s staff is accommodating when it comes to gift returns, making the process smooth and efficient.
American Eagle’s Exchange Policy
In addition to returns, American Eagle offers a straightforward exchange policy. Whether you need a different size, color, or style, exchanges can be done both in-store and online.
In-Store Exchanges
In-store exchanges are the quickest way to get the right item. Simply bring the item in its original condition with the receipt or proof of purchase, and a sales associate will assist you in finding the right size or style.
Online Exchanges
Online exchanges follow a similar process to returns, but with a few added steps.
Step 1: Start an Exchange Online
Visit the American Eagle Returns Portal and select the option to exchange items. Specify what you need, such as a different size or color.
Step 2: Print Your Exchange Label
Once your exchange request is submitted, print the prepaid shipping label and send back the item you want to exchange.
Step 3: Receive the New Item
After American Eagle receives your return, they will ship the new item to you. Processing times vary, but most exchanges are completed within 1-2 weeks.
Exchange Policy for Gifts
If you received an item as a gift, you can also exchange it for a different item or store credit. The process is similar to regular exchanges, but without a receipt, you may only receive store credit based on the current selling price.
American Eagle Return Policy for International Orders
For customers outside the U.S., American Eagle has a slightly different return process.
Time Frame for International Returns
You have 30 days from the date of purchase to return items. The same rules apply: items must be unworn, unwashed, and in their original condition.
How to Return International Orders
To return an international order, you’ll need to visit the American Eagle International Returns Portal. Here, you can generate a shipping label and follow the prompts to send your package back.
Refund Method for International Returns
Refunds for international orders are issued in the original form of payment. Keep in mind that return shipping costs are usually the responsibility of the customer, unless the return is due to an error on American Eagle’s part.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
- Keep Your Receipt: Always keep your receipt or packing slip when shopping at American Eagle. It ensures a smooth return process and guarantees a full refund.
- Check the Condition of Items: Before attempting to return or exchange an item, ensure it’s in its original condition. This will prevent delays or rejections during the return process.
- Understand the Return Window: The 30-day return window is strictly enforced, so make sure to initiate any returns or exchanges within this timeframe.
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Conclusion
American Eagle’s return policy is designed with the customer in mind, offering flexibility and convenience whether you’re shopping in-store or online. By understanding the policy and following the outlined steps, you can enjoy a hassle-free return or exchange process. Whether you’re returning a gift, exchanging for a different size, or sending back an online order, American Eagle makes the process straightforward and stress-free.
FAQs
1. How long do I have to return items to American Eagle?
You have 30 days from the date of purchase to return or exchange items at American Eagle. This applies to both in-store and online purchases, as long as the items are unworn, unwashed, and in their original condition.
2. Can I return items without a receipt?
Yes, you can return items without a receipt; however, you will only receive store credit for the current sale price of the item. For a full refund in the original form of payment, a receipt or proof of purchase is required.
3. Can I return or exchange items bought online at a store?
Yes, American Eagle allows you to return or exchange items purchased online at any physical store location. Just bring the items and the packing slip or order confirmation to the store for a hassle-free return or exchange.
4. Are there any items that cannot be returned?
Yes, certain items like swimwear, underwear, and intimate apparel can only be returned if they are unworn with the original hygienic liner intact. Additionally, items marked as “final sale” cannot be returned or exchanged.
5. What happens if I miss the 30-day return window?
If you miss the 30-day return window, American Eagle may allow a return, but you may only be eligible for store credit rather than a full refund. It’s best to complete your return within the 30-day timeframe to avoid complications.
6. How long does it take to get a refund for online returns?
Refunds for online returns typically take about 1-2 weeks. Once the return is processed, you’ll receive your refund in the original form of payment. It may take a few additional days for the funds to appear in your account, depending on your bank or payment method.
7. Does American Eagle cover return shipping costs for online orders?
For most online returns, a return shipping fee will be deducted from your refund. However, if the return is due to a defective product or an error on American Eagle’s part, the return shipping fee may be waived.
8. Can I exchange an item bought online?
Yes, you can exchange an item bought online either by visiting a physical store or using the American Eagle Returns Portal. Online exchanges involve selecting the item you wish to exchange, generating a prepaid shipping label, and sending the original item back.
9. Can I return or exchange a gift I received from American Eagle?
Yes, if you received an item as a gift, you can return or exchange it at an American Eagle store. If you have a gift receipt, you can return the item for store credit or exchange it for something else. Without a receipt, the item will be refunded based on the current sale price.
10. How do I return international orders to American Eagle?
International customers can return items by visiting the American Eagle International Returns Portal. You can generate a return shipping label through the portal and send the items back within 30 days of purchase. Keep in mind that return shipping costs are typically the responsibility of the customer unless there was an error with the order.
11. Can I return or exchange items purchased from American Eagle Factory?
Yes, items purchased from American Eagle Factory stores can be returned or exchanged at any American Eagle or Aerie location, as long as they meet the general return policy conditions (unworn, unwashed, within 30 days, and with a receipt).
12. Do I need the original packaging to return items?
The original packaging is not required to return items to American Eagle. However, the items must still be in their original condition, with tags attached, and must not be worn or washed.
13. How do I track the status of my online return?
You can track the status of your online return by visiting the American Eagle Returns Portal and entering your order number and email. This will allow you to see updates on the return’s progress, including when the refund will be processed.
14. Can I cancel or change my online return request after it has been initiated?
Once you have initiated a return request, it cannot be changed or canceled. However, if you decide not to proceed with the return, simply do not ship the item back, and the return will not be processed.
15. What should I do if I received a defective or incorrect item?
If you received a defective or incorrect item, contact American Eagle’s customer service as soon as possible. They will guide you through the process of returning or exchanging the item at no cost to you.