Walmart Updates Return Policy For The Holidays: What You Need To Know

As Walmart (WMT) sees consumers beginning their holiday shopping earlier this year amid rising inflation, the company has changes coming to its return policy.

"We listened to our customers, and the way we're approaching holiday this year underscores our commitment to making holiday shopping easier, affordable and more enjoyable," Tom Ward, executive vice president and chief ecommerce officer at Walmart U.S., said in a statement.

Walmart is now offering three updates to its holiday return policy, which it said will make returns "easier and more convenient" for shoppers.

The changes, which go into effect in October, include an extended holiday return window as part of Walmart's "Holiday Guarantee." Now eligible purchases made on or after Oct. 1 can be returned through Jan. 31, 2023. Walmart said this includes electronics and marketplace items.

The extended return window is starting more than a month earlier than has been offered in previous years, Ward told Axios. The retail giant said more than half of Walmart customers will start their holiday shopping research in October.

Ward continued by saying that the extended return policy will allow customers to shop with confidence in case they change their minds, telling Axios, "People are thinking about their wallets. We know that folks are under a bit of pressure."

Walmart returns will also be allowed curbside, so customers do not have to leave their vehicle for items being returned, or they can be picked up directly from a Walmart+ member's home.

The home pickup option for Walmart+ members is available at select stores and can be initiated using the Walmart app. No box or label is required as a delivery driver will pick up the item to be returned directly from the doorstep.

Curbside return and Walmart+ home returns will begin the first week of October and will expand to more stores in the coming months, Walmart said.

Walmart will continue to accept returns in-store and by mail.

Walmart is also gearing up for the holidays by expanding its holiday gift assortment with more items and brands, which are available in stores, on Walmart.com, and via its online marketplace.

Walmart said it will also "offer thousands more Rollbacks this holiday" on products such as toys, home goods, electronics, beauty, and more.

As of Thursday at 6:48 a.m. ET, shares of Walmart were trading at $134.99, up 22 cents or 0.16%.