Think twice before returning gifts. Big retail stores will now charge you for that

Returning unwanted holiday gifts may no longer be as easy—or as free—as shoppers have come to expect.

According to a report from the New York Post, several major retailers have started charging fees for mail-in returns this holiday season, even when items are unopened and in perfect condition. While most stores continue to allow free in-store returns, customers who choose to ship items back are now facing new costs.

Macy’s, for example, is charging a $9.99 return fee for shoppers who are not members of its Stars Rewards program. Discount retailers T.J. Maxx and Marshalls have implemented even steeper mail-in return fees of $11.99. Other retailers—including JCPenney, J. Crew, Abercrombie & Fitch, H&M, Zara, American Eagle, UNIQLO, and Urban Outfitters—have introduced lower fees, typically ranging from about $3.99 to $8.

Best Buy has also tightened its return policy. The electronics retailer now charges a $45 restocking fee on activatable devices such as smartphones and tablets. Once these items are opened, their resale value drops, and stores must repackage and prepare them for resale, retail expert Bodge told The Post.

“For a tech retailer, many products are sourced from China, and they’re paying a 30% tariff,” Bodge explained. “Retailers are trying not to pass the full cost on to customers, so return and restocking fees help them balance their books more easily.”