If you‘re in the market for a new cell phone, Target is a popular place to shop thanks to their wide selection of devices from top brands like Apple, Samsung, Google, and more. With competitive prices, frequent deals, and the convenience of buying your phone and mobile plan in one place, it‘s no wonder Target is a go-to destination for many tech shoppers.
But as a savvy and choosy consumer, you know that sometimes even the best laid plans can go awry. Maybe you got home and realized you bought the wrong model. Or perhaps you found a better deal elsewhere after purchasing. In any case, it‘s important to understand the ins and outs of Target‘s return policy for cell phones and devices with carrier plans before you buy.
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll break down everything you need to know about returning cell phones to Target, from the strict 14-day return window to the potential restocking fees and carrier charges. We‘ll also offer expert tips for ensuring a smooth return process and making smart purchasing decisions in the first place.
Target‘s 14-Day Return Policy for Cell Phones
The most important thing to know about Target‘s cell phone return policy is that you have 14 days from the date of purchase to return or exchange your device, whether you bought it in-store or online for in-store pickup. This 14-day window is a hard-and-fast rule with no exceptions, even if the phone is defective.
According to Target‘s official policy, "All mobile phones and devices with carrier plans must be returned within 14 days of purchase or order pick-up. For non-contract devices, the return period may vary. Devices must be returned to a Target store with all original packaging and accessories."
Why so strict? It‘s important to note that Target‘s 14-day return policy for cell phones is actually dictated by the major wireless carriers themselves, not Target‘s own corporate policies. In order to offer devices with plans from Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, and others, Target must comply with the carrier‘s contractual requirements, which include this two-week return deadline.
This no-exceptions policy is fairly standard practice across major electronics retailers. In fact, the 14 days you get at Target is actually slightly more generous than some of their biggest competitors. Let‘s take a look at how Target stacks up:
| Retailer | Standard Cell Phone Return Policy |
|---|---|
| Target | 14 days for any reason |
| Walmart | 14 days for defects, 7 for remorse |
| Best Buy | 14 days for any reason |
| Amazon | Varies by seller, usually 30 days |
As you can see, Target‘s policy is right in line with other major players like Best Buy. And while Amazon typically gives a more generous 30-day window, their selection of phones with carrier plans is much more limited.
How to Return a Cell Phone to Target
If you do need to return your cell phone to Target within the 14 days, the process is fairly straightforward but does require bringing the device to a physical store.
For cell phones purchased without a carrier plan, simply bring the device along with the receipt, all original packaging, and any included accessories to the Target Mobile Kiosk or Electronics counter. There, a store employee can process the return and issue you a refund to your original form of payment.
Returning a phone with a carrier plan is a similar process, but you‘ll need to visit the Electronics department and speak to one of the Target Tech Consultants rather than the Mobile Kiosk. Again, make sure to bring a valid, government-issued photo ID, the original receipt or packing slip, the phone itself, and any additional accessories that came with your purchase.
Whether you bought a phone with or without a plan, I recommend making your return as soon as possible within the 14 days to avoid any issues. It‘s also wise to ensure you have all the original packaging and extra items in like-new condition to qualify for a full refund.
Target Cell Phone Return Policy Without Receipt
Ideally, you‘ll have held onto your receipt or packing slip when making a return, but I know it‘s all too easy for that tiny piece of paper to get lost in the shuffle. The good news is you may still be able to return or exchange your cell phone at Target even without the physical receipt in hand.
If you‘re a regular Target shopper, start by checking your Target.com account or the Target app. Digital receipts are often saved there, which you can pull up on your phone at the store. Alternatively, if you received the phone through the mail or delivery, check your email for a digital copy of the packing slip.
Another option is if you paid with a credit card, debit card, or check. In these cases, Target can usually look up your purchase and receipt info with an alternate form of verification:
- For check payments: Bring a blank check from the same checking account you used originally.
- For Target gift cards: You‘ll need the physical gift card you used as payment.
- Target RedCard holders: Whether you have a Target debit card, credit card, or Mastercard, your purchase history is saved.
- Third-party credit/debit cards: Target can look up your purchase with the original Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express card.
Unfortunately, if you paid in cash and have no record or proof of purchase, your return will likely be denied. Alternatively, you may be offered a merchandise return card, which works like a Target gift card but can only be redeemed in-store. The value is also usually limited to a maximum of $100 before any excess refund would be mailed via check.
Bottom line? Always try to keep your receipts, especially for big ticket items like cell phones. Take a quick photo on your phone or stash it in your glovebox for safekeeping if you‘re prone to losing paper slips.
Returning Opened or Refurbished Cell Phones to Target
Now you may be wondering, what if you opened the phone box and peeked at the goods? Or what if you bought a refurbished or pre-owned phone? Well, in most cases, Target will still process a return within that 14-day window, but there are a few caveats to consider.
According to Target‘s policy, opened or damaged items can be returned with original packaging and accessories, but a $35 restocking fee may apply. So even if you‘ve opened the phone box, powered on the device, or put a few scratches on the screen, you can bring it back to Target. Just don‘t expect a full refund in most cases – that restocking fee will be deducted from your return.
One exception to this is prepaid cell phones. Once the packaging is opened on a prepaid phone sold by Target, it can no longer be returned for any reason, even within 14 days. The reason for this is likely because prepaid phones are often discounted and the carriers don‘t want people buying them just to strip out the SIM card.
As for refurbished or pre-owned phones, the standard 14-day return window still applies. I confirmed this with a few calls to my local Target stores. However, these phones must also be returned in like-new condition with all original packaging and no major signs of use. Again, the $35 restocking fee will likely be charged for opened items.
Carrier Restrictions on Target Phone Returns
Since Target‘s 14-day return window is largely dictated by the major carriers, it‘s important to understand their policies as well. While you can return a phone to Target for a refund or exchange within two weeks, you may still be on the hook for some pesky fees and penalties from your carrier.
Most notably, if you return a phone that you purchased with a new carrier plan, you‘ll likely be subject to an early termination fee (ETF). These fees vary in cost but can be quite hefty, often starting at $150-350 and prorated based on how long you had the service. This is how carriers recoup the cost of offering discounted phones and ensure customers don‘t just sign up for a contract to get a deal and then cancel right away.
In addition to ETFs, you may face other penalties for returning a phone tied to a contract:
- Activation fees: These one-time fees of typically $25-45 are often non-refundable, even if you cancel within a few days.
- Restocking fees: Some carriers charge their own restocking fee of $25-75 on top of what Target charges.
- Promotional credits: If your phone purchase included bill credits, waived activation fees, rebates, or BOGO offers, you may have to return those prorated savings.
In short, while returning a phone to Target within 14 days is usually doable, you could still face a slew of fees and lost credits from your carrier. Always read through your contract and service agreement carefully so you understand the long-term costs of cancelling early.
Pros and Cons of Buying Cell Phones from Target
So now that you‘re well-versed in the nuances of Target‘s cell phone return policy, you may be wondering if it‘s your best bet for buying your next device. As an avid Target shopper and tech specialist myself, here are some of the biggest pros and cons I see:
Advantages:
- Easily compare models and plans across major carriers in one spot
- Wider selection of phones than many carrier stores
- 5% off purchases for Target RedCard holders
- Frequent promotions, gift cards, and registry discounts for extra savings
- 14-day return policy, more flexible than Walmart
- Convenient for one-stop shopping and buying accessories
Disadvantages:
- No Apple stores within Target, so more limited iPhone stock and support
- Strict 14-day return window with no exceptions, even for defects
- Restocking fees on opened items and no prepaid returns
- Must return phones in-store, no mail-in option
- Target doesn‘t always have the latest phone models as quickly as carriers
- Risk of facing early termination or restocking fees from carriers
Ultimately, buying a cell phone from Target offers some compelling benefits, especially if you‘re looking to compare different carriers and plans or want the convenience of one-stop shopping for your electronics.
Target‘s prices are usually competitive with other big-box retailers and carrier stores, especially when you factor in the 5% RedCard discount and frequent promotions they offer. And the 14-day return window can offer some short-term peace of mind in case you have second thoughts – just be mindful of the strict deadline and potential fees.
On the flip side, Target‘s 14-day policy is still fairly limited compared to the more generous return windows you‘ll find with some online or carrier-direct purchases. You also run the risk of getting hit with early termination or restocking fees from your phone carrier, which Target has no control over.
At the end of the day, I always recommend doing your homework on the device and plan before buying from any third-party retailer. Read reviews, compare prices, and visit a Target store in person to see the phone and talk through the details with a Mobile rep. The more informed you are going in, the lower the chances you‘ll face the hassle and cost of a return.
Tips for Easy Target Cell Phone Returns
To wrap up, here are my top tips for making your Target cell phone return as smooth as possible:
- Keep your receipt, packing slip, and all original packaging.
- For in-store purchases, aim to return the phone within 7 days to maintain a positive return reputation.
- If returning online orders, bring the shipping email and packing slip along with the phone.
- For phones with carrier plans, make sure to bring a government-issued photo ID.
- Be prepared to pay a $35 restocking fee if the phone box is opened or the device shows signs of wear.
- Research your carrier‘s contract terms so you understand the potential early termination and activation fees before making a return.
- If you open or damage the phone, consider alternatives to returning like selling it online or trading it in for credit.
- Always be polite and patient with Target staff, even if you‘re frustrated.
Hopefully these tips help set you up for a more seamless and less costly return experience at Target, in the event you need one. Of course, the best way to avoid the headache of returns is to make a well-informed purchase in the first place.
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, Target‘s cell phone return policy is fairly common for a major retailer with a mobile division. The 14-day window is expected and even slightly more generous than some others like Walmart.
However, it‘s clear this policy heavily favors Target and the phone carriers, with little flexibility and a good bit of potential fees passed onto the consumer for even gently used returns. The restocking cost for opened phones and strict cut-off date with no exceptions can certainly make some shoppers think twice.
But I also see the merits of buying phones from Target, especially for loyal RedCard holders and those who like to compare models in person before purchasing. While carrier stores are usually most up-to-date on the latest phone releases, Target still offers a wide range of popular devices and plans at very competitive prices.
If you do decide to buy a cell phone from Target, I recommend keeping a few key things in mind:
- You will only have 14 days to make a return, no matter what, so be sure about your purchase and don‘t delay a return if needed.
- Opened phone packages will usually incur a $35 restocking fee, so avoid unboxing the item unless you‘re certain about keeping it.
- Prepaid phones cannot be returned at all once opened, so triple check you have the right model and carrier.
- Always keep your receipt and original packaging throughout the 2-week window in case you need to bring the phone back.
- Understand the terms of your carrier plan and contract so you know what fees to expect if you do end up making a quick return.
And if possible, do some hands-on research in-store and read plenty of reviews online before committing to a cell phone purchase from any third-party retailer.
I hope this guide has armed you with all the essential facts to make a confident and informed cell phone purchase at Target. While the return policy has its fair share of conditions, arming yourself with knowledge is the best way to avoid a stressful or costly situation down the line.
Of course, if you have any lingering questions or concerns, you can always reach out to Target‘s customer service or stop by your local store to speak with one of their mobile reps.
Happy shopping!
