This holiday season, it is pretty likely that a gift from Amazon is under the tree. But what happens if it wasn’t on your wish list and you want to return it? Amazon does allow the return of gifts that were purchased from its e-commerce to be returned for credit even if you didn’t purchase them. Here’s what you need to know.

Your unwanted gift can be returned to Amazon for a refund, but you won’t receive an instant refund; instead, you will receive an Amazon gift card. Your Amazon gift card will not be an instant credit. Rather, it will be credited to your Amazon account once the returned item has been received by Amazon and your return has been processed.

To return your gift, you’ll need to visit the Amazon Returns Center on your laptop or desktop computer browser by signing into your Amazon account. If you do not have an Amazon account, you will need to create one to process your return and receive your Amazon credit.

Next, you’ll need to enter the 17-digit order number (order ID) found on the packing slip or gift receipt emailed to you. If you do not have this information, you’ll need to contact Amazon directly, where you’ll need to provide a tracking number, name of the sender, or other identifying information, which is typically located on the shipping box.

Then you’ll need to select the items you want to return, the quantity to return, and the reason for the return from the drop-down menu. Then, submit the return request. If your item was purchased from a third-party seller, they may need to authorize your return before it can be submitted.

You will then need to select your shipping options and obtain your return label. Each of your gift returns will require a separate return label. Do not ship multiple items in the same box. Each return will need a separate shipping package for the return to be accepted.

Print your return labels and return authorization, if required. Place authorization inside the package and affix the return label to the package if necessary, for shipping.

Some things you’ll want to keep in mind for returned gifts include keeping the item in the same condition it was received in and including all accessories. If you do return an item that is missing accessories or is in a used condition, your refund credit may be reduced from the original price.

It is also suggested that you remove any personal information from any electronic devices such as laptops and cameras before you return them to Amazon.

Gifts purchased from Amazon from Oct. 1 through Dec. 31 can be returned until Jan. 31, 2021.

Amazon boxes
Customers of Amazon and other online retailers are becoming more vocal about the must-have of free shipping. REUTERS/MIKE SEGAR