I hope everyone had a Happy Holiday! The gift buying season is over for most, hooray, but the returning-your-gift fiasco is just around the corner. Here some quick tips for hassle-free returns. Good Luck Shoppers!

1. Get the receipt: I know that you don’t want to tell your cute Aunt Betty that you didn’t love the light up, music playing Christmas tree sweater that she gave you, but remember, she wants you to have a gift you enjoy.  Suck it up and ask her for the receipt. Without a receipt, if your gift has gone on sale since it was purchased, the sale price is all you will get. Not to mention that this will save you precious time at the return counter. If Aunt Betty doesn’t have the receipt anymore, at least she can make sure that you are returning the item to the right store. There is nothing worse than waiting in return line for an hour only to discover that the gift wasn’t purchased in that store!
2. Don’t delay: The faster you get the gift you are exchanging back to the store, the better. Some stores have a 14 day return policy. Getting to the stores early saves you the risk of returning the item too late. It also helps you avoid the risk of losing the receipt if you have it. If you get there really early in the morning you could avoid long lines.
3. Don’t open the package: If you know instantly that you don’t like the gift, don’t open the packaging. Electronic gifts are more difficult to return when the boxes have been opened. Some items, like video games, can’t be returned at all if they have been opened.
4. Be polite: Taking returns after Christmas is not the most pleasant job in the world. A polite smile and some courtesy will get you a long way with a stressed out store clerk. They are more likely to be more helpful if you are pleasant to them.
5. Remember when you are giving gifts to others: Include a gift receipt!
6. Last but not least, Patience, patience in driving, standing in line and speaking to others.

I am extremely glad I didn’t receive any weird gifts or things that don’t fit. I will be one less person in your way