How does return protection work?

Reimburses you when merchants refuse returns (final sale, past return window) Coverage window typically 90 days from purchase Per-item limits $300-$500; annual limits typically $1,000 Item must be in like-new condition—you'll ship it to the benefit administrator You pay shipping costs regardless of claim outcome

How do I file a return protection claim?

To file a return protection claim: 1) Gather documentation including receipts and proof of the covered event. 2) Contact your card issuer's benefits administrator. 3) Submit your claim within the filing deadline (typically 20-60 days). 4) Keep copies of everything you submit.

Which credit cards have return protection?

Many premium credit cards include return protection as a benefit. Coverage limits and terms vary by card. Check the coverage comparison table on this page to see which cards offer this benefit and compare their coverage levels.

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Return Protection

Learn how return protection works when merchants refuse to accept returns.

Quick Facts

•Reimburses you when merchants refuse returns (final sale, past return window)
•Coverage window typically 90 days from purchase
•Per-item limits $300-$500; annual limits typically $1,000
•Item must be in like-new condition—you'll ship it to the benefit administrator
•You pay shipping costs regardless of claim outcome

Benefit terms and coverage may vary. Always verify details with your card issuer before filing a claim. Information shown may not reflect recent changes to your card's benefits.

How Return Protection Works

Return protection reimburses you when a merchant refuses to accept a return—whether the item is marked "final sale," outside the return window, or the store simply won't take it back. You'll need to ship the item to the benefit administrator's warehouse for inspection before receiving reimbursement.

What's Covered

•Items purchased from retailers with "all sales final" policies
•Purchases past the retailer's return window (within 90 days of purchase)
•Clothing and accessories from outlet or clearance sales
•Items you changed your mind about
•Electronics and appliances in new condition
•Online and in-store purchases

What's NOT Covered

•Living items (plants, pets)
•Perishables and consumables
•Motorized vehicles (cars, boats)
•Cash equivalents (gift cards, prepaid cards)
•Jewelry, watches, and precious gems (most cards)
•Books, magazines, and printed materials
•Items worn or used beyond "reasonable inspection"
•Damaged or non-working items
•Items purchased outside the U.S. (American Express)

Why Claims Get Denied

•Item deemed damaged or non-working by warehouse inspector
•Item worn or used beyond reasonable inspection (remove tags = risky)
•Item in an excluded category (jewelry, gift cards, perishables)
•Past the 90-day coverage window
•Didn't pay full amount with covered card (some issuers require full payment)
•Insufficient documentation or missing merchant refusal proof
•Technical equipment inspector unfamiliar with specialized products

Claim Basics

•Attempt to return to merchant first—document their refusal
•Contact benefit administrator within 90 days of purchase
•Ship item to warehouse at your expense ($20-50 typical)

Exact claim portals vary by issuer. Budget $20-50 for return shipping—this cost is yours regardless of approval.

Documentation Checklist

•Original purchase receipt with card's last 4 digits visible
•Credit card statement showing the charge
•Written confirmation from merchant refusing return (email, chat, policy screenshot)
•Photos of item in new/working condition before shipping
•All original packaging, tags, manuals, and accessories
•Tracking number for shipment to benefit administrator

Coverage Comparison

Card	Annual Fee	Coverage Limit	Coverage Window	Coverage Type	Coverage Scope
Capital One Venture X Business Capital One	$395	$1,000	90 days	Secondary	Per Item
Chase Sapphire Reserve Chase	$795	$500	90 days	Secondary	Per Item
Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business Chase	$795	$500	90 days	Secondary	Per Item
The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card Chase	$450	$500	90 days	Secondary	Per Item
Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express	$650	$300	90 days	Primary	Per Item
Hilton Honors Aspire American Express	$550	$300	90 days	Primary	Per Item
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express	$650	$300	90 days	Primary	Per Item
Platinum Card American Express	$895	$300	90 days	Primary	Per Item
Atmos Rewards Summit Bank of America	$395	$300	90 days	Secondary	Per Item
Blue Cash Preferred Card American Express	$95	$300	90 days	Secondary	Per Item
Capital One Venture X Capital One	$395	$300	90 days	Secondary	Per Item
Green Card American Express	$150	$300	90 days	Secondary	Per Item
Premium Rewards Elite Bank of America	$550	$300	90 days	Secondary	Per Item
Atmos Rewards Ascent Bank of America	$95	$250	90 days	Secondary	Per Item

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