Return policy comparison · 2026
525 America vs DSW
Policy data verified July 21, 2026 (525 America) and April 17, 2026 (DSW)
525 America
C-
1.4 / 5.0 · Below Average
Winner
DSW
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
The verdict
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against 525 America's C- (1.4/5.0). It wins 4 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the restocking fee: no restocking fee versus restocking fee charged.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
525 AmericaDSW
Return window · worth 2.0
Restocking fee · worth 1.0
Return shipping · worth 1.0
Holiday window · worth 0.5
Transparency · worth 0.5
Key terms side-by-side
| 525 America | DSW | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days (unworn, tags attached, from ship date) | ✓ 90 days |
| Free returns | No - $7.00 restocking fee (deducted from refund) | ✓ Yes (in-store) |
| Restocking fee | $7.00 per return package | ✓ None |
| Return shipping | Prepaid label available via returns portal; $7 restocking fee applies per return package | Free mail returns for VIP members |
| Holiday extension | — | ✓ Yes (holiday extension) |
| Non-returnable | Final sale items, sale/clearance items, gift cards, worn or used merchandise, items without original tags or packaging | Final sale items, worn shoes showing significant use |
| Watch-out items | Damaged/defective items must be reported within 5 days of delivery | Standard 90-day window |
525 America tip
Exchanging instead of refunding gets you a $10 store credit bonus, but only as store credit, not back to your original payment method - and the $7 restocking fee still eats into straight refunds.
DSW tip
VIP members tracked automatically. Shoes can be lightly worn.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, 525 America or DSW?
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against 525 America's C- (1.4/5.0). It wins 4 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the restocking fee: no restocking fee versus restocking fee charged.
What is 525 America's return window?
525 America's return window is 30 days (unworn, tags attached, from ship date).
What is DSW's return window?
DSW's return window is 90 days.
Does 525 America or DSW offer free returns?
525 America: No - $7.00 restocking fee (deducted from refund). DSW: Yes (in-store).