Return policy comparison · 2026
Kohl's vs Macy's
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 by the Thrifle team
Winner
Kohl's
B+
3.7 / 5.0 · Good
Macy's
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
The verdict
Kohl's has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading B+ (3.7/5.0) against Macy's's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 1 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 180-day window (very generous) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
Kohl'sMacy's
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
| Kohl's | Macy's | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ 180 days | 30 days |
| Free returns | Yes (in-store) | No - $9.99 mail fee (free for Star Rewards members) |
| Restocking fee | 15% on some non-defective items | ✓ None |
| Return shipping | Shipping non-refundable | $9.99 deducted (non-members) |
| Holiday extension | Yes - Oct 5 to Dec 31 through Jan 31 | Yes - Oct 6 to Dec 31 through Jan 31 |
| Holiday deadline | Jan 31 | Jan 31 |
| Non-returnable | Gift cards, premium electronics after 30 days | Last Act merchandise (final sale), custom items, food items |
| Watch-out items | Premium electronics 30 days, Sephora at Kohl's items follow Sephora's 30-day policy | Designer brands (Burberry, Gucci, LV, Tous) 14 days, electronics 15-30 days, Dyson 30 days |
Kohl's tip
180 days is one of the longest in retail. Kohl's Cash used on returned items is restored.
Macy's tip
Return in-store to avoid the $9.99 mail return fee. Star Rewards members get free mail returns.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Kohl's or Macy's?
Kohl's has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading B+ (3.7/5.0) against Macy's's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 1 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 180-day window (very generous) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
What is Kohl's's return window?
Kohl's's return window is 180 days.
What is Macy's's return window?
Macy's's return window is 30 days.
Does Kohl's or Macy's offer free returns?
Kohl's: Yes (in-store). Macy's: No - $9.99 mail fee (free for Star Rewards members).