Return policy comparison · 2026
Newspapers.com vs Simple
Policy data verified July 24, 2026 by the Thrifle team
Winner
Newspapers.com
A-
4.0 / 5.0 · Very Good
Simple
B-
2.9 / 5.0 · Fair
The verdict
Newspapers.com has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A- (4.0/5.0) against Simple's B- (2.9/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: no time limit versus 30-day window (industry standard).
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
Newspapers.comSimple
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
| Newspapers.com | Simple | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ No refunds (cancel anytime, takes effect at end of current billing period) | 30 days (must show at least 15 consecutive days of program use) |
| Free returns | No - fee deducted | — |
| Restocking fee | — | None |
| Return shipping | — | — |
| Holiday extension | ✓ None published | None published |
| Non-returnable | Subscription fees already paid are not refunded when you cancel; access continues through the expiration date shown in your account, then no further charges occur. | Lifetime subscriptions, gift card purchases, downloadable workout and nutrition workbooks |
| Watch-out items | — | — |
Newspapers.com tip
There's a 7-day free trial offered on signup - use that window to confirm the newspaper archives you need are actually digitized before you commit to a paid plan, since cancellation doesn't get you a refund on time already paid for.
Simple tip
Simple actually checks your in-app tracking data and meal photos before approving a refund - you need to show you followed the program for at least 15 days, not just ask for your money back.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Newspapers.com or Simple?
Newspapers.com has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A- (4.0/5.0) against Simple's B- (2.9/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: no time limit versus 30-day window (industry standard).
What is Newspapers.com's return window?
Newspapers.com's return window is No refunds (cancel anytime, takes effect at end of current billing period).
What is Simple's return window?
Simple's return window is 30 days (must show at least 15 consecutive days of program use).
Does Newspapers.com or Simple offer free returns?
Newspapers.com: No - fee deducted. Simple: see full policy.