Return policy comparison · 2026
Nordstrom vs Simons
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (Nordstrom) and July 24, 2026 (Simons)
Winner
Nordstrom
A+
5.0 / 5.0 · Exceptional
Simons
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
The verdict
Nordstrom has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against Simons's B+ (3.4/5.0). 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.
NordstromSimons
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
| Nordstrom | Simons | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ No time limit (case-by-case) | 30 days (regular-priced items); 10 days (sale items) |
| Free returns | Yes | Yes (members) |
| Restocking fee | ✓ None | 20% may apply for excessive returns or suspected fraud |
| Return shipping | Free prepaid label | Free online returns for loyalty members; non-members pay a flat $9.99 fee per return, plus possible surcharges for oversized or heavy items |
| Holiday extension | Yes - Oct 6 to Dec 24 through Jan 15 | Holiday-season purchases can typically be returned until January 31 |
| Holiday deadline | Jan 15 | 2027-01-31 |
| Non-returnable | Final sale items (rare), some third-party products | Original and return shipping fees are non-refundable; online-only items must be returned online rather than in-store |
| Watch-out items | Nordstrom Rack: 30 days in-store / 40 days online with stricter rules | sale items must be returned within 10 days instead of the standard 30 |
Nordstrom tip
Most generous in retail — no strict time limit, gently worn OK. Rack has separate policy (40 days online).
Simons tip
Join the free loyalty program before you buy if you're not already a member - non-members pay $9.99 per return, while members return online for free.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Nordstrom or Simons?
Nordstrom has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against Simons's B+ (3.4/5.0). 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 Nordstrom's return window?
Nordstrom's return window is No time limit (case-by-case).
What is Simons's return window?
Simons's return window is 30 days (regular-priced items); 10 days (sale items).
Does Nordstrom or Simons offer free returns?
Nordstrom: Yes. Simons: Yes (members).