H&M Introduces Mail-In Return Fee Amid Extended Return Policy

H&M has updated its return policy, extending the return period for holiday purchases until January 31, 2026. However, this new policy comes with a significant change: a $3.99 fee for returns made by mail, a move that has sparked outrage among shoppers. As retailers brace for the busy holiday season, many are tightening their return regulations in response to expected increases in returns.

Details of H&M’s Updated Return Policy

The fashion retailer’s new policy applies to items purchased between November 1 and December 25. Customers must present a valid receipt to obtain a refund to the original payment method. If an item was bought with a gift card or only a gift receipt is available, H&M will issue store credit instead, which cannot be converted back into cash.

To qualify for a return, items must be in “resellable” condition, meaning all original tags must remain attached, and the products must not be worn, damaged, or soiled. H&M reserves the right to deny returns if an item appears used.

In-store returns are only accepted at approximately 500 H&M locations across the United States, excluding Puerto Rico. For online purchases, customers can choose to return items by mail or in-store. However, items ordered from H&M Home must be returned by mail, as they cannot be accepted in-store.

Certain products are deemed non-returnable, including hosiery, underwear, opened cosmetics, and gift cards. Damaged items must be sent back to the warehouse instead of a physical store.

Introduction of Mail-In Return Fee

The newly instituted flat return shipping fee of $3.99 will be deducted from the refund amount for mail-in returns. For instance, if a customer returns clothing valued at $40, they will receive only $36.01 back. In contrast, returns made in-store remain free of charge.

This trend of imposing fees on mail-in returns is not unique to H&M. Retailers such as Abercrombie, American Eagle, and Macy’s have also begun charging fees for mail-in returns, typically between $5 and $10. Some companies, like Kohl’s, have implemented restocking fees of up to 15%, while GameStop recently introduced a $14.99 return fee.

As holiday shopping patterns shift, more consumers are opting to shop early to take advantage of discounts and manage their expenses. Yet, the introduction of these fees means that what once appeared to be straightforward returns are now an added financial consideration for shoppers.

With the increase of costs associated with returns, consumers are advised to factor these fees into their holiday budgets, as the expectation of “free returns” becomes less reliable.