How to Get Store Credit Instead of Cash for a Return

To get store credit instead of cash, select gift card balance or merchandise credit when you start the return. You can also return a gift with its gift receipt or make the original purchase with a gift card so the refund stays in the store. Store credit means a gift card balance, eGiftCard, or merchandise credit you spend with the same retailer.

It often arrives quickly and keeps the funds ready for an exchange or new purchase.

Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on November 03, 2026.

Choose credit during an online return

Amazon Customer Service notes that its Online Returns Center lets you pick Gift Card balance instead of the original payment method, with gift-card refunds typically appearing in two to three hours Amazon refund timeline help. That option is the most direct path when you prefer store funds over cash back. Select the credit option before you submit the return.

Small wording differences matter, so read each refund choice carefully. If you picked the wrong method, look for a cancel or change option right away. Then start the return again and pick credit.

• Start the return in the retailer's Online Returns Center.
• Choose gift card balance or merchandise credit.
• Submit, then check the balance before shopping again.

Bring a gift receipt for a gift return

The Kohl's FAQ explains that gift-receipt returns can receive Kohl's Merchandise Credit or an exchange, while returns without a gift receipt may receive Merchandise Credit for the lowest 13-week sale price Kohl's return FAQ. The receipt helps the desk link the item to the purchase. Keep the gift receipt with the item and tags until the return is done.

Bring photo ID in case the desk asks for it.

Pay with store funds for the first purchase

Target Help states that purchases originally paid with a Target GiftCard are credited back as a new Target eGiftCard rather than cash Target gift card return help. Paying with store credit keeps the refund as store credit. Use a gift card when you expect a possible exchange.

Keep the original card or account access so you can receive and spend the new balance.

Know when credit cannot replace a refund

The FTC Business Guide states that under the Mail, Internet, or Telephone Order Merchandise Rule, a seller that cannot ship on time must give a prompt full refund and cannot substitute store credit, vouchers, or scrip FTC mail-order merchandise guide. That rule covers delayed mail, Internet, and phone orders. Ask for the refund to the original payment method when a shipped order never arrives on time.