Staples Return Policy, Explained
Staples takes office supplies back at any time, but technology and furniture get 14 days, and opened software, headphones and gift cards cannot be refunded.
By Olivia HarperContributing writer. Policy checked .
On this page
Store policies change. This is a summary in our own words of the Staples return and exchange policy page and its FAQ, read on October 27, 2026. The official page is the one that applies; check it before you return anything.
How long you have
Staples says you can return or exchange a purchase with a receipt or packing slip, in its original condition and packaging, with any manuals and parts. The window depends on the category, and it is the same for online and in-store purchases:
| Category | Return window |
|---|---|
| Office supplies | Any time |
| Unopened, unexpired ink and toner | Any time |
| Technology and business machines | 14 days from receipt |
| Furniture | 14 days from receipt |
| Unopened boxed software Staples still sells | 30 days for a full refund |
| AppleCare+ bought at Staples | 30 days to cancel for a full refund |
| Gift, prepaid and phone cards | Not returnable |
Technology means items such as computers, printers and tablets. The FAQ on the same page says unopened boxed software can go back at any time, which differs from the 30 days in the chart; ask the store before you count on more than 30 days.
Items with special rules
- Headphones: since April 10, 2020, Staples no longer accepts returns of opened headsets, headphones or earbuds.
- Software: opened software can only be exchanged for the same title and version. Downloadable and digital software is not refundable.
- Ink and toner: opened or expired cartridges cannot be refunded.
- Furniture: it must be taken apart and safe to ship. Custom-ordered or custom-assembled furniture can only go back if it arrives defective.
- Bundles: if you return an item without a free item that came with it, such as ink with a printer, or bought it with a promotional gift card, Staples deducts that value from the refund.
Returning without a receipt
If you return to the same store with the card you paid with, staff can look up the purchase. Online orders can be found in My Orders and the receipt reprinted. If no record can be found, you get only store credit for the lowest selling price in the previous 30 days in Staples' U.S. stores. Staples asks for a state-issued ID, driver's license or military photo ID for every return without a receipt, and says it may refuse such returns. Gift receipt returns are limited to store credit.
Coupons and rewards
A coupon is used up when you pay. On a partial return, its value is spread across the items and you get back what you paid for the returned one. Easy Rewards points earned on a returned item are taken back.
How you get your money back
Staples refunds to the original payment in most cases. Cash, check and debit purchases over $500 before tax, returned without the debit card, are refunded by corporate check. Staples lists these timings:
| Refund type | Timing |
|---|---|
| Major and prepaid credit cards | 3 to 5 days |
| Staples credit accounts | 3 to 5 business days |
| Gift card or refund coupon by email | Within 72 business hours |
| Check by mail | 7 to 10 business days |
Online orders, partner-shipped items included, can go back through the Online Return Center or to a store. Orders placed through Google cannot be returned in store.
Sources
Return and exchange policies, Staples. Policy checked October 27, 2026.