Walmart Phone Return Policy (Contracts, Postpaid, iPhones + More)

Almost 70% of the world owns a cell phone, and the devices continually grow more advanced and capable of doing some pretty amazing things!

Because Walmart keeps its stores stocked with the latest cell phones for its customers, you may be wondering what return policy the retail giant has in place.

Well, search no further! Here is every critical detail regarding Walmart’s cell phone return policy!

Walmart Cell Phone Return Policy 

Walmart’s phone return policy allows for prepaid phones to be returned within the first 14 days of purchase. All phones must be returned in the original condition, including the packaging, accessories, and receipt. Additionally, postpaid contract cell phones have up to 30 days of eligibility for returns.

To learn about all the ins and outs of Walmart’s cell phone return policy for online and in-store purchases, keep on reading!

What You Should Know When Returning A Phone To Walmart

Prepaid phones are eligible for return for up to 14 days, but all phone cards, minutes, and PINs are non-refundable and not eligible for return.

Contract phones are a bit more complicated to return. You will have 30 days from the purchase date to return your phone, but the phone must meet a few requirements to be eligible.

  • The original receipt (needed for both prepaid and postpaid phones)
  • Original packaging
  • Accessories (chargers, earphones, protective screens)
  • Perfect condition (no cracks, hardware damage, chipped parts, liquid damage)

Walmart will not accept phones for return if they do not contain the items listed above. Walmart does allow some items to be returned without a receipt, but phones do not fall under that category.

Furthermore, if your phone does not arrive in the same condition you bought it in, it will not be accepted unless you bought a Walmart Protection Plan.

How Long Do You Have To Return Cell Phones At Walmart?

When it comes to cell phone returns, Walmart has a pretty strict policy. You only have 14 days after the original purchase or delivery date to return a cell phone at Walmart.

To receive a refund, Walmart asks that the cell phone is in its original, undamaged condition.

However, there are policies in place if your cell phone is damaged or if you open the box.

Can You Return Damaged Cell Phones At Walmart?

Cell phones that have endured damage or are not in pristine condition are not eligible for return at Walmart.

However, if you purchase the Walmart Protection Plan, you can get a refund if your phone has water damage or a cracked screen.

If you order a cell phone online and it is damaged or defective upon delivery, Walmart will process your return as long as it is within 14 days.

The only catch is that all online cell phone purchases must be returned via the mail and cannot be returned in-store.

Can You Return Opened Cell Phones At Walmart?

Although Walmart usually accepts returns on products like TVs or toys that have been opened, the policy for cell phones is different.

When returning an unlocked phone, used, or with the box opened, you can only exchange the phone for the same (or similar) model.

Opened and used cell phones fall under Walmart’s list of ‘Exchange-Only Items.’

Can You Return iPhones At Walmart?

If you buy an iPhone at Walmart, the return policy is the same as the other cell phones Walmart carries.

Just like other models, ensure you bring in the Apple iPhone box, charger adapter, cable, and manuals.

Can You Return Prepaid Cell Phones At Walmart?

Yes, you can return prepaid and contract phones at Walmart, as long as the return is done within 14 days of the original purchase.

However, the return policy for contract phones (also known as postpaid phones), prepaid phone cards, and SIM cards is different.

For example, contract phones may include specific restrictions in the contract that affect the return process.

Also, Walmart does not take returns, refunds, or make replacements for SIM cards and prepaid phone cards.

Can You Return Cell Phones At Walmart Without A Receipt?

Can You Return Cell Phones At Walmart Without A Receipt?

Walmart’s return policy on most of their products requires customers to bring in their purchase within 90 days with or without a receipt.

However, if you return a cell phone at Walmart, you must have your receipt for a successful return or refund.

If you do not have your receipt, Walmart may be able to look up your purchase if it was made with a debit or credit card or if you ordered it online.

However, if Walmart employees cannot find a record of your purchase, they do have the right to deny your return.

Additionally, when making a cell phone return at Walmart, make sure you bring a valid, government-issued photo ID.

How Do You Return Cell Phones Bought From Walmart?

The cell phone return policy is easy whether you bought your phone online or in-store.

However, it is important to note there is a slight difference in the return process between the 2 purchasing methods.

Online

If you purchase a cell phone online from Walmart, you cannot return it in-store. Instead, you must ship it back to Walmart through the mail.

First, navigate Walmart’s return menu on their website and enter your email and order number or log in if you already have an account. Click on ‘Purchase History’ and select the item you want to return.

Then, click ‘Start A Return’ next to the item. This option will let you print out a free return shipping label.

In-Store

If you purchase your cell phone at a Walmart store, you can return it during regular store hours at the customer service desk.

For both online and in-store returns, you must bring all the original packaging and accessories. Otherwise, Walmart has the right to deny your return.

How Do You Get A Refund For A Cell Phone Return At Walmart?

How Do You Get A Refund For A Cell Phone Return At Walmart?

After your cell phone return is accepted, Walmart immediately issues you a refund if you do not want to exchange for a different phone.

When it comes to refunds, Walmart issues your refund to the original payment form.

For example, if you purchased your cell phone with a debit or credit card, you have the option to restore the original amount onto your card or in the form of a Walmart gift card.

If you paid for the cell phone with a check, Walmart will refund you in cash.

What Kinds Of Cell Phones Does Walmart Sell?

Walmart sells various cell phones from the nation’s top brands. Additionally, you can buy cell phones from Walmart that are brand new or refurbished.

Some of the cell phone brands available at Walmart include:

  • Apple
  • Samsung
  • Google
  • LG

To find out more about Walmart’s return policy, you can also read our related posts on Walmart iPad return policy, Walmart Apple watch return policy, and the Walmart return policy after 90 days.

Conclusion

Walmart accepts cell phone returns within 14 days from the original purchase or delivery date, whether you bought the phone online or in-store.

For Walmart to accept your cell phone return, you must bring in all the original packaging and accessories, and the cell phone must be undamaged.

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Marques Thomas

Marques Thomas graduated with a MBA in 2011. Since then, Marques has worked in the retail and consumer service industry as a manager, advisor, and marketer. Marques is also the head writer and founder of QuerySprout.com.

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