Walmart stocks a fairly large catalog of microwave ovens including everything from cheaper brands such as Hamilton Beach, midpriced options like LG, and even professional units such as those by KitchenAid.
But what happens if you’ve purchased a microwave and it’s developed a fault or you were simply too hasty in your decision and want to secure a refund or replacement.
If so, then you’ll want to know some information about Walmart’s returns and exchange policy.
We’ve done some research so you’ll be armed with the information you need to make a return in order to secure a refund or to obtain a replacement.
Keep reading to find out more…
What is Walmart’s Return Policy for Microwaves? The Short Answer
Walmart’s returns and exchange policy for microwave ovens is that they will accept products purchased through their online store or at one of their branches in-store for up to 90 days after purchase. You should return all packaging, instructions, and accessories when you make your return.
How to Return a Microwave Oven to Walmart
Microwave Purchased In-store
For a microwave purchased in-store, you should return it to the branch you purchased it from.
Can you return a microwave purchased in-store using the online returns procedure?
No, you can only return a microwave oven purchased in-store to the physical store and cannot use the online procedure.
Microwave Purchased Online
For microwaves purchased online, you can either use the Walmart online returns procedure or can return the product to your closest brick-and-mortar store.
How do I return a product online?:
To return your microwave online you should:
- Head along to the Walmart App or Walmart’s website
- Log into your account
- Go to the orders section
- Pick the return or replace option
- Provide your reasons for the return
- Print off the returns label provided
- Package everything back into the box
- Drop the product at your local FedEx or USPS branch
Do I have to pay for returning a microwave to Walmart?
The answer is no you don’t. The returns label you are provided with includes free returns delivery.
How Long Will it Take to Get a Refund for My Microwave?
If you use the online returns procedure then it usually takes up to 14 days in our experience until you get the full refund back in your account.
This is because the item has to be shipped, processed, and then the money returned. The money will be returned to the debit/credit card you paid on.
You can speed this process up by taking the product to your local store so the return can be processed there and then. However, it can still take up to 10 business days to have your credit/debit card reimbursed.
If you want to replace the item then Walmart should be able to do that for you provided it’s in stock.
If you purchased your product in-store and are returning to that same branch, then again your return should be processed there and then with the same caveat that you will need to wait up to 10 working days for your refund.
Can I Return a Microwave Without a Receipt?
Yes, you can return a microwave without a receipt but you will need government-authorized ID for Walmart to process the return.
Unfortunately, without a receipt, Walmart only offers a replacement or a Walmart Gift Card for the product’s value unless the product is worth less than $10, in which case you’ll receive a cash refund.
Note that if you don’t have a receipt then Walmart may ask for your order number if you ordered online or for proof from your credit or debit card so they can process the return.
Related Article:
Walmart Returns Policy for Hair Dryers and Electronic Hair Appliances
How Long Do You Get to Return a Microwave to Walmart?
Walmart’s policy for returns is 90 days for electronic items. It’s usually 90 days but this is shortened to 90 days for electronic goods like microwaves.
This runs from the time of purchase and not from the time of receipt so be sure to check when you purchased the item.
You should note that this period is often extended around the holidays so if your microwave was received as a Christmas gift or you gifted someone a microwave, then the policy is usually extended to January 31 for items purchased between November 1 and December 25.
What to Do if the 90-Day Return Period for Your Microwave Has Lapsed?
If you want to return a microwave beyond the 90 days then we recommend you first speak to the Walmart manager.
There may be some flexibility especially if the 90-day window has only just expired.
If you’re beyond the 90-day window and your microwave develops a fault, then you should check the manufacturer’s warranty.
Most microwave manufacturers offer a one-year warranty on faulty microwaves.
If your microwave develops a fault and you want to claim under the warranty, the FTC’s advice on warranties recommends you first speak to the retailer and then contact the manufacturer directly if they will not help.
What is the Return Period for Microwaves on Walmart Marketplace?
The return period for returning microwaves on Walmart marketplace is 14 days so a reduction of 16 days.
Do I Need to Return the Packaging, Accessories and Box When Returning a Microwave to Walmart?
Walmart’s policy does stipulate that you should return products in their original packaging, box, and with all accessories.
However, in our experience, Walmart will still generally accept returns without the packaging provided you have a receipt.
In terms of misplaced accessories, you may have more difficulty, especially if you’ve lost key components of the product but definitely check with the Walmart manager as they may still be able to accept the return in some circumstances.
Will Walmart Accept a Used Microwave?
Yes, Walmart should still accept your microwave within the 90-day returns window even if it’s been opened and used.
We would recommend cleaning it and returning it to its packaging, however.
How Much Does it Cost to Return a Microwave to Walmart?
It shouldn’t cost you anything to return your microwave to Walmart.
They don’t charge a restocking fee and return delivery costs are also free with the returns label supplied as part of the online returns process.
The only costs you will need to bear are your time, effort, and fuel costs if you return the item to your local branch.
Related Article:
Amazon Appliance Returns Policy
How Does Walmart’s Microwave Return Policy Compare to BestBuy, Costco, Target, Lowes, and Other Competitors?
Walmart’s microwave return policy is fairly standard across its competitors.
90 days is the typical returns window expected across the industry according to our research and even exceeds it in many cases.
| Competitor | Returns Window |
| Costco | 90 days |
| Amazon | 30 days |
| Kohl’s | 180 days |
| Best Buy | 15 – 60 days |
| Target | 30 days |
Final Thoughts
Walmart provides an extremely easy, cheap, and convenient returns policy for the microwave ovens it stocks.
We love the fact that the returns process is free and its 90-day return period policy conforms to industry standards.
Remember that it’s still worth speaking to Walmart if you’re slightly beyond the 90-day period and most microwaves are covered by up to a year through the manufacturer’s warranty.
If you’re interested in protecting your items further then check out Walmart’s Protection Plans which covers certain items for mechanical and electrical faults that occur from normal use.
