5 Below is a popular discount retail store known for offering trendy and affordable products priced at $5 or less, with some higher-priced items in their Five Beyond section. While many customers enjoy shopping at 5 Below for budget-friendly finds, it’s important to understand their return policy before making a purchase. Whether you are unsatisfied with an item, received a defective product, or simply changed your mind, knowing how returns work can save you time and frustration.
As we enter 2025, 5 Below continues to maintain a straightforward return policy, but there are specific guidelines shoppers must follow to ensure a smooth return process. This article provides an in-depth look at the 5 Below return policy, including eligibility requirements, time limits, refund methods, and exceptions. If you’ve ever wondered how to return an item to 5 Below, whether you need a receipt, or what happens with online purchases, keep reading to find out everything you need to know.
What Is 5 Below’s Return Policy in 2025?
The return policy at 5 Below allows customers to return most items within 14 days of purchase. However, there are some conditions that shoppers must meet in order to qualify for a refund or exchange. To successfully return an item, customers must provide the original receipt and ensure the product is in its original, unused condition. The return process differs slightly depending on whether the purchase was made in-store or online, which will be covered in later sections.
Unlike other retailers that offer extended return windows, 5 Below maintains a relatively short return period. This means that if you buy something and later decide it’s not what you wanted, you need to act quickly to return or exchange it. If you attempt to return an item after 14 days, you may be denied a refund or offered store credit at the discretion of the store manager.
Can You Return Items Without a Receipt?
One of the most common concerns customers have is whether they can return an item without a receipt. At 5 Below, having a receipt is strongly recommended for all returns, as it is required to receive a refund in the original form of payment. However, in some cases, the store may accept returns without a receipt, but instead of a cash refund, the customer will receive store credit for the lowest selling price of the item.
If you frequently shop at 5 Below, it’s a good idea to keep your receipts until you’re certain you won’t need to return an item. If you made an online purchase, you can use your order confirmation email as proof of purchase when processing a return.
Returning Online Purchases to 5 Below
Shopping at 5 Below online is convenient, but what happens if you need to return an item? Online purchases can be returned in-store, provided the customer brings the original packing slip or order confirmation email. Items must be returned within the 14-day window just like in-store purchases.
However, 5 Below does not offer return shipping for online purchases. This means customers who want to return an item they bought online must either take it to a physical store or keep the product. If an item was damaged or defective upon arrival, customers should contact 5 Below’s customer service team to discuss potential resolutions, which may include a refund or replacement.
Are There Any Items That Cannot Be Returned?
While most items at 5 Below are eligible for returns, there are a few exceptions. The following items are generally non-returnable:
- Gift cards – Once purchased, gift cards cannot be refunded or exchanged for cash.
- Opened beauty products – For hygiene reasons, makeup and personal care items that have been used or opened may not be eligible for return.
- Final sale items – Occasionally, 5 Below offers final sale items that cannot be returned or exchanged under any circumstances.
- Seasonal items – Products related to holidays, such as Halloween decorations or Christmas-themed merchandise, are often marked as non-returnable.
To avoid disappointment, always check whether an item is returnable before purchasing it. If you’re unsure, ask a store associate for clarification.
What Happens If You Receive a Defective or Damaged Item?
If you receive a defective or damaged product from 5 Below, you are eligible for a return or exchange as long as you report the issue within 14 days of purchase. Customers should bring the item to the store along with the receipt or order confirmation for online purchases. In most cases, 5 Below will allow a refund or exchange for the same item.
For online orders, it’s recommended to contact 5 Below’s customer service as soon as possible. Since they do not offer return shipping, they may provide an alternative resolution, such as sending a replacement product or issuing store credit.
How Will You Receive Your Refund?
The refund method depends on how the original purchase was made. If you return an item with a receipt:
- Purchases made with a credit or debit card will be refunded back to the original card.
- Cash purchases will be refunded in cash.
- If a return is made without a receipt, store credit is typically issued instead of a refund.
Refunds usually process quickly for cash transactions, but if you paid with a credit or debit card, it may take several business days for the funds to appear in your account.
Can You Exchange Items at 5 Below?
Yes! If you would rather exchange an item instead of receiving a refund, 5 Below generally allows this as long as you bring the product and receipt within 14 days of purchase. Exchanges are subject to product availability, meaning you may not always be able to swap an item for the same one if it’s out of stock.
If the exchanged item costs more than the original product, you will need to pay the difference. If the new item is cheaper, you may receive store credit or a partial refund, depending on the store’s policy.
FAQs About 5 Below’s Return Policy
1. Can I return an item after 14 days?
No, 5 Below does not accept returns past the 14-day window.
2. Do I need the original packaging to return an item?
It is recommended to return items in their original condition, but packaging may not always be required.
3. Can I return an opened item?
Certain items, such as beauty products or final sale items, cannot be returned if opened.
4. What if I lose my receipt?
You may still return an item, but you will only receive store credit for the lowest selling price.
5. Does 5 Below offer free return shipping for online orders?
No, customers must return online purchases to a physical store, as return shipping is not provided.
Conclusion
Understanding 5 Below’s return policy can help you shop with confidence. While their 14-day return window is shorter than many other retailers, following the correct return process will ensure a smooth experience. Always keep your receipt, check the eligibility of your items, and return products in their original condition for the best results.
Whether you made a purchase in-store or online, knowing the rules around refunds, exchanges, and non-returnable items can save you time and hassle. If you ever have questions, don’t hesitate to ask a store associate or reach out to customer service for clarification.
