Value Village Return Policy: Complete Guide for Shoppers

Thrifting at Value Village can feel like a treasure hunt. But what happens if something doesn’t fit, or you change your mind after buying? Unlike traditional retail stores, Value Village operates under different return rules—and if you don’t know them ahead of time, you could be stuck with something you don’t want.

This guide explains the full Value Village return and exchange policy: how it works, what qualifies for exchange, what’s considered final sale, and how to make sure your thrift store experience stays smooth and stress-free.

Does Value Village Accept Returns?

Value Village does not offer refunds. Instead, they allow limited exchanges only on certain items—primarily clothing and shoes—if you meet all the requirements. Most other items in the store are final sale.

This means that when you shop at Value Village, you should make your choices carefully. While you do have some wiggle room for clothes and footwear, there’s no going back on many other purchases.

How Long Do You Have to Make an Exchange?

In most Value Village stores, you have 14 days from the date of purchase to exchange eligible items. That’s two weeks to bring the item back and swap it for something else.

The exchange period starts from the purchase date on your receipt.
Some locations may offer a shorter exchange window—check your receipt for specific details.

There are no mail-in returns. All exchanges must be done in-store at the location where you made the original purchase.

What Items Can Be Exchanged?

Only a select number of items are eligible for exchange. These usually include:

Men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing
Shoes and boots
In some cases, hats, belts, or accessories (varies by store)

To qualify for exchange, the item must meet the following criteria:

Receipt required: You must have the original receipt.
Tags must be attached: The price tag from Value Village must still be on the item.
Item must be unworn and unwashed: The product should be in the same condition as when you bought it.

If any of these conditions aren’t met, your exchange may be denied—even if you’re within the 14-day window.

How to Exchange an Item at Value Village

Exchanging an item is relatively straightforward, but you’ll need to act within the return window and follow the store’s process. Here’s what to do:

Bring the item to the same store where you bought it.
Ensure the item has the original tag and is clean and unused.
Bring your original receipt from the date of purchase.
Go to the customer service counter and request an exchange.
Choose a replacement item of equal or greater value.

If your new item costs more, you’ll need to pay the difference. If it costs less, you may receive store credit, but most stores do not offer refunds for the remaining balance.

What Items Are Final Sale?

Many Value Village items are considered final sale and cannot be returned or exchanged under any circumstances. These include:

Furniture and oversized items
Electronics and small appliances
Books, DVDs, CDs, and video games
Home goods and kitchenware
Jewelry and collectibles
Seasonal décor
All clearance or discounted items (marked with colored tags in some stores)
Items with a white tag (new merchandise)

Always check with staff before purchasing if you’re unsure whether something is final sale. Once you buy, you may not have any recourse.

Is Store Credit Offered?

Store credit may be offered in some situations if you are unable to find a replacement item at the time of your exchange. However, not all stores provide this option, and it is usually up to the discretion of the store manager.

Even if store credit is offered, cash refunds are not. This policy applies across nearly all Value Village locations.

Why Receipts and Tags Matter

Value Village’s exchange policy is very strict about receipts and price tags. Without them, your return won’t be accepted, even if the item is clearly from their store.

Always keep your receipt in a safe place for at least 14 days after purchase. And don’t remove the price tag until you’re absolutely sure you’re keeping the item.

No Fitting Rooms at Most Locations

Many Value Village stores have closed their fitting rooms, which means you can’t try clothes on before buying. That’s where the exchange policy becomes even more important. If something doesn’t fit, your only option is an exchange.

Consider bringing measurements or wearing fitted clothing underneath so you can try things on over your clothes in the aisles (where allowed). Otherwise, you’ll be relying on the exchange process if the item doesn’t work out.

Are All Value Village Stores the Same?

Most Value Village locations follow the same exchange-only model, but some variations exist. A few stores are operated under different regional franchises or partnerships and may have slightly different rules about return timelines or what qualifies.

To avoid surprises, always double-check the specific return policy printed on your receipt or posted near the checkout counter.

What Happens If an Item is Defective?

If you purchased an item that turns out to be defective—like a zipper that won’t close or a missing button—you may still be able to exchange it, provided it qualifies under their standard rules (receipt, tags, timeline).

However, Value Village is a secondhand store, and items are sold “as-is.” The store does not inspect every piece in detail. It’s the shopper’s responsibility to check the condition of items before purchasing. For this reason, defective items that are final sale typically won’t be accepted back.

Tips to Avoid Issues with Value Village Returns

Inspect items carefully before buying. Check seams, zippers, buttons, and signs of wear.
Ask staff about final sale items. If you’re unsure, confirm before heading to the register.
Hold onto your receipt and keep tags attached. These are your only proof of purchase.
Don’t delay if something doesn’t work out. Bring it back well within the 14-day window.
Consider gifting with caution. Since refunds aren’t allowed, gifts may only be exchanged by the buyer.

Contacting the Store for Help

If you have specific questions about a return or exchange, the best option is to call or visit the store directly. Each Value Village is independently operated and may have unique nuances in how they handle returns. Contact info is usually printed at the bottom of your receipt.

Final Thoughts

Shopping at Value Village can be incredibly rewarding—you can score great deals, unique finds, and sustainable fashion. But you also need to shop smart. Their no-refund, exchange-only policy means you should double-check your items before checking out.

Stick to the 14-day window, keep your receipt, and don’t remove those tags until you’re sure. With just a little extra awareness, you can thrift confidently—and return or exchange items smoothly if needed.