Barnes and Noble Return Policy (Guide for Tier 1 Shoppers)

Whether you buy books, gifts, or educational materials from Barnes & Noble in-store or online, there’s always a chance you’ll need to return something. Maybe you received a duplicate as a gift, changed your mind, or found a damaged product in your shipment. This complete, updated guide breaks down the Barnes & Noble return policy for the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and other Tier 1 markets, so you know exactly what to expect in 2025.

How Long Do You Have to Return?

For most items purchased at Barnes & Noble stores or BN.com, you have 30 days from the date of purchase or delivery to return the product for a full refund to your original payment method. The return period is the same for both online and in-store purchases, with a few exceptions outlined below.

• Holiday and Gift Returns: Purchases made during November and December often qualify for an extended return window, usually until mid-January of the following year. Always check your receipt or the website for the specific holiday return window each year.
• Marketplace Items: Items sold by third-party sellers via BN.com may have different return policies. Review the seller’s individual return terms on your order page before initiating a return.

What Items Can Be Returned?

• New, unopened books, textbooks, and audiobooks
• Unopened toys, games, gifts, and educational kits
• Music, movies, and CDs in original, unopened packaging
• Barnes & Noble exclusive products (subject to standard policy)
• Nook devices and electronics (see special rules below)

What Items Cannot Be Returned?

• Digital content and eBooks (all sales are final)
• Opened music, movies, or software
• Gift cards (cannot be returned or redeemed for cash)
• Magazines, newspapers, or periodicals
• Personalized or made-to-order items
• Marketplace items may have special restrictions (always check the individual seller’s policy)

Returns for Nook Devices and Electronics

Nook eReaders, tablets, and related accessories must be returned within 14 days of purchase or delivery for a full refund. The device must be in new condition with all original packaging and accessories. Opened or used devices may be subject to inspection, and returns may be denied if the device shows signs of wear, damage, or misuse.

How to Make a Return: Step-by-Step

1. In-store purchases: Bring your receipt and the unopened product to any Barnes & Noble store within 30 days of purchase. For Nook devices, return within 14 days.
2. Online orders:
   • Log in to your BN.com account and access your order history.
   • Follow the prompts to start a return and print a prepaid return shipping label, if available.
   • Pack the item securely, include your packing slip, and drop it off with the designated carrier.
   • Allow 1–2 weeks for your return to be processed after it is received at the warehouse.
3. Returning gifts: Gift recipients with a gift receipt may return eligible items for store credit at the current selling price.
4. Returning Marketplace items: Initiate a return via your BN.com account. Follow instructions provided by the third-party seller, and note that you may be responsible for return shipping.

Important Notes for Refunds and Credits

• Refunds go to the original payment method (credit card, PayPal, etc.).
• Gift returns are refunded as store credit or gift cards.
• Shipping fees are non-refundable unless the item was incorrect or defective upon delivery.
• If you paid with a gift card, refunds are issued to a new gift card.
• Returns without a receipt may be denied or processed as store credit, at the manager’s discretion.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I return an online order to a store? Yes, most BN.com purchases can be returned in-store with your packing slip or order confirmation email, except for certain marketplace items or large/bulky products.
• Are there special holiday returns? Yes, purchases made during the holiday season generally qualify for an extended return window. Check the current year’s policy on your receipt or BN.com.
• What if I lost my receipt? Store staff may look up your purchase if you paid with a credit card or are a Barnes & Noble member, but without proof of purchase, returns are not guaranteed and are usually for store credit only.
• Can I return a Nook or electronic device? Yes, but only within 14 days, and the device must be in new condition with all accessories and packaging.
• Are digital downloads returnable? No, all sales of digital content (eBooks, audiobooks, and apps) are final.

Tips for Easy Returns at Barnes & Noble

• Inspect your order as soon as it arrives, and keep all packaging and receipts until you know you’ll keep the item.
• Don’t open or use items you’re unsure about until you’ve decided to keep them.
• For online returns, use the prepaid shipping label and keep your tracking number until the return is processed.
• Contact customer service for help with damaged, incorrect, or lost shipments—they can issue replacements or refunds promptly.
• When buying gifts, ask for a gift receipt for easier returns or exchanges by the recipient.

Summary: Barnes & Noble Makes Returns Simple

The Barnes & Noble return policy for 2025 gives shoppers a clear, generous 30-day window for most returns, with additional protections for gifts and holiday purchases. As long as you keep your receipt and return items in new, unopened condition, refunds and exchanges are fast and easy. Special rules for electronics, digital content, and third-party sellers are worth noting—but overall, the process is designed to help you shop with confidence.

Enjoy your book shopping—knowing that Barnes & Noble is committed to making returns and exchanges straightforward and fair!