In a viral post, a TARGET employee asked customers not to abuse the store’s generous return policy.
The employee posted a TikTok imploring shoppers not to take advantage of the retailer’s cat and jack return policy.
2
2
Most Target items must be returned within 90 days, but Target-owned brands like All in Motion, Cat and Jack, and Room Essentials can be returned for a full year after purchase.
The Target employee, who goes by the username Easton (@www.easton.com), posted a video that has now been viewed nearly half a million times and includes a public notice for those who want to return items.
“PSA: Please stop abusing Cat and Jack’s return policy and buy clothes for your children,” Easton wrote.
In a statement to The US Sun, the employee mentioned that returning the items could be dangerous.
“There are cases where people bring large, reusable tote bags filled with unmarked, extremely dirty clothes, so it becomes dangerous.
“I believe the policies should be revised to prevent such abuse. It is surprising that this issue has not been addressed as it appears to be a widespread problem. I believe that stronger enforcement and restrictions could make a significant difference.
“However, I realize that speaking out against this practice could result in backlash. And as much as I would like to, I know my manager would have to respect the current policy to avoid trouble with management.”
Target is said to have learned about the video and discussed it with the employee.
CONTROVERSIAL COMMENTS
Nearly 3,000 TikTok users responded to the post.
When one person asked about the policy, Easton replied, “Sadly, it’s been a year now and most people bring in gross clothes with no tags and it takes forever because they bring in a big bag full of clothes.”
Some buyers argued that they returned old children’s clothes for financial reasons.
“I work at Target and return my brother’s clothes that don’t fit him anymore. I’m too poor to just keep old clothes. I just buy him new clothes with the money I get back. It really helps me a lot, honestly,” wrote one commenter.
Other commenters suggested that those wishing to return used children’s clothing should consider donating to Kid to Kid in exchange for store credit.
“If the clothes have been worn but are still in good condition, parents can also go to a Kid to Kid store and donate the clothes (including maternity clothes) and get store credit,” one woman mentioned.
This is not the first time Target has been criticized for its lax return policy.
Full statement from the target employee
The TikToker sent a statement about the viral video to The US Sun:
Hello,
I wanted to provide a little backstory to the TikTok video I posted. The content was aimed at highlighting abuse of Target’s return policy. In its current form, I believe the policy allows returns for up to a year, which is supposed to cover manufacturing defects. However, some customers often abuse this policy.
There are cases where people return large, reusable tote bags filled with untagged, extremely dirty clothing, which can become dangerous. These returns take a lot of time to process because the items have to be stamped with a long DPCI product number that is located on the label, usually on the side seam. Unfortunately, these customers are often quite rude, which makes the experience even more difficult.
I believe the policy should be revised to prevent such abuse. It is surprising that this issue has not been addressed as it seems to be a widespread problem. I believe that stronger enforcement and restrictions could make a significant difference. However, I am aware that speaking out against this practice could result in backlash and as much as I would like to, I know that my manager would have to follow the current policy to avoid trouble with management.
Overall, I really enjoy my work at Target. Like any job, there are ups and downs, but generally speaking, my experience here has been positive. The TikTok video was just to highlight one of the challenges I face, and it seems to have resonated with a lot of people.
Many shoppers fear the store will change its lenient policy after some customers took advantage of them for years.
One woman criticized another mother who had posted on Facebook about the blatant exploitation of the right of return.
“My children will only wear Cat and Jack from now on!” wrote the mother.
“I heard that you can take back all Cat and Jack clothes when the kids have outgrown them, even if they are torn or stained. I tried it today and they took them all back!
“You can return up to $100 per year without a receipt, you just have to show your ID (I used mine and my mom’s on two different returns). Or you can sign up for Target Circle and return as much as you want. I got $173.57 back, which I’m going to spend right away on new clothes for this year!”
A buyer reposted the mother’s post and wrote: “You are NOT allowed to do that… That’s theft!”
Several Target customers supported the woman’s warning in the comments.
“Yes they will implement a 30 day return period if people keep this up!!,” wrote one commenter.
Target Return Policy
Here’s what you need to know about Target’s return policy:
Unopened items purchased in new condition from Target are eligible for a refund or exchange if returned within 90 days according to the return policy on the brand’s website.
The return period for purchases at Target.com begins when the order is billed, which occurs when any portion of the order has been shipped, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or prepared for pickup.
Certain items sold by Target may have modified return policies, which will be noted on the receipt, packing slip, Target Policy Board (Refund Exceptions), Target.com, or in the item description.
Items without a receipt, or those that are opened, damaged, or not in new condition may not be eligible for a refund or exchange.
For Target Plus partner items, most unopened items in new condition are eligible for a refund within 90 days.
The return period for these items begins when the order is invoiced and all items sold by the partner must be returned to Target either in-store or by mail.
Some items sold by partners on Target.com may have modified return policies.
Opened or damaged items may not be eligible for a refund. In-store returns without a valid receipt will be refused.
Certain items, such as electronics, may have a shorter return period.
Customers should read the specific return policy details in each item description.
Another customer said she would rather donate her children’s old clothes than return them.
“I may buy the brand, but when my children grow out of the clothes, I would rather donate them to other children in need than try to get money back when the clothes are still wearable and only have a few signs of wear.”
