Arlo Return Policy Explained (2026): Deadlines, Refunds & Third-Party Rules
Setting up a smart home security system should give you peace of mind. However, technical setup issues, camera syncing frustration, short battery life, or simply choosing the wrong hardware model can leave you looking for options. Understanding the arlo return policy before packing up your security cameras or mounting kits will save you time and money.
Many shoppers run into confusion when they buy an Arlo device at a retail store like Best Buy or Amazon and try to return it directly to Arlo. Others are surprised by unexpected return postal fees or recurring monthly charges for cloud storage plans long after sending their hardware back.
This comprehensive 2026 guide breaks down everything you need to know about returning Arlo products. We cover the direct return window, how to get a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number, expected refund timelines, and critical steps for canceling your Arlo Secure subscription. Whether you bought your system directly on Arlo.com or through an authorized third-party retailer, this guide will help you navigate your return quickly and smoothly.
Overview of the Arlo Return Policy
Arlo offers a direct money-back guarantee for items ordered on its official website. However, strict eligibility criteria apply, and hardware returns do not handle subscription services automatically.
Quick Policy Summary
- Return Window: 30 calendar days from the original shipment date.
- Restocking Fee: $0 (no fees for complete, undamaged returns).
- Return Shipping Cost: Paid by the customer (unless the item arrived defective or DOA).
- RMA Requirement: Mandatory for all mail-in returns.
- Retail Purchases: Items bought from stores like Amazon or Best Buy must be returned directly to those retailers.
Comparison Matrix: Arlo Direct vs. Third-Party Retailers
Because Arlo does not operate physical retail stores, your return experience depends entirely on where you originally bought your device. Use this comparison table to quickly check your return rules:
| Retailer / Channel | Return Window | Return Shipping Fee | In-Store Drop-Off? | Original Packaging Required? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arlo.com (Direct) | 30 Days (from ship date) | Customer pays | No | Yes (Like-new condition) |
| Amazon | 30 Days | Free (select drop-offs) | Yes (UPS / Kohl's) | Yes |
| Best Buy | 15 Days (60 for Total) | Free in-store | Yes | Yes |
| Costco | 90 Days | Free in-store | Yes | Preferred |
| Walmart | 30 Days | Free in-store / mail | Yes | Yes |
Return Window & Eligibility Requirements
Standard Return Window
For hardware bought directly on Arlo.com, the standard return window is 30 calendar days. This policy is calculated from the official date your package ships from Arlo's warehouse, rather than the date it arrives at your doorstep. Return requests submitted after this 30-day period are ineligible for a direct refund under standard money-back terms.
Online vs. In-Store Return Windows
Arlo operates strictly as an e-commerce platform for direct sales and does not have physical brick-and-mortar brand stores. If you buy directly online, you must process your return through mail shipping.
If you bought your Arlo camera inside a physical retail store, you must abide by that specific store's timeline. For instance, Best Buy limits standard technology returns to 15 days, while Costco provides a generous 90-day window for electronic items.
What Items Qualify for Returns
To qualify for a full refund, items must have been purchased directly through Arlo.com. Eligible items include:
- Wireless security cameras and video doorbells
- Floodlight cameras and continuous security systems
- Base stations, SmartHubs, and solar panel chargers
- Accessories, extra rechargeable batteries, and original mounts
Conditions for Accepted Returns
Arlo enforces strict quality control guidelines before issuing refunds. To protect your purchase credit:
- Like-New Condition: Products must show no signs of outdoor weathering, scratches, structural modification, or physical damage.
- Complete Accessories: All components shipped in the original package must be included-such as wall mounts, charging cables, power adapters, rechargeable batteries, and quick-start manuals.
- Intact UPC Barcode: The original product box must be returned with the factory UPC barcode visible and unblemished.
If you are dealing with no-receipt returns, note that Arlo cannot look up or honor returns for items bought elsewhere. You must have an official Arlo.com order number to proceed with a direct return.
+-------------------------------------------------------------------+
| ELIGIBILITY CHECK |
| |
| [YES] Ordered directly from Arlo.com within the last 30 days |
| [YES] Have the original white product box with intact UPC |
| [YES] All mounts, cables, batteries, and screws are present |
| [YES] Device shows no physical damage or mounting alterations |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------+
How to Return Items to Arlo
In-Store Return Process
You cannot drop off items purchased on Arlo.com at retail stores like Target, Walmart, or Best Buy. Third-party retailers cannot process returns or issue credit for items purchased directly from Arlo's online storefront. If you bought your hardware at a physical retail store, take your receipt and the device back to that specific store's customer service desk.
Online Return Process
To start an online return for an Arlo.com purchase, follow these steps:
- Open a web browser and log in to your account at my.arlo.com or open the official Arlo Secure App.
- Go to Settings > Account / Order History.
- Locate the order containing the device you wish to return.
- Select Request Return or contact Customer Support to generate a ticket.
Mail-In Return Process
Once you contact Arlo Support, a representative will verify your purchase details and issue a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Never mail a box to an Arlo fulfillment center without an active RMA number. Packages received without an authorized RMA number will be rejected, marked return-to-sender, or experience significant processing delays.
Return Label Instructions & Packaging Checklist
When preparing your shipment, carefully follow these packing instructions to ensure your refund is approved:
- [ ] Request an Official RMA: Obtain an approved RMA number directly from Arlo Support before shipping.
- [ ] Gather All Hardware Components: Place all cameras, rechargeable batteries, base stations, cables, and mounting hardware back into the original white Arlo product box.
- [ ] Place in Outer Box: Put the white Arlo product box inside a separate brown cardboard shipping box.
- [ ] Mark the Outside Clear: Write your RMA number clearly in large, dark ink on the outer cardboard shipping box.
- [ ] DO NOT Damage Retail Box: Never write, label, or attach shipping tape directly on the white Arlo retail product packaging, as box damage can void your return eligibility.
- [ ] Ship via Trackable Freight: Mail the package using UPS or FedEx, and hold on to your tracking receipt until your credit hits your financial statement.
Refund Methods & Processing Time
Refund Methods
All approved refunds are automatically issued to the original refund method used during checkout (such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or PayPal). Arlo does not issue store credit or paper checks for website hardware returns.
Refund Timeline
Once your return delivery arrives at the Arlo fulfillment facility:
- Warehouse Inspection: Arlo takes approximately 10 to 14 business days to open, inspect, and verify the contents of your return package.
- Payment Processing: After the return passes inspection, Arlo initiates a financial transfer.
- Bank Credit Posting: It generally takes an additional 3 to 5 business days for your bank or credit card company to reflect the processing time on your account statement.
When Refunds May Be Denied
Arlo reserves the right to deny refund requests under the following conditions:
- Shipments delivered without an authorized RMA number on the packaging box.
- Missing critical hardware components (such as returning a camera without its rechargeable battery or power supply).
- Devices showing signs of user damage, water entry beyond rated IP limits, severe drops, or unauthorized hardware repairs.
- Items returned past the 30-day money-back guarantee window.
Exchange Policy
Exchange Time Window
Arlo's official exchange policy does not support direct model swaps or trade-ins within the standard 30-day window. If you ordered an incorrect model-such as choosing an Arlo Essential camera when you meant to order an Arlo Pro 5S-you cannot perform an even swap.
Steps for Handling Wrong Item Purchases
If you purchase the wrong security system:
- Submit an RMA request for your original purchase within 30 days to receive a full refund.
- Place a brand-new, separate order on Arlo.com for the exact camera model you need.
- Wait for your original hardware return to complete inspection and credit back to your payment account.
[ Wrong Model Purchased ]
│
├──> 1. Request RMA within 30 days & ship back
│
├──> 2. Receive refund to original payment method
│
└──> 3. Place new order separately on Arlo.com
Warranty Replacements vs. Standard Returns
If your camera experiences a technical breakdown due to defective components after the 30-day return window expires, you are covered under Arlo's 1-Year Limited Hardware Warranty. Under this warranty program, customer support will help diagnose technical issues and send a replacement unit (new or factory-refurbished) rather than issuing a cash refund.
Non-Returnable or Restricted Items
Certain services, fees, and conditions fall strictly outside Arlo's return policy. Identify these non-returnable items before sending back your package:
- Arlo Secure Subscriptions: Monthly or annual cloud storage plans are non-refundable once billed.
- Third-Party Store Purchases: Cameras bought through retail partners (Amazon, Best Buy, Costco, Walmart) sent straight to an Arlo facility will be rejected.
- Missing Package Content: Bundles missing required wall mounts, power adapters, or original manuals.
- Tampered Boxes: Packages where original factory UPC barcodes have been cut off or altered.
- Damaged Devices: Units rendered defective due to improper DIY installation, unapproved outdoor wiring, or electrical surges.
Fees, Deductions & Exceptions
Understanding unexpected costs helps protect your total refund value. Here is how Arlo handles processing charges:
| Fee Category | Cost Amount | Notes & Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Restocking Fee | $0 | Zero fees charged for complete, undamaged returns within 30 days. |
| Return Shipping Fee | Paid by Customer | You must pay carrier freight charges (UPS/FedEx) for mail returns. |
| Original Delivery Charges | Non-refundable | Freight fees paid on your initial purchase are non-refundable. |
Situations With No Fees (Defective / DOA Items)
If your security system arrives in Dead-On-Arrival (DOA) condition, fails immediately due to a manufacturing flaw, or contains wrong items due to a warehouse mistake, contact support right away. In these verified defect cases, Arlo Support will send a prepaid shipping label, ensuring you pay zero return shipping fees.
Holiday & Extended Return Policies
Arlo provides an extended holiday return policy during the winter holiday season to accommodate shoppers purchasing gifts early.
- Extended Eligibility: Orders placed directly on Arlo.com between November 1 and December 31 qualify for an extended return window.
- Holiday Deadline: Gift purchases made within this timeframe can be returned through January 31 of the following year.
- Standard Terms Apply: Hardware must still meet all like-new condition criteria, require an authorized RMA number, and contain all original box accessories.
Crucial Warning: Arlo Secure Subscriptions & Retail Purchases
Subscriptions Require Separate Cancellation
⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING: Returning your physical security camera or doorbell to Arlo does NOT automatically cancel your active Arlo Secure plan.
If you pay monthly or annually for Arlo Secure cloud recording features, returning the physical hardware will not stop recurring credit card billing. You must manually cancel your cloud service subscription:
- Log into your account at my.arlo.com or open the Arlo Secure App.
- Navigate to Settings > Subscription.
- Select Cancel Subscription and confirm your cancellation before your next billing date.
Returning Hardware --- (DOES NOT CANCEL) ---> Arlo Secure Subscription
│
└──> MUST MANUALLY CANCEL VIA: my.arlo.com OR App Settings!
Third-Party Retail Purchases Summary
If you bought your device through another merchant, follow their specific platform instructions:
- Amazon Returns: Initiate your return through your Amazon account orders section within 30 days. Drop off at designated locations like UPS Stores or Kohl's.
- Best Buy Returns: Bring items back within 15 days (60 days for My Best Buy Total members) with your receipt for a full refund or instant swap.
- Costco Returns: Take hardware back to any Costco location within 90 days of purchase for a fast refund.
Comparing smart home security policies? Check out our detailed coverage of the Ring return policy, read through the Eufy return policy guide, or review the SimpliSafe return policy to see how other brands handle hardware returns.
Customer Support Information
If you need to open a support ticket or request an RMA number, reach out to Arlo through their verified channels:
- Official Support Website: support.arlo.com
- Account Dashboard Portal: my.arlo.com
- Live Chat Support: Available 24/7 inside the Arlo Secure mobile app or on their web portal.
- Phone Support: Dedicated telephone assistance is available exclusively for active Arlo Secure subscribers directly through app settings.
Pro Tip for Fast Service: Keep your original order number, product serial number (found on the camera body or packaging), and account login email ready before contacting support representatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Arlo return policy for 2026?
Arlo allows customers to return products purchased directly on Arlo.com within 30 calendar days from the original shipment date. Products must be in pristine, like-new condition with all original accessories, packaging, and an active RMA number.
Does Arlo offer free return shipping?
No. For standard returns, customers must cover their own return shipping expenses using a trackable carrier like UPS or FedEx. Arlo only provides a prepaid return shipping label if the item was delivered damaged, defective (DOA), or shipped incorrectly due to an Arlo error.
How do I get an RMA number from Arlo?
You can request a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number by logging into your account at my.arlo.com or by initiating a live chat with customer support inside the Arlo Secure App.
Can I return an Arlo camera bought at Best Buy or Amazon directly to Arlo?
No. Products bought from third-party retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, Target, or Costco must be returned directly to the specific store where you bought them, following that retailer's return rules and deadlines.
What happens to my Arlo Secure subscription when I return my camera?
Returning hardware does not automatically cancel your monthly or annual Arlo Secure subscription. You must manually cancel your cloud service plan through your account settings on my.arlo.com or inside the Arlo app to stop future charges.
Does Arlo charge a restocking fee?
No. Arlo charges $0 in restocking fees for complete, undamaged items returned within the authorized 30-day money-back guarantee window.
Can I return an Arlo product without the original box or receipt?
No. Arlo requires your original order number as proof of purchase, along with all original packaging (including the white product box with an intact UPC barcode) to grant an RMA and issue a refund.
How long does it take to receive a refund from Arlo?
After your package arrives at the warehouse, inspection takes 10 to 14 business days. Once approved, it takes an additional 3 to 5 business days for your bank or credit card provider to post the funds to your account statement.
Where do I write the RMA number on my return package?
Write the RMA number clearly in bold ink on the outer cardboard shipping box. Never write, draw, or place adhesive return labels directly on the original white Arlo product box.
What should I do if my Arlo camera arrives broken or defective?
Contact Arlo Technical Support immediately upon opening your shipment. A representative will verify the defect and issue a prepaid shipping label so you can return the unit for a full refund or warranty replacement at no cost.
Disclaimer: Return policies may change at any time and vary by region or retailer. Always confirm specific terms directly on the official Arlo website or with your local retail seller. Information verified 2026.
Found this helpful? Bookmark this page for the latest Arlo return policy updates, and explore our other smart home security return guides before making your next purchase!
