Hallmark Return Policy (2025 Update)
Introduction
Whether you are returning a duplicate Keepsake Ornament or exchanging a gift that wasn’t quite right, understanding the Hallmark return policy is the first step to getting your money back. Many shoppers assume all return policies are the same, but Hallmark has specific timelines depending on whether you bought your item at a local Gold Crown store or online.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the return window, eligibility requirements, how to handle gifts, and what to do if you lost your receipt. We have broken down the official policy into simple steps so you can complete your return or exchange without stress.
Overview of Hallmark Return Policy
Getting a refund at Hallmark is generally straightforward, but the rules differ significantly between online orders and in-store purchases.
Key Takeaway: You typically have 90 days to return items bought in a store, but only 30 days for items ordered online.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Return Window | 90 days (In-Store) / 30 days (Online) |
| Eligible Items | New, unused, unopened, original packaging. |
| Return Methods | In-store (for store buys), Mail (for online orders). |
| Refund Methods | Original payment method or Gift Card (for gifts). |
| Non-returnable | Seasonal items, sale items, food, custom/engraved. |
| Fees | Customer pays return shipping (unless defective). |
Return Window & Eligibility
To ensure your return is accepted, you must meet specific time limits and condition requirements.
Standard Return Windows
- In-Store Purchases: You have 90 days from the date of purchase to return or exchange an item.
- Online Purchases: You have 30 days from the date of delivery to return items by mail.
- Hallmark Fine Jewelry: Online jewelry orders typically have a 30-day return window from delivery.
Eligibility Checklist
Before heading to the store or packing a box, check your item against this list:
- ✅ Item is new, unused, and unopened.
- ✅ Item is in its original packaging with tags attached.
- ✅ You have proof of purchase (receipt, packing slip, or order confirmation).
- ✅ For jewelry: Item must not be resized, altered, or engraved.
Important Note: Seasonal items (like holiday decor) and sale items are often considered final sale and cannot be returned.
How to Return Items to Hallmark
The process for returning items depends entirely on where you made the purchase.
1. In-Store Returns (For Store Purchases Only)
If you bought an item at a local Hallmark Gold Crown store, you should return it to a store.
- Locate your original receipt.
- Ensure the item is in new condition with packaging.
- Visit any participating Hallmark store.
- Bring the card you used for payment (for a refund) or choose a new item for an exchange.
2. Online Returns (For Hallmark.com Orders)
According to current policy research, items purchased online at Hallmark.com usually cannot be returned in-store and must be mailed back.
- Contact Support: You may need to contact Hallmark customer care (1-800-HALLMARK) or log into your account to initiate a return.
- Get Authorization: For some categories, specifically jewelry, you need a Return Authorization Number.
- Pack the Item: Place the item securely in its original box. Include the packing slip.
- Label the Package: Apply the return label provided by customer service.
- Ship It: Drop the package off at the carrier specified on the label.
Tip: If the item is defective or Hallmark made a mistake, they will provide a prepaid return shipping label. If you just changed your mind, shipping costs are usually your responsibility.
Refund Methods & Processing Time
Once your return is received, Hallmark initiates the refund process.
Refund Options
- Original Payment: If you have the receipt, the money goes back to your credit/debit card.
- Gift Card: If you are returning a gift or do not have a receipt, you will likely receive a Hallmark gift card or merchandise credit.
How Long Does it Take?
- In-Store: Refunds are processed immediately, but it may take 3–5 business days to show on your bank statement.
- Online/Mail: This takes longer. Allow up to 14 days for Hallmark to receive and process your return. Including bank processing times, the total processing time can be up to 4 weeks.
Exchange Policy
If you want to swap an item for a different color or style, here is how it works:
- In-Store: Exchanges are easy. Simply bring the item and receipt to the store within 90 days. You can swap it for an item of equal value or pay the difference.
- Online: Hallmark does not typically process direct exchanges via mail. The best exchange policy method for online orders is to return the unwanted item for a refund and place a new order for the correct item.
Non-Returnable or Restricted Items
Not everything can be returned. Hallmark has strict exclusions, especially regarding seasonal products.
Items You Cannot Return:
- Keepsake Ornaments: These cannot be returned after December 24th of the current year.
- Seasonal Items: Holiday decor, cards, and seasonal gifts are often final sale.
- Custom/Engraved Items: Any personalized product is non-returnable.
- Food Items: Chocolates and other perishables are final sale for safety reasons.
- Sale/Clearance: Items marked as "Final Sale" cannot be returned.
Fees, Deductions & Exceptions
Return Shipping Fees
- Customer Pays: If you are returning an item because you changed your mind, you are generally responsible for the return shipping costs.
- Hallmark Pays: If the item arrived damaged, defective, or was the wrong product, Hallmark will cover the shipping.
Restocking Fees
Hallmark generally does not charge a restocking fee for standard items. However, ensure the item is in perfect condition to avoid rejection.
Holiday & Extended Return Policies
Hallmark adjusts its policy slightly during the busy holiday season to help gift givers.
- Fine Jewelry Extension: For the 2024-2025 season, Hallmark Fine Jewelry extended returns until January 15th for orders placed after mid-November.
- Keepsake Deadline: Remember the hard deadline for ornaments is December 24th. If you buy an ornament for Christmas and try to return it on December 26th, it will likely be refused.
Customer Support & Contact Information
If you have trouble with a return or need a shipping label, contact Hallmark directly.
- Phone (General): 1-800-HALLMARK (1-800-425-5627)
- Phone (Fine Jewelry): (929) 203-9424
- Email (Fine Jewelry): hallmarkfinejewelry@renaissanceglobal.com
- Website: Visit the "Customer Care" section on Hallmark.com.
Best Practice: Have your order number and email address ready before you call to speed up the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return items to Hallmark without a receipt?
Yes, in many cases. However, without a receipt, you will likely receive a refund in the form of a merchandise credit or gift card at the current selling price of the item. This is standard for no-receipt returns.
Can I return online orders in-store at Hallmark?
Generally, no. Most Hallmark.com orders must be returned by mail. However, policies can vary by franchise owner, so it is worth calling your local store to ask if they can assist with an online return.
How long does a refund from Hallmark take?
For mailed returns, the total processing time is roughly 4 weeks. This includes transit time, warehouse processing (up to 14 days), and your bank's posting time. In-store refunds appear much faster, usually within a few days.
What items are non-returnable at Hallmark?
You cannot return personalized items, food, clearance items, or Keepsake Ornaments after December 24th.
Does Hallmark charge a restocking fee?
No, Hallmark does not typically charge a restocking fee. However, shipping costs are usually non-refundable unless the return is due to a store error.
Can I return a gift to Hallmark?
Yes. If you have a gift receipt, you can get an exchange or store credit. If you return a gift by mail (from an online order), the refund may be issued as a gift card so the sender is not notified.
What if my Hallmark item arrived damaged?
Contact customer support immediately (1-800-HALLMARK). They will provide a free prepaid shipping label for the return and arrange for a replacement or full refund.
Are Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments returnable?
Yes, but there is a strict time limit. They must be returned before December 24th. After Christmas, these ornaments are considered final sale.
Disclaimer: Return policies may change at any time and can vary by location (especially since many Hallmark stores are independently owned). Always confirm details on the official Hallmark website or with your local store. Information verified November 2025.
Found this helpful? Bookmark this page for the latest Hallmark return policy updates and check our other guides before your next purchase.
