Menards Return Policy After 90 Days: Complete Guide to Store Credit Returns
Have you ever found an unopened box of tile in your garage four months after a renovation, or realized a holiday gift wasn't quite right long after the decorations came down? Shoppers often panic when they realize they have missed the standard return window. If you are looking for the Menards return policy after 90 days, you are in luck-but there is a catch.
Unlike many big-box retailers that slam the door shut after three months, Menards keeps the door open. However, refunds after 90 days are issued as store credit only, provided you have your receipt. You will not get cash back or a credit to your card, but you will get full value to spend in the store.
This guide explains exactly how the Menards return policy works when you are late to the returns desk. We will cover eligibility, how to handle returns without a receipt, non-returnable items, and the specific steps to get your store credit.
Overview of Menards Return Policy
Menards operates a straightforward two-tier system for returns. The "tier" you fall into depends entirely on the calendar. If you return an item early, you get a full refund. If you wait, you get store credit.
While the standard policy is generous, accuracy is key. You must have the item in its original packaging and in unused condition to qualify for a return at any time.
| Topic | Policy Details |
|---|---|
| Standard Window | 90 days for a full refund to original payment method. |
| After 90 Days | Returns accepted, but store credit only at original price. |
| No Receipt | Allowed with ID; store credit at lowest selling price in the last 90 days. |
| Condition | Must be unused, in original packaging, with all parts. |
| Restocking Fees | 25% for special orders; usually none for stock items. |
| Gas Items | 30-day limit (must be unused/unfueled). |
| Appliances | 7 days (defects) or 30 days (unused exchange). |
Return Window & Eligibility
Understanding the timing is critical to knowing what kind of refund you will receive. Menards draws a hard line between "refunds" and "merchandise credit" based on the 90-day mark.
Standard 90-Day Return Window
If you make it to the store within 90 days of your purchase date:
- You receive a full refund to your original form of payment.
- If you paid cash, you get cash.
- If you paid by credit card, the money goes back to the card (usually within 3–7 business days).
- Checks take a few days to clear; if your check receipt is less than 6 days old, you may get store credit instead of cash until the check clears.
The Post-90-Day Rule: Store Credit Only
This is the most important section for late returns. Menards allows returns after 90 days, but the payment method changes.
- With Receipt: You receive store credit for the full original purchase price.
- Benefit: The credit never expires and can be used for any future purchase at Menards.
- Limitation: You cannot request cash or a card refund at this stage.
Exceptions to the 90-Day Rule
Some items have much shorter windows and do not qualify for the extended return policy.
- Gas-Powered Items: Handheld gas tools and contractor sprayers must be returned within 30 days. They must be unused, unfueled, and in original packaging. If you put gas in it, you generally cannot return it.
- Major Appliances: You have 7 days to return these if there is a manufacturing defect. If you just changed your mind, you have 30 days to return them, but they must be unopened and unused.
- Holiday Items: Seasonal items usually cannot be returned after the holiday has passed, regardless of when you bought them.
How to Return Items to Menards
Depending on where you live and how you bought the item, you have two main options for returning goods.
Option 1: In-Store Returns (Recommended)
Returning items in-store is the fastest way to get your store credit. It avoids shipping fees and allows you to explain any issues directly to a team member.
- Prepare the Item: Ensure the product is unused and has all original parts, manuals, and packing materials.
- Locate Your Receipt: If you lost it, you might be able to find it at the Return Receipt Kiosk located near the service desk by scanning the credit card used for purchase.
- Visit the Service Desk: Go to the Guest Services counter at any Menards location.
- Present ID: Even if you have a receipt, bring a government-issued photo ID (Driver’s License or State ID). Menards tracks returns to prevent fraud.
- Receive Credit: If you are past the 90-day mark, the associate will issue a merchandise credit voucher immediately.
Option 2: Online and Mail-In Returns
If you purchased online or live far from a store, you can return items by mail. However, be aware that you are responsible for shipping costs.
- Contact Guest Services: Before mailing anything, it is smart to call 1-800-636-2737 to confirm the return address and eligibility.
- Pack Securely: Place the item in a sturdy box. Include a copy of your order confirmation or receipt inside the box.
- Ship the Item: Use a carrier like UPS, FedEx, or USPS. You must pay for the shipping label.
- Wait for Processing: Once the warehouse receives your return, it takes about 7–10 business days to process.
- Receive Refund: For post-90-day returns, you will likely receive a merchandise credit card by mail.
Can I Return Online Orders In-Store?
Yes. This is usually the best option. You save on shipping fees, and the process is instant. simply bring your order confirmation email (printed or on your phone) to the service desk.
Refund Methods & Processing Time
The way you get your money back depends heavily on the timeline and your proof of purchase.
Refund Methods Table
| Scenario | Refund Method |
|---|---|
| Return within 90 days (Receipt) | Original Payment (Cash/Card) |
| Return after 90 days (Receipt) | Store Credit (Merchandise Credit Check) |
| No Receipt (Any time) | Store Credit (Lowest Sale Price) |
| Gift Receipt | Store Credit |
| Check Purchase (< 6 days ago) | Store Credit (until check clears) |
Processing Times
- In-Store Credit: Immediate. You can use the voucher to shop that same day.
- Credit Card Refunds: Typically appear on your statement in 3–7 business days.
- Mail-In Returns: Allow up to two weeks for shipping and warehouse processing.
Exchange Policy
If you do not want a refund, an exchange is often easier to process.
- Even Exchanges: If you bought the wrong size or color, you can usually swap it for the correct item. If the price is the same, no money changes hands.
- Defective Items: If an item is defective within the return window, Menards will exchange it for an identical unit.
- After 90 Days: Since you receive store credit anyway, you can essentially perform an "exchange" by returning your old item, getting the credit, and immediately buying the new item in a separate transaction.
Non-Returnable or Restricted Items
Not everything can be returned. Menards has a specific list of items that are final sale or restricted. Knowing this list prevents awkward conversations at the service desk.
- Cut Materials: Anything cut to your specific dimensions is yours to keep. This includes lumber, carpet, chain, wire, and blinds.
- Tinted Paint: Once paint has been mixed with color, it cannot be returned.
- Gas-Powered Equipment (Used): If you have put gas or oil in a mower, blower, or chainsaw, it is non-returnable due to safety regulations. You must take it to an authorized service center for repair.
- Clearance Items: Products marked "Ray's List," "Final Sale," or "Bargain Area" are sold as-is and cannot be returned.
- Gift Cards: These are never returnable or refundable for cash.
- Seasonal Items: Holiday decorations returned after the holiday (e.g., returning Christmas lights in January) are generally denied.
- Opened Software/Games: If the plastic wrap is broken, these cannot be returned.
Fees, Deductions & Exceptions
While Menards generally does not charge fees for standard stock items, there are costs associated with special cases.
Restocking Fees
- Special Orders: If you ordered a custom door, window, or non-stock item, Menards charges a 25% restocking fee. This is deducted from your refund amount.
- Stock Items: There is typically no restocking fee for regular items found on the shelf, provided they are unopened.
Return Shipping
For mail-in returns, the cost of shipping is on you. Menards does not provide free return labels unless the mistake was theirs (e.g., they shipped the wrong item or it arrived damaged).
Rebate Deductions
Menards is famous for its "11% Rebate" sales. If you return an item bought during a rebate sale:
- Rebate Not Submitted: The rebate amount is deducted from your return value.
- Rebate Submitted: You must return the merchandise credit check you received, or the value will be deducted from your refund.
Holiday & Extended Return Policies
During the busy winter shopping season, return policies sometimes flex, though Menards is less explicit about this than other stores.
- Extended Windows: Menards does not officially publish a specific "Holiday Return Policy" schedule like some electronics retailers. However, the standard 90-day window is usually long enough to cover gifts bought in November or December.
- Gift Returns: If you receive a gift, bring the gift receipt. You will receive store credit for the purchase price. Without a gift receipt, you will likely get credit for the lowest selling price, which might be the post-holiday clearance price.
Customer Support & Contact Information
If your return is complicated-for example, a large freight item or a lost receipt for a high-value purchase-it is best to contact support before driving to the store.
Menards Guest Services:
- Phone: 1-800-636-2737
- Online: Official Menards Help Center
- In-Store: Visit the "Guest Services" desk at the front of any store.
Tips for Support:
- Have your Order Number ready if you bought online.
- If calling about a store experience, have the store location details handy.
- Be polite but clear about your issue; associates have some discretion with returns.
For comparison on how other hardware stores handle late returns, you might want to check the Ace Hardware return policy or see how high-end retailers like Bloomingdale's handle 365-day returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return items to Menards without a receipt?
Yes, but with limitations. You must show a government-issued photo ID. Menards will issue store credit for the item's lowest selling price within the last 90 days. They track these returns and may deny them if you do it too frequently.
How strictly does Menards check the 90-day window?
The system is automated. If the receipt date is past 90 days, the register will automatically prompt the cashier to issue store credit rather than a cash refund. It is very difficult to override this for a cash refund.
What happens if I return an item I bought with a rebate?
If you bought an item with an 11% rebate, that amount is deducted from your refund. This prevents customers from buying items to get the rebate check and then returning the item for full price.
Can I return open boxes of flooring or tile?
Usually, no. Flooring and tile generally need to be returned in full, unopened cartons. However, some stores may accept open boxes if the product is complete and undamaged, but this is up to the manager's discretion.
Does Menards charge a restocking fee?
For regular in-stock items, no. However, for special order products (items brought in specifically for you), there is a 25% restocking fee.
How do I return a large appliance like a refrigerator?
If it is within the 30-day window (and unused), you can return it to the store. You will need to bring it to the back receiving gate or the designated returns entrance. If you cannot transport it, you may be able to arrange a pickup for a fee.
Can I return paint to Menards?
If the paint is "off the shelf" (white, pre-mixed colors) and unopened, yes. If the paint was custom tinted or mixed for you, it is non-returnable unless there was a mixing error by the store associate.
What if my item is defective after 90 days?
If your item breaks after 90 days, Menards will generally not accept the return. You will need to contact the manufacturer to file a warranty claim. Keep your receipt, as the manufacturer will need it for proof of purchase.
Can I return online orders to the store?
Yes, and it is the best way to do it. Returning online orders in-store avoids return shipping fees and gets you your refund or store credit instantly.
Is there a limit to how much I can return without a receipt?
Menards does not publish a specific dollar limit, but their system tracks "no-receipt" returns by your driver's license number. If you show a pattern of excessive returns without proof of purchase, you may be blocked from making future returns.
Disclaimer: Return policies may change at any time and can vary by location. Always confirm details on the official Menards website or with your local store. Information verified January 2026.
Found this helpful? Bookmark this page for the latest Menards return policy updates and check our other guides, such as the Loft return policy, before your next purchase.
