SimpliSafe Return Policy: 60-Day Guarantee & Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
Investing in a home security system is a big decision. Sometimes, after unboxing the equipment, you might realize it doesn't quite fit your home, or you simply changed your mind. If you are looking for a quick and stress-free way to get your money back, understanding the SimpliSafe return policy is your first step.
While SimpliSafe offers one of the most generous trial periods in the tech industry, getting your refund isn't as simple as clicking a button on their website. There are specific rules regarding purchase dates, third-party retail purchases, and customer service calls that you must navigate.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the SimpliSafe return policy. We will walk you through the exact return window, eligibility rules, how to easily bypass customer service retention scripts, and what to expect regarding fees and processing times.
Please note: This information is based on the latest available policy and may change over time (verified 2026).
SimpliSafe Return Policy Overview
If you need the most important facts right away, here is a quick summary of how returns work for direct purchases from SimpliSafe.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Return Window | 60 days from the original purchase/order date. |
| Eligible Items | Hardware in "like-new" condition with all original components. |
| Return Methods | Mail-in only. Must call support for a shipping label. |
| Refund Methods | Original form of payment. |
| Non-returnable Items | Previously billed monthly monitoring fees, third-party purchases. |
| Fees | $0 return shipping. $0 restocking fees. |
Return Window & Eligibility
SimpliSafe gives you a generous amount of time to test their security system, but there is one major catch regarding the dates that catches many buyers off guard.
The 60-Day Order Date Rule
The standard return window for a direct SimpliSafe purchase is 60 days. However, this window begins on the day you placed your order (the ship date), not the day the package arrives at your front door.
For example, if your system took 7 days to ship and be delivered, you actually only have 53 days left to test the equipment and initiate a return. Always check your original email receipt to confirm your exact order date so you do not accidentally miss the deadline.
Condition of Returned Items
To qualify for a full refund, all equipment must be returned in "like-new" condition. SimpliSafe fully expects you to open the boxes, mount the sensors, and test the cameras. However, the hardware cannot have permanent physical damage, water damage (unless it is a waterproof device), or unauthorized modifications.
Be sure to gather all the original components, including base stations, keypads, sensors, power cords, and mounting brackets. While returning the items in their original SimpliSafe branded packaging is highly recommended to protect them during transit, it is not strictly required as long as you pack them safely in a sturdy box.
Online vs. Third-Party Retail Purchases
If you bought your system directly from SimpliSafe.com, you are covered by the 60-day policy. However, if you bought your equipment at a retail store like Best Buy, Amazon, Target, or Costco, you are subject to that specific store's return rules. SimpliSafe will not accept direct returns for hardware purchased from third-party retailers.
How to Return Items to SimpliSafe
Unlike many modern e-commerce companies, SimpliSafe does not have an automated online return portal. You cannot simply log into your account and click "Start a Return." Because the company wants to try and keep your business, all returns must be initiated through their customer service team.
Since SimpliSafe does not operate physical retail stores, you cannot do an in-store return for items bought on their website.
How to Return Items by Mail (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to successfully complete an online return via mail:
- Gather your account details: Before contacting support, find your original order number (located on your confirmation email or packing slip) and the master PIN or email address associated with your account.
- Contact customer support: Call SimpliSafe at 1-888-957-4675 or use the live chat feature on their website. Select the option for "Cancellations/Returns."
- Bypass the retention script: Customer support agents are trained to troubleshoot issues or offer free months of monitoring to stop you from returning the system. If you are certain you want a refund, politely but firmly say, "The system is not a good fit for my needs, and I only want to request a free return shipping label today."
- Print your return label: Once approved, the agent will email you a prepaid UPS or FedEx shipping label. Print this label out.
- Pack your equipment: Safely place all the sensors, cameras, and base stations into a shipping box. Seal it securely.
- Attach the label and drop it off: Tape the prepaid label to the outside of the box and drop it off at the correct shipping carrier. Always ask the clerk for a physical drop-off receipt with your tracking number.
Tech return tip: Returning smart home devices can sometimes feel complicated. If you are also dealing with other tech returns, you might find our Starlink return policy guide helpful for comparing how different subscription-based tech companies handle their refunds.
Refund Methods & Processing Time
Once you drop your box off at the shipping carrier, you will likely want to know when your money will be back in your bank account.
Refund Methods
Approved returns are always refunded to the original refund method used during checkout. If you paid with a credit card, debit card, or PayPal, the funds will go directly back to that account. If you received the system as a gift, the refund will still go back to the original buyer's credit card unless you explicitly ask the agent to issue you store credit instead.
Typical Processing Timelines
The total processing time requires a bit of patience due to shipping and warehouse inspections:
- Transit Time: 3 to 5 business days for the package to reach SimpliSafe.
- Warehouse Inspection: 5 to 7 business days for the warehouse team to unpack and inspect your hardware.
- Bank Processing: 3 to 5 business days for your bank to post the funds.
In total, you should expect to see the refund on your statement within 10 to 14 business days from the day you shipped the box. Keep your drop-off tracking receipt safe until the money clears.
Exchange Policy
If you generally like your SimpliSafe system but have a defective indoor camera or bought the wrong type of sensor, you can easily utilize their exchange policy.
Exchanges for different products (like swapping a motion sensor for a glass break sensor) must be done within your 60-day window. If you are simply replacing a broken component, you are covered under SimpliSafe's limited hardware warranty (which is 3 years for direct purchases, or a lifetime warranty if you have an active Fast Protect™ monitoring plan).
To exchange an item, you must call customer support. They will email you a prepaid shipping label to return the unwanted item and will immediately place a new order to ship your replacement hardware.
Looking to exchange other home electronics? Read our Bose return policy guide to see how premium audio brands handle their product swaps.
Non-returnable or Restricted Items
While SimpliSafe is very accommodating with their hardware, there are a few non-returnable items and services you should be aware of:
- Monthly Monitoring Service Fees: SimpliSafe bills for professional monitoring on a month-to-month basis. While you can cancel the service at any time without a penalty, any monitoring fees that have already been billed are strictly non-refundable. Returning your hardware does not automatically cancel your service; you must tell the agent to cancel your subscription during the phone call.
- Third-Party Purchases: As mentioned earlier, hardware bought at Best Buy, Costco, Target, or Amazon cannot be sent to SimpliSafe for a refund.
- Custom Installation Fees: If you paid a third-party professional (like OnTech) to install your system, those labor costs are non-refundable.
- Clearance Items: Any items explicitly marked as "Final Sale" or bought from unauthorized third-party liquidators are not eligible for returns.
Fees, Deductions & Exceptions
One of the best parts of the SimpliSafe return policy is how consumer-friendly their fee structure is.
- No Restocking Fees: Many tech companies charge a penalty for opening a box. SimpliSafe charges a $0 restocking fee on all eligible returns.
- Free Return Shipping: Return shipping is 100% free. SimpliSafe provides the prepaid UPS or FedEx label. However, you must use their label. If you pay for shipping yourself out of pocket, SimpliSafe will not reimburse you, and the warehouse might reject the package because it lacks a proper Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number.
- Original Shipping Costs: The standard shipping fees you paid when you first ordered the system are usually non-refundable unless SimpliSafe made an error with your order or the equipment arrived completely defective.
Holiday & Extended Return Policies
During the winter months, many retailers offer extended return windows to accommodate gift-giving. However, SimpliSafe rarely offers a specific holiday return policy extension.
The reason for this is that their standard 60-day window is already twice as long as the industry average. If you buy a SimpliSafe system as a holiday gift in late November, the recipient will still naturally have until late January to return it. Always check their official homepage during Black Friday or Cyber Monday, as they occasionally run special 90-day promotional trial periods.
Customer Support & Contact Information
Because you must speak with an agent to initiate a return or cancel your monthly monitoring plan, knowing how to reach customer support quickly is essential.
- Customer Service Phone Number: 1-888-957-4675
- Hours of Operation: 9:00 AM to Midnight (Eastern Time), 7 days a week.
- Live Chat: Available via the official SimpliSafe Help Center website.
- Best Practices: Call early in the morning to avoid long wait times. Always have your base station serial number or original order number ready before you connect with an agent.
Dealing with other bulky home items? Check out our Litter Robot return policy guide for more tips on shipping large packages back to the manufacturer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return items to SimpliSafe without a receipt?
Because SimpliSafe is a direct-to-consumer brand, they do not require a traditional paper receipt. While they process no-receipt returns, you must provide the email address, phone number, physical address, or the serial number on your Base Station so their support team can locate your digital order history.
Does SimpliSafe charge a restocking fee?
No. SimpliSafe does not charge any restocking fees, even if you have opened the boxes and tested the security equipment in your home.
How long does a refund from SimpliSafe take?
Once you mail the package back, it usually takes 5 to 7 business days for the warehouse to process the return, plus an additional 3 to 5 business days for your bank to release the funds. In total, expect the refund to take 10 to 14 business days.
Can I return online orders in-store at SimpliSafe?
No. SimpliSafe does not own any physical retail storefronts. All returns for orders placed on SimpliSafe.com must be processed through the mail using a prepaid shipping label provided by customer support.
What items are non-returnable at SimpliSafe?
Past monthly professional monitoring fees are non-refundable. Additionally, you cannot return SimpliSafe equipment directly to the manufacturer if you originally purchased it from a third-party retail store like Amazon or Best Buy.
How do I return a damaged or wrong item?
If your system arrives with physical damage or the wrong components, contact SimpliSafe customer support immediately at 1-888-957-4675. They will expedite a replacement to your home and provide a free shipping label for you to send the damaged items back.
Can I return a gift to SimpliSafe?
Yes, you can return a gifted SimpliSafe system within the 60-day window. However, you will need the original buyer's order number or email address. Keep in mind that refunds are automatically sent back to the original purchaser's credit card. If you want the refund as store credit instead, you must ask the customer support agent during your call.
Does canceling my monitoring plan automatically return my hardware?
No. Canceling your monthly cellular monitoring plan only stops the dispatch services and prevents future billing. It does not initiate a hardware return. You must specifically request a return shipping label for the physical equipment if you are still within your 60-day window.
Disclaimer: Return policies may change at any time and can vary by location. Always confirm details on the official SimpliSafe website or by calling their support team. Information verified 2026.
Found this helpful? Bookmark this page for the latest SimpliSafe return policy updates and check our other guides before your next purchase.
