American Eagle Online Return Policy | 60-Day Refund Guide

American Eagle Online Return Policy: Complete 2026 Guide

Finding the perfect fit when shopping online can be hit or miss. If your recent order didn't work out, you need to know the ae online return policy quickly so you don't miss your refund window. American Eagle makes returns relatively simple, but there are specific rules about timing, condition, and shipping fees that can catch shoppers off guard.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about getting your money back. We cover the standard return window, how to avoid the $5 shipping fee, and the special rules for holiday purchases. Whether you want to mail your items back or drop them off at a local store, we have the step-by-step instructions you need.

Note: The details below reflect the most current policy updates verified for late 2025 and 2026.

American Eagle Return Policy Overview

Before packing up your jeans or hoodies, check this quick summary to see if you are eligible for a refund.

Return Window & Eligibility

American Eagle offers a two-tier timeline for returns. It is important to act fast if you want cash back on your original payment method.

Standard Time Limits

• Full Refund: You must return items within 30 days of the purchase date. For online orders, AE usually allows up to 37 days to account for shipping time.
• Store Credit: If you miss the 30-day mark, you can still return items up to 60 days from purchase. You will receive a merchandise credit instead of a refund to your card.
• After 60 Days: Returns are generally not accepted, or may be processed at the current selling price solely at the store manager's discretion.

Item Eligibility Checklist

To ensure your return is approved, your items must meet these strict conditions:

• ✅ Unworn and Unwashed: Items must be in new condition.
• ✅ Tags Attached: All original tags and labels must be secure.
• ✅ Hygiene Liners: Swimwear and underwear must have the original sanitary liner intact and unopened.
• ✅ No Damage: Items with stains, deodorant marks, or tears will be rejected.

Non-Returnable Items

Some items cannot be returned under any circumstances. These non-returnable items include:

• Final Sale merchandise (look for prices ending in .97 or specific "Final Sale" tags).
• Items missing the hygienic liner.
• Customized or personalized goods.

How to Return Items to American Eagle

You have two main options: return in-store (free) or return by mail (potential fee).

Option 1: In-Store Returns (Free & Fastest)

This is the best method to avoid fees and get your money back instantly.

1. Locate your proof of purchase. This can be your email confirmation, the packing slip, or the order details in the AE app.
2. Bring the item and card. Take the item (with tags) and the credit card you used to buy it to any American Eagle, Aerie, or AE Factory store.
3. Process the return. A store associate will inspect the item and issue your refund immediately.

Option 2: Online Returns by Mail

If you cannot get to a store, you can mail your items back.

1. Start the process online. Log into your account on the American Eagle website and go to "Order History."
2. Select items. Click "Get a Return Label" and choose the items you want to send back.
3. Print or Scan. You can print the label at home or choose a QR code to have the carrier (usually USPS) print it for you.
4. Pack it up. Place items in a secure box or bag. Include the packing slip if you have it.
5. Drop off. Take the package to the carrier location indicated on your label.

Important: A $5 shipping fee will be deducted from your refund unless you meet specific exemption criteria (see the Fees section below).

Refund Methods & Processing Time

Understanding how and when you get paid back helps manage expectations.

Refund Options

• Original Payment Method: Available if returned within the 30-day (or 37-day online) window.
• Merchandise Credit: Issued for returns made between 31 and 60 days.
• Gift Card: If you paid with a gift card, you will receive a new gift card or store credit.

Processing Time

• In-Store: Refunds are processed immediately. However, it may take your bank 3–5 business days to post the funds.
• By Mail: The processing time is longer. It typically takes 2–4 weeks for the package to arrive at the warehouse and be inspected. Once approved, the refund appears in 5–7 business days.

Exchange Policy

The exchange policy at American Eagle is straightforward but has one major limitation for online shoppers.

• In-Store Exchanges: You can easily exchange items for a different size or color at any store location. This is free and done on the spot.
• Online Exchanges: American Eagle does not offer direct exchanges by mail. If you want a different size, you must return the unwanted item for a refund and place a brand new order for the correct item.

Tip: Because you have to place a new order, you will be charged for the new item immediately. You won't see the refund for the returned item until it is processed at the warehouse.

Fees, Deductions & Exceptions

While in-store returns are free, mail-in returns often come with a cost. Here is how to avoid the deduction.

Return Shipping Fee

A $5 fee is automatically deducted from your refund to cover shipping costs for mail-in returns.

How to Get Free Return Shipping

You can waive the $5 fee if:

• You are a Real Rewards Level 3 member.
• You used an American Eagle or Aerie credit card for the purchase.
• The item is an Aerie bra, bralette, or swimsuit (these always return for free).
• The item is ShopRunner eligible (and you used ShopRunner for the original order).
• The return is due to an error by AE (e.g., wrong item sent or damaged/defective).

For more on how other fashion retailers handle shipping deductions, check our Nike return policy online guide or see how Loft handles returns after 30 days.

Holiday & Extended Return Policies

American Eagle offers a generous extension during the holiday shopping season to accommodate gift-giving.

For the 2025/2026 holiday season:

• Purchase Dates: Items bought on or after October 23, 2025.
• Return Deadline: Can be returned for a full refund through February 1, 2026.
• Requirements: You still need proof of purchase (or a gift receipt), and items must be in original condition.

If you bought an item before October 23, the standard 30-day policy still applies.

Customer Support & Contact Information

If you have a complicated return or a lost package, you may need to speak to a human.

• Live Chat: Available on the American Eagle website (fastest option).
• Phone Support: 1 (888) 232-4535 (Hours vary, typically 7 AM – 12 AM EST).
• Social Media: Direct messaging on X (Twitter) or Facebook often gets a response within a few hours.

Always have your order number ready before contacting support to speed up the process.

FAQ: American Eagle Return Policy

Can I return items to American Eagle without a receipt?

It is difficult to get a full refund without proof of purchase. However, AE can sometimes look up your receipt using the credit card, email, or phone number connected to your Real Rewards account. Without any proof, you may be denied or offered an exchange for the item's current lowest selling price.

How long does a refund from American Eagle take?

If you return by mail, the total turnaround time is usually 2 to 4 weeks. This includes shipping time, warehouse inspection (1–3 days), and bank processing (5–7 days). In-store refunds are immediate, though the bank may take a few days to show the credit.

Can I return online orders in-store at American Eagle?

Yes. Returning online orders in-store is the best way to handle returns. It is free, instant, and you avoid the $5 shipping deduction. Just bring your email confirmation or packing slip.

What items are non-returnable at American Eagle?

Non-returnable items include anything marked "Final Sale" or clearance (often ending in .97), earrings (if hygiene seal is broken), and swimwear or underwear that has had the hygienic liner removed.

Does American Eagle charge a restocking fee?

No, American Eagle does not charge a restocking fee. The only potential cost is the $5 shipping fee if you choose to return by mail and do not qualify for a waiver.

How do I return a damaged or wrong item?

If you received a defective item or the wrong size, contact customer support or use the online return portal. Select "Damaged" or "Wrong Item" as the reason code. In these cases, the return shipping fee should be waived automatically.

Can I return a gift to American Eagle?

Yes. If you have a gift receipt, you will receive store credit for the purchase price. If you do not have a receipt, the store may process it at the current selling price, which might be lower than what the giver paid.

Does AE offer free returns for students?

There is no specific student discount for return fees. To get free mail-in returns, you need to be a Real Rewards Level 3 member, a cardholder, or be returning specific Aerie items. If you shop at other trendy stores, compare this to Micas return policy to see how they handle shipping costs.

Disclaimer: Return policies may change at any time and can vary by location. Always confirm details on the official American Eagle website or with your local store. Information verified December 2025.

Found this helpful? Bookmark this page for the latest American Eagle return policy updates and check our other guides before your next purchase.