One thing we all look forward to on Christmas Day is opening the presents under the tree.
But this year, as the cost of living crisis continues to impact families across Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, it's likely many of us will spend less this Christmas.
A recent report from VoucherCodes found that compared to last year, consumers are set to cut back significantly on spending, with total retail sales over the festive period expected to fall by 3% YoY to £82.2bn - a decline of £2.51bn.
Read more: How to look after your mental health this Christmas season
So, if you've received a gift that you weren't a fan of, what are your rights for returning it if it was bought online and in store?
If a gift was bought in store, most retailers will ask to view your gift receipt if you're making a return. However, some shops may allow you to return items without a gift receipt, but this depends on the individual store’s policy.
If the gift is faulty, you don’t need a receipt. You just need to show some proof of purchase.
How to return a Christmas present bought online
For presents bought online, the Consumer Contract Regulations 2013 gives you up to 14 days to return an item.
You’ll have to tell the business within that 14-day period, sometimes filling out a form to do so.
You’ll also need to return the item using a postage method acceptable to the retailer.
What if I want to return an item, but there's nothing wrong with it?
The good news is if the item was bought online or on the phone then you have 14 days to return it, this rule falls under the Consumer Contract Regulations 2013.
In-store purchases are a different matter and will depend on the shop’s policy. You can always call a store or check the retailer’s website for information on its policy.
What if the goods are faulty?
You’ve got lots of rights when it comes to goods or services that don’t work. However, there are certain time limits to bear in mind.
The Consumer Rights Act 2015 says that you have 30 days, from the date the goods were purchased, to return the item if it’s not as it was described.
You’re entitled to a full refund if the goods are returned within this 30 day period.
The money will be refunded into the account of the person making the return.
What if more than 30 days have passed?
If goods are faulty you have up to six months to return them – and the burden of proof is on the retailer to prove the item wasn’t defective or refund you.
They are allowed to have one crack at a repair or replacing the item, but after that, you can ask for a refund.
Even over the six months, all is not lost, though you’ll need to prove why you didn’t realise the item was damaged or that the problem isn’t just down to wear and tear.
Be prepared to compromise though, you could be looking at a repair or a replacement – and if the product has been upgraded since - you aren’t entitled to the newer version.
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