Big Lots allows 30-day returns with a receipt, but the chain has been through a major ownership change — closing under bankruptcy in 2024-2025 before Variety Wholesalers reopened over 200 stores under the Big Lots name, so policies at any given location may still be settling under new management.
A Chain Still Settling In Under New Ownership
Big Lots filed for bankruptcy and closed the large majority of its stores in 2024-2025 before Variety Wholesalers acquired the brand's intellectual property and reopened 219 locations across 15 states starting in 2025. Because the chain is operating under new ownership after that transition, it's worth confirming return policy details directly with your specific store rather than assuming older, pre-bankruptcy policy pages still apply exactly as written.
| In-store return window |
30 days from purchase, with a receipt, for original-condition merchandise with accessories and packaging |
| Online purchase returns |
30 days from delivery, returnable to a store or by mail |
| Refund method (with receipt) |
Same form of payment used for the original purchase |
| Without a receipt |
Refund issued as a store gift card, typically at about 20% below the item's current selling price |
Because Big Lots recently changed ownership and is still reopening locations under Variety Wholesalers, confirm current return policy details directly with your specific store before assuming these terms apply exactly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you have to return something to Big Lots?
30 days from purchase for in-store items, or from delivery for online orders.
Can I return something to Big Lots without a receipt?
Yes, but the refund is issued as a store gift card, typically at a reduced value compared to the original price.
Is Big Lots still open?
Many locations closed during a 2024-2025 bankruptcy, but Variety Wholesalers has reopened over 200 Big Lots stores across 15 states since then.
Has Big Lots' return policy changed since the ownership change?
It may have — since the chain is operating under new ownership after its bankruptcy and reopening, confirm current details with your specific store.
