From amping up staffing by the thousands, to launching new initiatives to meet the surge in demand, companies such as Amazon are making changes to its operations as the busiest time of year rolls out.

In its most recent update, Amazon has announced temporary changes to its return policy.

Customers will now have an extended return window for holiday purchases — an increase from the typical 30-day period.

Most items purchased on Amazon between now and Dec. 31 can be returned through Jan. 31, 2026. Apple-branded products may be returned through Jan. 15.

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“We understand that there may be times when a purchase may not meet your expectations or your needs might change,” Amazon notes on its help page.

“When that happens, we make completing a return simple and convenient.”

Typically, shoppers have a 30-day window between when their packages arrive and when they can return them.

Amazon notes that shoppers may see a faster or longer turnaround time for their refunds, depending on how they wish to receive their refunds.

For example, a customer may see their refund as soon as three hours after returning their items if the refund method is an Amazon store credit or Amazon gift card.

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A customer may not see their refund for as long as 30 days if the refund method is a prepaid credit card. This depends on the issuer of the card.

However, most refund methods — such as debit cards, checking accounts, credit cards and reward points — are usually received between five and 10 business days.

Items are usually eligible for return, though some are not.

Items that may be returned must be returned within the designated return-window and are in original or unused condition.

• Perishables
• Products that may pose potential health and safety risks once sold.
• Products with shipping restrictions
• Customized products made specifically for you.
• Redeemable products
• Amazon Pharmacy products
• Pet medication products
• Certain digital products
• Automobiles

Products listed as “Final Sale” are also non-returnable and non-refundable, including trading card games, specific discounted items and items sold in the Amazon Haul store that are $3 and less.