Getting a refund from Dillard's trips up a lot of shoppers, usually because the conditions aren't obvious until you're already frustrated. Dillard's allows returns within 30 days of purchase, and items must be unworn, unwashed, and accompanied by the original receipt or proof of purchase. Common reasons people seek refunds include receiving defective merchandise and ordering the wrong size. For full policy details, visit Dillard's official site. On the BBB, Dillard's has logged hundreds of complaints over three years, with refund delays and denial disputes appearing frequently. Trustpilot sentiment skews negative, with restocking issues and slow processing among the top complaints.
What is the Dillard's Refund Policy?
Dillard's runs a fairly standard department store return policy, but the details matter. Items need to be in original condition, and the 30-day window moves fast. Here's how eligibility breaks down by item category:
| Item Category | Refund Eligibility | Typical Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing (unworn, tags attached) | Eligible | Full Refund |
| Shoes (unworn, original box) | Eligible | Full Refund |
| Clearance / Sale Items | Eligible with conditions | Store Credit or Exchange |
| Altered or Tailored Items | Ineligible | No Refund |
| Worn or Washed Items | Ineligible | No Refund |
| Defective or Damaged Items | Eligible | Full Refund or Exchange |
| Gift Cards | Ineligible | No Refund |
| Cosmetics (opened) | Ineligible | No Refund |
One thing worth noting: Dillard's does not offer free return shipping for online orders. You cover that cost unless the item arrived damaged or wrong.
What Items Cannot Be Refunded by Dillard's?
Dillard's explicitly excludes several item types from their return policy. Don't find out the hard way.
- Gift Cards (no cash value, no returns)
- Altered or tailored clothing (once hemmed or adjusted, it's yours)
- Worn, washed, or damaged items (condition is checked in-store)
- Opened cosmetics and fragrances (hygiene policy applies)
- Swimwear and intimate apparel (final sale in most cases)
- Items without original tags or packaging
If you're unsure whether your item qualifies, call the store before making the trip. Showing up with a non-returnable item is a waste of everyone's time.
Ways to Return Your Dillard's Order
Dillard's gives you two main options. Neither is perfect, but in-store is almost always faster.
| Method | Best For | Speed of Refund |
|---|---|---|
| In-Store Return | Fastest resolution, no shipping wait | Instant (1–3 business days to bank) |
| Mail-In Return | Online orders, no nearby store | Slow (7–14 business days after receipt) |
| Customer Support (1-800-345-5273) | Damaged items, wrong shipments, escalations | Varies (2–10 business days) |
Heads up: Dillard's does not provide prepaid return labels for standard returns. You pay return shipping on mail-ins. That's a real sticking point for a lot of shoppers, and it shows up repeatedly in BBB complaints.
How to Return Your Dillard's Order: Step by Step
Starting a return is straightforward if you have everything ready. Gather your proof of purchase before you do anything else.
