Getting a refund from Chico's trips up a lot of shoppers, usually because the conditions are buried in fine print. Chico's allows returns within 60 days of purchase, and items must be unworn, unwashed, and have original tags attached. A receipt or proof of purchase is required for a full refund to your original payment method. Common reasons shoppers return include sizing issues and receiving damaged or defective items. The BBB shows over 100 complaints filed against Chico's in recent years, with recurring themes around slow processing and refund denials. Trustpilot sentiment skews mixed. For full policy details, visit Chico's official site.
What is the Chico's Refund Policy?
Chico's takes a fairly standard approach for a women's apparel brand, but the details matter. Items need to be in original condition, and the 60-day window goes faster than you'd think, especially if you bought something as a gift.
| Item Category | Refund Eligibility | Typical Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Unworn, unwashed with tags | Eligible | Full refund to original payment method |
| Worn or washed items | Ineligible | No refund |
| Defective or damaged items | Eligible | Full refund or exchange |
| Final sale items | Ineligible | No refund, no exchange |
| Items returned after 60 days | Ineligible | Store credit only (at Chico's discretion) |
| Gift returns without receipt | Eligible (limited) | Store credit |
One thing worth noting: Chico's does allow returns at any of its physical store locations, which can speed things up considerably compared to mailing items back.
What Items Cannot Be Refunded by Chico's?
Not everything qualifies. Chico's explicitly excludes certain items from their standard return policy, so check before you pack anything up.
- Final sale items (marked clearly at checkout and on the tag)
- Worn or washed clothing (even if only worn once)
- Items without original tags attached
- Gift cards
- Items returned after 60 days (no refund, store credit is at their discretion)
Final sale is the big one. Shoppers on Reddit have flagged this repeatedly, noting that sale items during major promotions are often marked final sale in small print. Check the product page before buying.
Ways to Return Your Chico's Order
Chico's gives you a couple of options, which is helpful. 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 | No nearby store, or online-only purchases | 7–14 business days after receipt |
| Customer Support (phone/chat) | Damaged items, wrong items sent, policy disputes | Varies, typically 5–10 business days |
A few things to know: Chico's does not offer free return shipping for standard returns. You cover the postage. Some shoppers have reported the online return portal timing out mid-process, so if that happens, try again on desktop or just go in-store. Weirdly, in-store worked fine for most people who had portal issues.
How to Return Your Chico's Order: Step by Step
Starting a return is straightforward if you have everything ready. Gather your proof of purchase first, then follow these steps.
