Target is quietly changing the store's return policy to combat customer abuse

This store will no longer be a target for abuse.

Target recently revised its lenient return policies to address ongoing customer abuse – a decision that comes as many retailers face issues related to return fraud.

The updated policy now affirms Target's “right to refuse returns, refunds, and exchanges” to prevent fraud and discourage fraudulent behavior, “including, but not limited to, preventing fraud, suspected fraud, or abuse,” it says the updated website.

The new policy was introduced after years of reports of customers returning heavily used or stolen items.

The company has stuck to its original policy that most unopened items can be returned in new condition within 90 days. However, the new regulation stipulates that fraudulent practices will not be tolerated. Employees will now be vigilant when it comes to detecting potential fraud.

This change comes amid a broader trend in which retailers have suffered significant sales losses due to returns abuse — about $101 billion last year, according to the National Retail Federation.

In the past, many retailers – including Target – have struggled with customers abusing return policies, often returning used items that appeared to be in good condition.

In addition to the changes to its return policy, Target will also no longer accept personal checks as a form of payment.

This decision, in effect since July 15, reflects a decline in the popularity of checks as a payment method, particularly among younger consumers who prefer cards or digital wallets. Although some older customers still prefer checks, their use has declined significantly.

Retail experts have noted that checks are becoming increasingly obsolete these days. Other retailers like Aldi and Whole Foods have already stopped using personal checks entirely.

Target's policy adjustments reflect the evolving retail landscape, where issues like returns fraud and payment methods are critical considerations for maintaining profits and customer trust.

By updating its returns policies and eliminating checks, Target hopes to address the challenges posed by fraudulent activity and the changing dynamics of retail payment preferences.