The Budget Fashionista provides this review of how to return an item to Gap for informational purposes only. These policies are subject to change.
Shopping at Gap should always be fun, but if you need to send something back, the process is quick and simple. Whether you bought your item in store or online, here is everything you should know before making a return.
How long you have to return or exchange
You have 30 days to return or exchange an item.
- For online orders, that 30-day window starts when your package is delivered.
- For in-store purchases, it starts on the day you bought the item.
If you go past the 30 days, Gap may still issue a merchandise credit instead of a refund to your original payment method.
Holiday returns
If you are shopping during the holidays, you get extra time. Items bought between October 15 and December 24 can be returned through January 15 of the next year or within 30 days of delivery or purchase, whichever gives you more time. You will need proof of purchase. Items from third-party sellers do not qualify for this extended return window.
Items that can be returned
You can return items that are in their original condition. That means they must be unwashed, unworn, and still have the original tags attached. Items that are damaged or defective can be returned or exchanged at any time.
Items that cannot be returned
Some products have special rules or are not eligible for returns. These include:
- Items marked as final sale
- Masks
- Swimwear without original tags or the hygienic liner
- Sunglasses without original tags, unless defective
- Maternity items, which can only be returned by mail
- Items marked as “mail only”
- Items purchased through the Rewards Marketplace
How to return your purchase
Returning in store:
Bring your item and your receipt to any Gap store. A store associate can help you process your refund or exchange right away.
Returning by mail:
Online returns and exchanges are free. Start the process online to print a prepaid return label or get a QR code for drop-off. Remember that store purchases cannot be returned by mail, and items marked “mail only” cannot be returned in stores.
Gift returns
If you are returning a gift, the refund depends on what you have.
- With a gift receipt or invoice, you will get a gift card for the purchase amount.
- Without proof of purchase, you will receive a merchandise certificate by mail for the current selling price of the item.
How refunds are issued
Refunds are made to the original payment method whenever possible.
- Credit card refunds go back to the same card.
- Gift card refunds go to the same card or a new one.
- PayPal and Apple Pay refunds go back to the same account.
- Afterpay refunds are handled through Afterpay once the return is confirmed.
- Rewards used for the purchase are credited back to your rewards account as points.
Refunds include any taxes you originally paid. If your refund goes back to a credit card, it can take up to 10 business days for your bank to post it.
TikTok Shop returns
If you bought your Gap items through TikTok Shop, you must return them using the TikTok app. Open your orders, choose the item, and follow the return steps. TikTok has its own return rules, and exchanges are not available. To get a different size or color, return the first item and place a new order.
Gap makes returns easy for everyone. You get 30 days to decide, free shipping for online returns, and even more time during the holidays. As long as your item is in its original condition, you can expect a simple and stress-free return every time.
You can view the official Gap return policy here.
For more information on return policies for your favorite shops, see these guides.