Refund Policies

 The County Executive’s Office of Consumer Affairs provides the following information:

Businesses are required by New York State law to provide refunds within twenty days of purchase for goods in saleable condition, unless the business conspicuously posts an alternative refund policy.

Most businesses choose to set their own refund policy. If they do, the refund policy must:
        • be attached to the item itself: or
        • be posted on a sign at each cash register or point of sale; or
        • be posted on a sign that is visible to the buyer from the cash register or
        • be posted at each entrance used by the public

The refund policy must state whether the business offers refunds and if so. whether the refund is for cash, store credit or exchange only and specify the length of time that refunds are available. The policy must also indicate any refund restrictions on “sale” or “as is” items, as well as items lacking proof of purchase.

A store may establish a “no refund" or "store credit" policy.  If only store credit is offered, it applies whether the original purchase was by credit card, cash or check. If a credit card is used for the original purchase, any monetary refund must be to the credit card account.
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Remember too, that for some goods to be considered in “saleable condition”, the store may require the original box and packaging to be returned with the items. Don’t throw out any box or packaging until you are sure you are keeping the item.

For more information go to the Consumer Affairs web site at www.suffolkcountyny.gov click on depts., then Consumer Affairs.