Costco’s return policy has long been considered one of the most generous in retail, giving members confidence to make big purchases without fear of being stuck with the wrong item. But in 2026, some shoppers say the experience at the returns counter feels different.
While the company has not officially changed its “Risk-Free 100% Satisfaction Guarantee,” stricter enforcement and closer monitoring of return patterns have sparked confusion online. Reports of additional documentation checks and membership reviews have fueled rumours of a policy crackdown.
Costco Return Policy Crackdown 2026: What is Costco’s Return Policy?
Costco continues to operate under its “Risk-Free 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.” The retailer allows members to return most products at any time if they are not satisfied.
Unlike many major stores that enforce strict 30-day return windows, Costco does not set a universal deadline on general merchandise. If a product fails to meet expectations, members can typically bring it back for a refund. However, this flexibility does not mean there are no limits.
Costco Return Policy Crackdown 2026: What is the 90-Day Electronics Return Rule?
Costco enforces a 90-day return window on specific high-value electronics. This rule has existed for years and remains firmly in place in 2026. The 90-day limit applies to:
- Televisions and projectors
- Computers (laptops and desktops)
- Major appliances
- Tablets and smartwatches
- Cameras and drones
- MP3 players and cellular phones
Costco introduced this rule to prevent short-term “rental” behaviour, where customers purchase electronics for temporary use and then return them. Members must return these items within 90 days of purchase to qualify for a refund.
Costco Return Policy 2026: Can Costco Cancel Your Membership for Too Many Returns?
Costco does not publish a specific return limit. However, membership remains a privilege, not a right. The company monitors return patterns through internal systems. If a member consistently returns a large percentage of purchases or shows unusual activity, Costco may flag the account for review.
In rare cases involving repeated abuse, Costco may cancel a membership and refund the annual fee. Retail analyst Michael Patterson addressed the shift in oversight:
“We’ve definitely seen changes in how Costco handles returns over the past year,” says retail analyst Michael Patterson. “They’re being much more selective about what they’ll take back and from whom. The days of no-questions-asked returns are quietly coming to an end.”
Costco has not announced any official “crackdown,” but enforcement appears more consistent across warehouses.
Costco Return Policy Crackdown 2026: What Items Cannot Be Returned to Costco?
While Costco accepts most returns, certain categories come with restrictions.
- Diamonds weighing 1.00 carat or more require original documentation and must pass a 48-hour authenticity inspection.
- Cigarettes and alcohol often cannot be returned due to state laws.
- Costco Shop Cards are non-refundable and cannot be redeemed for cash.
- Custom-made installations, such as flooring or blinds manufactured to specific measurements, also cannot be returned.
These limitations are not new, but members sometimes overlook them.
Costco Return Policy 2026: How Digital Receipts & Membership Scanning Affect Returns?
In 2025 and 2026, Costco expanded digital tools to improve efficiency at the returns counter. Many warehouses now use membership scanning systems at the entrance. This process links purchases directly to a member’s account history. Even if shoppers lose their paper receipt, employees can verify transactions through Costco’s system.
The Costco mobile app now stores digital receipts for past purchases, making returns faster and easier. These updates do not restrict returns. Instead, they help staff confirm purchases quickly and reduce fraudulent activity.
Costco Return Policy Crackdown 2026: Why Some Members Feel the Policy Has Changed?
Some shoppers report longer conversations at the returns desk or additional documentation requests for expensive items. One longtime member described a recent experience where staff reviewed her account history more closely before processing a refund.
Costco has not issued a formal policy overhaul, but employees may request clarification or manager approval in certain cases, particularly for high-value or repeated returns. The company appears focused on balancing flexibility with accountability.
Costco Return Policy 2026: What Costco Members Should Do Before Returning an Item?
To avoid delays, members should:
- Bring their membership card
- Use the Costco app to access digital receipts
- Return electronics within 90 days
- Keep original documentation for high-value items
Costco still offers one of the most consumer-friendly return policies in retail. However, members should understand the rules and avoid patterns that may trigger account reviews. In 2026, Costco’s policy remains generous—but shoppers should use it responsibly.
