Target Car Seat Return Policy: Time Limit, Requirements Detailed

Short answer: Target accepts car seat returns within 90 days of purchase. Target REDcard members have an extended 120-day return period. You can make a return without the receipt, but your refund may be in the form of merchandise credit. Target reserves the right to refuse a car seat return if the original packaging is missing or damaged.

Target Car Seat Return Policy Explained

Car seats fall under Target’s general return policy, which allows for returns and exchanges within 90 days of purchase, a customer service representative said.

Target REDcard members have 120 days to make a return. For online purchases, the return period starts the date the item ships.

As previously reported, Target accepts open-box returns. That means you can return a car seat that you’ve opened, store associates confirmed.

However, to make a return, you’ll want to bring the original packaging with you. Target reserves the right to refuse a return if the box is missing or damaged.

Target store associates in Missouri, North Carolina, and Tennessee told us that having your original receipt helps the return process, but a receipt isn’t required.

If you ordered the car seat online, proof of purchase will be in your online account. And, if you purchased it at a Target store, an associate may be able to look up your receipt with the debit or credit card you used to make the purchase.

Without a receipt, Target may issue your refund on a merchandise return card, which can only be used in Target stores.

Note that whether the car seat was a gift or you purchased it yourself, you’ll need to show a photo ID for any in-store return without proof of purchase.

Online purchases can also be returned by mail. Log in to your Target.com account to request a return and print a free shipping label.

Keep in mind, you can return recalled car seats any time. Target lists current product recalls on its website.

Target Car Seat Trade-In Program

If you’re in the market for a new car seat, you might want to wait for the next Target car seat trade-in event.

Target will recycle all types of car seats, including infant, booster, convertible, and harness styles.

In exchange for your old car seat, you’ll get a 20% off coupon that can be applied to select baby gear, including a new car seat.

Car seat trade-in dates vary each year but are typically announced in April and September; each trade-in event lasts about two weeks.

For details on Target’s diaper return policy and Walmart’s car seat return policy, see our related research.