Quick Tip: Gift return alert

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Here's a holiday gift return quick tip from the Better Business Bureau.

Remember, stores set their own return rules. Stores are not legally required to take returns unless an item is defective or misrepresented, and policies can change during the holidays.

Check the retailer's return policy. Holiday return windows can be shorter than you think. Find out how long you have, whether you'll get cash back, store credit, or pay a restocking or return shipping fee.

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Try to bring in receipts and original packaging or a gift receipt. Without one, many stores will only offer store credit.

Also beware of third-party return services that promise to handle the process for you for a fee.

The BBB says many times those are gift return scams.