Can You Return Smart Home Cameras to the Store? Here's How

A new security camera or similar home security device can prove a much-needed addition to your home -- but sometimes they can be more than you bargained for.

You may realize you don't want to pay a subscription for a certain cam or system, or you may find that they're not as compatible with your smart home as you hoped. You might just decide that you paid too much, or maybe you got a device as a gift and it's simply not a good fit.

In these cases, you're probably thinking about returns and refunds. Let's break down exactly what to expect.

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Can I return devices like security cameras to big box stores for a refund?

If you bought a security camera from a big store like Best Buy, Target or Walmart, you're probably wondering if you can return a security cam or system there. Fortunately, you usually can, but you'll need follow the store's specific policies about returns.

For complex electronics like security devices, that usually means you have 30 days to return the product for some kind of refund (standard goods are 90 days, but the time period is shortened for home electronics). Bringing in the receipt can help, but it's not always necessary to complete the return and stores have different policies. Some stores cut this time frame shorter: Best Buy, for example, limits the return window to 15 days unless you have an account with it.

Important note: Around the holidays, these return rules can change. For stores like Best Buy and Walmart, if you buy during November or December, your return window is lengthened to Jan. 15.

Do I need to return security devices in person or can I mail them in?

If you or someone else bought the device at a brick-and-mortar store, you should return it at that store or one near your location. If you bought online, you should visit the exact website the product was purchased from and request a return. This works for Amazon too, which has a 30-day return window like the other big stores.

There are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you receive a damaged item from Walmart.com, Walmart allows you to return it at a physical store.

Amazon returns are particularly easy.

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What about returning security tech to their brand websites?

It's usually possible, although they may have unique processes. Luckily, brands like Arlo, Lorex and Ring still maintain the 30-day window from the shipping date to request a return. You can find return options by contacting their customer support or filling out an online form.

Note that website returns aren't interchangeable just because you're online. That means if you bought a device at Ring's Amazon storefront, you can't return it on the Ring website: You need to use the standard Amazon return process.

Can I get a full refund for purchased devices like these?

That depends. If you're returning in person, it matters if you've opened the security cam box. If the box and seal are untouched, you're probably going to get a full refund. If you already opened the box and/or tried to use the device, then a restocking fee will be deducted from your return. This is usually around 15% of the purchase price.

If you're online, you'll get a print label to ship the product back. Sometimes, you may be able to make other arrangements like dropping off the product box at a local shipping store. In most cases, you will have to pay the shipping charge but will receive a full refund otherwise.

Refunds work via chargebacks, but you can also route money to brand accounts.

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How are refunds like these processed?

Generally, the company will initiate a card chargeback and you will be credited the refund to the credit or debit card (or bank account) used for purchase. Some websites may give you the option to add the funds to your account with them for faster processing -- Amazon offers this alternative if you regularly shop there.

How long would it take to get a refund?

That varies based on the product and the time of year, as well as how much money you spent. During busy times, it can take a few weeks to process a return. You can contact customer service to try to speed things up if you need to. As we mentioned above, directing funds into an account you hold with the company is a much faster option.

What if I got the security device as a gift?

Everything still applies, except the chargeback will occur on the giver's card used to buy the security device. For convenience, it's often best to have the gift giver make the return themselves since they may need to use their own online accounts.

You may be able to return shipped goods at shipping stores or certain kiosks too.

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What about whole security systems?

You typically have a return window similar to individual products for whole systems, sometimes called a trial period. You can return within this trial period and get a full refund, although you'll probably have to pay shipping costs. The exact window can vary: ADT gives you 30 days, SimpliSafe gives you 60 days, Abode is 30 days and so on.

Do I need to wipe the cam before I return it?

Yes. If you have security camera or similar device that you've set up and tried to use, you need to do a full factory reset that wipes the device. You can usually find this option in your account or settings menu. It helps protect your privacy, and it's often required as part of the return process anyway.

Does this work for other smart devices too?

It should work for most smart home devices that you purchase or gift. Just remember that the return windows are almost always shorter for electronics than other items and you shouldn't have anything to worry about.

For a complete look at managing your smart home devices and costs, take a look at the best cams without subscriptions, how to get professional home monitoring for extra-cheap and the top security systems for renters.