Apple

refund policy – how to claim your money back

Apple gives you 14 calendar days from the date you receive your product (or buy it in-store) to return it for a full refund (even if it’s been opened and lightly used).

✅ Eligible: Most Apple products (Mac, iPhone, iPad, Watch, AirPods, accessories).
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⚠️ Exceptions:

• Digital software (once downloaded or opened)
  
  
• Gift cards (Apple Store, iTunes)
  
  
• Developer memberships
  
  

📦 Condition: Products must be returned in original condition, with all accessories and packaging. Light use is fine, but scratches or damage may result in a denial or reduced refund.

🎁 Gift returns: Apple gives gift cards (not cash) if you return with a gift receipt.

🎄 Holiday returns: The return window may be extended for gifts bought in Nov/Dec - check Apple’s Returns page for details.

🇦🇺 Australian Consumer Law (ACL): Faulty item? You’re protected even after 14 days. Apple’s refund policy is in addition to your legal rights.

Online Order?

1. Visit Apple’s Self Service Returns.
   
   
2. Log in with your Apple ID.
   
   
3. Select your item and click “Initiate Return”.
   
   
4. Print return label or arrange a courier pickup (free).
   
   

In-Store Purchase?

1. Head to any Apple Store with the item and your receipt.
   
   
2. No appointment needed. Just go to the counter.
   
   
3. Staff will inspect the product and process a refund on the spot.
   
   

💡 Prep Your Device:

• Erase data
  
  
• Turn off Find My iPhone (this is required!)
  
  
• Repack all parts/accessories
  
  

If you paid cash over $870, they’ll do a bank transfer. Under $870, they may give cash or card refund. Card purchases are refunded directly to that card.

Apple is one of the fastest in the game.

• In-store refunds: Usually initiated same day.
  
  
• Online returns: Refund processed within 3–5 business days of item arrival.
  
  
• Card refunds: Appear within 5–7 business days, sometimes sooner.
  
  
• Bank transfer: Takes ~5 business days after approval.
  
  
• Gift cards: Refunded instantly via email or printed in store.
  
  
• PayPal refunds: Usually within 2–3 days.
  
  

Need to chase a missing refund? Call Apple Support for an ARN (Acquirer Reference Number) to give your bank.

Apple will refund the same way you paid:

• 💳 Credit/Debit Card: Back to your card.
  
  
• 🏦 Bank Transfer: Used for large in-store cash purchases (> $870).
  
  
• 🎁 Apple Gift Card: Used for gift returns or gift card purchases.
  
  
• 💸 PayPal: Refunded to your PayPal account.
  
  
• 💳 Financing: Loan is cancelled/credited with finance provider (e.g. Latitude).
  
  
• 🌐 Apple ID Credit: Digital purchases go back to balance or original method.
  
  

📌 Refunds can’t go to someone else or a different card (except where the original one is expired).

Here’s what trips people up:

🚨 Day 15 Regret? This is a no go. Apple sticks firmly to the 14-day rule.

🚨 Product Not in “New” Condition? Scratches, missing parts, or damage = a refund denial or reduction.

🚨 Forgot to Turn Off “Find My iPhone”? Refund will be paused until it’s deactivated.

🚨 Didn’t Get Refund? It’s often a bank delay. Apple can give an ARN to help trace it.

🚨 Used Gift Card Promo? Apple will deduct the gift card value if you return an item and already spent the bonus.

🚨 Wrong Store: Products bought from JB Hi-Fi or Telstra? Apple can’t refund those. Go to the original retailer.