Most retailers that sell baby formula will allow you to return it as long as it’s unopened and it was recently purchased. Restrictions apply, so we have the list of store return policies for Amazon, eBay, Target, Walgreens, and Walmart.

Can You Return Baby Formula?

Here are the returning baby formula laws — or rather lack thereof. Baby formula is considered a food item and is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). But the FDA does not have any specific laws regarding the ability to return baby formula. Instead, individual store policies dictate if and when you can return formula. Baby formula may fall under the store’s food return policy or general return policy.

Baby Formula Return Policies by Store

To help you navigate a store’s policy on returning baby formula, we’ve outlined the terms and protocol for returning formula at the following stores:

1. Amazon

  • General return policy: Any item shipped and fulfilled by Amazon can be returned within 30 days, according to Amazon’s Returns Policies. Third-party sellers’ individual policies may differ, so be sure to check each seller before making a purchase.
  • Food return policy: Grocery items, which may include baby formula, are not returnable. However, Amazon may offer to refund or replace the formula depending on the circumstance (i.e., if it’s damaged or has already expired when it arrives).
  • How to return baby formula: Log in to your Amazon account and go to Your Orders. Locate the formula and select “Return items.” If the formula can be returned, you’ll simply need to fill out the form and follow the return instructions.
  • Shop for baby formula on Amazon

2. eBay

4. Target

  • General return policy: Most unopened and like-new items — including baby formula — can be returned within 90 days for a refund or exchange, according to a Target customer service representative.
  • Food return policy: No specific food return policy
  • How to return baby formula: You can return baby formula to your nearest Target (you’ll need your receipt and your driver’s license) or you can return it by mail by logging in to your Target.com account, locating the order, and selecting “Return by Mail.”
  • Shop for baby formula on Target.com

5. Walgreens

6. Walmart

  • General return policy: Walmart accepts returns up to 90 days after purchase with a receipt, according to the Walmart Return Policy.
  • Food return policy: Non-perishable food items can be returned up to 90 days after purchase. Items eligible for WIC and SNAP require the receipt; if your receipt shows that you did not purchase the item using WIC or SNAP benefits, Walmart will offer a refund. If the baby formula you purchased needs to be refrigerated, it’s considered perishable, and Walmart’s Return Policy is that it’s nonreturnable.
  • How to return baby formula: As long as the formula is not perishable, you can return baby formula to your nearest Walmart or by the mail by signing in to your Walmart.com account and filling out a return request.
  • Shop for baby formula on Walmart.com
  • Bonus: If it’s your first time using Walmart grocery pickup, get $10 off your order of $50 or more by using our referral link.

In Summary

Can you return baby formula? Can you return baby formula to Walmart? Can you return baby formula to Target? What about other stores? It’s almost always possible. If you’ve recently purchased baby formula and no longer need it, most stores will allow you to return it. Just make sure to bring your receipt or follow the online return instructions for internet sales. Keep in mind that regardless of a store’s return policy, most retailers won’t allow you to return baby formula if it’s been opened.

More suggested articles: Target Car Seat Return Policy Covered, Walmart Car Seat Return Policy: Limits & Exceptions Listed, and The Walmart Diaper Return/Exchange Policy (In Plain Language)


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2 comments


  • Alison Andraca

    My local Walmart wouldn’t accept baby formula as a return without a receipt, they said it could’ve been purchased with WIC. I bought it for my niece, but come to find out she was allergic to that specific kind. Furthermore, come to find out WIC doesn’t cover that brand and type! So they should’ve taken it back, I’m not on WIC! Maybe an even exchange for the type she can use?

    • First Quarter Finance logo
      First Quarter Finance | Lindsey Desmet

      Hello, Alison! Unfortunately, you do need your receipt for a refund or similar-item exchange if the item is eligible for WIC. Due to government regulations on WIC returns, if you do not have your receipt, Walmart must treat the item as though it was purchased with WIC — meaning it is not eligible for a refund and can only be exchanged for an identical item. However, if WIC does not cover the item you bought, you may want to try visiting a different store or speaking with a manager. We have updated our article to include information on Walmart’s policy for WIC and SNAP items.