Highlights for Children Return Policy (2026): Window, Receipt Rules & Exceptions

Last updated 10/22/2026 by

SuperMoney Team

Edited by

Andrew Latham

Summary:

Highlights’ return policy offers customers a clear and flexible process for returning items, whether purchased online or through their catalog. This guide covers everything you need to know about Highlights’ return policy, including how to initiate returns, exceptions to the standard policy, and tips for a smooth return experience. By understanding the details of Highlights’ return policy, you can ensure a hassle-free process, whether you’re looking for a refund, exchange, or store credit.

Highlights for Children return policy at a glance

Return window	365 days
Online orders in store	Mail only
Return shipping	Not stated; pack item securely, original packaging if possible
Restocking fee	None stated
Refunds	Original payment method; about 2 to 3 weeks from mailing
Last verified	October 2026, against Highlights for Children’s return policy

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What is Highlights’ return policy?

Highlights for Children, Inc., headquartered at 1800 Watermark Drive, Columbus, Ohio, provides a customer-friendly return policy, allowing returns within 365 days for most items. This policy applies to items bought online or through their catalog, giving customers the flexibility to return products if they are not fully satisfied. Below, we’ll delve into the specifics of Highlights’ return policy, including any exceptions and important details that will help you navigate the return process smoothly.

Understanding Highlights’ return policy

Highlights’ return policy is designed to be straightforward and accommodating, with a 365-day return window for most items. However, this period can vary for certain products, particularly personalized or custom-made items. To return an item, it must be in new, unused condition with all original packaging, tags, and accessories intact. This section provides an overview of the general guidelines, explaining how you can return items to Highlights, the conditions that apply, and what you can expect throughout the return process.

How to return an item to Highlights

Returning an item to Highlights is easy if you follow the correct steps. Here’s a detailed guide to help ensure a smooth return experience:

Steps for returning items

Check the return window

Highlights allows returns within 365 days. However, some items might have different return periods, especially those with customizations or special conditions. Be sure to check the specific return policy for each item to avoid any issues.

Prepare the item

Ensure the item is in its original, unused condition with all packaging, tags, and accessories intact. Proper preparation is essential for the item to be accepted for return. If the item was part of a promotional offer, such as a “Buy One, Get One” deal, all items from the promotion must be returned to receive a full refund, or the discount on the additional items will be forfeited.

Gather proof of purchase

Keep your original receipt, order confirmation, or the payment method used for the purchase handy. Having this documentation is crucial as it validates the return and speeds up the process.

Choose your return method

Highlights offers returns primarily by mail. Customers should initiate the return process by contacting Customer Service at 1-888-372-6433, where you will receive further instructions. Customer Service is available Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. EST.

Follow return instructions

For mail returns, carefully follow the online instructions to securely package the item and send it back to Highlights. Include a copy of your receipt, and ensure the package is tracked and insured, as Highlights is not responsible for lost packages.

Receive your refund or exchange

Once your return is processed, you will receive a refund to your original payment method or an exchange, depending on your preference. Expect the refund about 2 to 3 weeks after you mail the item.

Exceptions to the standard return policy

While Highlights’ standard return policy covers most items, there are specific exceptions:

Custom-made and personalized products

Custom-made and personalized items may not be eligible for return unless defective. Additionally, some returns may incur a restocking fee depending on the item and its condition.

Clearance and final sale items

Items marked as clearance or final sale are typically not eligible for return. This includes items with significant discounts or those listed under special promotions.

Perishable and hygiene-related goods

Perishable items and hygiene-related products, such as food items or personal care products, are non-returnable unless faulty. These items must be in their original, unopened condition to be eligible for return.

Technology products

Technology items, such as electronics or software, cannot be returned if they have been used or opened. Ensure these products meet your needs before breaking the seal on the packaging.

Pro tips

To ensure a smooth return experience at Highlights, consider these tips:

Keep your receipt or order confirmation for easy reference.
Inspect items upon delivery to identify any issues early.
Start the return process through Highlights’ website or by contacting their customer service to obtain a return label and follow the outlined instructions.
Contact Highlights’ customer service at 1-888-372-6433 for any questions about specific items.
Keep a record of all communication with customer service, especially regarding return instructions or exceptions, to ensure a smooth process.

Conclusion

Highlights’ return policy is designed with the customer in mind, offering flexibility for a wide range of products and purchase scenarios. By familiarizing yourself with the return conditions and following the steps outlined above, you can ensure a smooth and efficient return process. Whether dealing with custom-made products or clearance items, having the necessary documentation and adhering to Highlights’ guidelines will help streamline your return experience. Highlights for Children, Inc.’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their comprehensive return policy, providing customers with the confidence to shop with ease.

What if Highlights for Children refuses your return?

Start by asking for a manager or contacting Highlights for Children customer service with your order number. If that fails, two things can still get your money back:

Your card’s return protection. A few premium cards, including some American Express and Visa Infinite cards, refund eligible items a store will not take back, usually within 90 days of purchase and up to a few hundred dollars per item. Check your card’s benefits guide, and see how purchase protection works.
A chargeback. If Highlights for Children does not honor its own posted policy, you can dispute the charge with your card issuer. Keep the receipt, a copy of the policy and your messages with the store. Learn how a chargeback works and the time limits issuers set.

Returning a Highlights for Children purchase made with Affirm, Klarna or Afterpay

If you paid with a buy now, pay later plan, you still return the item to Highlights for Children under its normal policy. Once Highlights for Children processes the refund, the provider credits it to your plan, reducing what you owe first and refunding anything you already paid beyond that.

Report the return in the provider’s app. Some providers pause your payment schedule while a return is pending.
Keep paying anything that comes due until the refund posts. A missed installment can still cost you a late fee or hurt your account standing.
Compare the trade-offs in buy now, pay later vs credit cards.

Frequently asked questions

Can I return an item to Highlights if I’ve lost my receipt?

Highlights may allow returns without a receipt at their discretion. In such cases, you may receive a refund or exchange based on the item’s current selling price. A valid photo ID may be required for the return process.

Are there items with a different return period than the standard 365 days?

Yes, certain items, particularly custom-made or personalized products, may have different return periods. It’s important to check the specific return policy for these items before making a purchase.

How does Highlights handle returns for items purchased with a gift card?

When returning an item purchased with a Highlights gift card, the refund is typically credited back to a gift card. This allows you to use the refunded amount for future purchases.

Can I return a clearance or final sale item to Highlights?

Typically, clearance and final sale items are not eligible for return. It’s advisable to carefully review the terms associated with these items before making a purchase.

Key takeaways

Highlights offers a return window of 365 days for most items, providing customers with flexibility.
Custom-made, clearance, and perishable items have different return conditions and may not be eligible for return.
Proof of purchase, such as a receipt or order confirmation, is crucial for a smooth return process.
Items should be returned in their original, unused condition with all packaging and accessories intact.
Customers can return items by mail, with return instructions available on Highlights’ website.
Special return conditions apply to personalized or custom-made items, so review these policies before purchasing.
Highlights provides refunds or exchanges. Refunds go to the original form of payment, about 2 to 3 weeks after you mail the item.

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