The DSW Return Policy generally allows eligible U.S. purchases to be returned within 60 days of the original purchase date. For a refund to the original payment method, merchandise must meet DSW’s condition requirements and include proof of purchase. In-store returns are free, while using DSW’s prepaid return label costs $8.50, deducted from the refund.
Before returning anything, check how you purchased it and whether it was marked final sale. DoorDash and Uber purchases follow separate rules, and certain specialty products have restrictions. Missing a receipt or returning after the standard window can also change your refund to merchandise credit. This guide explains the main requirements and how to prepare your return. DSW
DSW Return Policy at a Glance
| Policy Detail | Current Rule |
|---|---|
| Standard Return Window | 60 days from purchase |
| Required Condition | Unworn, undamaged, and in original packaging |
| Proof for Original-Payment Refund | Original receipt, packing slip, or shipping invoice |
| In-Store Returns | Free |
| Prepaid Mail Returns | $8.50 deducted from refund |
| Paperless FedEx Returns | $8.50 |
| Mailed Refund Processing | Allow 7–10 business days after DSW receives the merchandise |
| Without a Receipt | Valid ID required; merchandise credit at current selling price |
| After 60 Days | With original proof, merchandise credit |
| Final Sale | Not returnable or exchangeable |
These rules cover U.S. purchases; Canadian purchases must follow DSW Canada’s return channels. DSW
Understanding the DSW Return Policy
Your purchase date is the starting point for the standard return window. Keep that date separate from your delivery date when planning a return.
Check eligibility before choosing a return method. A receipt establishes what you purchased, but it does not override condition requirements or a final-sale designation.
For footwear, preserve the shoe box and avoid outdoor wear while deciding whether to keep the pair. Examine both shoes before packing them so you do not accidentally return mismatched sizes or an incomplete pair.
How to Return an Item to DSW
Returning an Item In Store
Bring the merchandise, original packaging, and purchase documentation to a U.S. DSW store.
Online purchases can be returned in store, but store purchases cannot be returned through DSW’s online mail-return channel. Choosing a store return for an eligible online order also avoids the prepaid return-label charge. DSW
Before leaving, check the return receipt for the amount and refund destination. Keep it until the transaction appears in your payment account.
Returning an Online Order by Mail
Start through DSW’s official Returns & Exchanges section and follow the return portal’s instructions.
Prepare your parcel carefully:
- Confirm that you selected the correct order and merchandise.
- Include the required purchase documentation.
- Protect the original product packaging inside a shipping carton.
- Attach the label provided for that return.
- Save your carrier handoff receipt and tracking number.
Using Paperless FedEx Drop-Off
DSW offers a return code that a FedEx associate can use to print your label. This is a printer-free option; it does not necessarily mean the item can be handed over without packaging. Follow the instructions supplied with your return code. DSW
Opened Items, Specialty Products, and Final Sale
Opening a shoe box is different from wearing the shoes. Keep the merchandise and packaging in returnable condition while checking the fit.
DSW identifies fragrances, dry shampoos, nail polish, facial care products, alcohol-containing products, rechargeable batteries, and USB rechargeable devices as specialty products. Once opened or unsealed, these cannot be returned or exchanged. Eligible unopened, sealed specialty products must be returned in store rather than by mail. Merchandise separately marked FINAL SALE cannot be returned or exchanged. DSW
Before breaking a seal, decide whether you are ready to keep the product. If it arrived damaged or appears defective, photograph the issue and contact support before using it.
Refunds, Exchanges, and Gift Returns
DSW’s direct exchanges cover the same item in another size or color. For a different style, return the original item and place a new order. Eligible exchanges have no exchange shipping charge.
Gift receipts generally lead to merchandise credit or an even exchange. A gift returned through the online channel sends credited funds to the original payment method.
If a purchase combined PayPal and a gift card, DSW states that the entire refund goes onto a gift card. DSW
Before returning a gift, consider whether you want the refund to reach the original purchaser. For any split-payment transaction, ask where the refund will go before completing the return.
Refund processing and bank posting are separate stages. Retain the refund confirmation so you can distinguish a return still awaiting processing from a refund already issued but not yet visible in your account.
DoorDash and Uber Purchases
Eligible DSW merchandise purchased through DoorDash or Uber has a 30-day return window and receives DSW merchandise credit. Return it to a U.S. DSW store unworn, in original packaging, with a valid platform receipt. Final-sale exclusions still apply. DSW
Save the actual purchase receipt from the platform before visiting the store. A delivery-status screen may not contain all the transaction details needed to identify your purchase.
Rewards and Holiday Return Questions
DSW’s official pages currently disagree about restoring redeemed Rewards: its returns page says offers generally are not reissued, while its VIP FAQ says Rewards are credited back within 24 hours. Ask support which treatment applies to your transaction rather than counting on automatic restoration. DSW
The holiday extension displayed on DSW’s returns page specifically covers purchases made November 1–December 31, 2025. It should not be treated as a confirmed extension for 2026 purchases. DSW
What to Do If Your Return Has a Problem
If a return is refused, ask which requirement caused the refusal. Compare that explanation with your receipt, purchase channel, item condition, and any final-sale marking.
For a damaged delivery, wrong item, or suspected defect:
- Photograph the merchandise and packaging.
- Keep the order details and shipping materials.
- Describe the problem accurately.
- Ask for instructions before paying to ship it back.
For a delayed mailed return, check carrier delivery first, then provide support with the tracking number, delivery date, and order information.
DSW’s verified customer-service number is 1-866-379-7463. DSW
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Return Online Shoes In Store or by Mail?
A store visit can avoid packing and shipping work. Mailing may be more convenient if a store is far away. Compare the travel involved with the return-label charge before deciding.
What Should I Do If I Lost My Receipt?
Look for the original packing slip or shipping invoice before requesting a receiptless return. Bring valid ID if you cannot locate the required documentation.
Can I Wear Shoes Outside Before Returning Them?
Avoid outdoor wear while deciding. Inspect the fit indoors and preserve the soles, uppers, and packaging.
Can I Exchange Shoes for a Different Style?
Use the return-and-reorder process for a different style. Direct exchanges are intended for another size or color of the same item.
What Should I Keep After Mailing a Return?
Keep the return confirmation, label details, carrier receipt, tracking number, and refund notification until the refund is resolved.
Does a Discount Automatically Mean Final Sale?
Check the item’s actual designation rather than assuming a discount makes it final sale. Save the product and receipt details if eligibility is unclear.
Conclusion
Prepare your DSW return by checking the purchase date, purchase channel, condition, and proof of purchase before choosing a method. Preserve the original packaging and avoid wearing merchandise while deciding whether to keep it. For gifts, late returns, or purchases without a receipt, confirm the refund destination before completing the transaction.
If the item arrived damaged or the return instructions are unclear, gather photographs and order details and contact support first. Keep your return receipt or carrier tracking until the refund or merchandise credit is fully resolved.