Cautionary tale

Nov 03, 2008 5 Replies

Two years ago in preparation for a surface embroidery class I was teaching, I stocked up on placemats that would be embellished and then sewn together for tote bags. Not that long ago while making room for newly acquired things, I stumbled on this stash and decided to try to get some of my money back. I called the store and was told they would give me a refund for average price in last 30 days as long as the price tags were still attached. When Ashley, the clerk, scanned two of the mats and told me that she could give me $0.49 for one and $0.75, I was dismayed, appalled, etc. They're worth more than that even if I never use them so I decided to keep them.



moral of the story: If you've got things that you're not using and decide to return them to the store, you might not get what you paid for them.


Two years later and they were willing to give you anything is pretty good.

Honestly, take them to a local thrift shop and ask for a receipt. You'll get closer to the real $$$ off your taxes. Since you're frugal dear, I know you must itemize....

Cheryl

thanks to an inheritance from a beloved aunt, I paid off my mortgage so I try as I might, I usually don't have enough deductions to itemize.

The latest issue of Inspirations had a project for a knitting needle carry all that was embellished with buttons and flowers. I don't knit but the flowers can be embroidered on the placements for fancy schmanzy tote bags or purses that'll make nice gifts.

Interesting ... I wonder if the codes are now being used for something other than my placments as they scanned at 75 - 80% of their original cost.

I am also surprised they offered you anything for the items. I worked retail for 17 years, and within the last 5 years or so most companies have changed to a very firm return policy of full money back within 90 days of purchase with a receipt, but either last sale price (some companies) or no money back without a receipt. Yes, the UPC codes are reused, but the description that would come up on the computer screen would probably be quite different than the original item. Ah yes, and everyone should be careful of returning electronics or seasonal items like camping equipment, there is often a "restocking fee" that is deducted from your refund amount.

take care, Linda D. in B.C., Canada

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