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Oh, The Season Of Returns

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By RICH SHOPES

rshopes@tampatrib.com

Published: December 27, 2008

TAMPA - Shoppers know to bring receipts when making returns, but having a receipt isn't always a pre-requisite to getting your money back.
Shoppers and merchants are savvier about returns, which helps to make for shorter lines at return counters. Friday was no exception.

"We're seeing more shoppers doing exchanges before Christmas, and also shoppers are more cautious now when it comes to making purchases," said Rod Hassell, manager at the Super Target on Dale Mabry Highway in south Pasco County.

Customers in bigger numbers are packing gift receipts to help move transactions along, but more sophisticated electronic-tracking systems - provided they're not down - are easing the return experience, as well.

"It's not that mob scene you would see three or four years ago," Hassell said.

Listed are other tips to speed up your return:

•Check the store's deadline policy for returns, usually found on the receipt.

•Many retailers can track purchases through credit card and checking account numbers. Bring the same card used for the purchase, or a blank check, if you don't have the receipt.

•Save the bar code. Retailers can sometimes track the purchase history from the bar code.

•Keep the tags and as much of the packaging as possible. Retailers won't make a return if you can't show the item came from their store.

Reporter Rich Shopes can be reached at (813) 259-7633.

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