Refund Policy Requirements in All 50 States (2026 Update)

One of the most common compliance gaps we find when scanning e-commerce websites is a missing, incomplete, or non-compliant refund policy. Many business owners assume that "no refunds" or "all sales final" is enough — but in many states, it's not.

The default rule: no posted policy = generous returns

In several states, if you don't conspicuously post a refund policy, consumers get a default refund window — often 30 days or more. This means silence works against you.

• **California** — If no policy is posted, consumers may return items within 30 days for a full refund (Cal. Civ. Code § 1723).
• **New York** — No policy posted = full refund within 30 days (NY GBL § 218-a).
• **Massachusetts** — Similar default consumer-friendly rules apply.
• **Many other states** have analogous provisions or interpret the absence of a policy as an implied right to return.

Key requirements for a compliant refund policy

1. **Conspicuous display** — The policy must be easy to find. "Buried in the footer" may not meet the "conspicuous" standard in some states. 2. **Clear language** — Avoid legalese. The policy should clearly state the timeframe, conditions, and process for returns. 3. **Consistent application** — Your actual practices must match your posted policy. 4. **Disclosure before purchase** — Some states require the policy to be visible before the consumer completes the transaction, not just somewhere on the website. 5. **Restocking fees** — If you charge them, they must be disclosed upfront. Some states cap or prohibit restocking fees.

What ComplyGuard checks

Our scanner checks whether your site has a publicly accessible refund policy page, whether key terms are present, and whether the policy meets the minimum requirements for your operating states.

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**Disclaimer:** This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your business.