Key takeaways: 

1. You can cancel a return request only if the item hasn't been shipped back to Amazon yet.

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2. You may be unable to cancel a return if your item has already been shipped, the return window has been closed, or your refund has been processed.

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3. To cancel an Amazon return, log in to your Amazon account, click on “Returns & Orders” at the top right of the homepage, find the item you initiated a return for, click “View Return/Refund Status”,  click “Cancel this return,” and confirm.

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Did you change your mind about cancelling an item on Amazon? You may have found a better use for the item, realized there was no real issue, or decided to keep it. Thankfully, Amazon allows customers to cancel a return request, but the process must be done before the return is completed. Here’s a quick guide to help you seamlessly cancel a return on Amazon. 

Key aspects of Amazon’s Return Policy 

Amazon offers a customer-friendly return policy, but both buyers and sellers need to know the timelines, conditions, and exceptions. Before we look at how to cancel a return on Amazon, here are some key aspects of Amazon’s Return Policy you should know:

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• Most items sold by Amazon can be returned within 30 days of delivery. During holidays (e.g., November - December), Amazon may extend return windows. For example, items bought during this time may be returnable by January 31.

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• You can usually return unused items like clothing, shoes, accessories, electronics (unopened or in original condition), home and kitchen items, books, toys, and household goods.

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• You can’t return some items like downloadable software and digital content, opened health and personal care items, hazardous materials, grocery items, and some perishables. Always check the product’s return eligibility on the product page or in your order history.

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• If the return is due to Amazon’s error (damaged, defective, wrong item), return shipping is free. If it’s a change of mind return, you may be responsible for shipping costs.

Why cancel a return on Amazon? 

You may choose to cancel a return for some reasons, like:

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• Accidental returns: You may have accidentally clicked on the Return button while shopping. 
• Changed your mind: You may realize you want to keep the item, maybe it wasn’t as bad as you initially thought, or you found a use for it after all.
• Issue was resolved: If the return was due to damage, missing parts, or a defect, and it gets resolved (e.g., Amazon offers a replacement or a partial refund), you might no longer need to send the item back.
• Shipping costs or restrictions: Some returns from third-party sellers may not qualify for free return shipping. The shipping cost may not be worth it, and you might prefer to cancel.

When can you cancel a return on Amazon?

You can cancel a return request only if the item hasn't been shipped back to Amazon yet. Once the carrier (UPS, USPS, etc.) scans the return package, the cancellation option is no longer available.

Step-by-step guide to cancel a return on Amazon

1. Log in to your Amazon Account

Go to www.amazon.com and log in to your Amazon account using your email and password.

2. Navigate to ‘Your Orders’

Hover over or click on the “Returns & Orders” tab at the top right of the homepage.

3. Find the item you requested to return.

Scroll through your orders to find the item for which you initiated a return.

4. Click ‘View Return/Refund Status’

This link will appear under the specific order if a return has already been initiated.

5. Select ‘Cancel this Return’

If the return is still eligible for cancellation, you’ll see the option to “Cancel this return” on the return status page. Click it and confirm your choice. Once cancellation is initiated, Amazon will automatically update the status of your return request. 

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Keep in mind that if you do not see the option to cancel, it may be because the item has already been shipped or the return window has closed.

Why can’t I cancel my return on Amazon? 

There are a few reasons why the ‘Cancel Return’ option is not available: 

1. Your item has already been shipped 

Once you’ve dropped off your return package and the carrier scans it into their system, Amazon locks the return. At this point, cancellation is no longer possible. In this case, you want to track the package and contact Amazon Customer Service if you accidentally sent it back and want to keep the item.

2. The return window has been closed.

If the return was initiated too close to the end of the return period (typically 30 days), and the window has expired, cancellation might be disabled.

If this happens, you can contact Amazon support to explain the situation, especially if you didn’t have time to ship the item.

3. Refund has been processed.

Sometimes Amazon issues an instant refund as soon as you request the return. If that happens, canceling may not be possible, and Amazon may expect the item to still be returned.

If you received a refund but no longer want to return the item, notify Amazon. Keeping the item after receiving a refund without permission can violate their policy.

4. The return was auto-cancelled

If you waited too long to ship the return, Amazon may automatically cancel the return request. In this case, the option won’t show up because it's already been closed on their end.

If this happens and you still want to return the item, start a new return from your order history, as long as you’re still within the return eligibility window.

5. A different return system from the third-party seller 

Some third-party sellers have different return systems or may manage returns outside Amazon’s platform. That can limit your ability to cancel directly through the site. 

In this case, you may need to message the seller directly through Amazon’s messaging system to discuss cancellation. 

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How to cancel a return on Amazon after an item has been shipped

Once a return has been shipped back to Amazon, you can’t officially cancel it through your account. Amazon locks the return request once the carrier scans the package. However, there are still a few things you can do:

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• You can contact Amazon Customer Service immediately and explain the situation. Amazon may allow you to repurchase the item or reverse any refund, especially if the return hasn’t been processed yet.
• Once Amazon receives the item, a refund will typically be issued within 3–5 business days. If you’re trying to keep the item but a refund goes through, Amazon may recharge your account or give you an offer to repurchase it. 

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General tips for managing your returns on Amazon 

Here are a few general tips for managing your returns on Amazon: 

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• Check return eligibility before buying: Look for the “Free Returns” label on the product page. Review the item’s return window. 
• Act quickly: The sooner you initiate a return, the more time you’ll have to ship it back. Some returns are only accepted if they’re shipped within a few days after the request, even if you're within the 30-day window.
• Keep the product’s packaging: Save the box, tags, accessories, and manuals until you're sure you’ll keep the item. Amazon often requires that items be returned in their original condition and packaging.
• Track return shipments: Always keep the tracking number or use Amazon’s return page to monitor progress. If something goes wrong (maybe there is a lost package or delayed delivery), you’ll have proof.
• Double-check before canceling a return: Make sure you haven’t already received a refund. If you cancel but still ship the item, it may not be processed correctly.
• Communicate with third-party sellers: If your return is time-sensitive or unclear, message the seller through your Amazon account as soon as possible. 
• Know your refund options: Refunds are typically issued to the original payment method, but you can choose the Amazon Gift Card credit or a replacement item if you are eligible. 

Final thoughts 

Canceling a return on Amazon is quick and straightforward, as long as you act before the item is sent back. Always double-check the status of your returns and be proactive to avoid unwanted refunds or recharges. 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I cancel an Amazon return?

To cancel an Amazon return, log in to your Amazon account, click on “Returns & Orders” at the top right of the homepage, find the item you initiated a return for, click “View Return/Refund Status”,  click “Cancel this return,” and confirm.

How do I cancel my return?

To cancel your return: 

• Visit Amazon.com and log in to your account.
• Click on “Returns & Orders” at the top right of your homepage.
• Find the item you initiated a return for and click “View Return/Refund Status.”
• If the return is still eligible for cancellation, you’ll see the option to “Cancel this return” on the return status page. Click it and confirm your choice.
• Note that you can only cancel a return before your package is shipped or scanned by the carrier. If your item has already been shipped, you'll need to contact Amazon Customer Service.

Can I change my return method on Amazon?

To change your return method on Amazon:

• Go to “Your Orders” on Amazon.
• Find the item for which you've initiated a return. Click on "View Return/Refund Status" or a similar option. Select "Cancel this return."
• After canceling, go back to the same item in your order history. Click on "Return or Replace Items". Follow the prompts to select your preferred return method and drop-off location. This allows you to choose a different return method, like UPS drop-off, Amazon Locker, and Kohl’s drop-off. 

Can I cancel an exchange on Amazon?

Yes, you can cancel an exchange on Amazon, but it depends on how far along the process is. 

• Go to “Your Orders” and sign in.
• Find the order you initiated the exchange for.
• Click on “View Return/Refund Status” or “Manage Return/Exchange.”
• Look for the “Cancel this return” option and confirm.

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If the option isn’t there, the exchange may already be in progress or shipped.