Knowing which payment method are accepted at Walmart’s different branches is essential for all frequent customers. Among the most outstanding are the supermarket chain’s gift cards. However, they cannot be used for any transaction. This was confirmed by the company itself, which prohibited the use of these cards to pay for this famous service.
Although gift cards are a common payment alternative, Walmart has decided to ban them for some transactional processes. On its official website, the supermarket chain specifies the items and services for which this payment tool cannot be used.
Where can this payment method be used?
But before analyzing the prohibitions of this company, let’s talk about the transactions that do allow this payment method. Physical PIN (personal identification number) cards are accepted at all Walmart or Sam’s Club branches in the United States. They can also be used in the stores that the brand owns in Puerto Rico and in the facilities managed by the company.
It is necessary to remember that digital gift cards are also available. However, these cannot be used at the brand’s physical stores. The company only allows transactions with this type of payment at: walmart.com or samsclub.com.
Walmart’s prohibitions on the use of gift cards
Although there are several companies operating in Walmart stores, gift cards are not always received at all Walmart stores. This may be due to a merchant agreement or because they are independent of the company. For example, they are not allowed to be used to pay for eye exams at any eye center, even those owned by the company.
Walmart gift cards also may not be used to purchase hair salon products or services. Nor can they be used to pay for money orders or purchase products from a photo studio.
Update your return policies
Leaving aside the issue of gift cards, we’ll talk about a new announcement Walmart has made about its return policies. In preparation for this time of year, when holiday shopping increases significantly, the company will allow some customers to receive immediate refunds. However, they must meet the following requirements:
- Payment by cash or check: if the product was purchased with cash or check, the refund will be delivered in cash at the time of return.
- Payment by EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer): In this case, the customer can receive the refund in cash or in the form of a Walmart Gift Card immediately.
To access any of these types of reimbursement, the customer must present the original store receipt or order number in the case of purchases made through its web platform. And as a deadline, they have 30 days, except during holiday periods which will be different.
Returns during vacations
For purchases made between October 1 and December 31, 2024, Walmart will allow returns until January 31, 2025. This means greater flexibility for customers. As for refunds, via credit card, debit card or other methods, they can take anywhere from 3 hours to 14 days. To ensure an immediate refund, you should do the following:
- Always keep the receipt or order number.
- Check the purchase dates and product type to confirm that you meet the return requirements.
Gift cards or these changes to your product return policies reflect Walmart’s commitment to customer satisfaction. They are tools that facilitate a better shopping experience, especially during peak shopping seasons such as the holidays.
