Let me tell you about the time I bought a toaster at Walmart, and three days later, it went on sale for ten bucks less. I stood in my kitchen, staring at my full-priced toast-making machine like it had personally betrayed me. Naturally, I turned to my bestie (aka Google) and asked the burning question: does Walmart do price adjustments. The results were… confusing. Some folks swore by it, others claimed Walmart was stricter than TSA with a full bottle of shampoo.
So I took matters into my own hands, did some sleuthing, talked to customer service, and yes—made a few returns just to test things out (all in the name of research, of course). Here’s the truth about Walmart’s price adjustment policy, what works, what doesn’t, and how you can save your coins without losing your mind.
What Even is a Walmart Price Adjustment?
If you’re wondering whether Walmart gives you money back when an item you bought goes on sale later, the answer is… kind of. But it comes with conditions.
So, does Walmart do price adjustments? The short answer is yes—but only in very specific situations. If the item you bought online drops in price within a set timeframe (usually 7 days), you might be eligible for a price adjustment. The kicker? It has to be the exact same item sold and shipped by Walmart.com. Not a third-party seller. Not your local store. Just Walmart.com.
For in-store purchases, the plot thickens. Most physical Walmart stores no longer offer price adjustments the way they used to. You could try returning the item and repurchasing it at the new price, but it depends heavily on the store’s manager and how charming your return explanation is.
Can You Really Get Money Back After Buying Something?
Okay, so here’s the juicy part. I actually tested this. I bought a pair of joggers online, and three days later, they went from $24.99 to $17.49. I chatted with customer service (pro tip: the live chat reps are way more helpful than calling), and guess what? They refunded me the difference. No drama, no long explanation. Just proof of purchase and a screenshot of the lower price. Boom.
But when I tried the same thing in-store with a $14 bottle of hair serum that went on clearance for $8, I got shut down faster than a high school party with loud music. They told me the store didn’t honor price drops after purchase, and my only option was to return it and rebuy—which they weren’t thrilled about. Noted.
When Does Walmart Actually Approve a Price Adjustment?
Here’s what I learned from both talking to customer service and living through the chaos:
- Online purchases: If the item you bought from Walmart.com (not a marketplace seller) drops in price within 7 days, you’re probably eligible.
- In-store purchases: Most locations do not honor price adjustments after purchase. A return and repurchase might work, but it’s hit-or-miss.
- Black Friday and big sales: Don’t even try. Walmart does not do price adjustments during major sales events. You’ll see this written clearly in their price match policy.
So, if you’re eyeing something before a big sale like Cyber Monday, just wait. Or roll the dice and hope it stays in stock.
How to Make the Most of Does Walmart Do Price Adjustments
Alright, now here’s your game plan if you want to work the system (legally, of course) and actually benefit from Walmart’s price adjustment policy.
First, always keep your receipt or confirmation email. I know, it’s tempting to delete it once you’ve unboxed your new blender, but trust me—receipts are currency in this game.
Second, set a reminder. If you’re shopping online, keep an eye on that item for the next 7 days. If the price drops, take a screenshot and contact Walmart’s online customer service chat. Be polite but confident. They’ll usually process it right away if you’re within the window and the product is sold by Walmart.
For in-store buys, your best bet is to keep the item sealed and watch the shelf like a hawk. If the price drops and your store is chill about returns, you can return and rebuy. But if you’ve already opened it, this gets dicey.
Also, use price tracking tools for popular products and check Walmart’s own app frequently—prices fluctuate more often than you’d think.
What Are the Limitations or Exceptions?
This is where things get spicy. Walmart has more exclusions than a fashion sample sale:
- Third-party sellers: Nope. If you bought something from a marketplace seller on Walmart.com, you’re out of luck.
- Clearance items: You won’t get a price adjustment if something you bought goes on clearance.
- Major holidays: Walmart doesn’t do price adjustments on Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or during major promotional events.
- Groceries and perishables: These are generally excluded, because, well, no one’s refunding you $1.29 because your yogurt went on rollback.
Also, don’t expect price matching across Walmart stores. One location might have your Keurig for $89, while another lists it at $74. Price matching in-store to other Walmart locations? Not happening.
What Are People Asking About Walmart Price Adjustments?
Can I get a price adjustment if I used a promo code?
Unfortunately, no. Promo codes, bundle discounts, or limited-time offers usually don’t qualify. You can’t retroactively apply discounts after you’ve purchased, unless it’s part of a site-wide markdown.
How do I request a Walmart price adjustment?
For online purchases, use the Walmart live chat feature. You’ll need your order number and a screenshot of the lower price. For in-store purchases, you’ll need to visit the location and speak to a manager—though be prepared for a polite “no.”
How long do I have to request a price adjustment?
Typically, Walmart allows a 7-day window from the date of purchase for online orders. There’s no official policy for in-store purchases anymore, which means it’s totally up to store discretion.
Can I return the item and rebuy it at a lower price?
Yes, but it depends on the condition of the item and your store’s return policy. If it’s unopened and you’re within the return window, you can absolutely do this. Just be prepared for a little side-eye from the return desk.
The Final Scoop Before You Jump In
Here’s the real tea: Does Walmart do price adjustments? Technically, yes—but mostly if you’re shopping online and paying attention. In-store? It’s a gamble. So unless you’re besties with your store manager, keep expectations low and receipts close.
My personal tip? Shop online for bigger-ticket items, watch prices like you’re tracking your ex’s Instagram, and be nice to customer service reps. They hold all the power.
Shopping smarter is the new shopping more. So next time you see a price drop after checkout, don’t scream into your pillow—just take a screenshot and ask. Worst they can say is no, and best case? You get a little cash back and feel like a price-hacking queen.
