Randy Charles is the owner of PaintCentric.com, a website dedicated to providing information, tips, tricks, and news about all things paint. With over 10 years...Read more
Lowes has a great returns policy! Most items, including paint, can be returned. Unused, opened paint can be returned within 90 days of purchase, and you’ll get a full refund. The date of purchase is stored in their online system from the sales receipt. Lowes may also accept returns for the same type of paint up to three years after purchase.

Let’s look at the specifics of their returns policy:
What items are eligible for return
Lowe’s offers a variety of products from many different categories. Sometimes it can be hard to know what can be returned. Generally, if an item has not been used, changed, or damaged, it can be returned. If an item was bought more than 90 days ago, it might not be accepted if it does not have its original packaging and parts. It is always best to check with the local store for their return policy, which could change depending on the location.
The following items usually cannot be returned at Lowe’s:
- Holiday decorations (Christmas trees, lights, etc.),
- Paint that was tinted or coloured to fit customer needs,
- Customized products like kitchen cabinets or countertops ordered according to customer specifications,
- Gift cards and already used/installed items that were cut or altered.
Lowe’s Return Policy is simple compared to other stores; most returns are accepted within 90 days of purchase, with a valid receipt or packing slip in its original condition (unless stated above). If a cash purchase is made below $50 and no receipt can be provided, then you will receive store credit for the amount of the lowest-priced similar item. For purchases over $50 without proof of purchase (only applicable to select stores), you will receive store credit for the current selling price with acceptable documentation (such as a driver’s license).
Timeframe for returns
Lowes Return Policy states you have ninety days from purchase to return items for a full refund. After this period, you may still be capable of getting store credit or exchanging the product. When making a return, you may request a valid photo ID like a passport or driver’s license. You can get cash back or deposit it to the original payment method. If returning without the original package, you will be charged a 15% restocking fee.
Some items are not eligible for returns and refunds, such as:
- items under $25 that are on sale;
- clearance merchandise;
- Special Order items;
- custom-cut lumber products;
- used tools and electrical accessories;
- paint tinted to customer specifications.
Exchanges or store credits are available within ninety days of purchase with proof of purchase for these items.
Paint Returns at Lowes
When it comes to painting, Lowes has multiple return options. You can bring it back to the store or online, depending on how much you got. You can even return paint that has been opened as long as it’s still in perfect condition.
Let’s take a closer look at Lowes’ paint return policy:
How to return paint
Lowes will accept returns for any paint in its original condition and container (in-store or online). Unopened, unused tinted or untinted paint is eligible for a return. Custom-tinted paints or opened cans of paint are not accepted.
Customers must provide a receipt and valid ID (driver’s license) before returning. A refund in cash, store credit, or merchandise credit is available within 30 days from the purchase (location-based). Refunds vary depending on the type of purchase.
Special order items are non-refundable but may be exchanged within sixty days from the date of purchase. Prior approval must be obtained from a customer service representative. Valid ID and receipt must be presented at the store location of purchase to process the exchange. No refunds are available for special orders.
What kind of paint is eligible for return

Lowe’s offers a great guarantee on general products, including all paint and painting supplies. You can return them in their original, unused condition with no time limit! Latex-based paints can be returned even if opened as long as at least 4 inches of paint are left. Paints with lead or other hazardous material, like oil-based paint, cannot be returned once opened due to health and safety.
- Stains, sealants and waterproofing products are non-refundable once opened.
- Other items that could be returned include spray paints, wood stains, and concrete sealers, as long as they haven’t been used.
- Unused paint samples from Lowe’s can be returned within 30 days of purchase.
- Coatings purchased over 30 days cannot be returned.
If you’re unsure if an item is eligible for a return, contact customer service before bringing it to the store.
How to exchange paint
Unused paint can be exchanged at Lowe’s within 90 days of the purchase date. Return the paint to the original container, with at least 1/2 full and the original receipt. Lowe’s employees can transfer the unused paint into an available 5-gallon bucket for multiple paint cans.
Purchases made online or via phone order typically only accept returns for product issues. Customers may then receive a refund or store credit for their purchase. Upon successful inspection, customers will get a refund in 3 – 10 business banking days.
Other Considerations
Lowes’ return policy is important, but there’s more to returning paint. Remember to have documentation like receipts, proof of purchase and unused paint cans. See if there’s a restocking fee too.
Let’s investigate further:
What if the paint is opened or used
Lowe’s reserves the right to reject any returns attempts for opened or used paint. If you ordered the wrong colour, it could not be returned either. It’s important to make sure the colour and finish are what you want. Products with low stock availability that have been discontinued can’t be returned either.
Check the container or signage in-store to avoid unnecessary disappointment.
What if the paint is damaged
If the paint is damaged when you buy it, you may be able to return it at Lowes. Show your receipt and include photos and any witness statements. Also, if the paint doesn’t meet your expectations within 90 days of purchase, you can return it if it’s still in the original packaging. When returning unopened containers over 90 days after purchase, Lowes may offer store credit, but only if the original seals are still intact and the receipt is shown.
What if the paint is past the return date
Lowe’s can’t accept it if you have bought paint and it’s past the return date. Any opened or used paint, varnish, or stain product isn’t eligible for a refund or exchange, even within the return period.
If you still have a sealed container of paint outside of the return period, Lowe’s may make an exception, depending on your situation. To ask for an exception, contact Customer Service at 1-800-445-6937.
- When phoning Customer Service, have proof of purchase, like a receipt or order number.
- You’ll also need details about the product, such as paint colour and item number.
- If your request for an exception is accepted, they will give further instructions on sending the return.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Return the Paint At Lowes?
Yes, you can return the paint to Lowes. All unused, unopened paint can be returned with a receipt within 90 days of purchase.
Does Lowes Accept Paint Returns Without a Receipt?
No, you must have a receipt to return the paint at Lowes. If you don’t have a receipt, you may be able to exchange the paint for store credit.
Is There a Restocking Fee for Returning Paint?
No, there is no restocking fee for returning paint at Lowes.

Randy Charles is the owner of PaintCentric.com, a website dedicated to providing information, tips, tricks, and news about all things paint. With over 10 years of experience in the painting industry, Randy has become an expert in the field and is passionate about helping others learn more about painting. He has written numerous articles on the subject and is committed to providing accurate and up-to-date information to his readers.
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