priceprotection

Price protection is a consumer policy in which a retailer refunds the difference if the price of a purchased item falls within a specified period after the purchase. It is offered by some retailers for items bought directly from the retailer and is common for categories such as electronics, appliances, and clothing. Availability varies by retailer and region, and terms can differ widely. Price protection generally does not apply to third-party marketplace sellers, clearance, used or opened items, refurbished goods, or special-order items.

How it works and typical terms: after buying an item, a customer can file a claim if the price drops within the eligibility window, typically 7 to 30 days. The customer must provide proof of the lower price from a qualifying source, and the retailer verifies that the item is the same model or SKU and that the lower price is for a publicly advertised price. If approved, the retailer refunds the difference to the original payment method or issues store credit. The item usually must be purchased at the retailer offering price protection, and the lower price must be a legitimate, publicly available price.

Limitations and exclusions: many programs require a minimum price difference, may exclude sale prices or coupons, and can impose caps per order or per item. Some retailers also restrict price protection to new, in-stock merchandise and exclude bundles, special editions, or items purchased during certain promotions.

Relation to other policies: price protection differs from price matching, which typically honors a lower price at the time of purchase. Some retailers offer both, while others offer only one or none.