(Photo By Flickr User nathanmac87)

We all know that the Christmas holiday has long past and if you received a gift that is the wrong size or something you simply do not want, the Better Business Bureau has some advice to avoid return hassles.

The BBB said stores are not legally required to accept items for refund unless something defective or misrepresented.

Officials said ask about the store’s refund policy and even call ahead before you head out the door, because you may only get a store credit or exchange the items.

Mara ClingingSmith, regional director of BBB in Quincy, IL, said research policies ahead of time because there can be a return deadline.

“Know your retailers return policy, is it within 7 days, is it within 30 days, whatever that is and just make sure that you know it,” ClingingSmith said.

For electronic products or large-ticket items, in store or online, you may have to pay a restocking fee for a gift that has been opened, so you could be paying 25% of the purchase price, according to the BBB.

Also, save your receipts and keep tags on clothing.

If you remove the price or try to leave the item number or bar code visible as it will make it easier for a store to process the return.

Consumers should also be aware some merchants consider clearance or sale items final.

If you are the gift recipient, do not assume you have the right to return or exchange an unwanted gift, according to the BBB.

Lastly, the BBB suggest you time your returns, pick a time when a store is unlikely to be crowded.

(Information Courtesy Of WGEM-TV)