Retailers are offering up tips to the public on gift returns and exchanges during the busy holiday season.

Some stores don't accept returns on Boxing Day.

"Some people have tried to return on Boxing Day, but we let them know that our people and tills are dedicated to all the customers trying to purchase their Boxing Day items and get out of the store. We kindly put up some signs letting them know, we do (returns) on the 28th," said Edward Soloman at Future Shop.

Some other retailers, however, do accept returns on Boxing Day, including The Bay, Sears, Zellers and Home Outfitters.

If you have a gift receipt for a present that you don't want, some stores, such as Sears and The Bay, will only give a gift card in the designated amount, not cash, in return.

"They have until Jan. 9 to make their returns in our store and they'll get a merchandise credit card, which is good for a year in our store," said Frank Rossi at Sears.

Another aspect to consider is whether the gift has been opened.

Stores such as Best Buy, Future Shop and the Apple store will not take back DVDs or software that has already been opened, but they may exchange it for the same item if the it's defective.

"With DVDs and games, (they) are not refundable if they're open, because they're software," said Edward Soloman.

Some stores may also charge a restocking fee. Future Shop doesn't charge a re-stocking fee, but if a manual or accessory is missing, its website states consumers may be charged a "nominal fee."

Rona will give 30 days to return an item, while Home Depot offers additional time.

"You can basically make any return you would like with a receipt within 90 days. They only thing we ask is that you bring it back in the original packaging," said Daniel DeShane at Home Depot.

Last year, Winners introduced a return police that continues into this year where it will only allow returns or exchanges if you have a receipt.

- with a report from CTV's Eleanor Coopsammy