Amazon Sued Over Alleged Refund Issues in Class-Action Case

HOUSTON — A class-action lawsuit filed in federal court accuses Amazon of improperly reversing refunds for customers who returned products. The complaint details how some shoppers found themselves without refunds long after returning items at designated locations like Kohl’s and Whole Foods.

Bill Middendorf, a shopper, recounted his experience of returning an item last year. He anticipated a quick refund but said, “About 10 days passed, nothing from Amazon yet. Typically, I get a refund in a day or two at most.” After not receiving the money, he returned to the store for tracking information.

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington, features plaintiff Holly Jones Clark from Kentucky. She alleges that Amazon often fails to refund customers even when returns comply with the 30-day return policy.

Clark states the company reversed instant refunds or did not issue them, causing financial confusion for many customers. The court filing indicates this practice violates Amazon’s publicly available Refund Policy.

According to ConsumerWorld.org, Amazon retains the right to charge customers if returned items are damaged, incomplete, or not received at all. Consumer experts suggest keeping receipts from returns and monitoring refunds closely.

“If you’re returning to Amazon, check your account, then check again a week later to make sure they have it, so you don’t waste your money,” advised consumer reporter John Matarese.

The proposed class includes all people in the U.S. charged by Amazon for items allegedly not timely returned. However, the court has not yet certified this class.

Clark’s complaint exemplifies how some customers have faced issues, claiming that refunds promised after canceling orders, like a book purchase, were never processed. This lawsuit highlights the growing concern over how large companies handle customer refunds.