Retailers are having a difficult time surviving in the current economy. Sales are very slow and fraud is increasing rapidly. A reaction that many are having to the current atmosphere is to limit returns of merchandise. There is, however, a way to get your money refunded even after the retailer has turned you away.

If your purchase was made by credit card, especially, silver, gold, and platinum cards, many credit card issuers offer their customers return guarantees. If you can prove through your statement that you purchased the item and show that the store refused to accept your return, the card issuer may offer you a refund in exchange for the item. Many of these refunds are good up to $250 per item and will last for 90 days after purchase.

Many card issuers offer extended warranties for items purchased with their card. Check the fine print in your agreement and see if your card offers this advantage. You would not want to purchase an extended warranty from the store if you are already receiving one free from your credit card issuer.

Another advantage to using your credit card for purchases is that many card issuers offer coverage for stolen or damaged goods. Whether there was a theft or accident, you may well be able to be reimbursed for damaged or stolen merchandise within 90 days of purchase. Some cards, for example, offer as much as $1,000 per item in the event of damage or theft.

An additional advantage to credit card purchases is that many offer price protection to their customers. Furnish proof of a sale price along with your original receipt and your card company may well refund the difference up to $250 within 60 days of purchase.

Credit card companies will always represent you in a dispute when furnished with the necessary documents to prove your case. My experience with this particular benefit has been excellent over the years with several different credit card companies.