It happens every year. Someone gets a gift he or she doesn’t like or need. It might be perfect for some, but for others it’s a return to the store. Your Better Business Bureau says make sure your familiar with the store’s policies to avoid problems with returns and exchanges.

According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), last year shoppers returned more than $46 billion in merchandise, a record high. The NRF says the higher the sales year to year the more likelihood there will be more returns. The NRF says holiday spending will be more than four percent higher this year than last year.

Your Better Business Bureau offers these return and exchange tips:

• Make sure you know the retailers’ return and exchange policies in the store and online. If return or exchange policies aren’t clearly displayed, ask for the details. Some stores only offer refunds, store credit and/or exchanges. And, in some cases, all sales may be final. According to the Ohio Attorney General, sellers aren’t required to have a return policy in Ohio.

• Pay attention to online return policies. Some stores will offer free shipping for exchanges, but not for returns. Find out if merchandise can be returned to local stores or must be shipped back.

• Be sure you have receipts with you to make an exchange or refund. Some stores allow you to make an exchange without a receipt, but you may get the lowest advertised price.

• Understand return policies for sale and clearance items. They may be different from items purchased at full-price.

• Check to see if opened items can be returned. Also, for big ticket items, like electronics, check to see if there is a restocking or open box fee.

• Remember, original packaging may be required for returns.

• Make sure you tell the retailer why the items are being returned, especially if an item is defective.

• Beware of the length of time you have to return an item.

Remember, you don’t have to run out to the stores the day after Christmas to make a return. It’s usually best to wait a few days after the holiday when stores are less crowded, unless there is a specific date you need to return the item.

Shop wisely this holiday season and throughout 2013. Contact your BBB for lists of BBB Accredited Businesses and reviews on businesses you’re planning to use. Visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.