How to return unwanted gifts

The holiday factor
Retailers try to spread the cheer beyond the holidays, with many extending return deadlines far into January, according to the National Retail Federation. That doesn't mean any gift you receive will be eligible.
Holiday return policies are for purchases made between specific dates, typically sometime between November and Christmas. But the time frame can vary, and if your gift wasn't purchased during the specified period, you may be stuck. And there may be no leniency for certain types of gifts.