You've probably done it a dozen times. You buy a weird kitchen gadget or a pair of jeans that fits like a wet suit, and instead of hunting for a box and tape, you just drive to the local Kohl's. It's the ultimate "chore hack." But honestly, things are getting a little weird with the Kohl's Amazon return locations network lately. If you’ve walked into your usual spot only to see the "Amazon Return Drop" sign missing, you aren't crazy.
There's a shift happening. For years, the partnership was the gold standard of convenience. You walk in, show a QR code, get a coupon, and leave. Easy. But as we move into 2026, the retail landscape has shifted. Some stores are "testing" life without Amazon, while others are leaning in harder than ever.
Where Can You Still Find Kohl's Amazon Return Locations?
Basically, the vast majority of Kohl's stores across the United States—over 1,100 of them—still handle these returns. It doesn’t matter if you bought a literal vacuum or a tiny SD card; if it’s eligible, they take it.
However, there is one big geographical exception that hasn't changed in years: Anchorage, Alaska. For whatever reason, the Kohl's in Anchorage remains the lone holdout in the lower 48 and beyond. If you're in the frozen north, you're sticking with UPS or Whole Foods.
The "Test" Stores: Why Your Local Kohl's Might Have Quit
In early 2025 and continuing into 2026, Kohl's started a "test-and-learn" phase. They pulled the return service from a handful of locations in places like Leominster, Massachusetts; Washington, Missouri; and Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
Why? It’s about the bottom line.
Kohl's original goal was to turn "returners" into "shoppers." They figured if you’re already in the store to drop off an Amazon package, you might pick up a pack of socks or a candle. It worked for a while—bringing in millions of new customers—but the labor costs of staffing those return desks are high. Some managers have reportedly felt the stores were becoming "package depots" rather than department stores.
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How to Check if Your Local Store is Active
Don't just drive there and hope for the best. That’s a recipe for a bad Saturday.
- The Amazon App is King: When you start your return on Amazon, it will list the available drop-off points near you. If Kohl's doesn't pop up as an option for your specific zip code, that store might be part of the "no-return" test group.
- Kohl's Store Locator: You can check the official Kohl's website. They usually list "Amazon Returns" under the "Store Features" section for each specific location.
- The QR Code Test: If Amazon gives you a QR code specifically for Kohl's, you're good to go. If the only options are "UPS Store" or "Whole Foods," then Kohl's is a no-go for that specific item.
What You Can (and Can't) Actually Return
Most people think everything on Amazon can go to Kohl's. Nope.
It has to be "Eligible for Kohl's Dropoff." Usually, this means items sold or fulfilled by Amazon. If you bought a vintage lamp from a third-party seller in another country, Amazon might force you to mail it back via UPS or even pay for your own shipping.
Also, size matters. If you're trying to return a 75-inch TV or a California King mattress, don't bring it to the jewelry counter. These items usually require a "Scheduled Pickup" or a specialized heavy-item carrier. Kohl's associates are great, but they aren't equipped to haul a treadmill into the back room.
The "No Box, No Label" Magic
The best part about Kohl's Amazon return locations is that you don't need a box. You can literally walk in with a pair of shoes in your hand—no packaging at all—and they will handle it. They have their own bags and boxes. They label it. They ship it. It’s arguably the most "lazy-friendly" system in retail history.
The Secret Perk: The Return Coupon
Let's talk about the real reason people love this: the "thank you" discount.
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Almost every time you finish a return at Kohl's, the associate hands you a piece of paper. In 2026, this is usually a coupon for 15% to 25% off your in-store purchase.
Expert Tip: These coupons are usually "time-sensitive." Most expire within 7 days. If you're planning on buying something at Kohl's anyway, wait until you have an Amazon return to do. It’s basically free money.
Sometimes, they’ll even give you $5 in Kohl's Cash instead of a percentage discount. This usually happens during specific promotional windows. Just keep in mind that these coupons have a lot of "fine print." You can't usually use them on high-end brands like Nike, Adidas, or Sephora products inside the store.
The Step-by-Step Walkthrough (2026 Edition)
If you haven't done this in a while, the process is slightly more digitized now.
- Step 1: Go to "Your Orders" on the Amazon app.
- Step 2: Hit "Return or Replace Items."
- Step 3: Choose your reason (be honest, or don't, I'm not the return police).
- Step 4: Select "Kohl's Dropoff."
- Step 5: Crucial Step: Take a screenshot of the QR code. Don't rely on the store's Wi-Fi. It’s notoriously spotty, and standing at the counter while your app "loads" is the worst feeling.
- Step 6: Locate the desk. It’s almost always in the very back of the store. Kohl's wants you to walk past every single clearance rack before you reach the return desk.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
The most common mistake? Bringing a UPS label to Kohl's.
If you printed a shipping label that says "UPS Ground," Kohl's cannot take it. They don't have a deal with UPS to "take their mail." They only take the specific Amazon-generated QR codes meant for their own internal system.
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Also, watch out for "Expired Codes." Amazon return windows are usually 30 days. If you initiate the return but don't actually go to the store for three weeks, check your email. Sometimes the QR code needs to be refreshed if too much time has passed.
Is the Partnership Going Away?
There’s a lot of chatter about this. Honestly, it’s a bit of a "will they, won't they" situation.
Retail experts like those at Retail Dive have noted that while the partnership brings in people, the conversion rate (people actually buying stuff) has dipped. However, for now, the partnership remains a core part of the Kohl's identity. It’s what keeps them relevant in a world where everyone shops on their phones.
Even if a few stores close or stop the service, the vast majority of the 1,100+ Kohl's Amazon return locations are staying put. They are just too convenient to kill off entirely.
Practical Next Steps for Your Return
Before you head out the door with your pile of "maybe" purchases, do these three things:
- Check the App Right Now: Ensure "Kohl's Dropoff" is actually an option for your specific item today.
- Charge Your Phone: You need that QR code. A dead phone means a wasted trip.
- Group Your Returns: If you have three different Amazon orders to return, start the process for all of them at once. You can show all three QR codes to the same associate and get it done in one go.
If you find that your local Kohl's has stopped taking returns, your best alternatives in 2026 are Staples, Whole Foods, or the standard UPS Store. They all offer similar "no-box" services, though you won't get that sweet 20% off Kohl's coupon at a UPS Store.
Check your Amazon "Your Orders" section to verify your closest active drop-off point and grab your QR code before heading out.