GMC Rejected for Missing Return Policy — What to Add and Where
A missing or incomplete return policy is the single most common reason for GMC rejection. Google requires a detailed, accessible return policy that covers specific scenarios.
Why This Happens
Your store doesn't have a return policy page, or Google's crawler couldn't find it
Your return policy exists but is missing required details like return windows or cost information
Your return policy page isn't linked in your website footer, making it inaccessible
The return policy on your website contradicts your GMC return settings
What Google Requires
A dedicated return policy page accessible via your website footer
Clear return window stating the number of days customers have to initiate returns
Separate cost details for defective items vs. change-of-mind returns
Business contact information (email and address) on the return policy page
Return policy must match the settings configured in your GMC account
Common Mistakes
Having a return policy page that isn't linked in the footer navigation
Not specifying separate return costs for defective vs. non-defective items
Missing the return window (e.g., '30 days from delivery')
Return policy settings in GMC don't match what's on the website
Using a generic template without your actual business details
How to Fix This
Create a dedicated return policy page on your website
State your return window clearly (e.g., '30 days from the date of delivery')
Add a section for defective items explaining free returns and the process
Add a section for change-of-mind returns with any restocking fees or conditions
Include your business email address and physical address on the page
Link the return policy in your website footer so it's accessible from every page
Update your GMC return settings to match exactly what's on your website
Frequently Asked Questions
What must a return policy include for GMC?+
At minimum: return window (days), return costs for defective items, return costs for non-defective items, and business contact information. The policy must be linked in your footer.
Can I have a no-returns policy?+
Yes, but you must still have a return policy page that clearly states this. Google requires transparency — customers need to know your policy before purchasing.
Does the return policy need to be on a separate page?+
Ideally yes. While Google can find return info embedded in other pages, a dedicated /return-policy or /returns page is strongly recommended and easiest for Google to crawl.
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