The iHerb refund policy outlines when customers are eligible to receive money back, how refunds are processed, how long they take, and under what circumstances a refund may be refused.
While often grouped together with return policies, refunds and returns are not identical. A return refers to sending an item back or reporting an issue. A refund refers to the repayment issued after a request is reviewed and approved.
This guide focuses specifically on how iHerb refunds work, separate from general return eligibility rules.
What Is the iHerb Refund Policy?
The iHerb refund policy allows customers to receive reimbursement when:
- A return request is approved
- An iHerb order is cancelled before shipment
- A product arrives damaged or defective
- The wrong item is shipped
- An order cannot be fulfilled
Refunds are issued according to eligibility criteria and internal review processes. Not every return request automatically results in a refund. Approval depends on documentation, timing, and compliance with iHerb's returns and refunds policy rules.
Does iHerb Offer a Money-Back Guarantee?
iHerb does not advertise a broad, unconditional money-back guarantee. Instead, refunds are handled on a case-by-case basis based on product condition, account history, and the reason for the request.
Refund approval generally requires:
- Submission within the allowed timeframe
- Accurate explanation of the issue
- Supporting photos when applicable
How the iHerb Refund Process Works
Step 1: Submit a Request
Refunds begin with a return or issue report submitted through your iHerb account. You must:
- Log in to your account
- Navigate to order history
- Select the relevant order
- Choose the appropriate issue type
- Upload supporting documentation if requested
Step 2: Review and Approval
After submission, iHerb reviews the request. This review may include:
- Verifying the delivery date
- Reviewing the attached photos
- Confirming product eligibility
- Checking account activity
Approval decisions are typically communicated through your account dashboard or email.
Step 3: Refund Issuance
If approved, the refund is processed to the original payment method. In some cases, store credit may be issued instead.
Refund Method: How You Get Paid Back
iHerb typically refunds to the original payment method used during checkout. This may include:
- Credit card refund
- Debit card refund
- PayPal refund
- Store credit
The exact method depends on the payment type and the situation. Refunds are not typically issued in cash.
How Long Does an iHerb Refund Take?
Refund timing depends on:
- The date of approval
- Payment processor speed
- Bank processing timelines
Once the refund is issued by iHerb, it may take several business days for the funds to appear on your card or in your PayPal account.
Credit card refunds often take longer than digital wallet refunds due to banking systems.
If You Cancel an Order, Do You Get a Refund?
If you cancel an order before it ships, a refund is usually processed automatically.
However:
- If the order has already shipped, cancellation may no longer be possible.
- In that case, you may need to wait for delivery and initiate a return instead.
For full cancellation instructions, see how to cancel an iHerb order.
Why Would an iHerb Refund Be Refused?
Refunds may be refused for several reasons:
- The request was submitted outside the return window.
- The product category is non-returnable.
- Insufficient documentation was provided.
- The item was used in violation of eligibility rules.
- The account shows unusual refund patterns.
If a refund is refused, you may receive an explanation within your account dashboard.
Refund for Damaged, Wrong, or Expired Items
Refunds are commonly approved when:
- The item arrives damaged.
- You received the wrong product.
- The product expired upon delivery.
In these cases, iHerb typically requires photo evidence. Physical return of the item may not always be required.
More details on reporting damaged or incorrect items can be found at what to do if you receive a wrong or damaged iHerb order.
Refund for Opened Products
Refunds for opened vitamins, supplements, or ingestible items may be restricted due to health and safety standards. Approval depends on:
- The reason for dissatisfaction
- Whether the product appears defective
- Documentation provided
Not all opened products qualify for a refund.
Checking Your Refund Status
You can check your refund status by:
- Logging into your iHerb account
- Navigating to order history
- Viewing the status of your return or issue request
Refund processing updates are typically visible within the order details section.
Final Clarification
The iHerb refund policy is structured around eligibility and documentation rather than unconditional returns. While many customers successfully receive refunds for legitimate issues, approval depends on compliance with defined policy rules.
If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies, begin by submitting a return request through your account and carefully reviewing the applicable return policy guidelines.
