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Independent Money- Best ways to return unwanted gifts

Journalist: Marc Shoffman, Freelance

ended 15. January 2026

I am writing a piece for Independent Money on how to return unwanted gifts.

I am keen for comments on the best websites for reselling. Should you be trying to make a profit.

Is it worth selling at car boot sales, should you donate to charity instead?

What are your consumer rights on returning unwanted gifts?

How do you ensure you don't cause offence?

What are the tax traps to look out for when selling online?

Kind regards

Marc

2 responses from the Newspage community

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Editor
Kate UnderwoodVerified
Founder & Chief People Strategist at Kate Underwood HR and Training
If you want to return an unwanted gift in the UK, here’s the brutal truth: the law doesn’t care that Auntie Brenda missed the mark. If it was bought in a shop and there’s nothing wrong with it, there’s no legal right to a refund or swap. Any return is down to the retailer’s policy, not your feelings. If it was bought online (or by phone/mail order), the buyer usually gets 14 days to cancel, then another 14 days to send it back. That right sits with whoever paid, so you’ll normally need them to do it, or the retailer to accept a gift receipt. If it’s faulty, different story. The buyer can reject within 30 days for a refund. So get a gift receipt and move quickly. Miss the deadline and it’s yours.
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Rohit Parmar-MistryVerified
Founder at Pattrn Data
Cash in the bank beats clutter in the cupboard.

eBay remains king for reach, while Vinted and Depop take the crown for clothing. Avoid Facebook Marketplace unless you enjoy a treasure trove of dodgy half-chancers and time wasters.

Forget car boots. Standing in the cold to haggle over 50p is desperation. If it has value, sell online. If not, donate to charity for the karma points, it’s far more efficient.

Worried about causing offence? Simple: don't tell them. Discretion is usually enough, but if you get caught, the 'duplicate gift' excuse is a safe white lie. Ultimately, your home isn't a storage unit for other people's feelings.

Also, ignore the 'side hustle tax' scaremongering. HMRC isn't coming for you for selling an unwanted jumper. That rule targets traders, not people clearing clutter.

Rights-wise, remember you have no legal right to return non-faulty in-store goods. Online offers 14 days, but that requires the buyer's help. Sell it yourself, take the cash, and move on.