leschumras: I am not sure about “murky, quasi illegal practices”.
NYS:
REFUNDS
NYC:
Attention: New York City Businesses
Important Information about Refunds
State law now requires that all businesses selling to consumers post a refund
policy. For consumer businesses in New York City, this refund posting obligation
applies both to sales of consumer goods and consumer services.
While stores can set their own refund policies, the sign must state any and all
conditions or limitations to getting a refund. For example:
? Businesses must also disclose whether the refund will be in cash, credit, or
store credit only.
? If proof of purchase is required for a refund, the sign must say so.
on request.
Failure to post a refund policy is a violation of the law. In addition, if a business fails to
post a refund policy, it must accept a return within 30 days of purchase as long as the
merchandise is not used or damaged and the consumer can verify the date of
purchase with a receipt or other proof of purchase that the business uses. The
business must give the consumer the choice of cash or credit.
It seems to me that under NYS and NYC rules the store/website can have different rules as long as they are posted.