Returns after December 25 are inevitable, but they dont have to be stressful.Most places even say they dont need a receipt anymore, said shopper Julie Sons.Around the winter holidays, retailers expect their return rates to climb an extra 17% on average, according to the National Retail Federation, as shoppers return unneeded or unwanted gifts.There is some good news for consumers though.RELATED STORY | These 5 reputable sites let you sell gift cards onlineA lot of retailers extend their return policies around the holidays, said Samantha Gordon, deals editor for Consumer Reports.While most chains extend their return windows into January, Gordon said no policy looks the same. "Target might have a different return window than Best Buy, than Walmart, than Amazon, she said.If you are planning to make returns, check store websites for their return deadlines for return-eligible items. We did some of the work for you: Apple Store: January 8  Best Buy: January 14  Old Navy: January 15  Lululemon: January 23  Amazon, Macys, Kohls, and Walmart: January 31 When making holiday returns, Consumer Reports recommends shoppers: Bring ID  Dont open boxes or remove tags  Keep all receipts If you paid full price, the items now on sale and you don't have a receipt, Gordon said, you might only be able to get the value back for what it's currently selling for.RELATED STORY | Fake reviews are costing consumers thousands of dollars each year, report saysIf you dont like juggling paper receipts, shopper Briana Green has one last tip."You can have them email it to you, so thats a really good way to keep up with all your stuff.That way returns are simple, and you dont waste your money.