What are the laws in Massachusetts in terms of sales being final? Does it have to be written on the sales slip?

Massachusetts law requires merchants (stores, businesses and online retailers) to disclose their refund, return, and cancellation policies before the transaction is completed.

A store can be creative with their return policy if it wants to, but the return policy must be clearly and conspicuously disclosed to the customer- “All sales final,” “merchandise credit only,” “full cash refunds within 30 days”.

Recently I purchased a Polo undershirt. It was marked as a Small, but it was a Large. This is considered a defective goods. Restrictions in return policies do not apply to defective goods, which cannot be used as intended. The store is required to give you the choice of a refund, repair or replacement. The store cannot misrepresent its refund, return, or cancellation policy, or fail to honor any promises about it. This is a violation of the Massachusetts' Unfair and Deceptive Laws. Specially-ordered merchandise, like a jacket embedded with your initials, may have additional restrictions.

Always speak to a manager if you are unhappy with a purchase. If the return date is over the time frame, be polite and ask for an exception. Business want repeat business and a good reputation, so understand you have the upper hand as a customer.