Table of Contents

Decoding Walmart’s Price Matching Policy: Your Guide to Scoring the Best Deals

Walmart’s vast selection and “Everyday Low Prices” are legendary, but savvy shoppers know there’s another trick up their sleeve: price matching. Understanding the intricacies of Walmart’s policy can unlock significant savings, turning you into a master deal hunter. So, let’s cut to the chase:

Who will Walmart price match?

Walmart’s price matching policy has evolved over time, becoming more streamlined and focused. As of today, Walmart generally price matches items sold directly by Walmart.com and items sold by other select online retailers. This primarily applies to identical items – same brand, model number, size, color, etc. The key is to understand the nuances and exclusions within this seemingly simple statement. Price matching is always subject to verification and is at the discretion of Walmart management.

Diving Deeper: The Nuances of Walmart’s Price Matching

While the answer above provides the core information, a deeper dive reveals crucial details that impact your ability to snag a price match.

Online Retailers: The Selected Few

Walmart doesn’t price match every online retailer under the sun. Their policy focuses on a specific list of competitors, which, unfortunately, isn’t always publicly advertised. In the past, they explicitly listed competitors like Amazon, Target, Best Buy, etc. While that definitive list is no longer readily available, you can generally assume that Walmart will consider price matching against major online retailers. It’s always best to ask a Walmart associate or consult Walmart.com for the most up-to-date information regarding their eligible online retailers.

The Identical Item Rule: Details Matter

The “identical item” requirement is strict. This means:

Brand: Must be the same brand.
Model Number: Must match exactly.
Size: Apparel and other sized items must be the same size.
Color: Must be the same color.
Quantity: If the competitor’s price is for a multi-pack, Walmart will only price match if they also sell the item in the same multi-pack.
Condition: Must be new and in original packaging.

Even subtle differences can disqualify a price match. Don’t expect to price match a slightly different version of a product, even if it seems functionally equivalent.

What’s Excluded from Price Matching?

Understanding what Walmart doesn’t price match is just as crucial as knowing what they do. Common exclusions include:

Third-Party Sellers: Price matching is typically limited to items sold directly by Walmart.com and directly by the competitor’s website. Items sold by third-party sellers on marketplaces like Amazon (fulfilled by Amazon is different from sold by a third party on Amazon) are usually excluded.
Marketplace Prices: Offers from third-party sellers on online marketplaces.
Clearance, Closeout, Liquidation Sales: These deeply discounted prices are generally considered non-matchable.
Special Events & Promotions: Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and similar promotional events often have specific price exclusions. Limited-quantity deals, “flash sales,” and “doorbuster” offers are also typically excluded.
Membership-Required Retailers: Prices from retailers that require a paid membership (e.g., Costco, Sam’s Club) are usually not matched.
BOGO (Buy One Get One) Deals: These complex offers are difficult to standardize for price matching.
Typos & Pricing Errors: If a competitor’s price is clearly a mistake, Walmart is unlikely to honor it.
Used or Refurbished Items: Price matching applies only to new items.
Services: Installation, warranties, and other services are not price-matched.
Online-only Prices in Stores: Previously, Walmart allowed store price matching from online retailers. This is no longer generally the case. Online price matching primarily happens online, not in stores. Some exceptions may apply, so it is essential to check with your local Walmart for the latest policy.

How to Request a Price Match

Online: When shopping on Walmart.com, you can often contact customer service via chat or phone to request a price match before making your purchase. Provide them with a link to the competitor’s product page.
In-Store: If the store offers price matching (confirmation required), bring proof of the lower price, such as a printed advertisement, a screenshot on your phone, or a digital ad. Be prepared to show the associate the competitor’s website or ad. The associate will verify the price and eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Walmart’s Price Matching Policy

1. Does Walmart still price match Amazon?

Possibly, but it depends. While Walmart used to explicitly list Amazon, the explicit confirmation is not readily available. The item must be sold directly by Amazon (not a third-party seller on Amazon) and meet all other eligibility requirements. Always verify with Walmart directly.

2. Will Walmart price match Target?

Likely, but it’s best to confirm. Target is another major retailer that Walmart has historically price-matched. As always, the item must be identical and sold directly by Target. Confirmation with Walmart is essential before purchase.

3. Does Walmart price match Best Buy?

Potentially, but verification is key. Best Buy is a major electronics retailer, so it’s reasonable to expect price matching. However, it’s crucial to ensure the item is sold directly by Best Buy and meets all other criteria. Contact Walmart for the most current information.

4. What happens if I find a lower price after I’ve already bought an item at Walmart?

This depends on the item and when it was purchased. Walmart no longer offers price adjustments. It is essential to confirm prices before purchasing any product.

5. Can I combine coupons with price matching?

Generally, no. Combining coupons with price matching is usually prohibited. The policy is designed to offer the lowest possible price through one method or the other.

6. Does Walmart price match Costco or Sam’s Club?

No. Walmart generally does not price match warehouse clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club. These retailers require a membership, which falls under the exclusion criteria.

7. What if the competitor’s item is out of stock?

Walmart will not price match items that are out of stock at the competitor’s store or website. The competitor must have the item available for purchase at the advertised price.

8. How do I prove the competitor’s price to Walmart?

The most common methods are:

Showing the advertisement on your phone or tablet.
Printing out a copy of the advertisement.
Showing the product page on the competitor’s website.

The clearer and more verifiable the proof, the better.

9. Does Walmart price match online prices in-store?

In general, Walmart has moved away from matching online prices in-store. Always check with the specific store as this policy can vary based on location.

10. Are there any restrictions on the number of items I can price match?

Walmart may impose limits on the quantity of items eligible for price matching. This is to prevent excessive purchases intended for resale. It is important to be aware of any limits prior to purchase.

11. Can I price match a discounted price with a coupon code?

Typically, no. Walmart usually only price matches the final price after all discounts and promotions have been applied. This means you can’t stack a price match with a coupon code on the competitor’s site.

12. Where can I find the most up-to-date information about Walmart’s price matching policy?

The best source is Walmart’s official website (Walmart.com). Policies can change, so checking the official source will ensure you have the latest information before attempting to price match. You can also speak directly with a Walmart customer service representative or store manager.

Navigating Walmart’s price matching policy requires understanding its nuances and staying informed. By knowing what to expect, you can maximize your savings and become a true Walmart deal-hunting expert. Remember to verify all information with Walmart directly before making a purchase to ensure you receive the best possible price!