Refund policy

Refund & Returns Policy

Effective Date: December 29, 2025 Last Updated: December 29, 2025

Our Commitment

At Forefather Threads, we stand behind the quality of our gear. We believe in building a community, not just selling shirts. Whether it's a sizing issue or a defect, we will work with you to make it right.

1. The Forefather Lifetime Warranty (Eligible Items Only)

We don't just sell shirts; we sell connections. For items marked with our "Lifetime Warranty" badge (specifically our QR-coded apparel), we guarantee the functionality of the print for the life of the garment.

What is Covered:

  • The Scan Guarantee: If your QR code ever stops scanning due to fading or print degradation, we will replace the item for free.
  • Print Quality: Cracking, peeling, or fading that covers more than 20% of the design or makes the QR code unscannable.

What is NOT Covered:

  • Normal wear and tear (fabric thinning, small holes from use).
  • Damage from accidents (stains, rips, snags).
  • Improper care (bleaching, ironing directly on the print, dry cleaning).

How to Claim: Email a photo of the item and the non-scanning code to support@forefatherthreads.com. Include:

  1. Your order number
  2. Photo of the entire item laid flat
  3. Close-up of the defect or non-scanning QR code

We will verify the issue and ship a replacement. No return of the old item is necessary for warranty claims. If we request the item back for quality review, we will provide a prepaid return label at no cost to you.

2. Standard Returns (Wrong Size / Change of Mind)

Because every item at Forefather Threads is custom-printed just for you when you order, we do not offer cash refunds for changes of mind or sizing issues. However, we want you to love your gear, so we offer Store Credit or Exchanges.

The Rules:

  • Window: You have 30 days from delivery to initiate a return.
  • Condition: Items must be unworn, unwashed, and in original condition.
  • Resolution: You will receive Store Credit for the full product price (shipping fees are non-refundable) to pick the correct size or a new design.
  • Store Credit Expiration: Store Credit never expires.

How to Return:

  1. Email support@forefatherthreads.com with your order number and reason for return.
  2. We will provide you with our specific return address in Indiana.
  3. IMPORTANT: Do NOT send items back to the address on the shipping label. That is our production facility; they will discard your package, and we will be unable to issue credit.
  4. You are responsible for return shipping costs.
  5. Once we receive the item, we will issue your Store Credit code immediately.

International Returns: Store Credit only. Return shipping costs from international addresses may exceed the value of the item—please contact us for a case-by-case review before returning.

3. Exchanges (Sizing Issues)

Wrong Size? We've Got You.

  1. Email us within 30 days with your order number and correct size needed.
  2. Return the original item to our Indiana address (you pay return shipping).
  3. Once we receive your item, we'll ship the correct size immediately OR we'll issue Store Credit if you prefer a different design.

Note: Exchanges are subject to current pricing. If the new item costs more, you'll pay the difference. If it costs less, we'll issue the difference as Store Credit.

4. Defective or Damaged Items

If we made a mistake, we will fix it. Period.

What Qualifies:

  • Misprints, incorrect colors, or poor print quality.
  • Damaged during shipping (holes, tears).
  • Wrong item shipped.

The Process (No Return Needed):

  1. Email support@forefatherthreads.com within 30 days of delivery.
  2. Include your order number and clear photos showing:
    • The entire item laid flat
    • Close-up of the defect
  3. We will review it (usually within 24 hours) and ship a free replacement immediately.
  4. You do not need to return the defective item. Keep it, donate it, or discard it.

5. Order Cancellations & Address Changes

Cancellation Window: Within 2 Hours of Order Placement Our production is automated. Once an order is sent to the printer, it cannot be stopped.

  • Within 2 Hours: Email us to cancel for a full refund or to update your address.
  • After 2 Hours: The order is likely in production and cannot be cancelled.

Incorrect Address: We are not responsible for orders shipped to an incorrect address provided by the customer. If the package is returned to us, we can reship it to the correct address for a reshipping fee.

6. Lost or Stolen Packages

  • Tracking Says "In Transit": If your package stops moving for 10+ days, we will file a claim and send a replacement.
  • Tracking Says "Delivered": We are not responsible for packages marked "Delivered" by the carrier that go missing (e.g., stolen from porch). Please ensure you have a secure delivery location.

7. How to Care for Your Gear

To ensure your Lifetime Warranty remains valid:

  • Wash: Inside out, cold water, gentle cycle.
  • Dry: Tumble dry low or hang dry (hang dry is best for longevity).
  • Avoid: Bleach, fabric softener, and ironing directly on the design.

8. Your Legal Rights

This policy does not affect your statutory rights under applicable state consumer protection laws. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranties or exclusion of certain damages, so some limitations may not apply to you.

Contact Us

For Returns, Claims, or Questions:

The Remnant takes care of its own.