What should you do if a customer wants to return an item without a receipt?

When a customer wants to return an item without a receipt, referring them to customer service is the most appropriate action. Customer service teams are specifically trained to handle returns, especially for situations that deviate from typical return policies, such as the absence of a receipt. They have the authority to verify the purchase through other means, if possible, and to make decisions that a cashier may not be authorized to make.

In this context, directing customers to customer service helps ensure they receive the correct assistance and information regarding store policies, potential store credits, or exchanges. This not only maintains the overall customer experience but also upholds the store's policy guidelines without creating confusion or frustration for either the cashier or the customer.