---
title: "What happens when I return my device at the end of my subscription?"
description: "At the end of your Circular subscription, you’ll need to return your device. Once received, it goes through a Quality Check and Refurbishment Process to prepare it for the next user."
canonical_url: "https://learn.nowcircular.com/articles/what-happens-when-i-return-my-device-at-the-end-of-my-subscription-Rw0VIBKeFp"
md_url: "https://learn.nowcircular.com/articles/what-happens-when-i-return-my-device-at-the-end-of-my-subscription-Rw0VIBKeFp.md"
---
# What happens when I return my device at the end of my subscription?

At the end of your Circular subscription, you’ll need to return your device. Once received, it goes through a **Quality Check and Refurbishment Process** to prepare it for the next user.

This process is handled by **reputable third-party repair and refurbishment partners** who specialise in professional device grading, cleaning, and part replacements.

If any charges apply - such as for damages or missing accessories - these will be determined **based on the final refurbishment inspection outcome** and **billed directly to your account**. An invoice will be issued, and you can view the full breakdown in your [billing history](https://learn.nowcircular.com/articles/how-to-use-circulars-payment-portal-rUJByPdPbw).



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## 🔍 1. What checks will be done on my returned device?

Returned devices undergo **two stages of checks**:

**a) Collection-point inspection (Preliminary)**

This is a basic visual and functional check conducted at the point of return. Its purpose is to confirm receipt and obvious condition only.

➡️ This inspection is **not final**.


**b) Refurbishment quality checks (Final)**

The device then undergoes comprehensive checks by Circular’s authorised refurbishment partner, including:

* Physical condition (e.g. scratches, dents, cracks)
* Functional performance (e.g. display, buttons, charging, battery health)
* Internal diagnostics (where applicable)
* Included accessories (e.g. charger, cable, box, guides)

👉 **The final determination of the device’s condition and any applicable charges is based on this refurbishment quality check.**



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## 🛠 2. What if the device is damaged?

Every Circular subscription includes **Damage Cover**, giving you peace of mind for minor accidents.

| Type of Damage | Description | Outcome | Customer Charge |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Fair Damage** | Minor wear & tear or accidental damage that’s still repairable | Covered under Damage Cover | **You pay 10% of repair cost (deductible)** |
| **Beyond Economical Repair** | Severe damage (e.g. repair cost >80% of device RRP) | Treated as unreturned | **Non-Return Fees apply** |

📌 *If your device is* assessed as *beyond economical repair during refurbishment, it is treated as a non-return and charged according to the applicable Non-Return Fee based on your subscription plan. [Learn more about the Non-Return Fee calculation](https://learn.nowcircular.com/articles/can-i-purchase-my-circular-device-sUAQVdcprX).*



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## :mantelpiece_clock: 3. Why might damage or replacement charges be billed after my return?

Damage-related charges are issued **after refurbishment quality checks and internal verification are completed**.

While the device may be returned earlier, the final assessment can only be confirmed once refurbishment inspections are completed and validated. As a result, charges may be billed **after the return date** once this process is finalised.

➡️ A delay in invoicing does **not** affect the validity of charges that are based on confirmed refurbishment findings.



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## ⚠️ 4. What if accessories are missing or damaged?

Every returned device is refurbished for the next Circular customer in mind. To ensure quality and safety, we require the return of all essential accessories - including cables, boxes, and quick start guides - in reusable condition.

When accessories are missing or too damaged to reuse, they must be replaced before the device can be reissued. These replacement costs are billed to the outgoing customer to ensure fairness across the Circular community.

Missing, damaged, incomplete, incorrect or non-authentic accessories will be charged based on their **Recommended Retail Price (RRP)**. 

| **Accessory** | **Charge** |
|:---|:---:|
| Retail Packaging / Product Box | $21.60 |
| Quick Start Guide / Instruction Manual | $21.60 |
| iPhone/iPad charging cables | $29.00 |
| SIM Release Tool | $8.72 |
| Android Charging Cable (C to C / A to C) | $17.82 |
| iPad / Macbook Power Adaptor ¹ | $29.50 - $121.20 |
| Macbook Charging Cables ¹ | $45.40 - $66.20 |
| PS5 DualSense Controller | $107.00 |
| Nintendo Switch Joycon | $89.90 |



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## :paperclip: 5. Can I see evidence of the assessment?

Yes. Upon request, we are able to share the **technician’s refurbishment report** that documents the findings from the quality checks. Reach out to our Customer Support team at [help_sg@nowcircular.com](mailto:help_sg@nowcircular.com) 



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## ✅ 6. How can I avoid return-related charges?

To minimise or avoid additional charges:

* Return the **exact device and accessories** that were issued to you
* Ensure the device is **functioning** and **free from major damage**
* Use the original box and packaging if available
* If unsure, take **photos** before your return appointment or contact our support team for clarification

  


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## ❗7. What if I want to return accessories after being charged?

If you believe an accessory charge was applied in error, please **contact our Customer Support team first** at [help_sg@nowcircular.com](mailto:help_sg@nowcircular.com) .

Once missing or damaged accessories have been identified during refurbishment and billed, the charge is generally considered final, as replacement actions may already have been taken to prepare the device for its next user.

To ensure fairness and operational integrity, we are normally unable to accept accessories returned after invoicing, and refunds or reversals are not guaranteed. However, in limited cases and at our discretion, we may be able to review a post-billing accessory return request.

If approved, this will require a manual rework process, including:

* Locating the device in our inventory
* Reversing replacement actions
* Inspecting the returned accessories
* Repacking and regrading the device

This process is labour-intensive and disrupts standard refurbishment workflows. As such, a **rework (restocking) fee of $120** will apply to cover these operational costs.


**Please note:**

* The rework fee applies regardless of accessory condition
* Original accessory charges remain payable if the returned accessory is still not found in acceptable condition
* Requests may be declined if rework is not feasible




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If you have more questions or concerns about your return, feel free to reach out to our team at [help_sg@nowcircular.com](mailto:help_sg@nowcircular.com) 



**Footnotes**

¹ Prices shown are indicative ranges. Actual charges may vary depending on the specific MacBook or iPad model returned.

² Controllers are considered consumables and are not part of the Damage Cover when its not returned

³ Prices are GST-inclusive and may be revised based on manufacturer’s retail pricing.

⁴ This list is non-exhaustive and only includes commonly charged items. Please refer to your invoice for the full breakdown of any charges incurred.

⁵ Should repair, damage or replacement invoices not be paid in a timely manner, a late fee of $19 will be charged.
