How to Ask for a Return or Exchange in Portuguese in Brazil
Use clear phrases to show a receipt, describe a defect, ask whether an exchange is possible, and understand what the store needs.
Real Life Portuguese · 7 min read · Updated October 14, 2026
The short answer
Start with the item and the date of purchase. A receipt is a comprovante or nota fiscal, depending on the document and context. Describe the issue in plain language: não está funcionando (it is not working), veio com defeito (it arrived defective), or o tamanho não serviu (the size did not fit). Avoid guessing what caused the problem if you are not sure.
Explain what you bought and what happened
Bring the item and any paperwork you have. Store policies vary, so use the conversation to ask what options and documents the business requires rather than assuming a particular outcome.
Comprei este carregador ontem, mas ele não está funcionando.
I bought this charger yesterday, but it isn’t working.
Tenho o comprovante da compra.
I have the proof of purchase.
A camiseta ficou pequena. Posso trocar por um tamanho maior?
The T-shirt is too small. Can I exchange it for a larger size?
Ask whether a return or exchange is possible
Trocar means to exchange; devolver means to return. Ask which option the store offers and what steps you should follow. If you prefer a refund, ask about reembolso and let the employee explain the available process. Specific questions make it easier to understand any conditions.
When a staff member speaks quickly, confirm the key details: the deadline they mention, the document they need, and where you should take the item. Repeat those details back to check that you heard correctly.
É possível trocar por outra cor?
Is it possible to exchange it for another color?
Como funciona a devolução neste caso?
How does a return work in this case?
Você pode explicar quais documentos são necessários?
Could you explain which documents are required?
Confirm the next step before leaving
Summarize what the employee told you and ask whether you understood. Note the person or department to contact if the process requires another visit. A calm, specific summary is more useful than repeating the complaint without checking the instructions.
Ask the staff member to explain the steps for your item and confirm any date or document they mention. Keep the receipt and the exchange instructions together so you can find them if you need to follow up.
Então preciso trazer o produto e a nota fiscal amanhã?
So I need to bring the product and receipt tomorrow?
Entendi. Onde devo entregar o item?
I understand. Where should I hand in the item?
Quem posso procurar se eu tiver outra dúvida?
Who can I contact if I have another question?
Put it into practice
Before the conversation, prepare three facts: what you bought, when you bought it, and what outcome you want to ask about. Then confirm the store’s instructions in your own words.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “Who can I contact if I have another question”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
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