Final answer:
The customer who bought a laptop last week and is returning it within 10 days with a receipt is eligible for a refund, according to the store's return policy. The sales associate must verify the date on the receipt and inspect the laptop before processing the refund.
Step-by-step explanation:
As a sales associate responding to the customer's situation as per the given policy, the customer is entitled to a refund since they are returning the laptop within 10 days. It is important to verify the receipt to confirm the purchase date and ensure that the laptop is eligible for a refund under the terms specified. The return policy provides two key options:
- If the item is returned within 10 days with a receipt, the customer can receive a refund.
- If the item is returned after 10 days but still with a receipt, the customer is eligible for store credit.
In either case, possession of the receipt is mandatory. As long as the customer's return falls within the specified time frame and they have the receipt, a refund should be processed.
It is also imperative for the associate to inspect the laptop to confirm that it's in the original condition, without damage or excessive use, as per the store's return conditions.