14 Hot Topic FAQs From Our Experts

Hot Topic is the go-to destination clothing brand for those looking for music and pop-culture inspired apparel and accessories for guys and girls. Founded in 1988, Hot Topic has been "hip" since the beginning, originally offering music-inspired accessories. It wasn't until later they realized there was also a market for apparel and grew to the company we know today. With band merchandise, t-shirts, jeans, and even Funko figures of your favorite characters, Hot Topic is a pop culture paradise. You can find Hot Topic at many malls or shop online!

What products does Hot Topic sell?

Here are the available products at Hot Topic.

What payment options does Hot Topic accept?

Here are the accepted payment options at Hot Topic.

Do I have to be a Hot Topic member to place an order?

No, you can place an order without signing up to become a Hot Topic member. However, there are plenty of advantages to becoming one. Becoming a member is quick, easy and free and will make placing your next order easier, as your information will be saved. Plus, solving issues with orders is much easier with an account. Click here to sign up for an account.

Can I make changes to my Hot Topic order after submitting it?

No. At Hot Topic, it is top priority that your items are shipped out as quickly as possible. This is why once orders are confirmed, they are immediately sent for processing to the warehouse. As a result, Hot Topic is not able to cancel or modify your order after it has been submitted.

Will I get refunded if Hot Topic cancels some items in my order?

Yes. There may be times when Hot Topic cancels products in your order because the items are sold out. Note that you’ll only be charged for the products that were shipped to you. Canceled products will be refunded and depending on the policy of your bank, may take 6 business days to reflect on your account if you’re in the US and 20 business days if you’re an international customer.

Does Hot Topic have a size guide?

Yes. Click here to access Hot Topic’s complete Size and Fit Guide to help you make the perfect choice when you shop.

What shipping options does Hot Topic offer?

Several shipping options are offered by Hot Topic for domestic orders. Note that for Overnight Shipping, orders must be placed by noon (EST), Monday to Friday, in order to be shipped on the same day. Here are the domestic shipping options available at Hot Topic.

Hot Topic Domestic Shipping Options

Shipping Option Delivery Time
Standard Shipping 3-8 Business Days
Express Shipping 2-3 Business Days
Overnight Shipping Next Business Day
Hawaii 12-15 Business Days
Alaska 16-18 Business Days
Puerto Rico 4-10 Business Days

Does Hot Topic ship to store?

Yes. You can have the items you purchased online shipped to any Hot Topic store. Orders over $10 and below $300 are shipped for free. Items will typically arrive within 14 business and you will have 7 days to pick the item up. Note that this option may not be available for certain oversized items. Also, a signature will be required when picking up the item.

Does Hot Topic ship internationally?

Yes. Shipping to Canada usually takes 4-18 business days. Depending on the region, shipping for all other countries can take 10-20 business days. Hot Topic also ships to APO/FPO addresses and delivery time can take 4-10 business days. Certain countries might charge additional fees for international orders including custom fees or independent carrier fees.

Does Hot Topic accept returns?

Yes. Returns and exchanges must be done within 30 days from the time an item has been purchased, which should be listed on the receipt. Returns may be done via the Hot Topic store or by mail via Hot Topic’s self-serve return form. Merchandise must not be worn or washed to be accepted for returns. Returns and exchanges usually take 2-4 weeks to process.

How do I make an exchange or return for a Hot Topic item?

You may exchange an item at a Hot Topic store. If you can’t, then you can just make the exchange via mail. To process the exchange, call 1 (800) 892-8674 or 1 (626) 603-3182 for international customers. Fill out the information needed on the return form located at the back of the order, pack the item securely in its original packaging, and secure it with the return form inside. Make sure to send it back using a trackable courier.

When can I expect a refund for the Hot Topic item I returned?

Your credit is processed as soon as the merchandise you returned has been received at the Hot Topic warehouse. The purchase amount will typically be restored to your credit card in 1-7 business days. Note that if you used a credit card to pay for the purchase, the credit will be in the form of a new gift card in the same amount as the item that you have returned. Note that the original shipping and return postage will not be refundable.

How can I track my Hot Topic order?

Click here to track your order. You will need to input your email address and your order number in order to check the whereabouts of your package.

How do I contact Hot Topic customer service?

You can contact Hot Topic customer service by phone at 1 (800) 892-8674. If you’re from Canada, call 1 (855) 847-1400, and if you’re an international customer, call 1 (626) 603-3182. You may also send them an email via their Contact Us page.