Christmas Return Policy is not honored. Before Christmas the online store shows an extended return policy. There's a reason they have periodic financial trouble, just shop at a modern online retailer.
Update: I called gap.com support right after leaving. They literally processed the return in 45 seconds with a pre-paid mailing label in my email before I got off the phone. While I cannot recommend the local store when it comes to returns/customer service, online returns are hassle free and compliant with their policy. Also note, just because you buy it online from gap.com doesn't mean you can return it in store. Only Gap branded items can be returned in a Gap store and Old Navy only in their store. Lesson learned...Just avoid brick and mortar.