Joann shoppers can't use gift cards as stores close but they can still file a claim. How?
The closure of every Joann store in the U.S. was particularly upsetting to customers with unused gift cards. That's because the company announced they would no longer be accepted at any store, even though they weren't yet closed.
The policy outraged customers as going-out-of-business sales continue and some argued there was little notice to redeem their store value.
Following the backlash the fabric and craft retailer's claims agent, Kroll, is now allowing people with gift cards to file claims before a deadline early next month. If a customer believes the company owes them a certain amount of money, they may file a claim through Kroll's website.
Gift card owners may file a claim electronically or submit a hard copy through the mail ahead of the deadline set by bankruptcy court.
How to submit Joann gift card claim electronically?
To file a claim electronically, creditors must enter their name and an email address through an online form and then sign an electronic proof of claim agreement, according to the website.
Users will receive further information through the portal. Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to call Kroll's restructuring hotline at 844-712-2239 or 646-863-7121 for international claims.
How to submit Joann gift card claim through mail?
Creditors wanting to submit a general claim to Joann via mail must first download the proof of claim form and submit to one of the following New York addresses.
For first class mail:
JOANN Inc. (2025) Claims Processing Centerc/o Kroll Restructuring Administration LLCGrand Central Station, PO Box 4850New York, NY 10163-4850
For hand delivery or overnight courier:
JOANN Inc. (2025) Claims Processing Centerc/o Kroll Restructuring Administration LLC850 3rd Avenue, Suite 412Brooklyn, NY 11232
When is the Joann general claims deadline?
The deadline to file a general claim through Joann's claims agent, Kroll, is Friday, April 4, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EST.
Why are Joann's closing?
Joann's announced the closure of every store last month after previously only stating only around 500 of its 800 U.S. locations would shutter.
The mass closures come after the Hudson, Ohio-based retailer filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy for the second time within a year and auctioned its remaining assets. On Feb. 22, retail liquidator GA Group and Joann's term lenders won the bidding for the company.
"Joann leadership, our board, advisors and legal partners made every possible effort to pursue a more favorable outcome that would keep the company in business," according to a company statement. "We are committed to working constructively with the winning bidder to ensure an orderly wind-down of operations that minimizes the impact on all our stakeholders."
When is Joann's last day?
Joann's announced that going-out-of-business sales commenced on Saturday, Feb. 15, though the closures of all the stores is expected to take months.
"Only inventory available on-site at those stores will be part of the closing sales," the company said in a news release.
Contributing: Jonathan Limehouse and Patrick Williams, Paste BN NETWORK