NLIS 1
November 17, 2003
(Government Services and Lands)

 

Christmas shopping tips

Dianne Whalen, Minister of Government Services and Lands, is advising consumers when shopping for Christmas gifts to check out refund policies in order to avoid disappointment if the need arises to return presents. According to the minister, officials at the Trade Practices Division report that during the Christmas season they receive more inquiries about refunds than at any other time of the year.

Many consumers believe they are entitled to an automatic refund if they wish to return an item, however, stores are not required by law to give a refund and are free to set their own refund policies. According to the minister, in the past many consumers were disappointed to learn that some stores would not issue a refund while others would not give a full refund without the bill of sale.

Refund policies vary from store to store. Many stores provide a money back guarantee if you are not satisfied with a particular product, others offer an exchange or credit note, while some stores, in particular specialty shops, have a "No Refund" policy. Stores which offer money back guarantees usually apply certain restrictions such as proof of purchase, time limits and returning the item in the original packaging.

Minister Whalen suggests: "In order to avoid disappointment in the event the gifts you purchased need to be returned or exchanged, consumers should ask at each store about refund policies. It is important to save receipts, especially if the store participated in a discount event. Without a receipt, even if you paid full price, you might only be given a refund equivalent to the discount price as there would be no proof that you paid full price."

Minister Whalen also advises consumers to ensure merchandise is in good condition and where necessary, in working order before finalizing the sale. Consumers who are unsure of their rights should contact the Trade Practices Division for advice.

For additional information contact: Carol Anne Furlong, Supervisor of Trade Practices, (709) 729-6613

2003 11 17                                           11:25 a.m.


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