OPINION: Keep a copy of all receipts

The festive season is over and the shopping sprees have died down. Now it’s time for returns.

South Africans are not great at keeping their receipts, that’s a fact. With a false sense of security, many people believe that the Consumer Protection Act will safeguard them. But that is not the case. Not producing a copy of your receipt could result in returns and replacements not being accepted. And not having a copy of your receipt could end up in goods not being returned or replaced. After weeks of spending, the last thing a consumer wants is repair bill.

A “change-of heart-purchase” is something you no longer want. It also includes unwanted gifts. Say for example, you want to exchange your Samsung Tablet for an iPad. Legally the store is not obliged to take back the Tablet – unless it is faulty – never mind agreeing to an exchange. Now you are in the retailer’s return policy territory.

That said, most large retailers will consider taking goods back as part of their customer service. But it cannot be emphasised enough that they have no legal obligations here, and this is why it is important to keep all receipts.

Slips should be keep in a safe, secure and easily accessible place. Consider an online service that allows you to quickly and easily upload slips online. Storing slips online may be a new habit that is easier to adopt than a filing system at home or work (or for some – the car).

No matter how you keep your slips safe remember retailers aren’t obliged to take items back and you would be smart in figuring out their return policies if you’re worried about the gift you buying.

Gordon Phillips is a consumer consultant at software development company MySlips.