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Hi, I’m Ricky and I’ m the Director of Community Relations for the Department of
Consumer Affairs. We want New Yorkers to know how to protect their money whether they’re
shopping for groceries, back-to-school supplies or a new TV.
In New York City, we’re all protected by the Consumer Protection Law, which is a strong
local law that makes any untruthful advertising or sales practice illegal. It protects when
we buy just about anything and covers everything from false advertising to refunds and receipts.
You should never be surprised when you go to buy something. If something goes wrong
you can always call 311 or file a complaint on our website and one of our mediators will
help you resolve your disagreement with the business
Here are some smart shopping tips that may help you avoid problems in the first place:
Ask for receipts. If you spend more than $20, the store must give you a receipt. If you’re
paying with a credit card, make sure the store does not print more than the expiration date
and the last five digits of your card number.
Check the refund policy. Stores can establish their own refund or exchange policy but the
policy must be displayed clearly where you check out. If the store doesn’t post its
policy, you are entitled to a full refund within 30 days of your purchase.
Businesses must also post a sign if there are any restrictions that will affect your
purchase. For example,
Is there is a minimum required to use credit cards? Do they only accept cash? These restrictions
must be clearly posted.
Many retailers, especially electronics stores, charge fees for “restocking,” or putting
back on the shelves, especially if the box of the returned item was opened. These fees
can vary, they may be costly, and they must be disclosed in the refund policy.
Read ads closely. Watch out for “bait and switch” ads that promise savings that aren’t
actually available when you get to the store. “Bait and switch” is illegal. Also, anything
listed as “on sale” at the store must also display the pre-sale price.
Get a delivery date in writing. When you buy furniture, major appliances, and rugs, the
store must give you a delivery date or date range when the contract or receipt is signed.
If the item isn’t delivered by the delivery date, you can cancel for a full refund or
credit or get a new delivery date. Custom-made furniture and appliances that cost less than
$200 are not covered by this rule. If retailers don’t specify a “ship by” date for your
online purchase, they must ship within 30 days.
Know your rights at the supermarket. Here are a few:
Ads must truthfully describe the name, variety and size of the item on sale and list any
restrictions. Stores must make reasonable quantities available.
Markets must have a scale within 30 feet of their prepackaged food sections. The scale
must have a DCA seal on it, start at zero, and come to rest before weight or price is
quoted.
Most items at a supermarket must have a price tag.
Watch your receipt closely too. Make sure you aren’t charged full price for something
that is on sale.
You can download shopping tips and guides for specific industries like used cars, and
electronics from our website. Visit nyc.gov and search for shopping tips.