Deposits and gift vouchers FAQs
Q1. If I put down a deposit and then changed my mind about it, am I entitled to my money back?
Paying a deposit indicates an intention by the consumer to buy a product or a service.
If you change your mind and no longer wish to purchase the product, legally you will be seen as you not fulfilling your part of the contract. It will be up to the supplier as to whether they will refund any deposit already paid.
It is always easier to know what your rights and responsibilities are if you have details of the contract in writing. However, a verbal contract is also enforceable.
Q2. I have a gift voucher that expired a month ago. What can I do?
A gift voucher is a product that the retailer or other service provider is selling and they are allowed to set out terms and conditions such as an expiry date.
The terms and conditions must be stated, usually on the face or the back of the voucher (for example how long the voucher is valid for).
Once the expiry date has passed, then the seller is no longer obliged to honour the value of the voucher although some may do so as a goodwill gesture. Similarly, if you lose a voucher, the seller is not obliged to replace it.
You should make yourself aware of all the terms and conditions before you purchase a gift voucher, as these differ between retailers.
The NCA has made contact with a number of companies to find out if they impose an expiry date on their vouchers.
Related links
Get more advice on paying deposits
Gift vouchers: learn more about your entitlements
Read the NCA shopping guides
More FAQs
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