Guides › Faulty Goods and Refunds › Can I Return Something Without a Receipt?
Can I Return Something Without a Receipt?
A receipt is not the only way to prove you bought something. If an item is faulty, a bank or card statement, card slip or the packaging can show where and when you bought it. If the item is not faulty and you simply want to return it, you are relying on the shop's own returns policy, and the shop can insist on a receipt.
At a Glance
Your Rights
What the rules say, with a link to the official source for each.
Proof of Purchase
What Counts
A seller can ask for proof that you bought an item from it. A receipt is one example, but a bank statement or the packaging can also count. source
Trading Standards
A receipt is not the only way of proving you bought the goods: you may have a credit card slip or proof from your bank. If a shop offers refunds or exchanges for goods you simply do not like, it can insist on a receipt. source
Returns Without a Fault
Shop Policy
Shops do not have to take back goods you have changed your mind about, though many do under their own policy. You stand a better chance if you take your receipt and the original packaging. source
Time Limits to Know
Miss a deadline and you can lose a right. Check the dates on your own paperwork.
- 6 yearsClaim for a faulty item5 years in Scotland
Steps to Take
Step 1 of 5
Check whether the item is faulty or you have changed your mind.
Step 2 of 5
Find your bank or card statement showing the payment.
Step 3 of 5
Take the item, packaging and any order email to the shop.
Step 4 of 5
If faulty, explain that a statement is proof of purchase.
Step 5 of 5
If refused, put your complaint in writing.
(Tap the numbers to reveal steps)
Where to Go If It Is Not Put Right
Your options, in order, and when each one applies.
The Shop
Ask in store or in writing first.
Citizens Advice Consumer Service
Free advice; can pass cases to Trading Standards.
Good to Know
Small things that make your complaint stronger.
Paying by card leaves a record that can prove where and when you bought something.
Want Help?
If you would like one of our team to look at your problem, our initial case review is free. We cannot guarantee any outcome and we do not give legal advice.
Lead reviewer
Luke Marley
Founder and Lead Reviewer
Luke founded CPUK in 2026 after seeing how hard it is for ordinary people to get problems with companies put right. He oversees our guides and checks them against official sources.
Research by Katie Burt, Co-founder and Operations Lead (17 years in the care sector, including managing services for vulnerable adults), and the CPUK Research Team. Researched with AI-assisted research tools, then checked and corrected by our team.
Last checked: 13 October 2026. We are not paid by the companies we write about. Adverts never affect our guidance. Read our editorial policy.
Sources and official links
- gov.uk/accepting-returns-and-giving-refunds Checked 13 October 2026
- wigan.gov.uk/Business/Trading-Standards/AdviceToBusinesses.aspx Checked 13 October 2026
- citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/changed-your-mind/changing-your-mind-about-something-youve-bought Checked 13 October 2026
- citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/get-more-help/if-you-need-more-help-about-a-consumer-issue Checked 8 October 2026