Why you are entitled to a refund on sales items

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The lead-up to Christmas can be a stressful time for shoppers.

When your purchase doesn't end up being quite right, not only is it disappointing but replacing it or getting your money back can be a nightmare.

While certain store policies might threaten you with a strict set of rules, the good news is that consumer law offers some comeback.

stocktake sales

No refunds on sale items.

Ever seen a "no-refunds" sign?

Retailers that refuse refunds on sale items are breaking the law.

Consumers have the same refund rights on sale items as on full-priced items.

If the item is faulty, the retailer needs to be upfront about the fault on purchase. You won't be able to claim a refund for problems stated on the tag.

Lost receipt

Don't panic. You can still return an item if you can prove you made a purchase.

Credit card statements, layby agreements or an online confirmation number can pass as evidence of your purchase. If you don't have any of these, then the retailer is within their rights to deny you a refund.

Extended warranty

If you're purchasing an expensive electronic gadget, don't be pressured to pay for protections you already have.

Delia Rickard, deputy chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), says that if a product is faulty you have the right to ask for a replacement or a refund within a reasonable time frame, regardless of any expired warranties.

"Some retailers claim that an extended warranty provides the extra protections you usually wouldn't get. This isn't always the case," she says.

"You don't have to buy an extended warranty; it is optional. So when a retailer offers you an extended warranty, make sure you ask what protections it provides over and above your consumer rights under the law."

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