News release

Tips for Holiday Shopping

Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations (Oct. 2000 - March 2014)

As Nova Scotians finish up their holiday shopping, people should have a plan for spending and take some simple steps to protect themselves in the marketplace.

"It's always important for people to go shopping with a plan to spend wisely," said John MacDonell, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "People should also take some simple steps to protect their rights while shopping."

Gift cards are a popular choice for the hard to buy for people on lists. In Nova Scotia gift cards do not have an expiry date and vendors cannot charge fees, including fees to issue the card or fees that reduce any value of the card if it is not used. This does not include credit card branded gift cards so you must read the terms of these cards carefully. Cards that are given as prizes or as part of other promotions may also have expiry dates.

If you are giving a gift you should know the return policies of the store where you purchased the item. The gift receiver may only be able to return an item for exchange or store credit and there may be time limits for exchange the item.

"It's important to ask questions and read information about the store's policies," said Mr. MacDonell. "When buying Christmas presents, ask if there are different rules or extensions for gifts. Some stores may have gift receipts that set out any return policies for the recipient."

For online gift buying there are extra steps to protect yourself. Make sure you know who you are buying from. Look for information on the company, including contact information. Before you buy, the vendor must give you information including:

  • the vendor's name and contact information which is more than an e-mail address
  • a description of what you are buying,
  • a list of what will be charged to your credit card such as shipping and handling fees
  • information on the cancellation or refund policy.

Make sure you understand the return policy - you may be responsible for return shipping or restocking fees.

For more information on consumer rights, visit www.smartconsumers.ca and follow @nsconsumers on Twitter.