How to Stop Getting Overcharged at Checkout

How many times have you purchased an item that is price marked one price but you are charged another at the checkout? It has happened to me several times over and it's very frustrating! If you live in the state of Michigan you must read this!

In the state of Michigan, there is a law that protects the consumer that you may not be aware of; not too many people are, so I wanted to share it with everyone so that as a consumer, you can protect yourself and stop getting ripped off at the checkout; It's called the scanner law.

If you purchase an item that is marked with a price tag, and then at the checkout you are overcharged for the item, you are entitled to the difference that you were overcharged plus 10 times the difference up to $5.00 which is usually referred to as the 'bonus'.

Let's say for example you purchased a pack of batteries that was marked $3.85 with a price tag. You then proceed to take the item to the cash register where the cashier scans the item and it scans for $4.35. Pay for item. Now proceed to the customer service desk to get your money back. For this example you were overcharged 50 cents so you will get that back automatically. Tell the customer service rep "doesn't this qualify for the bonus?" or something to that effect, to let them know you know about the scanner law. They will quietly say "yes" and start filling out the paperwork to give you your bonus. In this case, you will get $5; (50 cents x 10). So, for this purchase you actually got the batteries for free plus $1.12 in your pocket!

In order to collect 'the bonus' you must proceed through the checkout and pay for the item at the scanned price. Then take the item and your receipt to the customer service desk. If you notify the cashier at the time she is scanning the item you will not be awarded the bonus because you are giving the store the opportunity to correct the error. Be aware that the store will not voluntarily give you the money you are entitled; you have to let them know that you know about the scanner law.

You have 30 days to take the item and your receipt back into the store to get your refund and the bonus you are entitled to.

For more specific information about this law and how you can protect yourself, visit michigan.gov Website.