Why do you need a passport when returning goods and is it legal

Russian stores may ask the buyer to present a passport when returning the goods. In itself, such a requirement does not contradict the law, but the seller is obliged to comply with the rules for processing personal data.

According to the expert, the law “On Protection of Consumer Rights” does not establish a specific list of documents that must be presented when returning a purchase. At the same time, the procedure for issuing a refund depends on how the buyer originally paid for the goods.

When it comes to returning cash, the cashier needs to make sure that the money is received by the person to whom it is intended. As Afonina explained, the corresponding requirement is provided by the order of the Bank of Russia of March 11, 2014.

A different situation arises when paying by bank card. As a general rule, the money is returned to the same payment instrument from which the purchase was made. In this case, the presentation of a passport is usually not required.

However, this does not mean that the store does not have the right to ask for a document for a non-cash return. The lawyer noted that the Bank of Russia recommends sellers to identify buyers during such calculations. Therefore, a passport request is possible regardless of the original method of payment.

Afonina advised to pay special attention to the protection of personal data. Buyers should find out why the store collects passport information, how it stores it and who gets access to it.

When making a return, the seller must use the information received only for the necessary purposes. Illegal distribution of passport data or their transfer to unauthorized persons is unacceptable.