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    Do you have to accept a gift card instead of a refund in Finland?

    Your options when a product is faulty, and when a gift card is fine.

    Answered at: Checked at:

    Short answer

    If the product is defective, no. The Finnish Competition and Consumer Authority says you do not have to accept a gift voucher as compensation for a defect. The seller should first repair or replace the product, and if that is not possible, you can ask for a price reduction or cancel the sale. If the product is not defective and you simply want to return it, the shop decides its own policy and may offer a gift card.

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    Why

    1. KKV says you do not have to accept a gift voucher as compensation for a defect.
    2. KKV lists repair, replacement, price reduction and cancellation as remedies.
    3. The Consumer Disputes Board has stated that a gift card is legally a debt of the company.

    Details

    When you buy a gift card, check how long it is valid and what it can be used for. Terms differ between companies.

    Tip

    Keep the receipt and photos of the fault, and make your complaint in writing.

    What may differ

    Returning a working product in a shop is not a legal right in Finland. It depends on the shop.

    Common misconception

    A shop can always settle a complaint with a gift card.

    What actually happens

    For a defect, you can refuse a gift card and ask for a proper remedy.

    People also ask

    • How long is the legal guarantee for goods bought in Finland?
    • How long can you cancel an online purchase in Finland?
    • What does the lowest price in 30 days mean?

    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Consumer rules can change and cases differ, so check KKV or the Consumer Advisory Services.

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