Ask the right questions

  • Does the website offer refunds or credit if the business closes or if there’s a dispute?
  • Is the group deal only offered to first-time customers of the business?

Look for information on the website

When you buy a voucher, you deal with the group deal website and not directly the business or merchant that provides the product.

So it is important that you buy from a reputable website. Read reviews of the website for its reliability in providing prompt and fair service before making a purchase.

Before you buy, make sure to read and understand the terms and conditions specific to the voucher and the general customer services offered by the website.

Generally, a coupon like this can have an expiry for the value of the promotion, and can have an expiry date. If the group deal website has unfair business practices, such as false or misleading information, your rights are protected.

Group deal vouchers can have expiry dates

Group deal vouchers are not like retail gift cards. They may have an expiry date and if the voucher is not used by the date, it may lose the promotion value.

Check the group deal’s website for information on how they handle the value of the vouchers.

Refund Policies

Check for a refund policy in case you change your mind, or if the product is not satisfactory. You should find out:

  • if the website offers a complete refund or credit towards another voucher
  • what the conditions for refunds are
  • what you can do if the business does not accept the voucher

Before you buy

While group deals can have good discounts, you may end up spending more than expected if you don’t read the fine print:

  • what will happen if the business that offers the product or service closes
  • check if the offer has conditions and is only valid if you also buy another product or service from the business
  • look out for restrictions for returning customers. Sometimes a coupon is only valid for first time customers
  • if an item comes with a warranty, make sure you understand what it covers and who is responsible for providing repairs or replacements
  • see if taxes and tips are included with the voucher. They are usually not