The Legal Perspective
Under UK law, keeping money that isn’t yours can be seen as “retaining wrongful credit” under the Theft Act 1968. This applies if you realise the mistake and decide not to return it. Essentially, you’re benefiting from someone else’s error, which isn’t legally or morally right.
If the shop realises their mistake, they may ask for the money back. Refusing could harm your reputation and potentially escalate into a civil dispute. Most businesses won’t pursue small amounts, but they’re within their rights to do so.
Is it legal to keep the change if a shop gives you too much?
Keeping extra change handed to you by mistake might seem tempting, but legally, it’s a grey area leaning towards not okay. While it's not technically theft if you didn’t deliberately deceive the cashier, knowingly keeping it could lead to issues.
What Should You Do?
The honest thing is to point out the mistake. If it’s caught immediately, the cashier can fix it. Shops value honest customers and may even thank you with a smile or goodwill gesture. Holding onto the money knowingly, however, could backfire.
Real-Life Examples
- A £10 Extra Change Dilemma: A shopper in London returned £10 after a cashier’s mistake. The manager praised their honesty and offered them a discount on future purchases.
- Bank Error Cases: People keeping money mistakenly deposited into their accounts have faced court action. This principle applies to shop change too.
Is It Worth the Risk?
Keeping the change might seem harmless for small amounts. But legally and ethically, it’s better to give it back. Your actions reflect on your character, and honesty goes a long way in life.
Additional Sources
Honesty costs nothing but builds trust everywhere you go.
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