We are now getting well into the Christmas shopping period, unless like me you leave it to the last minute.

I’m always telling people that in the UK we have some of the best consumer protection legislation and rules in the world.

Of course, these protections are completely worthless if you’re not aware of them when you spend your hard-earned cash.

Here’s my guide to your Christmas shopping rights.

Delivery rights

But what happens if it arrives late? (
Image:
PeopleImages.com)

Retailers generally have to deliver goods within 30 days of purchase, unless they state otherwise. Every year consumers get caught out with this at Christmas as they find that presents ordered in mid-December arrive in January.

Top tip: When you order Christmas presents online state the date you need the goods by in the ‘notes’ section online. If the retailer then fails to deliver by this date then they will be in breach of contract.

Gift receipts

A gift receipt means they can't refuse you an exchange (
Image:
Digital Vision)

When returning goods, you'll often be asked for the receipt or proof of purchase.

All retailers will provide you with a gift receipt if you ask for one – this will mean that the recipient of your gift will be able to exchange it if they wish.

Right to return unwanted presents

If you shop online, you have the right to return the goods within 14 days of delivery. However, this is generally of no use with Christmas presents as this period will almost certainly have passed.

You should therefore ask the retailer, up front, if you get an extended period to return the goods and if you do get confirmation in writing.

In stores, however, there is no automatic right to return goods if you simply change your mind or a recipient of a gift doesn't want it.

However, most retailers allow you to return goods in these circumstances and most have extended rights during the Christmas period. You should therefore look to see what the Christmas policy is.

Right to a refund for faulty goods

Your rights are always the same in relation to faulty goods, no matter what the time of year is. If you discover the fault within the first 30 days after purchase you are entitled to an automatic refund and if after you are entitled to a repair or replacement.

When buying presents its worth asking the retailer if they will extend this 30-day period on the basis that you will not know if the goods are faulty until the recipient of the gift opens it.