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Last updated:
18/10/2018

Can I return things I bought when I was unwell?

  1. Can a bank lend to me when I am unwell?
  2. What does ‘capacity’ mean?
  3. Free help is available
  4. What should banks do to protect me?
  5. What can I do if I have a debt I cannot pay?
  6. How can I complain?
  7. Can I return things I bought when I was unwell?
  8. Next steps

Taking something back you bought when you were unwell

If you bought something from a shop when you were unwell and you want to return it then you should check if the shop has a returns policy.  

Many people buy things online, over the phone and by mail order. This is called ‘distance selling’. When you buy items from a business this way, you have the right to cancel the contract within 14 days of making it. This is called the 'cooling off period'. The rules do not apply to personalised items or items that will deteriorate quickly, like flowers. There are certain other exceptions.  

You have the right to cancel the contract within 14 days of making it.

To cancel the contract in the cooling off period, write or email the business to let them know that you want to cancel. They will tell you what to do next.

You can get free advice from the Consumerline:

Consumerline

is a one stop shop offering free help and advice to Northern Ireland consumers.

Telephone: 0300 123 6262  (9.00 am to 4.00 pm)

Online contact: consumerline@economy-ni.gov.uk

Website: http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/consumerline/

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Within this subject

  1. Can a bank lend to me when I am unwell?
  2. What does ‘capacity’ mean?
  3. Free help is available
  4. What should banks do to protect me?
  5. What can I do if I have a debt I cannot pay?
  6. How can I complain?
  7. Can I return things I bought when I was unwell?
  8. Next steps
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