Faded receipt: what to do with an unreadable paper receipt?
Short answer: act fast. If the receipt is still partly readable, take a photo or scan it right away to keep proof of purchase. For future purchases, scanning receipts at checkout avoids this problem, because thermal paper fades over time.
Why receipts fade
Most store receipts are printed on thermal paper. Heat, light and time cause the ink to fade. After a few weeks or months, the receipt can become unreadable, right when you need it for a return or warranty.
What to do if your receipt has already faded
- Photograph or scan whatever is still readable, right away.
- Look for an email confirmation if the purchase was online or with a loyalty account.
- Write down the date, merchant and payment method while you remember.
- Contact the merchant: some can look up a transaction, based on their policy.
The best fix: scan your receipts in time
The simplest approach is to keep a digital copy before the paper fades. A receipt app like ReFound keeps a readable, organized copy of your receipts from the moment you buy.
See also how to scan receipts with a mobile app.
Keep proof for a return or warranty
A digital copy can help present proof of purchase even if the original paper is gone, based on merchant policy. ReFound can also attach a manufacturer warranty when the information is available.
Frequently asked questions
Can you return an item with a faded receipt?
It depends on the merchant's policy. A readable digital copy can help present proof of purchase, but acceptance is up to the merchant.
How do you stop a receipt from fading?
Avoid heat and light, but the safest option is to scan the receipt at purchase to keep a readable copy.
Is a photo of a receipt enough?
A photo helps, but it gets lost in your camera roll. A receipt app keeps the readable copy organized so you can find it when needed.
Can ReFound help with an old receipt?
If you scanned it in time, ReFound keeps a readable copy. Otherwise it mainly helps with your future purchases.
Go further
Never lose proof of purchase again
ReFound turns receipts into smart proof of purchase, readable before the paper fades.
Free to download. Available on iPhone.