When buying gifts, many shoppers want a receipt for returns or exchanges — but without revealing the price to the recipient. Digital receipts make this easier by separating the purchaser’s receipt from the version given to the gift recipient. This article explains how digital receipts work for gift purchases and what stores typically provide.
Two types of receipts for gifts
Most retailers generate two different receipts for gift purchases:
- The purchaser’s digital receipt — includes full pricing and payment details
- The gift receipt — hides prices and payment information
The gift receipt is usually digital as well, depending on the store.
What the purchaser receives
The purchaser’s digital receipt includes:
- items purchased
- full prices and taxes
- payment method
- order or transaction number
- return policy
This receipt is sent to the purchaser’s email or app account.
What the gift recipient receives
The gift recipient’s receipt includes:
- item name
- store information
- return or exchange instructions
- barcode or QR code for returns
It does not include prices or payment details.
Diagram: How gift receipts are generated
How digital gift receipts are delivered
Stores may deliver gift receipts in several ways:
- Email to the purchaser — who forwards it to the recipient
- Email directly to the recipient — if the purchaser provides their address
- App‑based gift receipt — available in the retailer’s app
- Printed gift receipt — included in the package
The method depends on the retailer’s POS system.
How returns work with digital gift receipts
Gift recipients can usually return or exchange items using:
- the digital gift receipt barcode
- the order number
- the item itself (in some stores)
Refunds typically go to store credit unless the purchaser is present.
Are prices ever shown to the recipient?
No — gift receipts are specifically designed to hide prices. Even if the recipient uses the receipt for a return, staff only see the information needed to process the exchange.