Price accuracy policy

Definition

The Consumer Protection Act states that all merchants in Quebec must display the price on each item they sell, except those who choose to adhere to the policy.

A merchant can therefore avoid indicating the price on each item provided that

1. they indicate the price of the items on the shelves;
2. they have a scanner that indicates the same prices as those displayed on the shelves.

The vast majority of grocery stores, mass merchandisers and pharmacies adhere to the Price Accuracy Policy, while clothing or shoe stores often display prices on each item.

Application

You go to the checkout to pay for your purchases and find that an item costs more than what is posted on the shelf. The Price Accuracy Policy, established in 2001, provides for compensation for this type of situation. In fact, you've probably already noticed a poster summarizing its application at store checkouts.

As of May 7, 2025, there are some changes:

• In the case of an error involving an item with a posted price of $15 or less (previously $10), the merchant must give you the item free of charge.
• If the displayed price is greater than $15, the merchant must give you the item at the lower displayed price, in addition to offering you $15 in compensation.

Practical examples

• The posted price for a bag of coffee is $18.99. At the cash register, it's $19.99. The result? Your purchase will cost you $3.99.
• You've chosen a jar of tomato sauce for $2.99, but you're asked to pay $3.99 at the checkout. You get your purchase for free.
• You have your hands full of boxes of chocolates the day after Valentine's Day ($4.99 instead of $12.99, that's a great deal!), but the advertised balance doesn't appear at checkout. You'll get all your boxes at the lowest advertised price, but you'll only get one box free. The rest will be paid for at the sale price.
• Don't you realize the price error until you get home? The policy still applies. Remember to check your invoices before you leave the store or get rid of them!

There are a few exceptions, such as price-regulated products (milk, beer) and products that cannot be discounted (drugs, tobacco). The policy also does not apply to wine, unless it is sold at the SAQ. See this page for all the exceptions.

A merchant doesn't respect this policy?

You can file a complaint with the Office de la protection du consommateur.