Amazon Introduces ₹49 Non-Refundable Fee on Bank Discounts – What You Need to Know
Amazon, one of the world’s largest e-commerce platforms, has recently introduced a new fee structure that affects how customers avail bank discounts. The company now imposes a non-refundable fee of ₹49 on orders where buyers use bank discounts or promotional offers. This move has sparked mixed reactions among shoppers, with some questioning its fairness while others see it as a way to prevent misuse of discounts.
Why Has Amazon Introduced This Fee?
According to reports, the ₹49 fee is aimed at reducing the misuse of bank discounts and promotional codes. Some users were reportedly placing bulk orders with discounts and then canceling them, leading to losses for Amazon and its partner banks. By adding a small non-refundable charge, Amazon ensures that only genuine buyers claim these offers.
Key Points to Note:
Applicable on Discounted Orders: The fee is charged when you apply a bank offer or promo code at checkout.
Non-Refundable: Even if you cancel the order, ₹49 will not be refunded.
Standard Orders Unaffected: Regular purchases without discounts remain fee-free.
How Does This Impact Shoppers?
For frequent Amazon shoppers who rely on bank discounts (like those from HDFC, SBI, or ICICI), this change means slightly higher costs. While ₹49 may seem negligible on large purchases, it could add up for small-ticket items.
Pros:
Reduces Fake Orders: Prevents misuse of discounts by fraudulent buyers.
Ensures Genuine Discounts: Legitimate customers can still benefit from offers without excessive competition from bulk cancellations.
Cons:
Extra Cost for Buyers: Adds a small but noticeable fee to discounted purchases.
Less Flexibility: Canceling an order with a discount now comes with a penalty.
Should You Still Use Bank Discounts on Amazon?
Despite the new fee, bank discounts can still be worthwhile, especially on high-value purchases where the savings outweigh the ₹49 charge. However, for small purchases, it’s best to check whether the discount justifies the additional fee.
Tips for Smart Shopping:
Compare Total Cost: Ensure the discount is significant enough to cover the fee.
Avoid Unnecessary Cancellations: Since the fee is non-refundable, confirm your order before payment.
Look for Alternative Offers: Some promotions (like Amazon coupons or No-Cost EMI) may not attract this fee.
Final Thoughts
Amazon’s new ₹49 fee on bank discounts is a strategic move to curb misuse while keeping discounts available for genuine buyers. While it may be a minor inconvenience, shoppers can still benefit by using discounts wisely. As e-commerce policies evolve, staying informed helps you make the best purchasing decisions.