AliExpress offering coupon instead of refund to my payment method - is this legal?

Short answer It is generally legal for AliExpress to offer a coupon instead of a direct refund to your payment method, as long as this option is clearly stated in their policies. However, your rights may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your purchase and the consumer protection laws in your country. What to check Review AliExpress's refund policy to understand their terms regarding refunds and coupons. Check the specific terms of the coupon being offered, including its expiration date and usage restrictions. Verify the payment method you used and any relevant consumer protection laws in your country. Look for any communication from the seller regarding the refund process. What to do next Contact the seller directly through the AliExpress platform to express your concerns about the coupon offer. Request clarification on why a coupon is being offered instead of a refund to your original payment method. If the seller does not respond or is unhelpful, escalate the issue to AliExpress customer service for further assistance. Gather any relevant documentation, such as order confirmations and communication with the seller, to support your case. Consider filing a dispute through AliExpress if you believe your rights as a consumer are being violated. Common pitfalls Assuming that all sellers on AliExpress have the same refund policies; each seller may have different terms. Not keeping records of your communications with the seller, which can be crucial if you need to escalate the issue. Overlooking the expiration date or usage restrictions of the coupon, which may limit your options. Failing to understand your local consumer protection laws, which may provide additional rights beyond AliExpress's policies. Pro tip If you are not satisfied with the coupon option, consider requesting a partial refund instead, which may give you more flexibility in resolving the issue.