Here are a few simple suggestions to simplify your transactions to avoid complications when you purchase goods and services in Israel. This is not a complete list; therefore, remember the famous Latin phrase:
Latin caveat ēmptor or in English – let the buyer beware
Paying in Cash: Paying for a purchase in cash is very acceptable in Israel. But, not every transaction can be paid for in cash (especially large transactions). If you pay in cash, always ask for a receipt.
Cash: In a few years, the use of cash will be just a fraction of the total financial market. It is just a question time when using cash will be abolished altogether.
Paying in Installments (through your credit card): Most purchases in Israel (including food shopping) which are paid for with a credit card can be paid for in installments. Depending on the firm you are buying from, these purchases can be with or without interest. Please be careful as to which one you have agreed to use. If you are getting an interest-free purchase, be assured that the credit card company will take its cut (or charge you a “symbolic sum”) for the delayed transactions.
Many stores will still give you a small discount if you pay in one lump sum. Ask for it. Just be aware that it is very easy to sign up to begin installments. You might find it difficult to stop or cancel these payments if you decide to later on.
Paying with Post-dated Checks: Post-dated checks are legal in Israel! Many companies, schools, supermarkets and local service providers allow you to pay your bill with several post-dated checks. The number of checks can vary at the discretion of the company that needs to be paid. When paying with post-dated checks, it is very important that you keep track of the dates, the check number, the amount of the check and to whom the check was issued, etc.
Receiving Goods after Purchase: Be assertive about receiving your merchandise immediately after purchase. The delay in delivery of goods in Israel has been known to be “problematic”.
Delivery can also be very expensive, and often is due in cash (to a different company) upon delivery. So, before agreeing to have something delivered, confirm what it will cost you and insist on receiving that information in writing. It may also be possible to pick up the merchandise yourself.
When buying through the Internet, be sure, you understand the price and terms such as what is or is not included in the price (delivery for example). Try to obtain recommendations from past customers to ensure you are buying from a reputable company. Many people have been burned and too many new immigrants don’t know enough Hebrew to speak to a representative and receive proper explanations before making a purchase.
Cellphones, Internet provider, Cable TV and the companies providing these services: Doesn’t matter how smart we are, these companies will still have the upper hand on us. Their contact is so long I doubt any person besides their lawyers who wrote them ever read them.
The terms are extremely complicated and in the end, when you just thought you understood, those small letters pop up to confuse you.
I strongly suggest you never buy a phone, a computer or anything from them except the line and the services included.
A word of wisdom:
In Israel, we are still far from reversing the term caveat ēmptor – let the buyer beware to caveat venditor, which means, “Let the seller beware” as in America for example where goods and services are covered by an implied or expressed warranty.
The common assumption today in Israel is that buyers will inspect (they are supposed to inspect) and otherwise ensure that they are confident with the integrity of the product before completing a purchase. This is exactly why you must always be AWARE especially if you are a new immigrant.
