I Always Ask for a

Next time you’re at McDonald’s, asking for a receipt might be the smartest move you make. This simple request can improve your dining experience in several ways. Employees are trained to be extra attentive when someone asks for a receipt because they might be a mystery shopper—someone who secretly evaluates food quality and service. As a result, staff often go the extra mile to ensure your order is fresh, hot, accurate, and well-presented, giving you a better overall experience with minimal effort.

Beyond better service, a receipt is useful for checking order accuracy and tracking spending. If there’s a mistake with your meal, the receipt makes it easier to resolve issues quickly. For those budgeting or needing to submit expenses, like business travelers, receipts are essential for financial records. Plus, many McDonald’s receipts include survey invitations that offer discounts or free items. Whether you’re looking for quality, savings, or better accountability, getting a receipt is a small habit with big payoffs. So next time, just say, “Can I get a receipt?”—you might be surprised by how much of a difference it makes.