Legal Definitions - receipt

The term receipt has two primary meanings in a legal context:

• First, a receipt can refer to a document, either physical or digital, that serves as formal proof that something has been received, often following a purchase, a transfer of goods, or a deposit of an item. It acts as an acknowledgment of a transaction or the transfer of possession or payment.

  • Example 1: After purchasing a new smartphone at an electronics store, Michael was handed a small slip of paper detailing the item, its cost, and the date of sale.

    Explanation: This slip of paper is a receipt, providing Michael with official documentation of his purchase. This document is crucial for potential returns, warranty claims, or as proof of ownership.

  • Example 2: When a homeowner dropped off a valuable painting at a storage facility, they were given a printed form with a unique identification number and a description of the artwork.

    Explanation: This printed form functions as a receipt, acknowledging that the storage facility has taken temporary possession of the painting. It serves as proof that the homeowner entrusted the item to them and can be used to reclaim it later.

  • Example 3: Following a successful online donation to a non-profit organization, the donor received an email confirmation detailing the amount contributed and confirming the transaction.

    Explanation: This email acts as a digital receipt, officially acknowledging the successful transfer of funds to the organization. It provides the donor with proof of their contribution for tax purposes or personal records.

• Second, receipt can refer to the act or process of taking possession of something, or the moment something comes into one's hands, control, or awareness.

  • Example 1: A landlord sent a tenant a formal notice of lease termination via certified mail, which required the tenant's signature upon delivery. The date the tenant signed for the letter marked the official receipt of the notice.

    Explanation: In this scenario, "receipt" refers to the specific act of the tenant physically acquiring the legal notice. This date is often legally significant for calculating deadlines or establishing when the tenant was officially informed.

  • Example 2: A government agency's online portal automatically timestamps the exact moment a citizen's application for a permit is successfully submitted and recorded in their system.

    Explanation: Here, "receipt" denotes the act of the agency's system successfully acquiring and registering the application. This timestamp is important for determining compliance with submission deadlines.

  • Example 3: A business's accounting department notes the date of receipt for all incoming payments from clients, whether by bank transfer or check.

    Explanation: This usage of "receipt" refers to the act of the business physically or digitally acquiring the funds. This date is crucial for financial record-keeping, cash flow management, and tax reporting.