ask for receipts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for receipts" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when requesting proof of purchase or documentation for expenses in various contexts, such as business or personal finance. Example: "When you make a purchase for the company, please remember to ask for receipts to ensure proper reimbursement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"We've determined that one in four or one in five drivers ask for receipts," Mr. Pergament said.

The New York Times

Ask for receipts or records of payment in case the landlord disagrees with you about how much rent you've paid.

The Guardian - Money

It came as parts of the media tried to detail differences within the party over whether it is necessary to ask for receipts from traders to reduce the size of the black economy.

The Guardian

Massimiliano D'Angeli, a criminal defense lawyer, said he believed that if more services like those provided by lawyers, plumbers and electricians were tax deductible rather than subject to the nation's 23 percent value-added tax, people would have an incentive to ask for receipts.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

We were later asked for receipts to prove the value of the objects.

The New York Times

Pot growers, used to cash-only transactions, are shocked to be paid with checks and asked for receipts.

The New York Times

Olson says that in retrospect they should have asked for receipts during the project instead of trusting their contractor.

The Washington Post

He prepares a list of all the medicines, syrups and drugs he receives and always asks for receipts so there is a paper trail to prove their authenticity.

The New York Times

When asked by the defense why he had not asked for receipts, he said that perhaps he should have, "but I trusted her".

The New York Times

Even in old age, he could still be seen on the streets stopping passers-by and cars for cash donations, with no one asking for receipts.

The Guardian

It emerged he had not asked for receipts from his window cleaner of 17 years and did not submit receipts for cleaning when he claimed expenses in the last parliament.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When making business purchases, always "ask for receipts" and keep them organized for expense reports and tax purposes.

Common error

When claiming reimbursements, generic receipts might not suffice. Ensure you "ask for receipts" that itemize each purchase, especially for healthcare or travel expenses.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for receipts" functions as an imperative verb phrase. It directs someone to perform the action of requesting receipts. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is commonly used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Academia

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ask for receipts" is a grammatically correct and functional imperative used to instruct or advise someone to request documentation for a transaction. Ludwig AI affirms its common usage, particularly in News & Media and Wiki contexts. When using the phrase, ensure you specify itemized receipts, particularly in business and healthcare situations. Alternative phrases include "request proof of purchase" or "get a receipt". It's essential to "ask for receipts" to track expenses, claim tax deductions, and provide proof of purchase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get a receipt

Simpler and more direct alternative.

request proof of purchase

More formal alternative, emphasizing the act of requesting official documentation.

require a receipt

Emphasizes the necessity of having a receipt.

demand a receipt

Stronger emphasis on requiring a receipt, suggesting a more assertive approach.

secure a receipt

Focuses on the act of successfully getting a receipt, suggesting potential difficulty.

obtain documentation

Broader term covering various forms of documentation, not specifically receipts.

inquire about a receipt

More polite and indirect way of asking.

collect receipts

Focuses on gathering receipts, often for expense tracking.

seek confirmation of payment

Highlights the purpose of the receipt as proof of payment.

check for a receipt

Implies verifying if a receipt was already provided or is available.

FAQs

Why is it important to "ask for receipts"?

Asking for receipts is important for tracking expenses, claiming tax deductions, and providing proof of purchase for returns or warranties. It ensures accurate record-keeping and financial accountability.

What can I say instead of "ask for receipts"?

You can use alternatives like "request proof of purchase", "obtain documentation", or "get a receipt" depending on the context.

When should I specifically "ask for receipts"?

You should "ask for receipts" whenever you make a purchase for business expenses, charitable donations, or any transaction where you might need to return the item or claim a warranty.

What if I forget to "ask for receipts" at the time of purchase?

If you forget to "ask for receipts" initially, try contacting the vendor or store to see if they can provide a duplicate or electronic copy. If that's not possible, document the transaction as accurately as you can using bank statements or other records.