HOW TO REFUSE A SALE

• If a customer refuses to show an ID or produces an ID showing they are under 18:
  • Decline the sale and say that state law prohibits the sale of tobacco products or paraphernalia to anyone under 18 and that if you sell tobacco to a minor, you could be fined and even lose your job. Refer to display signage to help educate the customer. Be courteous.
    
    
• Be firm. If you have trouble finding the right words, try one of these suggestions:
  • “No, I’m sorry, but I can’t sell tobacco to you without a picture ID to verify your age. I could lose my job.”
  • “No, I’m sorry, but I can’t sell tobacco to anyone under 18—its’ the law and I could be fined up to $3,000.
  • “No, I’m sorry, I can’t accept any note. Your parents need to come in and buy their own cigarettes.”
    
    
• If you suspect an adult is trying to buy tobacco for a minor:
  • Explain that both you and the customer could get in a lot of trouble if you make the sale.
  • Be polite and informative.
    
    
• If a parent has sent a minor in to buy tobacco for them:
  • Explain that is against the law for you to sell tobacco products to a minor.
  • Hand the minor a flyer that explains your store policy.