Are you unknowingly paying a hidden fee at Dunkin’? Here’s what to check on your receipt
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If you’re someone who grabs your morning coffee and donut from Dunkin’ without thinking twice, you might want to take a closer look at your receipt next time.
A recent discovery by a customer in New Jersey has sparked widespread online discussion after a mysterious fee—labeled as an “employee benefits & retention charge”—appeared unexpectedly on their bill.
The incident has many wondering whether extra charges are being added without clear warning.
It all began when a Dunkin’ customer posted a photo of their receipt showing a 3% surcharge that wasn’t mentioned during the transaction.
The line read: “3% surcharge has been applied to your purchase. This charge is for employee and retention program and is not gratuity.”
The post quickly spread across Facebook, with many customers surprised—and frustrated—by the hidden cost.
Customer reactions: confusion and frustration
The discovery left regular Dunkin’ customers feeling caught off guard.
Some admitted they rarely check their receipts, while others were upset they weren’t given a choice.
“Now wait just one darn minute. Am I late??? I usually don’t get a receipt and the one day I do, I noticed that I am being made to pay a 3% surcharge for employee retention for Dunkin’ employees. I mean ask me or tell me so I can make a decision,” one user wrote.
Other commenters offered theories and tips.
One suggested the fee may only apply to card payments, writing, “They mostly do that when you pay with a card. Next time pay with cash and check your receipt.”
But whether it’s a card-related issue or not, the main concern remained the same—customers want to know exactly what they’re paying for upfront.
Also read: Watch your receipt: Dollar General shopper raises concerns over repeated overcharges
Lack of disclosure raises transparency concerns
Many felt that failing to disclose the surcharge at the time of purchase showed poor customer service.
“It’s not professional,” one person commented, echoing others who said that small fees—especially those labeled as wellness or employee benefits charges—should never be a surprise.
Source: Facebook / Sophonna Sheppard
Also read: Still paying for these hidden subscriptions? They could be draining $276 a year
Is this a Dunkin’ policy or a franchise decision?
So far, Dunkin’ hasn’t announced this as a company-wide policy.
Reports suggest the surcharge is being added at certain franchise locations, which means it’s likely a decision made at the store level.
Similar complaints have popped up before—back in 2022, a customer posted a receipt from a Dunkin’ inside a Los Angeles airport showing a 3% “employee wellness” charge.
Online commenters criticized that charge too.
“Instead of them handling the 3% they’re throwing it on the consumers. Nice!” one social media user remarked at the time.
Also read: The $120 Walmart surcharge shocking shoppers at checkout
Why these fees are popping up
Across the US, some businesses have begun tacking on extra charges to help offset rising expenses—from health benefits to pandemic-related losses.
While supporting workers is a goal many customers can get behind, frustration grows when fees aren’t disclosed clearly.
A lack of transparency can damage trust, even over just a few cents.
Also read: New law cracks down on hidden rental fees—here’s what renters need to know
How to protect yourself from hidden surcharges
If you’re worried about unknowingly paying more than you expected, here are some simple ways to stay alert:
1. Check your receipt every time. Even if you’re in a hurry, it only takes a second to scan your bill for any surprise charges.
2. Ask questions before paying. If you’re unsure whether a fee will be added, speak up at the register. It’s your right as a customer to understand the full cost.
3. Compare payment methods. Some customers believe the fee only shows up with card payments. Try using cash and check if your total differs.
4. Speak up if something feels off. If you’re charged a fee without warning, you can always ask for clarification—or even a refund. Feedback may help the business improve transparency.
5. Know your rights. While surcharges are legal in many cases, businesses are expected to make them clear to customers before a purchase is made.
Whether it’s a few cents or a few dollars, unexpected charges can add up—and leave a bad taste in your mouth.
Staying informed, asking questions, and checking your receipt can help ensure you’re only paying for what you actually ordered.
Read next: Are you secretly paying these hidden fees every time you shop at Walmart, Target, or Costco?
Have you ever spotted a surprise fee on a coffee or food order? Do you think these surcharges are justified, or should companies find a better way to cover costs? Let us know in the comments—sharing your experience could help others stay informed!
A recent discovery by a customer in New Jersey has sparked widespread online discussion after a mysterious fee—labeled as an “employee benefits & retention charge”—appeared unexpectedly on their bill.
The incident has many wondering whether extra charges are being added without clear warning.
It all began when a Dunkin’ customer posted a photo of their receipt showing a 3% surcharge that wasn’t mentioned during the transaction.
The line read: “3% surcharge has been applied to your purchase. This charge is for employee and retention program and is not gratuity.”
The post quickly spread across Facebook, with many customers surprised—and frustrated—by the hidden cost.
Some Dunkin’ customers are spotting a surprise 3% charge on their receipts—raising questions about transparency and hidden fees. Image Source: Pexels / Photo By: Kaboompics.com.
Customer reactions: confusion and frustration
The discovery left regular Dunkin’ customers feeling caught off guard.
Some admitted they rarely check their receipts, while others were upset they weren’t given a choice.
“Now wait just one darn minute. Am I late??? I usually don’t get a receipt and the one day I do, I noticed that I am being made to pay a 3% surcharge for employee retention for Dunkin’ employees. I mean ask me or tell me so I can make a decision,” one user wrote.
Other commenters offered theories and tips.
One suggested the fee may only apply to card payments, writing, “They mostly do that when you pay with a card. Next time pay with cash and check your receipt.”
But whether it’s a card-related issue or not, the main concern remained the same—customers want to know exactly what they’re paying for upfront.
Also read: Watch your receipt: Dollar General shopper raises concerns over repeated overcharges
Lack of disclosure raises transparency concerns
Many felt that failing to disclose the surcharge at the time of purchase showed poor customer service.
“It’s not professional,” one person commented, echoing others who said that small fees—especially those labeled as wellness or employee benefits charges—should never be a surprise.
Source: Facebook / Sophonna Sheppard
Also read: Still paying for these hidden subscriptions? They could be draining $276 a year
Is this a Dunkin’ policy or a franchise decision?
So far, Dunkin’ hasn’t announced this as a company-wide policy.
Reports suggest the surcharge is being added at certain franchise locations, which means it’s likely a decision made at the store level.
Similar complaints have popped up before—back in 2022, a customer posted a receipt from a Dunkin’ inside a Los Angeles airport showing a 3% “employee wellness” charge.
Online commenters criticized that charge too.
“Instead of them handling the 3% they’re throwing it on the consumers. Nice!” one social media user remarked at the time.
Also read: The $120 Walmart surcharge shocking shoppers at checkout
Why these fees are popping up
Across the US, some businesses have begun tacking on extra charges to help offset rising expenses—from health benefits to pandemic-related losses.
While supporting workers is a goal many customers can get behind, frustration grows when fees aren’t disclosed clearly.
A lack of transparency can damage trust, even over just a few cents.
Also read: New law cracks down on hidden rental fees—here’s what renters need to know
How to protect yourself from hidden surcharges
If you’re worried about unknowingly paying more than you expected, here are some simple ways to stay alert:
1. Check your receipt every time. Even if you’re in a hurry, it only takes a second to scan your bill for any surprise charges.
2. Ask questions before paying. If you’re unsure whether a fee will be added, speak up at the register. It’s your right as a customer to understand the full cost.
3. Compare payment methods. Some customers believe the fee only shows up with card payments. Try using cash and check if your total differs.
4. Speak up if something feels off. If you’re charged a fee without warning, you can always ask for clarification—or even a refund. Feedback may help the business improve transparency.
5. Know your rights. While surcharges are legal in many cases, businesses are expected to make them clear to customers before a purchase is made.
Whether it’s a few cents or a few dollars, unexpected charges can add up—and leave a bad taste in your mouth.
Staying informed, asking questions, and checking your receipt can help ensure you’re only paying for what you actually ordered.
Read next: Are you secretly paying these hidden fees every time you shop at Walmart, Target, or Costco?
Have you ever spotted a surprise fee on a coffee or food order? Do you think these surcharges are justified, or should companies find a better way to cover costs? Let us know in the comments—sharing your experience could help others stay informed!
