Purchasing Goods or Services in Israel

Here are a few simple suggestions to simplify your transactions and avoid any future complications as you purchase goods and services in Israel.

Paying in Cash: Paying for a purchase in cash is totally acceptable in Israel but not every transaction can be paid for in cash—especially large transactions. If you pay in cash, always ask for a receipt.

Paying in Installments (though your credit card): Most large purchases in Israel (including food shopping) which are paid for with a credit card can be paid for in installments. Depending on the firm you are buying from, these purchases can be with or without interest. Please be careful as to which one you have agreed to. If you are getting an interest-free purchase, be assured that the credit card company will take its cut (or charge you a "symbolic sum") for the delayed transactions. Many stores will give you a discount if you pay in one lump sum. Ask for it. Just be aware that it is very easy to sign the forms to begin installments, but you will find it difficult to stop or cancel these payments if you later decide you need to.

Paying with Post-dated Checks: Post-dated checks are legal in Israel! Many companies, schools, supermarkets and local service providers allow you to pay your bill with several post-dated checks. The amount of checks can vary at the discretion of the company that needs to be paid. When paying with post-dated checks, it is very important that you keep track of the dates, the check number, the amount of the check and to whom the check was issued, etc.

Receiving Goods after Purchase: Be assertive about receiving your merchandise immediately after purchase. The delivery of goods in Israel has been known to be problematic. Delivery can also be very expensive, and often is due in cash (to a different company) upon delivery, so before agreeing to have something delivered, confirm what it will cost you and insist on receiving that information in writing. It may be possible to pick up the merchandise yourself. When buying through the Internet, be sure you understand the price and terms, and try to obtain recommendations from past customers to ensure you are buying from a reputable company. Many people have been burned.

Electrical Information: The voltage in Israel is always 220-240 Volts and never 110 V. When purchasing electrical appliances here in Israel or bringing to Israel American-made appliances, please remember that they are not necessarily better (although they sometimes are) and service in case of malfunction will be more expensive and harder to find.

When bringing appliances from abroad, it is best to bring the "heavy duty" ones (although large appliances may not fit into your Israeli-sized apartment). Most American brands that are sold here are not made in the United States at all. You can find products in Israel from all the major manufacturers around the world.