Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Deposit

Understanding the 10¢ beverage container deposit

Is this a price increase?
↓

No. The 10¢ is a fully refundable deposit, just like the $1 coin for a supermarket trolley. It is also not subject to GST. Return the container, get your deposit refund back.

Do I pay the deposit if there’s no Deposit Mark?
↓

No. You won’t be charged, and the container is not eligible for a refund. Please recycle these in the nearest recycling bins.

Why is the deposit set at 10¢?
↓

The 10¢ deposit amount was determined through public consultations and behavioural studies conducted in 2022 and 2023.

What if I bought my drink at a hawker centre or got it for free?
↓

If the container has the Deposit Mark, the 10¢ deposit applies and is refundable. You can return it at any Return Right machine for your refund.

Preparing your containers

What to do before returning your containers

How should I prepare containers for return?
↓

  • Empty it: Ensure no liquids remain (a quick rinse is even better!).

  • Keep its shape: Do not crush or flatten it.

  • Check the container: Ensure the barcode, 2D-matrix code that comes with the sticker, and Deposit Mark are clear and intact so the machine can scan them.

 

Can I return multiple containers at once?
↓

Yes. You can return as many as you like in one visit.

Can I still use the Blue Recycling Bins?
↓

Yes, but you will forfeit your 10¢ deposit for containers with the Deposit Mark. To get your refund, return the empty, uncrushed eligible containers with the Deposit Mark to a Return Right machine.

Locations & hours

Where and when you can return your containers

Where can I find return points?
↓

There are over 1,000 points islandwide. Find a return point near you.
HDB void decks & public spaces: Available 24/7. 
Supermarkets: Available during store operating hours.

 

Do I return the containers at coffee shops?
↓

Only if they are designated return points. Check our Map to find one near you.

Manual refunds

What to do if your refund cannot be processed

What should I do if my refund could not be processed at the Return Right machine?
↓
If your refund could not be processed at the Return Right machine, please take a clear photo of the screen and email it to hi@returnright.sg.
 
Please ensure the photo clearly shows:
• RVM ID
• Date and time stamp
• Refund amount
 
For faster processing, please also include your full name, bank name and bank account number in your email.

Refund Forfeit Screen

*For visual reference only. Screen display may vary across different Return Right machines. Please ensure the following are clear in your photograph: RVM ID, Date and Time stamp and Refund Amount Due.

The Return Right machine printed a ticket, how should I claim the refund?
↓
If a service ticket was issued, please email hi@returnright.sg within 30 days from the date of issue.
 
Please include:
• A clear photo of the service ticket
• Your full name
• Bank name
• Bank account number
 
Your bank details are required solely to process this refund and will be handled securely by BCRS Ltd.

Refund Ticket*For visual reference only. Service tickets may vary across different Return Right machines. Please ensure the following are clear in your photograph: Transaction ID, RVM ID, Date and Time stamp, No. of Containers, and Total Refund Due.

How long will manual refund processing take?
↓
Manual refund processing may take up to 30 business days upon receipt of your complete claim submission.
 
Please submit your claim within 30 days from the date of issue.
 
Your bank details are only used to process the refund and will be handled securely by BCRS Ltd.

 

Can I claim my refund over the hotline?
↓
Our hotline team can guide you on the refund claim process. However, refund claims must be submitted by email to hi@returnright.sg.
 
We need a clear photo of the Return Right machine screen or service ticket to verify the transaction before processing the refund.
How do I know if an email, message or phone call about my refund is really from Return Right?
↓
To protect yourself against scams, please note that Return Right will NEVER ask for:


For manual refunds, our team will only request your full name, bank name, and bank account number.
 
If you receive a suspicious message or want to verify if a communication is authentic, please contact us directly at hi@returnright.sg before sharing any personal information.

Accountability

How Return Right assures transparency and impact

Who runs the Scheme?
↓

It is managed by BCRS Ltd., a not-for-profit consortium of beverage producers (including Coca-Cola, F&N, and Pokka). Every cent collected is reinvested into operating and improving the scheme.

What happens to unclaimed deposits?
↓

Unclaimed deposits are used to fund the collection, sorting, and recycling infrastructure, ensuring Return Right stays sustainable and not-for-profit.

Why should I participate? 
↓

Your small action has a big impact:

  • Reduces waste: Keeps plastic and metal out of our general trash.

  • Saves Semakau: Helps Singapore’s only landfill last longer.

  • Circular economy: Turns empty containers into new products

 

Are these containers actually recycled? 
↓

Yes. Under NEA regulations, BCRS Ltd. is legally required to ensure all collected materials are recycled, not incinerated. This creates a "clean stream" of high-quality plastic and metal for new products.