Ordering your favorite burger and fries at McDonald’s might seem like a routine experience, but there’s one small habit that can make a big difference—asking for a receipt. It might sound unnecessary, but there’s a good reason why you should always request one when placing your order. Let’s take a closer look at why this simple act can improve your experience at McDonald’s.

Have you ever heard of “mystery shoppers” or “Gapbusters”? These are undercover customers who visit McDonald’s restaurants to evaluate the quality of service, cleanliness, and food preparation. Their job is to make sure everything meets McDonald’s high standards, and employees are trained to recognize the possibility of mystery shoppers at any time. This is where asking for a receipt plays a surprising role.

Adnan, a former McDonald’s employee, revealed an insider secret: when customers request a receipt, employees are more likely to assume they could be mystery shoppers. Since mystery shoppers typically ask for receipts for reimbursement purposes, employees are extra careful when preparing their orders. This means that by simply requesting a receipt, you might receive fresher food, quicker service, and a more pleasant overall experience.

Imagine this scenario: you’re craving a Big Mac and a side of crispy, golden fries. You place your order, expecting hot, fresh food. But what if your burger is lukewarm or your fries have been sitting under the heat lamp for too long? That’s where the receipt trick can help. When employees suspect you might be evaluating their service, they tend to pay more attention to details—making sure your meal is fresh, your order is accurate, and your service is prompt.

Think about it like this: when you go to a restaurant, you want the best quality for your money. You expect your food to be prepared with care and served just the way you like it. Asking for a receipt subtly signals that you care about your experience, which can lead to better service and higher food quality. Essentially, it’s a win-win situation—you get a more enjoyable meal, and employees stay on top of their game.

Beyond influencing food quality and service, asking for a receipt has practical benefits as well. Have you ever driven away from the drive-thru only to find out your order was incorrect? Maybe you ordered a crispy chicken sandwich, but when you checked the bag later, you found a fish fillet instead. Mistakes happen, but having a receipt makes it easier to correct them. Your receipt serves as proof of what you ordered, making it simpler to resolve any issues with missing or incorrect items.

Another advantage of keeping your receipt is tracking your spending. If you frequent McDonald’s or eat out often, receipts help you manage your budget by keeping a record of your purchases. This can be especially useful for people who stick to strict financial plans or those who want to track their food expenses over time.

Additionally, if you’re on a business trip or using McDonald’s for a work-related expense, a receipt is essential for reimbursement. Many companies require receipts for meal expenses, so keeping track of them ensures you don’t end up paying out of pocket. Some people even collect receipts for tax deductions or expense reports, making them a valuable tool beyond just confirming your order.

There’s also the added bonus of participating in reward programs or promotional offers. Some McDonald’s locations offer surveys on receipts, allowing customers to provide feedback in exchange for discounts or free menu items. If you enjoy taking advantage of these promotions, asking for a receipt ensures you don’t miss out on potential savings.

In the grand scheme of things, requesting a receipt at McDonald’s may seem like a small and insignificant action. However, it can improve your overall dining experience in multiple ways. It increases the chances of getting fresher, higher-quality food, ensures you receive the correct order, helps track your spending, and even provides opportunities for discounts or reimbursements.

The next time you visit McDonald’s, make it a habit to ask for a receipt. It’s a simple step that requires no extra effort but can make a noticeable difference. Whether you’re looking for better service, fresher food, or just want to keep a record of your purchases, having a receipt in hand is a small but effective way to enhance your fast-food experience. So next time you place an order, don’t forget those five little words: “Can I get a receipt?”