When you’re grabbing a meal at McDonald’s, your focus is probably on the food—whether it’s a Big Mac, a crispy chicken sandwich, or a side of hot fries. But there’s one small habit that could make a big difference in your fast-food experience: always asking for a receipt. It might seem like an unnecessary extra step, but there’s a good reason why you should always get one when you place your order.

You might not realize it, but McDonald’s, like many other fast-food chains, uses “mystery shoppers” or “Gapbusters” to evaluate service quality. These undercover customers visit McDonald’s locations to ensure employees are following proper procedures, serving fresh food, and providing good customer service. And here’s the kicker: McDonald’s employees are trained to spot potential mystery shoppers. This is where asking for a receipt comes into play.

According to Adnan, a former McDonald’s employee, employees are often extra attentive when a customer asks for a receipt. Why? Because mystery shoppers always need a receipt to report their experience. Since employees can’t tell if you’re an evaluator or just a regular customer, they tend to be more cautious, ensuring your order is prepared correctly, fresh, and served with a smile.

Imagine this: You place an order for a Big Mac and fries, expecting a fresh, hot meal. But what if the fries are stale or the burger is cold? This is where asking for a receipt can subtly influence the service. Employees, unsure if you might be evaluating them, will often make sure you receive the freshest food possible to avoid any negative reviews.

Think about it like this: When you dine at a restaurant, you expect quality service and a properly prepared meal. Fast food should be no different. By requesting a receipt, you’re signaling that you care about your experience, and in response, employees are likely to pay closer attention to your order. It’s a simple trick that can lead to better food and better service—a win-win.

Beyond influencing service quality, keeping your receipt also has practical benefits. Have you ever driven away from a McDonald’s drive-thru only to realize they gave you the wrong order? Maybe you ordered a crispy chicken sandwich, but when you checked the bag, you found a fish fillet instead. Mistakes happen, but a receipt makes it easier to resolve them. It provides proof of what you ordered, making it simple to get a correction or refund.

Receipts also help with budget tracking. If you eat out frequently, keeping a record of your spending can be useful. Fast food expenses add up quickly, and monitoring them through receipts can help you stay mindful of your budget. This is especially handy for people who track their finances closely or need to stick to a strict meal plan.

Additionally, receipts are essential for business expenses. If you’re traveling for work or using McDonald’s for a reimbursable meal, a receipt is necessary for reporting expenses. Many companies require receipts for meal reimbursements, so keeping track of them ensures you won’t have to pay out of pocket later.

Another often-overlooked advantage of receipts is their connection to promotional offers and rewards programs. Some McDonald’s locations include survey opportunities on their receipts, giving customers a chance to provide feedback in exchange for discounts or free menu items. If you enjoy scoring a deal, asking for a receipt ensures you don’t miss out on potential savings.

At first glance, requesting a receipt at McDonald’s might seem like a minor detail. However, it has multiple advantages that enhance your overall dining experience. It increases the likelihood of getting freshly prepared food, ensures order accuracy, 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 requires no extra effort but can make a noticeable difference. Whether you’re looking for better service, fresher food, or simply a way to keep a record of your purchases, having a receipt is an easy way to improve your fast-food experience. So next time you place an order, don’t forget those five simple words: “Can I get a receipt?”