When you order your favorite burger and fries at McDonald’s, there’s one small thing you might not think to do—ask for a receipt. It may seem odd, but there’s actually a smart reason behind it. Let’s break down why getting that little slip of paper can make a difference.

Ever heard of “mystery shoppers” or “Gapbusters”? These are undercover customers who check if McDonald’s locations are meeting quality standards. Adnan, a former McDonald’s employee, shared an inside tip: Workers are trained to watch out for these secret evaluators. And here’s where the receipt comes in.

When you ask for a receipt, the staff notices. They can’t tell if you’re a mystery shopper or just a regular customer, but they’ll often go the extra mile to make sure your order is perfect—just in case.

Picture this: You’re craving a hot, fresh Big Mac with crispy fries. But what if your food isn’t as good as it should be? Simply asking for a receipt can nudge the crew to double-check your meal before handing it over.

Think of it this way: You’re paying for your food, so you deserve great quality and service. By requesting a receipt, you’re subtly showing that you’re paying attention—and that can lead to a better experience.

But there’s another perk: order accuracy. Ever open your bag and realize you got a Filet-O-Fish instead of your McChicken? It happens! With a receipt, you can quickly check if everything’s correct. If not, the team will usually fix it—no hassle.

So next time you order, just say: “Can I get a receipt, please?” It’s a tiny habit that could mean fresher food, better service, and the exact meal you wanted.