Money Moral Dilemma: Should I 'fess up about my hotel payment?

Former_MSE_Nick

This week's MoneySaver who wants advice asks...

I recently booked a hotel through a comparison site. At checkout, the hotel staff said no money was due as I'd already paid online. At the time I'd assumed they were right, but after checking I can see I was meant to pay at the hotel. Should I let them know or keep schtum?

Unfortunately the MSE team can't always answer money moral dilemma questions as contributions are often emailed in or suggested in person. They are intended to be enjoyed as a point of debate and discussed at face value.

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sparky421

I don't really see the dilemma here. Morally you're bound to pay. You used a service which you should pay for

agrinnall

Indeed, there is no dilemma at all, and if you think there is then perhaps it's your moral compass that needs some examination.

Eric_Disley

It'd depend on the hotel. If it was a global chain, I might not say anything. If it was a small hotel, or if I'd been happy with my stay, I'd pay.

anotheruser

You'll find most people wil say pay.

Just like these same people are such model citizens and hand in £10 they find on the floor of a busy town centre, or send back a pram when the company has sent two.

Personally, I wouldn't say anything.
If someone has given me a free hotel stay, they probably wouldn't notice. If it was a small B&B, this mistake is so rare, it's not worth the discussion.

It's probably more hassle for the company to collect the money than it's worth.

dandy-candy

I don't always 'fess up' if I get too much change in a shop, but a holiday is a big thing!
I would pay simply because I wouldn't want something like that hanging over me. They might discover their mistake and ask for the money at a time in the future when you can't spare it.

Bogalot

Why would MSE even suggest this is a "dilemma"? There is a legal and moral obligation to pay.

(And this isn't really a moneysaver wanting advice is it, it's just made up to generate traffic!)

gettingtheresometime

Eric_Disley wrote: »

It'd depend on the hotel. If it was a global chain, I might not say anything. If it was a small hotel, or if I'd been happy with my stay, I'd pay.

Bits this sort of reply I really really don't understand.

Why does it make it morally correct to not pay a 'global' chain for a service that you've received as opposed to a small hotEl.

janiebquick

Morally, of course, you should pay. However, I suspect the hotel will soon work out that you haven't paid and will deduct the money. Keep an eye on you credit card bills.

fairy_lights

Are you sure you didn't pay when you made the reservation? Surely you would remember weather you paid when you booked or not?

Eyekandi24

If you didn't already pay online, and they say there is nothing left to pay, then I don't know why you are losing sleep over it. It is an admin error, smile and carry on!