Refund Policy

This Refund Policy explains the terms and conditions regarding refunds for The Smart Tiffin program. Please read this policy carefully to understand your rights and obligations regarding refunds, funding repayment, and financial commitments.

1. Application Fee Refunds

1.1 No Application Fee

The Smart Tiffin program does not charge any application fees. If anyone asks you to pay for applying to our program, it is fraudulent. Please report such incidents immediately to fraud@smarttiffin.in

1.2 Third-Party Services

We are not responsible for any fees charged by third-party services (such as document verification services, courier services, or consultants) that you choose to use during the application process. Refunds for such services must be sought directly from those providers.

2. Project Funding Terms

2.1 Nature of Funding

Project funding up to Rs 5 lakhs provided to approved partners is structured as financial support for business establishment and operations. The specific terms (grant, loan, or equity investment) are defined in individual funding agreements.

2.2 Non-Refundable Usage

Once funding is disbursed and used for approved business purposes, it is generally non-refundable. However, unused funds or funds used for unauthorized purposes must be returned immediately upon request.

2.3 Repayment Obligations

If your funding is structured as a loan, repayment terms will be clearly specified in your funding agreement. These typically include:

• Repayment schedule and installment amounts
• Interest rates (if applicable)
• Grace period duration
• Prepayment options without penalties
• Consequences of default

3. Stall Support and Equipment

3.1 Equipment Ownership

Stall support up to Rs 10 lakhs includes equipment, infrastructure, and setup costs. Ownership terms are specified in individual partnership agreements and may include:

• Lease arrangements with option to purchase
• Direct ownership transfer upon meeting milestones
• Shared ownership models
• Equipment return requirements upon termination

3.2 Return Conditions

If you terminate your partnership or if the partnership is terminated by us, equipment return requirements depend on your specific agreement:

• Equipment must be returned in good working condition (normal wear accepted)
• You are responsible for packaging and return shipping costs
• Equipment will be inspected upon return
• Damage beyond normal wear may result in charges
• Refunds for equipment (if applicable) will be processed within 30 days of inspection

3.3 Purchased Equipment

Once you have completed payment for equipment or met ownership transfer conditions, the equipment becomes your property and is not eligible for refund.

4. Program Withdrawal

4.1 Voluntary Withdrawal

If you choose to withdraw from the program, you must:

• Provide 60 days' written notice
• Return any unused funding
• Settle all outstanding accounts
• Return equipment as per your agreement
• Complete any required transition procedures

4.2 Program Termination by Us

If we terminate your participation due to breach of terms or other valid reasons:

• All funding must be returned within 30 days
• Equipment must be returned immediately
• No refunds will be provided for services already rendered
• You remain liable for any damages or losses

4.3 Mutual Termination

If both parties agree to terminate the partnership, settlement terms will be negotiated on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such as:

• Duration of partnership
• Funds utilized vs. remaining
• Business milestones achieved
• Current financial obligations

5. Training and Support Services

5.1 Non-Refundable Services

The following services are non-refundable once provided:

• Training programs and workshops attended
• Mentorship and consulting services received
• Marketing materials and branding support provided
• Location scouting and setup assistance
• Administrative and operational support

5.2 Cancelled Services

If we cancel scheduled services or training sessions, we will either:

• Reschedule at no additional cost, or
• Provide alternative services of equivalent value, or
• Provide pro-rata refund if alternative cannot be arranged

6. Special Circumstances

6.1 Force Majeure

In case of force majeure events (natural disasters, pandemics, etc.) that prevent program continuation, refund terms will be determined on a case-by-case basis, considering:

• Duration and severity of the event
• Possibility of program resumption
• Funds already utilized
• Available relief measures

6.2 Health or Personal Emergencies

If you face serious health issues or personal emergencies that prevent you from continuing the program, we may offer:

• Temporary suspension of obligations
• Extended timelines for repayment
• Flexible settlement options
• Assignment of partnership to a family member (subject to eligibility)

7. Refund Process

7.1 How to Request

To request a refund (where applicable), you must:

• Submit a written refund request to refunds@smarttiffin.in
• Include your partnership ID and contact details
• Clearly state the reason for refund request
• Provide supporting documentation if required
• Specify bank account details for refund transfer

7.2 Processing Time

Approved refunds will be processed as follows:

• Simple refunds: 15-20 business days
• Refunds requiring verification: 30-45 business days
• Complex settlements: 60-90 business days

7.3 Refund Method

Refunds will be processed via bank transfer to the account registered in your partnership agreement. We cannot process refunds to third-party accounts.

8. Disputes

If you disagree with a refund decision:

• First, attempt resolution through direct communication with your program manager
• If unresolved, escalate to our disputes team at disputes@smarttiffin.in
• Internal review will be completed within 30 days
• If still unresolved, arbitration procedures as per your partnership agreement apply

9. Tax Implications

Refunds, repayments, and settlements may have tax implications. We recommend consulting with a tax professional. We will provide necessary documentation for tax purposes, but you are responsible for compliance with applicable tax laws.

10. Changes to This Policy

We reserve the right to modify this Refund Policy at any time. Changes will be posted on our website with an updated "Last Updated" date. Material changes that affect existing partnerships will be communicated directly to partners. Your continued participation constitutes acceptance of policy changes.