Virginia § 59.1-420 - Conditions for handling charges and shipping charges
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 59.1-420 — Conditions for handling charges and shipping charges, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 59.1-420. Conditions for handling charges and shipping charges
A. It shall be unlawful to notify a person that he will receive a gift, prize or item of value and that as a condition of receiving the gift, prize or item of value he will be required to pay any money, or purchase or lease (including rent) any goods or services, if any one or more of the following conditions exist:
1. The shipping charge exceeds:
a. The cost of postage or the charge of a delivery service in the business of delivering goods of like size, weight, and kind for shipping the gift, prize or item of value from the geographic area in which the gift, prize or item of value is being distributed; or
b. The exact amount for shipping paid to an independent fulfillment house or an independent supplier, either of which is in the business of shipping goods for shippers other than the offeror of the gift, prize or item of value; or
2. The handling charge exceeds the lesser of five dollars or the actual cost of handling.
B. This section shall apply to all offers of prizes, gifts or items of value covered by this chapter.
1989, c. 689.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 59.1-420
What does Code of Virginia § 59.1-420 cover?
Section 59.1-420 ("Conditions for handling charges and shipping charges") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 59.1-420?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 59.1-420" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 59.1-420 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.