I Used Free Cash of ₹125 on an Order of ₹125.03 and Still Paid ₹75—Zepto Free Cash Scam Exposed.

Many users expect ₹100 or ₹125 Free Cash to fully discount their order. But in reality, hidden delivery fees, processing charges, surge fees, and taxes are added at checkout—even after applying the free cash. In one recent case, a ₹125-off credit on a ₹125.03 order still left the user paying ₹75 out of pocket.

Real customers, real complaints

• Across Reddit and X (formerly Twitter), stories are piling up:
• A ₹199 order with ₹199 Free Cash still demanded ₹60.
• Another customer used ₹75 credit but ended up paying over ₹90 due to extra fees.
• Users frequently report the added fees seem roughly equal to or slightly more than their Free Cash, effectively canceling the benefit.

What experts and critics are saying

Zepto is being accused of using “dark patterns” in its app—design tricks that confuse users about final pricing. The government’s consumer affairs ministry recently issued Zepto and other platforms formal notices for such deceptive practices

Online communities like one Reddit group have grown rapidly with nearly 10,000 members sharing similar experiences.

Why is this happening now?

As Zepto aims to raise fresh funds—recent reports suggest a new funding round valuing it at $7 billion—its aggressive growth is under scrutiny.Critics argue that when Free Cash is applied, Zepto quietly increases other fees, so the net bill stays similar to the undiscounted price.

What competitors like Blinkit and Instamart are doing

Competitors in the quick commerce space—Blinkit, Swiggy Instamart, Flipkart Minutes, Tata BigBasket—are watching closely. Some customer reviews suggest platforms like Blinkit are more transparent about discount application and final pricing. As customer trust dips, these rival services may pick up users disillusioned with Zepto’s billing tricks.

What you should do as a customer

• Always review your final bill carefully after applying Free Cash.
• Compare what you’d pay with and without coupons—all costs included.
• If you notice hidden fees, take screenshots and raise awareness.
• And, don’t forget to check other apps for better clarity and pricing.

Zepto’s flashy Free Cash deals look great—but many users feel like they’re paying anyway because hidden charges are quietly offsetting the benefit. With regulators and users calling out these tactics, and rivals offering clearer pricing, Zepto risks losing trust at the very moment it needs it most.

Startupro previously also exposed a similar scam by Zepto. Check it out here.