Do you know what 載具 is in Taiwan?

I remember the first time I returned to Taiwan after teaching abroad in the U.S. for a few years — I felt a bit lost at the 全聯 (Quánlián) supermarket when a clerk at the cashier asked me, “你有載具嗎? (nǐ yǒu zàijù ma?)” I was confused — what is 載具 (zàijù)? I was a bit shocked that, as a Taiwanese person, I didn’t understand what they were saying to me! 😅

When I got home, I asked my sister, and that’s when I finally understood this question. I downloaded the “發票載具(fāpiào zàijù)” app right away!

For Taiwanese people, an invoice isn’t just something you throw in the trash! It actually serves a fun purpose 😉 We save every invoice to enter the 統一發票 (tǒngyī fāpiào) receipt lottery. The odds aren’t bad — you might just get lucky and win!;)

Now you know why some Taiwanese always keep the receipts you might want to throw away — they’re for the 統一發票(tǒngyī fāpiào) lottery! That’s also why cashiers often ask, “你有載具嗎？” (nǐ yǒu zàijù ma?) If you have one, justshow your app’s barcode and they’ll scan it. The receipt will be automatically stored in the app.

If you hold a valid Taiwanese ARC or APRC, you can download the app and register it using your phone number and local ID. No worries — if you’re just visiting Taiwan, you can still receive paper receipts.

If you are a foreigner, you can redeem lottery winnings from a paper receipt, but you must present the original receipt (filled out on the back) and a valid passport, ARC, or entry permit. Remember to claim within the designated three‑month window after draw date.

There are paper receipt in Taiwan! You can find the lottery number printed on each one!

Now you know why some Taiwanese always keep the receipts you might want to throw away!

I hope this is helpful for you! 💛

Your Chinese teacher,

Christine