Ribbis- Buying something for others and charging extra

Question:

Yesterday I ordered caps online for my friends and I, being as I did not want to deal with change I charged them 4.50 a cap instead of the cost 4.20 (these were customized caps that I designed) they first paid me back after I order it before it’s gonna arrive, is this considered ribbis being as I was buying it for them essentially lending them, the money and then charging them more, or can it be considered a fee for me placing the order, if possible please quote sources

Answer:

Hello,

The understanding that I have, is that you didn't make up with them that you are charging a higher price, rather you just told them that this is what they should give you. In that case you are correct that it would be an issue of ribbis. You can't just take the extra money for the bother without telling this to them in advance, because when you paid for it with your credit card essentially you gave them a loan.

There are however a number of options for you to do at this point.

If they tell you that the extra money is for the service of ordering and designing the caps, that is fine.

Alternatively, if they say that they are mochel the extra money is considered and they say that it is as if they received it back from you, (hareini k'eilu hiskabalti), then it is considered as if you already returned it to them, and the extra  money would then be considered a non-related gift.

Regarding actually returning the money, there is controversy if this is required or not (if it is considered "ribis meucheres" or not). It is preferred though, for you to return it. Another option would be to save everyone the bother, if they agree that you will put the extra money into tzedakah for them, the next time you give tzedakah. This way they got back their money, and you will save the bother of getting it to them.

Best wishes