Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Girl Scout Cookies cost?
$3.50 per box.

Are cookies the same price nationwide?
Actually, no. Each Girl Scout council sets its own sale dates, price for cookies, and recognition programs for the girls.

Who bakes the cookies?
There are two licensed bakers from which councils can choose. ABC Bakers will bake the delicious cookies for North Carolina Coastal Pines troops for the 2008 Cookie Sale.

Why do the cookies have different names around the country?
Each council contracts with one of the two licensed bakers.  The bakers choose the names of the cookies and offer eight cookie varieties each year.  The three cookie varieties that both bakeries make are Thin Mints, Peanut Butter Sandwich (or Do-si-dos) and Shortbread (or Trefoils). The national Girl Scout organization reviews and approves all varieties proposed by the bakers. Each bakery names its own cookies, so Girl Scout Cookies that are quite similar may have different names. 

When should customers pay for Girl Scout cookies?
Girl Scouts are instructed to collect payment when cookies are delivered – not when collecting orders. If a customer insists on paying for cookies when placing an order, the customer should receive a receipt from the Girl Scout listing her Troop number and Leader’s phone number.

Who can sell Girl Scout cookies?
Registered Girl Scouts can sell Girl Scout cookies.  Participation in the sale is voluntary and is not mandatory.

Can cookies be returned?
If a customer receives a box of cookies that is damaged, stale, or for any reason does not meet the customer’s expectations, he/she should return the box to the troop or girl from whom the cookies were purchased to receive a replacement box of cookies or a refund.

Are cookie purchases tax deductible?
Yes and no.  Cookies purchased for personal or group consumption are not tax deductible.  However, cookies purchased for a charitable organization (such as a food pantry or Operation Cookie Drop), where the customer does not receive the cookies or benefit directly by paying for the cookies, are tax deductible.  Contributions in excess of $250 should be reported to Girl Scouts - North Carolina Coastal Pines so that an official receipt can be provided by the council. 

If you have a question that is not addressed here, please click here to send an email to the Coastal Pines Product Sales Department.