If you go to a restaurant and end up being charged a price higher than that which was advertised, you don't have to pay the difference.

That's what the Ministry of Economy, Industry and Commerce (MEIC) said recently in a statement reminding consumers of their rights when faced with a pricing discrepancy.

Businesses are obligated by law to advertise prices with all taxes and charges included. If an advertised price at a business doesn't include taxes, the client doesn't have to pay the taxes, according to a statement from the state-owned Banco Nacional publicizing the ministry's announcement.

Businesses can lose money because of this policy, especially those whose menus have prices that don't include the 13% sales tax and the 10% service charge. According to the law to promote competition and defend consumers, it's the business' job to clearly inform the consumer in detail and in Spanish of the total price they will be charged.

Consumers obligated to pay prices above those advertised can get their money back by filing a complaint with the Economy Ministry. To file a complaint, call 800-266-7866.