California deposit guide

California CRV label: 5c, 10c and 25c

Quick answerCA CRV indicates California Redemption Value. Refund rates depend on container size and format.

Eligible scope

What it applies to

Beverage containers covered by California’s programme.

Package check

How to identify it

Look for approved wording such as CA CRV, CA CASH REFUND or CALIFORNIA REDEMPTION VALUE.

Illustrative beverage package showing where to find the deposit identifier in California
WasteSpot recognition illustration. Open the official source for exact current artwork or wording.

Return route

How to get the refund

Use a certified recycling centre or obligated retail return route.

  1. Check that the mark, wording and barcode match the local scheme.
  2. Empty the container and keep it in the condition required by the system.
  3. Confirm that the selected retailer, machine or redemption point accepts the format.

Important limit

Some container categories and transition dates have specific labelling rules.

Official source

Checked 2026-08-16