Have you ever purchased a product with a rebate and then forgotten to send the rebate in? Many people do (which is what the companies are counting on). However, here are a few tips to help make sure you get your rebates:
- Apply for the refund as soon as possible after making the purchase. It's very easy to forget once the purchase is not fresh on your mind. Many times the expiration dates to send in the rebate go quickly.
- Apply for the rebate online, if possible. Rite Aid has a monthly Single Check rebate program where you can purchase the items at Rite Aid and then enter your receipt online. At the end of the month you can request your rebate check. It's really easy. I also recently purchased McAfee VirusScan when it was free after rebate from Amazon. I filled out the initial paperwork online and printed out a rebate form with a barcode. It streamlined the rebate process, and I should get my check more quickly than if I had just mailed in the materials. Plus, I can check on the status online.
- Check and double-check the rebate requirements. Make sure you include all items they ask for, such as the rebate form, receipt, UPC from the product, etc.
- Make a copy of all the materials that you mail. You will want to have a record of the contact information, in case your rebate does not come. Plus, if there is a dispute, you can send them a copy of your materials. I once had a rebate denied, because they claimed I did not send the UPC, but I disputed it with a firmly worded letter and a copy of the UPC (they mailed me the check).
- Keep a log of your outstanding rebates. Some items to include on the list are the item, the rebate amount, the date you mailed it, and a target receipt date based on the date you mailed the rebate and the time frame listed on the rebate form (usually 6-8 weeks). That way, you know when a rebate does not arrive, and you can dispute it. There are also websites out there where you can enter the rebate information and keep track of your rebates like RebateTracker.
How do you keep track of your rebates? Do you have a system that works great for you? Do you purchase products just because they have a rebate? For more frugal ideas, please visit Life As Mom.
Photo by a kartha at stock.xchng
jskell911
Great tips! I just started submitting rebates about 8 months ago so these should help
Guest
I use my digital camera to take photos of all of my submissions. No paying for copies and I can delete them when the check arrives.