Rebate Offers

Manufacturers and retailers have been advertising products with rebates for years. In the consumer electronics market, many of these ads use the tagline 'Free After Rebate'. For the diligent consumer, this can be a bargain.

There are pitfalls to the rebate program, and the retailers are very much aware that the odds are in their favor that the rebate may not ever be redeemed by the consumer.

The facilitators or clearing houses for the rebate programs follow guidelines established by the sponsoring manufacturer or retailer. Consumers must carefully review the rebate submission requirements in order to qualify for the rebate. The slightest error will result in disqualification, or at best, notification that a resubmission is required. As many programs offer a 12 to 16 week time period for processing and check printing, any resubmission can greatly extend the waiting period for the consumer. A large percentage of consumers never submit the rebate, and many more never track the rebate through to fulfillment. For the retailer, this works in their favor.

There are rebate programs in place that might be described as deceptive practices by some judicial officials. Some state Attorneys General have investigated these programs and have been able to force changes. One of the worst programs in the consumer electronics retailing arena is that of OfficeMax. Requests for resubmissions happen often, or in some cases, the consumer is never notified of a problem. While OfficeMax has an online rebate tracking program, some submissions never appear in the listings due to improper labeling of SKU numbers, et cetera.

One of the best rebate programs is from the firm that many consumers love to hate...Microsoft. Their program often processes and mails the rebates in as little as four weeks. Staples also has an excellent program in place, with their 'Easy Rebate' program online.

Remember to followup and track your rebate. Companies may be counting on you to not followup...it adds to their bottom line when you don't. And be sure to make use of the online tracking sites and the toll-free telephone numbers.

If you continue to encounter problems or feel that you are being duped by someone's rebate offer, contact your state Attorney General or consumer affairs office.