Rebates

[darktiger]

This explains why I sometimes do not get my rebates.

http://consumerist.com/consumer/fry....ter-297016.php

[andyz]

I had one issue with Canon on a rebate. I followed up when I didn't have it, it was on a lens as I recall. I was told by the man who spoke broken English that I didn't qualify for the rebate on the camcorder. I told him that was fine, I didn't apply for one on that, my rebate was for this, and I gave details. I faxed him copied of the items I mailed and was told I didn't qualify for the rebate on the camcorder. Urrr.

I went through Canon's website and complained. Then I got an email that my rebate was coming. And it did.

[KingViper]

I can truthfully say I have ALWAYS received my rebates. I fill them out as perfect as possible, checking and rechecking the requirements. If the rebate includes a list of requirements, I actually put check marks through them. This not only tells me I've done them, but also tells the people checking the requirements. I also scan copies of everything I send in and I have never had to call and ask about a rebate not showing up.

Could just be luck of the draw I suppose.

[Craig]

I have never been attracted to products that offer rebates. They make it sound like a good deal, but in reality (mine of course) they make it such a hassle that its not worth my time. I believe that its a practice manufaturers do knowing full well that most people won't even submit them. It's like gift cards. Restaurants and retailers know that only about 25% of them get redeemed overall.

[Bartman01]

Rebates are generally handled by third parties who guarantee to do so at a fixed cost.

So if company XYZ decides to offer a rebate on widgets of $5.00, then company ABC runs the numbers on expected sales and actual submissions of the proper forms and agrees to pay out all submitted rebates at a cost of $50,000. Now if ABC pays out $40,000 in rebates then they get to keep the extra 10,000. However, if they pay out $60,000 then they are out $10,000. So it is in their best interest to deny/ignore valid claims.

Ever notice that the rebates for different products all seem to go to the same few places? For example I just bought a Blu-Ray player and an HD-DVD player. The 'get 5 free disc' forms are both addressed to the same location with different PO box numbers.