One of the biggest promotional advertising among electronic manufacturers as well as car retailers is rebates. There are two types of rebates: one that lowers the price at the time of purchase and one that is a mail-in rebate which partially reimburses the consumer after the purchase. Rebates can sometimes be tricky, so be sure to read all the fine print. Additionally, stay on top of the company who advertise the rebate, since fraud in rebates is unfortunately on the rise. Following these easy steps will make the rebate mail-in process a little easier and will ensure that you will be protected against fraud.
Instructions
1. Read the rebate terms, including all fine print, very carefully. Don’t just believe what the store or sales associate tells you. You need to be aware of every term of the rebate. Most importantly, check the deadline of when you have to mail in documentation to receive your rebate. Typically, this information must be sent to the manufacturer within 30 days of your purchase.
2. Make a copy of all of the documentation you are sending to the manufacturer in order to receive the rebate. That is, make a copy of your original receipt, proof of purchase and any other information requested by the manufacturer. Also photocopy the envelope which you will mail to the manufacturer.
3. Mail all the documentation to the manufacturer as soon as possible. Don’t wait until the deadline. It’s better to get it in right away.
4. Mark on your calendar when you should receive your rebate. By law, companies must send their rebates in the promised time frame. If no time is stated in the rebate’s terms, then it should be sent to you in a reasonable time frame, such as within 30 days.
5. If the rebate does not arrive in the promised time frame, call the manufacturer immediately. If at any time, the company denies existence of a rebate or you still never receive it after calling and notifying them, contact your attorney general.
