Your Better Business Bureau offers advice for redeeming a rebate:
Read instructions carefully
The guidelines for redeeming a rebate can be extensive and missing steps may delay the process or result in loss of the rebate. Be sure to follow the instructions and read the fine print.
Redeem rebates immediately
Some rebates must be redeemed within a certain amount of time following the purchase. To avoid misplacing the necessary receipts or packing, send rebates immediately after purchases are made.
Keep the packaging
Rebates often require UPC bar codes or other identifiers found on the packaging to be included with the paperwork, so don’t throw away your boxes or tear through the bar codes when opening the gift.
Make copies of everything
Keep a copy of paperwork mailed to the retailer or manufacturer for the rebate. It’s the only record you’ll have of the transaction. If you filed your rebate electronically, keep a copy of the completed electronic submission.
Know who to contact
Some retailers and manufacturers use third-party fulfillment companies for processing rebates so keep in mind you might be dealing with a different business when it comes to tracking down your rebate.
If the rebate never arrives or arrives late, you can file a complaint with your BBB by calling (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301 or visiting www.bbb.org.
John North is president and CEO of the Dayton Better Business Bureau.
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