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How To Use Product Rebate, Refund and Premium Offers

By Donna L Montaldo, About.com

Companies use rebates to entice the consumer into purchasing an item. Remember, it is your responsibility to follow the instructions accurately. Failing to do so will result in disqualification, something the retailer is betting on!
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 5 min

Here's How:

  1. Carefully read the instructions on each form.
  2. Complete all written information legibly.
  3. Make certain you meet the "date" criteria of the offers.
  4. Enclose all proper documentation that is required. This may include register receipts with the product circled, upc codes, packaging labels or other criteria.
  5. Make a copy of all forms and documentation that you mail into the company.
  6. Attach proper postage or chances are your envelope will be rejected.
  7. Record or log your rebate application.
  8. Wait the allotted time before following up with a complaint. Generally this is a 6 - 8 week wait.
  9. If no premium arrives, do follow up! Call the company and find out the status of your claim. Be relentless!

Tips:

  1. If your penmanship is poor, ask a friend to complete all forms required for the premium or rebate.
  2. A small pocket notebook works well for keeping good records of when you mailed the rebate form in and necessary documentation if follow-up in needed.

What You Need:

  • Use of a copy machine or scanner
  • A pocket notebook
  • Good follow-up skills
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