Taking the Bait Out of Rebates

The FTC Cautions Consumers Against Being Baited By Rebates

Rebate offers can be tempting, with instant cash rebates which can be used in the store immediately, or promises of partial or full reimbursements after the purchase. But most rebates are of the mail-in variety. They require consumers to pay the full cost of an item at the time purchase, then to send documentation to the manufacturer or retailer to receive a rebate by mail.

How Long Should It Take To Get A Rebate?

The documentation required generally includes the original sales receipt, UPC code, rebate slip, and the customer's name, address and telephone number. In most cases, this paperwork must be sent to the manufacturer or retailer within 30 days of the purchase. Consumers generally receive their rebates up to 12 weeks later.

But the Federal Trade Commission cautions consumers against being "baited" by rebates that never arrive or arrive far later than promised. By law, companies are required to send rebates within the time frame promised, or if no time is specified, within 30 days.

When purchasing a product that offers a rebate, the FTC encourages consumers to:

• Follow the instructions on the rebate form and enclose all required documentation in the envelope when filing for a rebate.

• Make a copy of all paperwork to be mailed when applying for a rebate. It's the only record a consumer will have of the transaction if anything goes wrong.

• Contact the company if the rebate doesn't arrive within the time promised.

• If the rebate never arrives or arrives late, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, the state Attorney General or the local Better Business Bureau.

More: How to Avoid the Rebate Rip-Off

Source: FTC