Let's Talk Rebates

Rebates are incentives manufacturers use so you will buy their products.  Rebates work for the manufacturers because they are a very straight-forward way for them to promote their products.  However, we need to consider several factors to make rebates work for us.  To receive a rebate, we're required to make a purchase or purchases determined by the manufacturer.  We then, usually, mail in a rebate form with UPC's and cash register receipts.  Then we wait for the check.  Usually 4-6 weeks.

Let's be smart about rebates.

#1.  Don't buy items you will never use simply to receive a rebate.

You may be required to purchase a number of different manufacturer's items to qualify for the rebate.  Make sure you will use ALL the items you purchase.  What good is a $5 rebate when you spent $7 on items that'll be sitting on your shelf and never be used?

#2.  Be very careful in filling out the rebate form.
(If you need to download the form -- do that as soon as you become aware of the rebate offer.) 

Some manufacturers will deny the rebate if the form isn't filled out correctly.  It's also a good idea to make a copy of the form and any receipts.  Along with the copies, I also make a note on the form with the date I mailed the rebate.  I keep these forms in a file until the rebate is received.

#3.  Buy the rebate items when they're on sale.

Just because you're getting money in the mail, don't throw all your couponing sense out the window.  You want to pay the very least possible for the rebate items.  Check the Grocery Smarts website for coupons.  Watch the Grocery Smarts lists for sales on the required items.  If you're thrifty, you may get the required purchases for free after the rebate.  There's a good chance you'll MAKE MONEY on the deal after rebate.

Our ultimate goal is to save money!  The lure of a rebate may sway you from your couponing resolve.  Don't be swayed!  Take all your coupon knowledge and apply it to the rebate process and you can't help but save money.