Karl_in_Calif once bubbled...
Rebates are a bad idea.
Just say no.
Then they will offer you a better alternative, usually.
Shake yourself. Rebates are a great thing.
The rebate administration of some companies may blow, but for manufacturers and for savvy consumers, rebates rule.
Its part of my biz - so I see both sides. Manufacturers live on the breakage (non-redemption...as redemption for most consumer products is less than 25%)...they are essential in many industries (automotive, consumer electronics, computer, etc...) Ever leveraged an auto rebate to add some big $ to your down payment on a car?
I could go on and on about the tons of cash I save every year by leveraging manufacturer rebate programs. Its simple - cut out the UPC, send it in with your reciept, save copies and watch the mail. Its free money. What's the problem? Will I cut a box and lick a stamp for $15? For $30? For $200? In a minute! For less than $5.00 you're dreaming. But for most rebates in the $10 - $200 range, you bet.
Avoiding them? I don't get it. I look for them - and with all points about equal, rebates drive my purchase decision.
Amazon is amazing with this - especially over the holidays. Since they've dropped their free shipping limit from $50 to $25 on most electronics, they also offer rebates on networking, PC and most name-brand electronics. No tax, free freight, rebate? Why start the car to shop?
Rebates rule.
K
