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Don’t get roped in by tricky rebate offers

By Attorney General Roy Cooper

21 June 2007 — Have you ever picked up the Sunday paper only to notice dozens of ads for big ticket items at unbelievable prices? For example, electronic stores offer big screen televisions and computers for a fraction of their retail prices. But once you read a little further, you realize that these enticing offers are made possible only with a rebate from the store or manufacturer.

If you’re like many people, these deals lure you to your local store to purchase a product, in hopes of receiving money back through the rebate offer. Sometimes the rebate can be immediate; the store deducts the promised amount at the register when you purchase the item. But many rebates require you to mail in certain information, such as a rebate form and proof of purchase, or to go online and submit information, before you’ll get any money back.

The catch is that if you don’t follow the instructions exactly, you may never see the rebate. Most mail-in rebates have very specific guidelines and timeframes. Consumers are typically asked to provide a completed rebate form, an original sales receipt, and the UPC or “bar” code from the product to verify that they purchased the item and are eligible for the rebate. Sometimes the complexity of the claim process causes problems and frustration, and many people either forget to mail in their claim or don’t follow the instructions carefully.

An increasingly common but controversial type of rebate is known as a long-term rebate or voucher. These rebates are typically offered on large home improvement projects, cars, and cosmetic surgery. Advertisements for these rebates claim you will get thousands of dollars cash back on your purchase if you follow a few instructions. To claim most long-term rebates, consumers must wait as many as four years before sending in their forms. In many cases, the claim is rejected for allegedly not following instructions, or consumers learn that after four years the rebate fulfillment company has gone out of business, leaving no money to pay customers.

To make sure you get the money you’re owed next time you apply for a rebate, remember the following:

• Claiming a rebate can be a long, frustrating process. If you can’t afford the item without the rebate, reconsider your decision to buy it.

• Follow the instructions on the rebate form carefully. If you have questions, call the company that administers the rebate program. Mistakes or misunderstandings can cause your rebate claim to be denied.

• Make a copy of all paperwork before you mail in the rebate. Keep a copy of everything in case a problem arises. It’s also a good idea to send your rebate by certified mail or get delivery confirmation to verify that the company received it.

• Contact the company if the rebate does not arrive within the time promised. Most manufacturers and rebate companies have websites and phone numbers to track your rebate.

• If your rebate never arrives, file a complaint with my Consumer Protection Division by calling toll-free 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or go online to www.ncdoj.com to print a complaint form.

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