March 30, 2007

Rebates For Better or Worse

While most Gripe Line readers seem to share my dislike of rebates, there are those who actually seem to enjoy chasing down their wayward rebate checks. Even when they do encounter a deadbeat rebate, such readers always seem to find a silver lining. "Have you been getting complaints about rebate programs getting worse?" one reader wrote. "I frequently buy software with rebate offers and I'm generally quite partic

"Fast forward to February, 2007," the reader continues. "I received a letter from Covad indicating that their records show that a rebate check had been cut but not cashed. Included was a form for me to complete indicating that I understood that the previous check would be null and void and they would cut me a new check. I promptly sent this in. Needless to say I was stunned. I was so impressed that at least ONE company would have a 'rebate reconciliation' department that I felt they deserved a big kudo for this. I'd hope you see fit to acknowledge this in the Gripe Line as I think that we can't stop bad behavior only by highlighting abuses, but also by congratulating the good."

OK. But I'm not sure that even rebate reconciliation departments are going to reconcile to whole idea of dealing with all that paperwork in the hopes of getting a check in four to six months. How about you? Are you one of those who takes pride in saving money via rebates, or do you wish they would just outlaw rebates entirely. Tell us your thoughts on the Gripe Line voice mail at 1 888 875-7916 or write me at Foster@gripe2ed.com.

Read and post comments about this story here.

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