Can we trust manufacturers who offer Mail-in-rebates (MIR) for their products?

Question

I have made many purchases with MIR. Though some companies send you back the rebate responsibly, some of them don't. When we call to find out what happened to our rebates, they give you an excuse as to why our application for the rebate was not accepted. There always seems to be some catch in MIR. Either they say that you haven't met with their requirements, or that they don't have the necessary details, or they just say its not available for us without any reason. I am sure many of you have lost so many Dollars to these people. I feel this is a very unethical thing to do. Its equal to cheating your customers. Is it just their way of marketing the products? What do you say?

Answer 1

It is just a way of marketing and making it appear that their product is less expensive.  They count on the fact that most people will not send in the rebate, or will not send it in correctly.  

If you rely want the rebate just make sure you complete all the required information.  Otherwise, think of the rebates as bonus, and don't take it into account when pricing out products.

Answer 2

I never buy products based on a rebate check to make the item lower.

There is simply NO guarantee that you will actually get the money, EVEN if you do everything right.

Unless it's a 'instant' rebate I think it's a flip of the coin as to actually getting the check.

Answer 3

When you send in rebates, you need to be VERY CAREFUL in following the instructions.  If you don't, they can legally withhold your rebate.  I am personally very careful and have never failed to get my rebate check.  The main things to watch for are:

1. You bought the product in the timeframe specified and it is shown on your receipt.

2. You mailed in your rebate before it was too late.  Some rebates require that it be POSTMARKED by a certain date while others require that it is RECEIVED by that date.  

3.  You included everything they asked for.  Typically this means:

a. the rebate form and/or your name and address info,

b. the proof of purchase and/or UPC code,

c.  your receipt.

Hope that helps.

Answer 4

Only if you're OK with endless frustration chasing down your rebate. It's an ill-advised marketing ploy that counts on your inability to follow implicit instructions and assumes you are a dumb consumer. Rather, give your money to a manufacturer who gives you the deal at the register to begin with and don't patronize these predatory retail tactics.