Neutrogena Giveaway Winner and Rebate Tips

And the winner is....... Post number 25, Deanna G! Congrats and we will be contacting you soon for shipping info. :)

All your comments about mail-in rebates were great. But it looks like some of you have had some difficulty in the past. Here are some tips to hopefully make things go a little smoother next time:

• First and foremost, is the rebate worth your time and a stamp? Example, I once saw a $1 rebate on a $10 bottle of wine. After stamp, the mail-in rebate would have equated to a $0.56 coupon off the purchase price of the wine. Not worth it! On the other hand, if you have a product that is "free" (via coupons, Extra Care bucks, Register Rewards, etc..) to start with. Then the mail-in rebate will make you a profit! (like the Neutrogena from the giveaway).
• Start by keeping all your rebate information in one folder or notebook.
• Be sure to read all the fine print first. Do you need to send in the UPC or just write it in? When are the purchase dates?
• Take care of it right away. If possible, come right home and put the receipt and or UPC in your rebate folder. You don't have to fill everything out right away, but at least get things set aside before you forget.
• Make a copy or scan your receipt and the rebate form. (if you don't have a scanner, just take a picture of it)
• Make note of a phone number associated with the rebate and the day you mailed in the rebate so you can track how long it has been. Most rebates say you should receive payment within 6-8 weeks.
• If you haven't received it in 8 weeks, call. Just be aware that most companies use rebate processing agencies, so you probably won't be talking directly to the product company.
• Once you receive your rebate keep a running total to track your savings!
• Keep your eyes open for rebates everywhere. They are listed on company web sites, on hang tags directly on the product and in coupon inserts to name a few.

I hope some of these tips have helped. There may be the occasional bump in the road, but for the most part, mail-in rebates are a great money saving tool. I have cashed in $300 in mail in rebate checks so far this year.  Do you know of any great rebate offers, leave us a comment or send us an e-mail at [email protected].