I’ve had it.  No more.  Ain’t gonna do it.

No More Rebates.

I’ve always disliked rebates; they take time to get money back, sometimes you don’t get money back and it is always a hassle.  Even some rebates offered from online places like Staples that automatically submit the rebate for you are just annoying.

First, it is a evil marketing tool to try to convince you to buy something by artificially lowering the advertised price.

Second, there is no guarantee that you will get the promised money back.  I’ve dealt with some rebate services that actively try NOT to give the advertised rebate.

Third, because of the delay between purchase/rebate submission and the date when the rebate might arrive, consumers are very likely to not remember and complain if it doesn’t arrive.

With that in mind, this year’s holiday shopping is rebate free.  I have actively skipped over items I might have purchased because they have a rebate. 

With one exception.  I bought a piece of software that offered a rebate or some free accessories; since I would have bought the software at the advertised price without the rebate, I bought it, filled out the form online for the free accessories and sent in the receipt and UPC code.  Even if I don’t get the accessories (and I think I will) I’ve got software I needed and use.

So, I’m starting my war on rebates.  Instant rebate in store? Not a problem – I don’t have to send it in or post something for it.  Anything else?  Not going to happen.