Rebates and Try Me Free

F-R-E-E!  My favorite 4-letter word!  A close second is "rebate"--even if it is does have 6 letters.  It seems some people I've talked to in the past have been leery of rebate offers, having been disappointed in the past or not having completed every requirement needed to satisfy the offer.  I've always had pretty good luck with them and have seen more popping up the last few days.  I'll share some of the things I've learned myself and through others when applying for a rebate.

• Read, reread, and read again all requirements listed on the rebate form.  I often have my husband read them back to me as I physically place each item needing to be mailed inside the envelope.
• Often, the UPC (i.e. barcode) has to be removed from the package and mailed in.  Keep in mind that the company is aware that some folks will buy the product, mail in for the rebate, then return the item to the store.  This is not only dishonest, but it ends up costing the consumer (us!) in the long run.
• If buying more than one product that has a rebate, do separate transactions at the register.  Usually the ORIGINAL receipt is needed for the offers, so for more than one product, more than one receipt is needed.
• Use coupons on the products.  If the maximum rebate is less than the cost of the product, don't be afraid to use a coupon to help make the item cheaper (and possibly free!).  Manufacturers will (typically) honor the original price of the item and not subtract coupon amounts.  However, check the rebate form to be sure.
• Fill out and mail in the form (and necessary items) as soon as you get home.  I'm not a manufacturer, but I imagine they count on the consumer to not remember to mail the rebate in before the promotion is over.  It's just easier
• If possible, make copies of all submitted items.  Write the date that it was mailed so you will have an idea of when to expect your rebate back.  In the past, I've kept a file of all submitted rebates and as I received them in the mail, I would check them off my list and throw out the paperwork.

I hope this helps and encourages you to start taking advantage of free products.  Here are several rebate forms online that can get you started with some freebies!

Cortaid up to $7.99
Renuzit Try Me Free
Bissell Stomp and Go Pads - Try Me Free (up to $5.99)

I also found Freeman's Avocado and Oatmeal clay mask bottle at CVS this morning with a Try Me Free label wrapped around it.  I checked the price ($3.99) and the rebate was up to $3.99, so I snatched one up. 

NOTE: In this case, the UPC was not required (which would completely destroy the packaging!)