A Review of 4 Rebate Programs

Rebate programs have become increasingly popular in recent years. Once you find programs that actually do return your money as promised, the concept of putting money forward first becomes less of a fear. In actuality, valid rebate programs in convenient neighborhood stores are some of the best kept secrets of shoppers who are looking to save some money on every day items. This is especially true in drug stores where there are now established rebate programs. Below is my review of three programs that I have found to be valid and excellent and one that is to be avoided.

#1 Rite Aid
Rite Aid has the best rebate program. Running on a monthly offer basis, you can open an online account and enter your receipts to receive rebates through the mail without having to waste money on stamps. However, if you do not have internet access, the option of mailing your receipt is still available. Each week, check out the Rite Aid advertisement for rebate offers, many of which feature free products! This is a great way to get free items. Many of these are also new and exciting products that you would like to try but may not want to risk your precious earned dollars on. At the end of the month, you can request your check online or mail all your receipts and follow the rebate form instructions. About 3-4 weeks later, you will receive your rebate in the mail. Caution: Rebate offers have a set timeframe during which you must purchase them to qualify for the rebate

#2 Walgreens
Walgreens also often has free offers but on a monthly basis. This means that at the beginning of the month, you can get a full list of the rebate offers and buy them all at once. The rebates are currently only offered by submitting your forms through the mail, but you can track your rebate through their website. Walgreens does not have as many rebate values as Rite Aid but the offers are usually of higher value with everything from makeup to vitamins for free each month. Receive your check in the mail 3-4 week. Caution: Remember to fill out the rebate form completely and to follow the directions on how to submit your receipt to ensure your full rebate

#3 Savon
Savon gives rebates in the form of a giftcard instead of a check. Although the previous 2 drugstores also have this option, it is always nicer to get your dollars back in the form of money that can be spent anywhere. However, if you shop often at Savon, this is a great deal. You can also use your giftcard to purchase the next set of rebate items that you want and so you can continuously recycle what you have put in. Caution: Since you get your money back via giftcard, it is not totally free products/money

**Ecost.com**
This review is different from the 3 above because it is often highly suspicious and, from experience, not valid. Some of the technological deals advertised seem almost too good to be true, with over 50% rebates at times. However, products often come with missing code numbers and/or rebate forms that are essential for receiving your rebate. Although most of the forms are available online, many of the criteria cannot be fully met. Additionally, items arrive only days before the expiration of the rebate. Communication with the website is not helpful at all, returns are highly complicated, and you end up having to come to terms with the fact that you are not getting any of your money back.

All in all, be careful when reading the fine print. This is especially true with items of higher value and items bought on technology sites. However, when you find a rebate program that is valid, you will see that these rebate programs are great. The only thing to be aware of is that you do have to pay taxes and that amount will not be returned to you. That being said, a few cents is not bad considering the products you will be getting.