Rebates = Money in the Mailbox

Saving more in a grocery budget often takes the form of non-coupon incentives. One of the oldest methods is the rebate. Offered by both stores and manufactures,rebates can be easy with just a little organization. And even better, can make many things FREE.

Some rebates, such as those offered by RiteAid, can be done online, using only the store receipt. But most rebates still need to be mailed in. So here are some helpful hints to make claiming cash or gifts easy to remember and easy to execute:

- Ask for a rebate receipt, or check the rebates item(s) out separately. This frees up the receipt, lessening any reluctance to send it off.

- Keep envelopes, scissors, and stamps in one place for quick rebate completion and mailing.

- Prepare the rebate immediately upon returning home from the store. If the UPC codes off the packaging are needed, don’t be afraid to cut them. Most items have inner and outer layers of packaging. If faced with single-layer packaging, just transfer the product to another container and send away.

- Keep a notebook or computer file with the details of each rebate: what it was, when it was sent, the promised cash amount or gift, and estimated arrival date. It’s also a good idea to keep copies of all the elements sent, in case the rebate never shows up.

Sending rebates out immediately, before you forget, can save a household hundreds of dollars a year. Plus, getting a rebate check back, just when you could use a little extra cash, is a blessing. 

Look for rebates that offer non-cash items as well. A great way to save on the gift budget, companies often give away items like blankets, watches, clocks, shirts and more. Such things make great Christmas and birthday gifts. And the price can’t be beat!