Why do I have to threaten companies for my rebates

[JenniferC]

Has anyone else had A LOT of problems with companies sending rebate checks? In the last few months I've threatened to sue both CompUsa and Staples. Luckily I make copies of EVERYTHING included for a rebate. Receipts, UPC codes, & Rebate forms. I still haven't received the rebates from Outpost's battery charger or walkietalkies.
First Compusa sends me emails stating I didn't purchase the items on the correct day, I replied with two nasty emails threatening that indeed I did, and I had all the proof. Magically the next day I get " Your rebates are now valid"
Same with Staples. Is it just me or are 'free after rebates' becoming a scam?

[crazytimes]

I work at Staples. I strongly recommend you submit the Staples rebate ONLINE. I haven't had any problem getting any of my rebates and by submitting it online you can track them and whatnot.

[ShainaT]

Rebates are such a pain in the butt! I wonder what percentage of people NEVER mail the forms in? I wish they would just take the $$ off the price when you pay for it.

[telos2000]

Maybe they choose the first definition and you choose the second.

From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) i:

Rebate \Re*bate"\, v. t. [F. rebattre to beat again; pref re-
re- + battre to beat, L. batuere to beat, strike. See
Abate.]
1. To beat to obtuseness; to deprive of keenness; to blunt;
to turn back the point of, as a lance used for exercise.

But doth rebate and blunt his natural edge. --Shak.

2. To deduct from; to make a discount from, as interest due,
or customs duties. --Blount.

[bestmidwest]

Originally Posted by telos2000

Maybe they choose the first definition and you choose the second.

From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) i:

Rebate \Re*bate"\, v. t. [F. rebattre to beat again; pref re-
re- + battre to beat, L. batuere to beat, strike. See
Abate.]
1. To beat to obtuseness; to deprive of keenness; to blunt;
to turn back the point of, as a lance used for exercise.

But doth rebate and blunt his natural edge. --Shak.

2. To deduct from; to make a discount from, as interest due,
or customs duties. --Blount.

ROFLMAO! I never knew the other definition...now it all makes sense.

I haven't had a problem with my rebates at all. That's a great idea to make copies though. I think that's terrible that you have to threaten them...what a waste of time and patience!

[mrbowler]

Companies do these rebate things in the hope that people won't bother or will forget to send in rebate. They have a good idea as to what percentage will not, and then they have a estimate of how many can be rejected for not following rules etc. If it's a larger rebate-you can send it certified.