Staples rebate process?

[jmebonner]

I bought an Envision 17" CRT monitor from staples that had a $50 rebate. I then filled out the on-line rebate form, so do I still need to get the receipt and mail in the postal rebate form?
Please advise...
James

D'oh, I asked too soon, I just got this email--->

We have received your online rebate submission and are waiting to receive the supporting paperwork. Upon receipt of your documents, we will begin processing your rebate.



Thanks anyway guys!

[Ruler2112]

I'm forced to wonder why they need the supporting paperwork in this age of interlinked computer systems. Seems to me they'd take your sales order number, see that you actually bought it, and process it. That would probably make rebates too easy though- less hoops to jump through.

[jmebonner]

Yeah, I think you're right, they're hoping I'll misplace the receipt, the envelope, or simply forget, netting them a quick $50.

[Lumeria]

Originally posted by Ruler2112
I'm forced to wonder why they need the supporting paperwork in this age of interlinked computer systems. Seems to me they'd take your sales order number, see that you actually bought it, and process it. That would probably make rebates too easy though- less hoops to jump through.

Yep. My guess would be that the "supporting paperwork" they really care about is the UPC codes, rendering the product difficult if not impossible to return gracefully. Beyond that, my understanding of rebates is that their whole point is to lure people into purchasing something they might not otherwise buy but who do anyway because they think they're getting something for a steal. Then, if the rebate process is sufficiently difficult to complete successfully the store not only doesn't lose money, but ends up making money.

[Ruler2112]

Hmm.... difficult rebate process.... Kinda like when they put stuff out like the below? Please note the valid purchase dates, then read the first sentence of the 'Promotion Details'.

When I sent them an e-mail, the very helpful but clueless person who answered told me to follow the instructions on the form to receive my rebate. What was that George Carlin said... "Think about how stupid the average person is, then think that half the people are dumber than that!"



http://www.staplesrebates.com/weblog...omoCd=03-55880

[jmebonner]

Yup, I believe you hit the nail on the head, I actually had to read the whole thing a couple times to get it and you clued us in, think how many people just read right past that!