Many companies offer a wealth of product discounts through consumer rebates. But many people who buy a product offering a rebate fail to cash in on these offers, either by overlooking the rebate offer, or by falling short on providing documentation or meeting a rebate deadline.

Rebate offers usually ask that consumers mail purchase documentation to a redemption address. Some retailers, though, allow customers to file for a rebate online. The requested documentation typically includes the original sales receipt, UPC code, rebate certificate and the customer’s name, address and telephone or e-mail contact information.

If the documentation is submitted properly, a rebate check generally reaches a consumer within 12 weeks of documentation submission.

When making rebate claim, the Better Business Bureau offers the following suggestions:

¢ Review the rebate offer and take special note of its expiration date. Many manufacturers or retailers require rebate paperwork be submitted within 30 days of the purchase.

¢ Follow the instructions exactly on the rebate form, and provide all requested documentation.

¢ Consider sending your rebate paperwork via certified mail to ensure secure proof of mailing your form by the rebate deadline.

¢ Make a copy of all paperwork when applying for your rebate.

¢ Contact the company if the rebate does not arrive within the promised time period.

¢ If the rebate never arrives or arrives late, consider filing a complaint with the BBB at www.bbb.org.