I used to think that rebates were for big ticket items like cell phones or electronics. A little over a year ago, I discovered that there are rebates for all sorts of products that I use everyday and for many products that I get for free (or very cheap) using my coupons, Register Rewards, and Extra Care Bucks. Now, every time I see a rebate form in the inserts or on tear pads or displays in stores, I grab it and hold onto it.
I recently discovered a website that I have used to help me keep track of my rebates. It is called Rebate Tracker and it allows you to enter your rebate details (including the submission address, the date you purchased the item and where you purchased it, and the date you sent for the rebate). You can update the status once you receive your rebate. It also helps you track how much you spent out of pocket and how much you have received. You can check the site out here.
In addition to keeping track of the rebate details on Rebate Tracker, I also scan a copy of my rebate submission form, receipt, and UPC and keep it in a folder on my computer until I have received the rebate check.
Once you get the hang of it, it is very easy to do, and you will be surprised how fast the dollars will add up. I have already received $32 for rebate offers I have completed this year and I am currently waiting for $72.04 more, free Crest Pro Health toothpaste, the Colgate-Palmolive travel bag and coupons, and the Pepsi coupons. Here are some things that I have submitted rebates for so far this year: Theraflu Warming liquids cough syrup, Zantac, Arm & Hammer Essentials Cleaners, and Huggies diapers.
This does not include the money I have earned through Ebates. I did almost all of my Christmas shopping online and used Ebates quite a bit. I should be getting a “Big Fat Check” (which will actually be deposited into my account) from them for $138.57 for the fourth quarter on 2-15! If you shop online often and you haven’t checked out Ebates yet, you should! You will also get a $5 sign on bonus if you use this link to create your account.
I just recently really started looking at all the rebates on grocery items etc. that I didn't even realize was there before. I too thought about cell phones, TV's etc. when it came to rebates. Currently I have a few for 6 pk of drinks and it makes them totally free!