Home Organization: How to Submit, Organize, and Track Rebates the Quick and Easy Way

Computer software. Paint. Back to school supplies. Breakfast cereal. What do they have in common? Rebates. I purchased all of those items in the last week and every single one has a rebate. That little mail-in rebate form can be annoying to complete and track. However, the financial rewards can be worth the hassle. By mailing in my rebates, I will receive over $50 in checks and gift cards back on those four purchases. Rebates have become a way of life with many everyday purchases. Don't be like the 40% of consumers tracked in a 2006 Vericours study who fail to receive their rebates! I developed a quick and easy way to organize my paperwork after realizing I was averaging over $800 a year in rebate requests. My simple method of rebate organization will save you time and money.

Step One: Gather Your Supplies

My rebate organization system uses a 3-ring 1" flexible poly binder and top loading 8 1/2 x 11" page protectors. A poly binder is inexpensive, water-resistant, durable, and available in many colors. I use a hard-to-miss bright blue. I stock up on binders during back to school sales when they often less than $1.00 each. Page protectors aren't as cheap as the binders but they are extremely handy, water-resistant, durable, and re-usable. Page protectors and binders are an incredibly easy way to organize paperwork. Put a handful of page protectors into the binder, label the outside spine as "Rebates", and get ready to save some money!

Step Two: Complete Your Rebates

The most important part of completing a rebate is reading the directions. If it says an original receipt and UPC is required, make sure you have both items. Computer and electronics rebates often require multiple pieces of proof of purchase. Again, make sure you have every bit of required information. Fill out the form legibly and completely. If the company can't read your handwriting, you won't get your rebate! Verify that you are within the submittal deadline.

Step Three: Copy Your Rebate