The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Shoppers are advised to get complete information about the conditions and total costs of any offers before they make purchases and to be especially cautious of incentives such as rebates and cashable vouchers. The Manitoba Consumers' Bureau advises that rebate offers and cashable voucher programs may look attractive but often have conditions attached. If the advertised rebates will not be provided for several years, additional caution should be used. While most rebates or refunds are offered in good faith, there may be circumstances when a business or manufacturer is unable to satisfy all the claims for rebates or has gone out of business before rebates or refunds are paid. Consumers may not be able to fulfil conditions attached to the rebate or refund and this may result in the consumers not receiving the money expected. Some consumers may also spend more than they planned if they do not receive the rebate they expected in the calculations of their expense. The Consumers' Bureau reminds shoppers that rebate offers may be attractive incentives for the business because there is an expectation that not all consumers will make a claim or meet all the conditions. The bureau reminds Manitobans to compare prices and warranties, check consumer reports and assess interest rates if the purchase includes financing arrangements. When purchasing a product that offers a rebate, the Consumers' Bureau suggests consumers: Review the rebate offer before making a purchasing decision. Ask questions if the information provided is not clear. Follow the instructions on the rebate form precisely and enclose all required documentation when filing for a rebate. Note conditions such as an expiry or claim date on the rebate form and ensure they are followed carefully. Make a copy of all the paperwork being sent when claiming the rebate. It's the only record consumers will have if a problem arises. Contact the company if the rebate doesn't arrive within the time promised. The Consumers' Bureau administers Manitoba's consumer protection legislation. To make a complaint or for additional information, consumers can telephone the Consumers' Bureau toll-free at 1-800-782-0067 or visit the website at: www.gov.mb.ca/finance/cca/consumb.5/31/2004
