Mail-in Rebates: How much do they need to be to effect your purchase?

Answer 1

I have never made a purchase based on a mail in rebate offer. I don't like them and find them to be to much trouble. I need to buy the product, fill out forms, send a copy of receipt and proof of purchase sticker off product, pay for a stamp, mail it in and WAIT!!!!!! I would be more inclined to consider a product that had a discount when I purchase it. Mail in rebates are great for people who can afford to pay full price, then wait for the rebate to return. A better marketing approach would be to discount the product for a limited time instead. I need the discount when I BUY THE PRODUCT>> I pay tax on the full purchase price. so I have overpaid the government because if the product had been reduced at the time of purchase I would only be taxed on the sale price. Mail in rebates are also time sensitive and sometimes expire before the purchaser tries to redeem it. Also the rebates are in check form, and then I have to go through the hassle of cashing it. The usual amount of mail in rebates is really not even worth the time and effort it takes to get it.

Answer 2

At least $15. But the product has to be worth the non-rebate price because about 1/2 the time the rebate gets screwed up anyway.

Answer 3

The rebate amount has to be high enough for people to invest the time to submit it. Secondly, it has to be inline with your profit margin... making sure its not too much! Also, it depends on the timing - if its a new product, the rebate might be higher to generate some interest. I know when we launch a new product here at my company, we'll typically have a $5 rebate on a 39.00 product, and a $10 rebate on a 49.00 product. Hope this helps!

Answer 4

Enough to get me to act on it - probably no less than 10% of the purchase value.