shame on canon rebates

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Archive 2006 · shame on canon rebates

maniaxe2000
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p.1 #1 · shame on canon rebates

Hi guys,

So I did the double rebates this time around and instead of getting 640 bucks for a 5D and 85 1.8, they send me 20. They said it was an invalid upc that I sent. So I call the rebate center today. First guy I get was like a 16 year old boy. He said how can I help you. I told him that I had an invalid UPC and didn't get my full rebate. He put me on hold to get a supervisor when I insisted they tell me what was wrong with my original mail in. He gets back to me in 5 minutes and said call back because he had trouble transferring me to a manager.

So I call back and got another tech. This tech told me, don't worry, they were going to send me two checks and to wait a couple more weeks. The tech said this before even looking into my rebate files. I said NO, there is a problem with the UPC according to them and this had to be fixed. The tech then put me on hold and then after trying to get her to understand what a 5D and a 85mm 1.8 was, finally said OK they will send out a check for $640. I hope they send it, but I really had no confidence in this tech. I felt nothing has been fixed and this tech just wanted me off the phone. I'll just have to wait. I sure as hell won't do any rebates with Canon anymore.

So I did a little research and a TON of people are having the same problem. Just check out this link, http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1032&thread=21090939&page=1 . Many people have the same problem as I did and when they call, they will eventually correct the mistake, but the tech will not say what the original problem really was.

It appears like the rebate center who processes the rebates for canon has pocketed millions of dollars through an agreement with canon for unclaimed rebates. Check out this link.

http://www.mass.gov/treasury/PressReleases/11705.htm

SHAME ON CANON FOR LETTING THIS HAPPEN! I love Canon gear and all the gear I have is Canon. Canon please fix this cancer before you lose your loyal customers.

,
MANIAXE.

Edited by Jeff on Dec 22, 2006 at 07:09 AM GMT (Reason: all caps in title)

Dec 22, 2006 at 11:07 AM

tootalew
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p.1 #2 · shame on canon rebates

maybe a group law suit is needed, if canon cannot live up to its word.

Dec 22, 2006 at 11:24 AM

simon_says
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p.1 #3 · shame on canon rebates

I never really trust rebates - regardless of what company is behind them. I've been screwed over before, and now I no longer fall for this scheme.

Although many people have had success, there's also a significant number of people who have rebate problems. In general, I do not like the whole rebate idea - it's often used to promote sales, yet the companies realize that a certain % of rebates will either be "erroneous" or unsent, and it's their gain.

Dec 22, 2006 at 11:43 AM

DaveEP
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p.1 #4 · shame on canon rebates

I got screwed on both Canon and Sony rebates..... and I now never buy something because of a rebate offer.....

Dec 22, 2006 at 11:47 AM

limitdown
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p.1 #5 · shame on canon rebates

I hate all rebates. Especially the ones from Canon and HP.

Dec 22, 2006 at 12:24 PM

EA6B
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p.1 #6 · shame on canon rebates

I've never had a problem with rebates. I scan and photocopy everything. I send them registered mail w/a return receipt if it's for more than a few bucks. If any problems crop up, I can e-mail a copy right away. FWIW, I've never had any problems with over $1000 in rebates.

E

Dec 22, 2006 at 12:31 PM

PimpDaddy
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p.1 #7 · shame on canon rebates

The problem with Canon rebates is, it can be a LOT of money you can get back. Mine was $120, but other's have applied for more.

I was royally pissed when they were fumbling around my rebate. After I waited the alotted time, and they seemed to be fumbling around with it, and I think accused me of not following instructions which I did I blew my top.

I cut out top sections of the boxes of the lens involved in my rebate. I then photographed the serial #s, lens, boxes. I included printouts of these pictures. included copies of receipts. Basically, they could not argue I didn't purchase these items.

I then wrote up a nice letter with all the above paperwork. I said I was a valued customer and filed my rebate on time, and waited the alotted time and got nothing. I then ended with, if they did not file my rebate check within 2 weeks of receiving this letter, they would hear from my lawyer.

The check was issued very soon after they received that letter.

The thing to add, when you send in your rebates, send it certified and SIGNED delivered, so you have a copy that someone at Canon signed for it. More insurance for you.

Good luck with your rebates everyone.

Dec 22, 2006 at 12:31 PM

David Luber
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p.1 #8 · shame on canon rebates

I just went through a very similar problem with the Canon rebate line. It took 3 calls to the number before I got a supervisor that could help me with a failure on the double rebate problem. I purchased a 30D and a 430EX flash and they were going to send me $10.00 instead of $220.00. The supervisor eventually agreed that they had all the items they needed to process the rebate correclty. I checked their web-rebates site and it all looks good now. I kept copies of all the documentation and UPCs before I sent the stuff into Canon.

Update: 1/8/2007: I received my rebate check last week in good order.

Edited by David Luber on Jan 08, 2007 at 06:40 PM GMT

Dec 22, 2006 at 01:14 PM

munckee
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p.1 #9 · shame on canon rebates

This seems to be a recurring problem with the canon rebates. The company handling it looks for ANY excuse (even a made-up one) not to pay. It may well be a money saving tactic. They figure that if a few people don't fight it, they've save a pretty decent chunk of change (at $100-650+ per rebate). It's a shame we have to handle it this way, but the information above is very helpful.

Keep duplicate copies of everything you send them. Send return-receipt so you have proof. Don't back down. Good luck.

Dec 22, 2006 at 01:40 PM

nads
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p.1 #10 · shame on canon rebates

I had the same problem last year with the triple rebate. (no problems the year before). They said I was missing part of the submittal.

I sent an email to Canon's customer service (somebody posted a good email address on this forum). I got a phone call from Canon that day and a check the next week.

Dec 22, 2006 at 02:37 PM

monsoon
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p.1 #11 · shame on canon rebates

Over at the "Open Photography Forums", Chuck Westfall himself gave some instructions
about getting a rebate pre-qualified, have a look...

http://www.openphotographyforums.com/forums/showpost.php?p=16318&postcount=14

Dec 22, 2006 at 02:45 PM

Richie S
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p.1 #12 · shame on canon rebates

Apparently I was involved in a class action lawsuit against Best Buy and Sirius radio. They said one code OR another, and then rejected mine and a bunch of other rebates saying they needed one code AND another.
Was supposed to get check in November as they settled, nothing yet though.

It's all a total scam.

Dec 22, 2006 at 03:03 PM

gfiksel
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p.1 #13 · shame on canon rebates

Yep, the same problem here. Instead of $700 they are sending a check for $50. Needless to say, I had all the forms, UPS codes, was web prequalified , etc., etc. Have double copies of everything will start the tug of war with them.

Why is it that the UPS for the high figure item always lost?
How can they get away with lying and screwing up everybody?
Why is it, indeed, no smart lower has started a class action suit? John Power? Any other lawers?

Dec 22, 2006 at 03:04 PM

DavidP
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p.1 #14 · shame on canon rebates

gfiksel wrote:
Yep, the same problem here. Instead of $700 they are sending a check for $50. Needless to say, I had all the forms, UPS codes, was web prequalified , etc., etc. Have double copies of everything will start the tug of war with them.

I predict there won't be a "war". Just call them up, and explain, and they'll mysteriously say "OK, we'll send out the difference in a second check".

I've NEVER had any problems with Canon rebates until this year. This was in the spring (before the double rebates). They "lost" my 5D UPC, but not the one for my 24-105. I called and asked about it, and they cut me a 2nd check. I didn't even have to provide any additional proof at all.

Dec 22, 2006 at 03:27 PM

RGS65
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p.1 #15 · shame on canon rebates

Oh god, here we go again. We always get these posts around rebate time.

Listen, if you do it right, you'll get your money.

I have always gotten mine.

Be patient and persistent.

I assume you kept copies of everything?

Dec 22, 2006 at 03:45 PM

Richie S
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p.1 #16 · shame on canon rebates

Seems to me like these third-party companies Canon use are stealing from people. Canon should at least be partially responsible for this.
Canon need to be brought to book, as do the third party companies that handle the rebates.

Dec 22, 2006 at 03:45 PM

gfiksel
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p.1 #17 · shame on canon rebates

Dave, thanks, that's encouraging. So, a 5 min call and a short blood pressure spike is all I need to get the rebate ?

I will try it. Would be better with without it, though:

Dec 22, 2006 at 03:48 PM

kwalsh
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p.1 #18 · shame on canon rebates

RGS65 wrote:
Oh god, here we go again. We always get these posts around rebate time.

Listen, if you do it right, you'll get your money.

I have always gotten mine.

Be patient and persistent.

I assume you kept copies of everything?

Well, no that's not exactly true depending on what "do it right" means. If you mean follow their instructions, no you won't get your money. If "do it right" means copy everything and then call and beat them up then OK, but I don't think that's what people would consider "right".

Canon changes their rebate house just about every season. Last years triples were reasonably smooth compared to this year. This year the rebate servicing company is blatently and obviously rejecting doublings on high priced rebates. The idea behind this is to only pay people who follow up with a phone call to complain. It is a common tactic in the rebate business.

Are you unhappy? Well, first call the rebate company, it is all part of their game. You'll call, get put on hold a few times and then get your money. NEXT call or write Canon and let them know that you know they actively chose a known dishonest rebate fufillment house just to try and save a buck. Remind them that your experience with their rebate house is an extenstion of your experience with Canon and that you are not happy. Remind them that when they choose a rebate house next year they should consider this.

Ken

Dec 22, 2006 at 03:52 PM

gfiksel
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p.1 #19 · shame on canon rebates

RGS65 wrote:
Oh god, here we go again. We always get these posts around rebate time.

Listen, if you do it right, you'll get your money.

Because it appears that every time around rebate time thousands of customers get screwed or attempted to.

And, actually, if you do everything right you DON'T get the money. Where in the rebate form is "We will try screw you but if you are persistent, maybe, you will get it?

What is the difference between that and attempted robbery? "Oh, sir, I was trying to pull your wallet out of your pocket but it's great that you've noticed it. You may keep your money. For now."

Edited by gfiksel on Dec 22, 2006 at 09:56 AM GMT

Dec 22, 2006 at 03:54 PM

moondigger
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p.1 #20 · shame on canon rebates

kwalsh wrote:
Canon changes their rebate house just about every season.

Canon does not change rebate contractors each time. They have used the same rebate processor for the past two years+.

I have never had a problem getting my rebates. I believe that others have.

Dec 22, 2006 at 03:55 PM

john_edwards
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p.1 #21 · shame on canon rebates

Its my personal belief that mail in rebates should be illegal. If Canon or Best Buy want you to save money buying one of their products then you should save the money at the cash register. I no longer buy anything from Best Buy that has a mail in rebate due to the trouble involved. At one time B&H would do the rebate for you, but I don't think they do anymore. Your state government probably likes mail in rebates because you pay sales tax on the whole purchase price, not the rebated price. As far as Canon rebates go, I've only done one mail in, that was on a 550ex a few years ago and the check showed up in about 6 weeks.
John

Dec 22, 2006 at 04:07 PM

danmitchell
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p.1 #22 · shame on canon rebates

I have had problems with rebates... repeatedly.

Basically, everyone concerned counts on the fact that many people don't bother filing rebate requests for small amounts and that a significant percentage of those who do file will immediately give up when told there is a problem with their application. The way things are set up, they make a ton of money based on this - and would make very little if they were paid only for the processing work.

The best approaches for individuals faced with rebate deals are a) keep meticulous records, photocopy everything, fill out all forms very carefully, track dates and contact the rebate firm immediately if something is late, and be prepared to escalate the complaint quickly and with documentation; or b) don't succumb to rebate offers.

For my part, I don't even bother with rebate offers for small amounts - it isn't worth the trouble to get back $5-$10 dollars. On the other hand, I have bothered when the amounts were large - and they can be when you are purchasing photo equipment - but I planned on getting scammed and was careful and persistent about all parts of the process.

In my case, I have always been able to receive my rebate... eventually. But the process has not been easy and I frequently have had to do extensive follow up. In the case of my most recent Canon rebate I ended up having to contact Canon directly in order to get the rebate processing company to release the funds due to me. To Canon's credit (sort of*) at that point the rebate came quickly. And, yes, I was told that my codes were not valid, which was complete nonsense.

Dan

*Companies like Canon lose points for working with these sleazy rebate processing firms.

Dec 22, 2006 at 04:17 PM

coryconklin
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p.1 #23 · shame on canon rebates

When ever you do Any Mail-In-Rebates remember to...

KEEP COPIES OF EVERYTHING!!!!!!!!!!!

Canon tried screwing me out of $540 last year by claiming that I didn't send in ONE box top or bar code. So I ask them which one and sent the a copy of the copy. After calling back three weeks later the original some how showed up?? Go figure.

I have been doing Mail-in-Rebates for to many years now (for lots of customers at my former employer also) and you will get you money if you send everything, and...KEEP COPIES OF EVERYTHING!!

Dec 22, 2006 at 04:25 PM

chez
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p.1 #24 · shame on canon rebates

The company handling it looks for ANY excuse (even a made-up one) not to pay.

That company is Canon. Yes, they farm out the rebate management to another firm, but it is CANON's rebate program. Canon needs to be held accountable for it...not the company they contracted to. In my business, if I contract out some work, I am still responsible for the quality of that work, not the contractor. We need to put pressure on Canon. This Chuck Westfall guy needs to hear it from us and he needs to take that message back to headquarters. We can all complain on this board or to the company handling the rebate...but it is Canon that needs to hear the message.

Dec 22, 2006 at 04:26 PM

RGS65
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p.1 #25 · shame on canon rebates

Maybe I am lucky, but personally, I have never had to call Canon or the rebate centers - not once - with 5 submissions.

I totally agree, though, that generally rebates are a game. Its the same with all companies. Gift certicates too. Unclaimed = profit.

Just think about how many people buy under the rebate program and never send in their stuff at all.

I guess the point is you aren't going to change the world, or this system. Do what you need to do to get your money and be happy when you get it.

If you don't like the rebate program or its too much hassle to make a few telephone calls don't do it. But why leave hundreds of dollars sitting on the table just over a telephone call or a simple letter.

Your mistake is letting it get you angry. Roll with it.

gfiksel wrote:
RGS65 wrote:
Oh god, here we go again. We always get these posts around rebate time.

Listen, if you do it right, you'll get your money.

Because it appears that every time around rebate time thousands of customers get screwed or attempted to.

And, actually, if you do everything right you DON'T get the money. Where in the rebate form is "We will try screw you but if you are persistent, maybe, you will get it?

What is the difference between that and attempted robbery? "Oh, sir, I was trying to pull your wallet out of your pocket but it's great that you've noticed it. You may keep your money. For now."

Edited by gfiksel on Dec 22, 2006 at 09:56 AM GMT

Dec 22, 2006 at 04:39 PM


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