Hot Deals Club | Privacy Commitment | 

Date: 1 Jun 2003 21:18:17 -0000
From: Jim
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: rebate experience

Quick note, maybe you or others have seen this.  Send in a rebate
and nothing happens.  Check status on-line or via phone and find
you used a PO box or they did not recieve it.  Re-send COPIES of
UPC and rebate form and get rebate. 

Now the interesting part. Do the above and still get no rebate.
Inquire and resubmit to "The Resubmission Dept." Get nothing.
Call and inquire and INSTANTLY get approved and recieve check in
a week or two. It almost seems that you HAVE to call in to get
the OK for the check to be cut. I have had this happen a few
times.  The woman always asks "How Much?" for the rebate, as if
she does not know, then OKs the amt. Very strange but works
every time.  ALWAYS keep all the records and keep track of the
dates.  I register on-line and often get confirmation of the
rebate and it's staus and even if I have made an error on the
form.  I always get the check!



Date: Sun, 1 Jun 2003 19:26:59 -0400
From: Quatrain
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Office Max Rebates (rebates in general)

There is a continuing problem with companies who flaunt the agreements
on rebates in the U.S.

There have been numerous lawsuits and indictments by the U.S. Postal
Inspector and several state Attorneys General in the recent years.  Good
counsel would be for the person to follow these steps:

1.)  VERIFY that you have completed ALL of the terms of the rebate.
Check the dates on the receipt AND the rebate form.  Verify product
numbers, names and codes.  Be ABSOLUTELY sure that you are completing
the agreement according to the terms.
2.)  Photocopy ALL the material prior to mailing.  (UPC symbol, rebate
form, receipt, etc.)
3.)  Send the original to the company per the requirements on the rebate
agreement form.
4.)  File an ENTIRE copy of the transaction in your personal files.
(You might want to set a calendar reminder for the 6-8 week period to
follow up on the rebate.)

If you get a return postcard from the company, pull out your files, and
call or write the company to try to resolve your dispute (usually there
is a toll-free number on the bottom of the rebate.)  Advise them that
you are sure that you completed the terms of the rebate exactly as
stated, and if they continue to deny the claim, you will forward it to
the U.S. Postal Inspector and your State Attorney General's Office.  Say
this with a smile, because the person on the other end is surely a
telemarketer who doesn't get paid to hear you rant.  (Send them ANOTHER
photocopy if they dispute or disagree with your rebate claim.)

If they continue to deny the rebate AND you are absolutely positive that
you completed the rebate according to the terms, you should simply
follow up by writing a simple letter to both the U.S. Postal Inspector
and your State AG and let them take over.  They will then take it up as
your fight, and it could even grow into a class-action suit.

Granted, this is a pain in the hind-quarters to go through this kind of
process, but if we don't keep the pressure on these companies, they will
deny more and more rebates because of the simple fact that a LARGE
percentage of people who are denied claims (when they are legitimate)
are either too lazy, or think it too much of a bother to tighten the
screws - especially for only $10.00-$50.00.  It simply isn't worth
people's time to haggle.  (That's what I suspect most rebate companies
bank on.  They approve some, deny most, and roll the dice.)

Good luck.

By the way, your advice of speaking to a store manager is wise.  Often,
in combination with local pressure from managers (who send info up the
food chain that customers aren't happy) and the rebate companies getting
letters from 50 AG offices can motivate a company to fly straight.
Also, the manager may have the power to satisfy you in a way that is
mutually acceptable.



Date: Sun, 1 Jun 2003 21:29:03 -0700 (PDT)
From: Dragon Ball
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Officemax rebates

Be aware of issues with OfficeMax rebates.  The only
way to make sure you get them is too bug the rebate
service center.  I wrote about 4 emails and two phone
calls...Boom, my lost rebate mysteriously appears.

Staples uses to be very bad...now they are pretty
good.

OfficeMax use to be excellent, now I have huge
concerns.

Only perfect place is best buys and circuit city which
have a good customer service center to track your
rebates.

Rebates are very costly to the manufacturer who prays
you dont send in your rebates.  Problem is that most
people are sending them in.  That lead to the death of
Newcom, Prime Peripherals, and other companies that
use rebates as the primary vehicle to sell their
products.

Keep copies of everything and fight fight fight.



Date: Mon, 2 Jun 2003 00:35:45 EDT
From: Amit
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: officemax rebates

I would just like to say that this problem with OfficeMax Rebates has
been going on for a while.  About three years ago I had increasing
problems with their rebates and since then I have been reluctant to buy
anything from OfficeMax with a rebate unless it is still a good deal or
decent price without the rebate.  Although I have been successful with
some of their rebates, the majority seem to surprisingly turn up missing
or denied.  I haven't looked back but I would guess that the successful
rebates I have had when I purchased an item from their store was from the
actual rebate from a company of the product and not OfficeMax
themselves.  I'd rather just price match with Staples or another store
instead of give my business to a company which seems to mislead their
customers by advertising rebates to which only a small percentage of
customers actually receive.  Most of this is speculation of course but
over the years I keep hearing the same problems with their rebates and
soon enough it turns from suspicion to fact.



Date: Sun, 1 Jun 2003 21:40:34 -0700 (PDT)
From: [anonymous]
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Office Max rebate

I bought K-Hypermedia CD-R from Office Max back in thanksgiving 2002. It
was a special for 20$, and 20$ rebate, and I have never gotten my rebate.
They had very same deal in February of this year, and I still haven't
gotten my rebate yet.
 
Also, got Mad Dog DVD, and Maxtor Hard disk from Compusa in February, and
got poweredge server from Dell. It seems all rebate companies either
deniy me or they simply claim that they never receive my rebate form. I
started to loose my faith with rebates. If there is a rebate, I
think chances of getting that rebate check is pretty slim.



Date: Sun, 1 Jun 2003 22:48:34 -0700
From: [anonymous]
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Problems with OfficeMax rebates

OfficeMax does not process rebates directly. Most rebates are handled by
either Parago (http://www.rebateshq.com) or Easier Rebates
(http://www.easierrebates.com). There are a few items within their
rebate booklet that are not handled by these two rebate houses but the
majority are (e.g. IO Magic/Hi-Val). If you do have a rebate issue, you
simply take your copy of your submitted rebate in to the manager and
they can usually call up on the spot to the two major rebate houses and
handle the issue and get your check out to you.

Something I would personally recommend is to submit your rebates via the
web (see http://www.officemax.com/rebates). When you do this, you speed
up the rebate processing time and minimize errors.  If you look at the
OfficeMax rebate website or the rebate booklet, all of the P and E
letters next to the item mean that they are using either Parago or
Easier Rebates to process the rebates.

I don't think OfficeMax is out there to rip customers off, but as a
smart consumer you can only protect yourself by keeping copies of your
rebate submissions and following up after 8 weeks or so if you do not
receive your rebates.



Date: Mon, 2 Jun 2003 01:20:40 -0600
From: Simon
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax MIR

I agree with your point about the OfficeMax MIR. They will bogus whatever
excuse they can possibly find to hurdle the redeeming. I once got a notice
saying there was no original receipt in my MIR application. It just CANNOT
happen. It was really hurting me.
Thanks.

Simon



Date: Mon, 2 Jun 2003 06:21:39 -0500 (Central Daylight Time)
From: Terry R.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax Rebates

I was happy to see you post that information regarding Office Max
rebates.  I stopped buying anything from Office Max because of their
horrific rebate problems.  What I find weird is they use the same company
that Staples uses.  That Parago place, but Staples rebates are paid off
in a few weeks, but Office Max rebates are NEVER paid off within the
specified time stated on the submission form.  Within the last couple
months Office Max has instituted an online submission form similar to
what you can do with Staples, but that is no better.  The rebates still
take forever to arrive.  I am so sick and tired of them saying you  will
get your rebate Much Quicker if you register it online only to receive it
long after the period of time stated on the submission form. 
 
I wish out government would pass some legislation making these companies
pay double if the rebates are not paid within the time stated on the
rebates. 
 
I would not hesitate to order anything on rebate with Staples because I
know I will get the check within 4 weeks.  Office Max is a crap shoot. 
This new game of theirs where you have to submit 2 rebates is even
worse.  Now you have to send in two rebates and you are in double trouble
of not receiving either of them. 
 
Did you know that Office Max stopped honoring competitor coupons?  I took
my Staples Coupon to Office Max and was told they stopped honoring
competitor coupons a few months ago.  The same goes for Office Max.Com. 
 
Thanks for listening.  Keep up the great site.
 


Date: Mon, 2 Jun 2003 08:53:14 -0400
From: Tracy
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: officemax rebates

I recommend what I always do (at least for the larger $$ ones):
 
US post office- "delivery confirmation"- costs around $3 or so.  You get
a receipt that can be checked online that shows when the mail is
delivered to the box.  At least you do have a paper e-trail to verify the
rebate was sent on time.
 


Date: Mon, 2 Jun 2003 09:21:52 -0400
From: Rudi
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax rebates

Regarding the problems with rebates at OfficeMax....  For in store
purchases, you can be most sure that there won't be a problem with a
rebate if you examine your cash register receipt and see the words
"Rebate Item" printed next to the items that you think should have a
rebate.  Also, each rebate eligible item should get a separate mini
rebate receipt printed at the register.  

For items ordered over the Internet, it is pretty easy to tell what is
rebate-eligible since the item will have "$xx mail-in rebate" in the
description.

I hope this helps.



Date: Mon, 2 Jun 2003 06:31:51 -0700 (PDT)
From: P. G.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Officemax rebate issues

I read your item about complaining to the office max
store manager if a rebate is denied. I think there
might be a better alternative.
Users could complain to the FTC (Federal Trade
Commision) online at this site

https://rn.ftc.gov/pls/dod/wsolcq$.startup?Z_ORG_CODE=PU01

I have complained against sprint a couple of times to
FCC (not FTC) and they forwarded my complaints to some
elite department of sprint which solved my problem in
one phone call. I assume FTC would carry a similar
clout for stores such as OfficeMax, Staples etc. 



Date: Mon, 2 Jun 2003 06:35:45 -0700 (PDT)
From: M. W.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Re: OfficeMax rebates

Hello,
 
OfficeMax lately had tons of rebates and "free after rebate" offers, so 
problems will be numerous.
They lured into OfficeMax stores lots of people with baits such us "WD
120 GB HD $60 after 2 rebates" only to say in the store that this offer
is valid in some other OfficeMax location. (I was told in the store # 74
in New Jersey that this drive is available in... Chicago!).
Tiny rebate forms were located in the 56 pg booklet with numerous rebates
per page. Confusing at best right there.
 
Sometimes they had one item with different rebates for different week and
because customer had to locate thier particular rebate FOR THE WEEK IT
WAS PURCHASED AND NOT THE OTHER WEEK that seems like a CATCH right
there. 
 
There were intentional or not intentional mistakes in the whole process
to begin with, for instance for "Best Data" 56 k modem "free after
rebate" one was actually supposed to use "I/O Magic" modem rebate since
there was no "Best Data" rebate in the rebate booklet. And to find out
you had to ask and the clerk needed to know this and tell you.
 
I would suggest to complain @ www.officemax.com/store/survey + perhaps
writing a snail mail postcard to
 
Michael Feuer, OfficeMax Chairman and CEO
3605 Warrensville Center Rd.
Shaker Heights, OH 44122  
 
with promise of further complais to BBB
http://complaints.bbb.org/Welcome.asp regarding
OfficeMax PRICE MISREPRESENTATION.



Date: Mon, 02 Jun 2003 09:46:06 -0400
From: R. G.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: re: OfficeMax rebates

Office Max has the worst rebate program.  I've been stiffed more than 10 
times by Office Max rebates and constantly have to write follow-ups or visit 
the local Office Max store to get the rebate promised.  Note to anyone 
sending in an Office Max (or any) rebate : photocopy everything - the 
receipt, the UPC label, the rebate coupon and save it all in a folder until 
the actual rebate arrives.   Once (and if) the rebate arrives, then throw 
out the photocopies...

On the flip-side, I want to praise Best Buy's and Staple's rebate programs.  
I have never had a problem with either of them (and that's over 100 rebates 
!).



Date: Mon, 2 Jun 2003 11:21:01 -0400
From: Sam A.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Officemax and Rebates

To my knowledge, I've had only one Officemax rebate, out of around fifty,
rejected. I always do follow instructions, yet for the D-Link router $30
rebate they rejected the claim saying I didn't follow instructions.
 
I haven't yet followed up on it, but I've gotten the other ones for the
D-Link wireless NIC I bought on a different occasion, as well as for
countless smaller, mostly free items.
 
I'd definitely continue buying from them - just hang unto the receipts
and rebate fulfillment house name( s).
 
Thanks for all the work.



Date: Fri, 6 Jun 2003 02:01:02 -0700
From: Mike G.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax rebate relief

About the OfficeMax rebate thing. They REALLY screwed themselves over
this past month. The website said certain items were free after rebate,
but after you bought it and checked the rebate form, IT said they were
only free AR last week. Other items were NOT in the rebate book at all!

Here's the solution...
They are being VERY forgiving right now on rebates. There is a big
"cheat sheet" that they are working off of that will tell you for a
given product, which page and item number in their rebate book you
can use to get the rebate. Often it's different than the brand you
bought, but they say it WILL work if you submit it. They even said
they will be forgiving on the stupid 14 day rebate submission time
limit, if you are having problems.

Now, the best part. I have a direct phone number you can use for all
OfficeMax rebate issues that works a very high percentage of the time.
It is: 1-800-661-5931 x8009. I had it go to an answering machine only
during lunch time Central Time, every other time someone picked up
before the 3rd ring! Their hours are M-F 8AM-11PM Central Time.



Date: Thu, 12 Jun 2003 11:46:34 -0400
From: K. A.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Officemax rebates

Maniac,
 
I wish to say my opinion on Officemax rebates:
 
They are better than CompUSA but not as easy as Staples. The process of
application in case of Officemax is very tricky and confusing becasue of
the way the forms are designed. It is also sometimes difficult to track.
But most of the rebates (I received about 15 of them in a year) are paid,
though little late.
 


Date: Fri, 13 Jun 2003 10:10:16 -0700 (PDT)
From: J. H.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Office Max rebates

Here are some specifics on my experience.

I ordered a Verbatim CDROM drive that had an OfficeMax
specific rebate.  I sent in the rebate coupon and all
of the required documentation.

A couple of weeks later I received a notification on
the mail saying that my rebate had been denied for the
following reason:

"The store where product was purchased is not
participating in the rebate program"

The was obviously totally false.

I called the rebate center and told them that I had
received a notification about a rebate that they were
not going to honor.  The person asked me for my name
and address.  Before I could even begin to argue that
I clearly deserved the rebate he told me that they had
made a mistake and that I would get the rebate in a
couple of weeks.  The rebate showed up a couple of
weeks later.

My take on this is that they denied me and waited to
see if I would call and raise and issue.  The never
once asked me for additional backup information or
copies of the original documentation that I had
provided.

Hope this is useful to you.



Date: Fri, 13 Jun 2003 10:10:16 -0700 (PDT)
From: John H.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Office Max rebates

Here are some specifics on my experience.

I ordered a Verbatim CDROM drive that had an OfficeMax
specific rebate.  I sent in the rebate coupon and all
of the required documentation.

A couple of weeks later I received a notification on
the mail saying that my rebate had been denied for the
following reason:

"The store where product was purchased is not
participating in the rebate program"

The was obviously totally false.

I called the rebate center and told them that I had
received a notification about a rebate that they were
not going to honor.  The person asked me for my name
and address.  Before I could even begin to argue that
I clearly deserved the rebate he told me that they had
made a mistake and that I would get the rebate in a
couple of weeks.  The rebate showed up a couple of
weeks later.

My take on this is that they denied me and waited to
see if I would call and raise and issue.  The never
once asked me for additional backup information or
copies of the original documentation that I had
provided.

Hope this is useful to you.



Date: Fri, 13 Jun 2003 18:32:17 -0500
From: Brad
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Staples Rebates

I have been reading all stuff on OfficeMax rebates, and I wanted to
give Staples' rebate center some kudos.  I received a $30 rebate for
a 80gb hard drive I bought from Staples and my dog got ahold of it
and disengrated it, so I e-mailed the Staples rebate center and told
them what happened and they said that they would stop payment on the
rebate my dog ate and send me a new one out right away.  They did,
I had a new rebate check in 1 week from the day I e-mailed them.  I
just thought I would let you know that I would deal with the Staples
rebate center anytime.  They are very accommidating folks there.



Date: Fri, 13 Jun 2003 21:10:55 EDT
From: [anonymous]
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax Rebates

I emailed the OfficeMax CEO regarding eight unpaid rebates on 6\3. The
next day I received a phone call from a Customer Service representative
who apologized for any problems I've experienced. On 6\5 I received a
check for almost $100 via Fedex for all outstanding rebates. OfficeMax
asked that I call them directly if I had any future rebate problems. They
also indicated that the CEO had ordered an investigation of the
processing houses they utilize. Thanks to Hot-Deals, I'm back to square
one with cash in hand.



Date: Wed, 18 Jun 2003 05:10:08 +0000
From: Q. V.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Date: Wed, 18 Jun 2003 05:10:08 +0000
Subject: OfficeMax is cheating!

I am a OfficeMax customer. I often order on-line. However, recently,
everytime I order for "free item after rebate", they sent to me the right
items with wrong UPC. On one order, I take about one or two of wrong UPC
over 7 or 8 items. That's why I can not get the rebate check back. I
already call customer service and ask to return. They said that I only to
return by mail, not to the local store!. If I buy at Staples.com, they
let me return on any local store.
 
I think OfficeMax try to create a lot of problems for us to get the
rebate back. Why they send the right items with the wrong UPC on the
receipts?
 
Morover, OfficeMax is a big company, it can give out the ads about the
free items after rebates, but it does not let Hotdealsclub.com post ads.
I think that is really silly!
 
Thanks Hotdeal for website.



Date: Fri, 20 Jun 2003 18:13:03 -0400
From: Joe
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax Rebates

I also had received 2 post cards from OfficeMax stating that they were
rejecting my rebates.  When I bought the WD Harddrive, the Cd's (they
were free after a $20.00 rebate), and some Kingston Memory.  The cashier
actually made me extra rebate copy receipts and showed me what to send it
with what.  So I did as she said but they still declined my rebates.  I
then e-mailed them use the link you had on your website and told them
about it.  24 hours later they e-mailed me asking what the rebates I had
and what the dollar amounts were, I replied, 2 days later (today) I got
an e-mail from them stating I would have my check within 30 days.  Thanks
for putting that information on your website, I was able to get it all
worked out! 



Date: Mon, 16 Jun 2003 20:05:58 -0500
From: C B
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OFFICEMAX rebates denied

This is another example of why OfficeMax is getting such a terrible rap on
their rebates. They advertised some SAKAR rebates on your web site for free
with rebate. I print out the rebate form from OfficeMax link on OfficeMax
web site. I send in the rebates and this is what I get.

You are receiving this notification because you have not complied with the
terms of the offer due to the following reasons:

Over the limit - qualified request in process.


We hope you will participate in future promotional offers.

Control #: N/A
Reference #:
Offer #: #20100 Sakar Up To $7 on Select Products
ERROR CREATING BARCODE!! Make sure SSI/Barcode.asp is included.


When I called they stated that over the limit is because There was a limit
of one rebate of several items. I asked them where this was documented on
the rebate form, they said it was on the back of the rebate form. Since I
printed the rebate form of the web site link I didn't even know there was a
back to the form.

What a rip off! Last time I buy from OfficeMax.



Date: Fri, 27 Jun 2003 13:10:53 -0700
From: W. L.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: RE: Officemax rebates comment

Thank you for posting the Officemax rebate problems and the contact 
information

I have two rebates of 30 each rejected a month ago.

I contacted omxrebates@officemax.com.  They respond to my email the next 
day.  They ask for my name, address and the purchase date, nothing else.    
Then a day later, they inform me that I will get
my rebate within 30 days.

I have to give Officemax credit for trying to resolve the rebate problem and 
thank you for your help.



Date: Mon, 16 Jun 2003 21:24:07 -0700 (PDT)
From: S. K.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Parago processes OfficeMax mail-in rebates.

I also got cheated by Office_Max's mail-in rebate
center 'Parago'.

They sent me a mail saying that the UPC code I
submitted for 'Kingston DDR 256MB memory module was
invalid'. They also gave me tracking # to track the
status. When I replied to them saying that I submitted
all the required information, they immediately sent me
an e-mail saying that the rebate is now valid.

However, when I went to the rebate center's website to
track the rebate using the tracking #, I noticed the
rebate amount was changed from $20 to $8.

When I asked them why the dollar amount was changed,
they replied that the amount reflects the rebate
amount for 'Rodolex Memory Organizer' which is also an
item I purchased from OfficeMax with a mail-in rebate.

I finally went to the OfficeMax store to return the
256MB Memory Module but they refused to accept as the
UPC bar code was not there. However, they said they
will resolve the issue.

I am really not happy with OfficeMax mail-in rebates
service. I feel, I was cheated by OfficeMax/Parago.



Date: Tue, 17 Jun 2003 11:48:43 -0400
From: Kevin
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: re: OfficeMax May rebate WD 120 gig drive

I just got a postcard saying upc code "not eligible".
 
Don't try to call the rebateHq 1-800 number it is all automated and
useless. It will even disconnect you , I was cut off twice.
 
I called the Rebate Hotline: (216) 471-6202, and told the girl what the
problem was. She asked when I bought the drive. I gave here the date on
my receipt and she told me I would get the rebate in 15 to 30 days.



Date: Wed, 18 Jun 2003 05:10:08 +0000
From: Q.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax is cheating!

I am a OfficeMax customer. I often order on-line. However, recently,
everytime I order for "free item after rebate", they sent to me the right
items with wrong UPC. On one order, I take about one or two of wrong UPC
over 7 or 8 items. That's why I can not get the rebate check back. I
already call customer service and ask to return. They said that I only to
return by mail, not to the local store!. If I buy at Staples.com, they
let me return on any local store.
 
I think OfficeMax try to create a lot of problems for us to get the
rebate back. Why they send the right items with the wrong UPC on the
receipts?
 
Morover, OfficeMax is a big company, it can give out the ads about the
free items after rebates, but it does not let Hotdealsclub.com post ads.
I think that is really silly!
 


Date: Fri, 20 Jun 2003 18:13:03 -0400
From: Joe S.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax Rebates

I also had received 2 post cards from OfficeMax stating that they were
rejecting my rebates.  When I bought the WD Harddrive, the Cd's (they
were free after a $20.00 rebate), and some Kingston Memory.  The cashier
actually made me extra rebate copy receipts and showed me what to send it
with what.  So I did as she said but they still declined my rebates.  I
then e-mailed them use the link you had on your website and told them
about it.  24 hours later they e-mailed me asking what the rebates I had
and what the dollar amounts were, I replied, 2 days later (today) I got
an e-mail from them stating I would have my check within 30 days.  Thanks
for putting that information on your website, I was able to get it all
worked out!  



Date: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 18:10:27 +0200
From: Dennis
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax

I just ran across your site and now am aware that I am not alone, of
little comfort, in dealing with OfficeMax's "now you see it and now you
don't" rebate system.
 
Last month I purchased some items at OM that offered fantastic rebates.
both the coupon book and the rebate website said I needed to send only
COPIES of the UPSC and receipts, which I did. Then, on the 25th, I
received an email that I had 10 days from then to mail them the actual
UPSC piece of the packaging.
 
I've been out of the country, and away from email capability and only
noticed their message on the 29th. I'd have no way of getting the item to
them, and why should I? It was not part of the "contract" in the first
place.
 
Below is the email I received from the rebate center, and my reply. I
also emailed OM through their website (address unknown). Today, after
seeing your site, I used the address you gave and sent the same message
to them, also asking for a response from a human being.
 


BOTH THE OFFICEMAX DOCUMENTATION AND THE SITE DOCUMENTATION CLEARLY
STATED THAT COPIES of the UPCS and the RECEIPTS ARE ACCEPTABLE.

You cannot make changes after the fact; that is a violation of the law.
Please remit my rebate checks as contracted for. I have satisfied all of the
requirements.

In addition, since I am now overseas, there is no way I can get an
original to the center within the requested time, but I shouldn't have
to.

If necessary, I'll send a copy of all the documentation to the Attorney
General's offices in Washington, and in Minnesota, where I purchased the
items.

I hope, with the aid of your site, something better will come out of
this.Good luck with your site.
 


Date: Sun, 20 Jul 2003 16:41:35 -0500
From: [anonymous]
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax Rebates

Sunday, 07/20/03

Saw today's posting re the OfficeMax CD-RW that's free AR. Also read the
unpaid OM rebate comments. I currently have ongoing rebate problems w/OM
that finally seem to be on the way to resolution. This email discusses
the situation.

Although a tedious saga, it also contains contact info that may help
other readers w/OM rebate issues. In addition, it portrays the
persistence needed to deal with a marketing strategy that is one tiny
step removed from being an outright scam. It outlines techniques &
oft-repeated guidelines for effective rebating, and it discusses
another, effective strategy I use for unpaid rebates -- the credit card
dispute.

Rebates are a hassle. Merchants know it & use it to their advantage.
However, consumers often can realize substantial savings by making what
amounts to short term, interest free loans to merchants & manufacturers.
But folks have only themselves to blame if they file rebate claims &
then acquiesce when big retailers refuse to hold their contractors
accountable or to pay the rebates themselves.

The Seattle based rebate contractor handling my current unpaid OM rebate
claim has three numbers -- 888-880-6863, 877-833-6654 & 888-241-8890.
The 1st appears on the rebate claim form & the other two were given to
me by OM CSRs. All three numbers ring fast-busy during the center's
business hours (5a-6p Pacific time), but all three are answered with a
recording after those hours.

After three days of nothing but fast-busy signals, I called the Seattle
telephone repair service at noon CDT last Monday, well within the
center's stated business hours. A tech confirmed an off-hook condition
for all three numbers. That confirmation plus the fact the lines are
answered by recordings *after* business hours clearly refutes OM CSRs'
statements that the processor is "having phone trouble." The only
trouble they're having is not fulfilling rebates & avoiding claimants.

In addition & probably like other readers, the contractor's web site
(http://www.easierrebates.com/rebatestatus.asp) reports my claims are
not found after 7-1/2 weeks.

Ergo, I began the grind of complaining to OM CSRs last Monday, 07/14/03.
After three separate calls, I finally was connected to Donna K. (she
wouldn't give me her last name), a rebate claim specialist in one of
OM's Cleveland area call centers.

Ms. K. asked me to fax my documentation (claim form, receipts, UPC
codes, etc.) to her attention. However, when she failed to call Tuesday
w/a promised claim status update, I called & whined to other OM CSRs
about my claim. I eventually pressed to speak w/a supervisor & was
transferred to Frank Klinkiewicz's (440-205-9123 x5529), for whom I left
a VM briefly outlining my issues & asking him to call me.

Over Tuesday & Wednesday I left three additional VMs for Klinkiewicz,
none of which he showed the professional responsibility to return. I
confirmed w/other CSRs that he was in the office both days.

Thus Klinkiewicz did nothing to demonstrate accountability or that he's
any less worthless as Donna K. However, my persistence with generally
disaffected OM CSRs must have had *some* effect because Carin Hill
called me Thursday morning to advise she'd been assigned to investigate
unpaid rebate claims sent to the Seattle processor.

Ms. Hill said she too is a rebate specialist & that she can be reached
toll free at 800-661-5931, x1420, or via email at chill@officemax.com.

Ms. Hill asked for general claim details & my contact info. She later
emailed a request that I fax my doc to 800-782-0421. I left a VM to
advise the doc been faxed to the same number for Donna K. just two days
earlier. She called back to say Donna K. didn't have it, nor was it at
the fax machine. She also said their fax log had no entry it'd ever
been received.

I faxed the materials again, this time with a copy of *my* fax log
reporting the earlier successful transmission of all four pages to Donna
K.'s attention. Ms. Hill called later to advise she'd received the my
2nd fax & that all pages were legible. Although she didn't state a
timeframe for doing so, she assured me she'd contact me soon with a
claim status.

Now, I can't be sure if Carin Hill's call was prompted by something I
told each of the CSRs with whom I discussed this matter, but I like to
believe it was. That something was that I have an unwavering practice to
contest with the credit card issuer all charges involving unpaid rebates
on the 59th day after the purchase. I stated this practice in both fax
cover letters. I also mentioned it in one of my VMs for Klinkiewicz & in
my discussions with Ms. K. & Ms. Hill.

(Note: you can wait until the 59th day *only* if the dispute can be
faxed to the credit card provider. If not & the dispute must be mailed,
it should be sent in time to be *received* not later than the 60th day
after the statement date on which the charge appears. It also should
be sent via a method for which delivery can be confirmed. And even
though the dispute deadline is 60 days from the statement date on which
the charge appears, I always tell merchants I'm filing on the 59th day
after the purchase to increase the sense of urgency.)

I do indeed dispute charges involving unpaid rebates. On four occasions
over the last 18 months, I've obtained payments or account credits
equaling the rebates. Each dispute was against a big box retailer --
Best Buy, CompUSA, Circuit City & Office Depot.

Of course, the card issuers make these disputes a grind as well, but as
with anything else, persistence & determination are the keys to success.

In all four disputes, both card issuers' first responses instructed me
to return the merchandise for credit. Naturally they knew this was
impossible, but they wanted to drag out the process & wear me down in
the hope I'd abandon the disputes.

Eventually, I received letters saying rebates aren't contestable & that
my disputes were being closed. I replied & reiterated that the rebate
was a part of the contract of sale because it induced the purchase, and
that refusing to pay the rebate is a fraudulent act, something that *is*
disputable. I also stated in these replies that I would pursue the
dispute in small claims court (SCC) if necessary.

(Credit card terms have long required arbitration for all disputes with
the providers themselves, but they also specify amounts less than $5,000
may be pursued in SCC).

Although I can't be certain my stated intention to persist into SCC was
the magic bullet, the providers apparently saw I wasn't going away.
Eventually they either charged back the sale or credited my account to
resolve the matter.

Bank of America Visa charged back two such transactions & later sent me
copies of the retailers' responses saying checks has been sent to me
concurrent with those responses. On the other two occasions, I
eventually negotiated credits to my account with the mighty Citibank
(owner/manager of Washington Mutual's Visa card).

Fwiw, Citibank CSRs first offered me credits that were less than the
rebates. The standard offer without management approval is $35. I
declined those credits but asked the CSR to ask a supervisor to approve
an amount equaling the rebate. Both were approved, one for $60, the
other for $100.

The overall message here: rebates are a hassle, but one should only file
them if one is willing to persist with their fulfillment to whatever
extent necessary.

Finally, let me reiterate for Hot Deal Club readers the previously
posted guidelines for claiming rebates.

1. Buy with a credit card.

It's the *only* form of payment with recourse for an unpaid rebate.
Contested charges are expensive & time consuming for merchants -- most
understand that resolving the matter with the customer is decidedly less
expensive than a dispute.

2. File the rebate claim on time.
   File the rebate claim on time.
   File the rebate claim on time.

Processors look for any excuse to disqualify a claim. Merchants count on
not having to pay a healthy percentage of rebates because of late
claims.

3. Be *fastidious* in completing the claim form correctly & legibly.
   Be *fastidious* in completing the claim form correctly & legibly.
   Be *fastidious* in completing the claim form correctly & legibly.

Using a word processor, I print my name, address, etc., on a piece of
paper & then paste it on the claim form. Rebate contractors won't send
rebate checks to an illegible address & merchants count on not having to
pay a certain number of rebates because of illegible claim forms.

4. Be *meticulous* in providing *all* required receipts, UPC codes, etc.
   Be *meticulous* in providing *all* required receipts, UPC codes, etc.
   Be *meticulous* in providing *all* required receipts, UPC codes, etc.

I paste each item on a sheet of paper & then highlight the items for
which I'm claiming a rebate. I check, recheck & check again that I've
provided *all* required materials. Rebate processors look for any excuse
to disqualify a claim & retailers count on not having to pay many
rebates because of incompletely or improperly documented claims.

5. Make copies of E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G you send.
   Make copies of E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G you send.
   Make copies of E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G you send.

You *must* be able to substantiate your claim with those copies if you
must complain to the merchant or rebate about an unpaid rebate.

6. Send your claim with some form of delivery confirmation. For me,
Certified or Registered Mail is cost prohibitive for rebates under $100.

Delivery Confirmation is a defined USPS retail product that costs 45¢
for Priority Mail, which is $3.85 for the first pound & thus as cost
prohibitive as Certified Mail. However Delivery Confirmation is only &
55¢ for *parcels* sent First Class. A parcel is a *package* & Delivery
Confirmation is *not* available for First Class letters.

I have a strategy that lets me get inexpensive Delivery Confirmation for
my rebate claims. Using PowerPoint I created a template for a box
measuring 2" x 2" x 5" (feel welcome to email me for a copy). I print it
on 110 lb. card stock, cut it out, fold on the appropriate lines & tape
it with clear packing tape (stronger than standard office cellophane
tape). The template already has my return address & I simply enter the
rebate claim address before printing.

When assembled with packing tape, the box is strong enough yet light
enough to send the claim First Class for the minimum 37¢. It's an odd
sized box & therefore incurs a 12¢ non-machineable surcharge, but the
total postage w/Delivery Confirmation is only $1.04. It's a very
affordable way to refute a derelict rebate contractor's assertion that
my claim wasn't received.

7. Keep the postage receipt when you mail the claim. It shows the
Delivery Confirmation tracking number & can be used to substantiate the
mailing if the cancellation stamp on the Delivery Confirmation receipt
is illegible.

8. Put all your copies, postage & Delivery Confirmation receipts, etc. in
a folder. Having it all in one place will be invaluable if you have to
drill for an unpaid rebate.

9. Monitor the USPS Tracking site (http://tinyurl.com/5135) for your
claim's delivery. Print the screen showing when the package was
delivered. File the screen print in the folder.

10. Finally, mark your calendar for the first Monday after the 6th week
from the date your claim was mailed. Check the contractor's claim web
site (if it has one) or call to enquire about your claim. Whine to the
merchant immediately if there are problems.

Be sure to include a cover letter expressing your displeasure about the
unpaid rebate & your intent to contest the charge on the 59th day after
the sale date if the merchant asks you to fax or mail claim copies.

On the inside of the folder or on a separate sheet of paper, make
detailed notes of *all* conversations you have about the claim. Include
dates, times & those all-important names.

In fact, the first thing I do is confirm the CSR's name & location. My
calls usually start something like this:

Me: Hi, this is Jim Consumer calling from Swampville, Florida. How are
you today?

CSR: Fine, thanx. How can I help you?

Me: Would you say your name again please?

CSR: It's Jane Smith.

(Get the correct spelling if necessary & don't be reluctant to ask for
the last name if it wasn't stated. If the CSR won't give a last name,
ask for an employee number. There are few reputable firms that don't
instruct employees to adequately identify themselves upon request.}

Me: Thanx, Ms. Smith. Where are you located? You know, what Office
Max call center?

CSR: I'm in the Cleveland, Ohio area.

Me: Thanx again. I'm calling about ....

I don't move forward with my call until I've correctly identified the
person with whom I'm speaking. Remember, you're the customer & have no
reason to be intimidated. Many want get you off the phone as fast as
possible & many more want to avoid being held accountable for
*anything*. Asking for complete identification puts 'em on notice that
you mean business & that you're gonna be thorough.

Be polite, but be persistent & even insistent. Don't accept everything
you're told at face value. Be especially persistent with those who are
evasive about their identities and/or their locations, or those who
can't answer questions & don't seem to want to get the answers for you.
Don't bat an eye about asking for a supervisor if you're not making
progress with the CSR.

If you roll over & abandon your claim -- or a credit card charge dispute
if it comes to that -- then you deserve whatever happens to you. Rebates
have a poor & shady history, but despite their hopes of being able to
disqualify & thus not pay a majority of claims, most reputable merchants
know unpaid rebates have a negative effect on their images. You *can*
get your money if you raise enough stink.

Hope this long winded ramble helps somebody else.



Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2003 15:41:24 -0400
From: Joel G.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Re: Officemax 48x CD-RW FREE after rebates --- Update

I know .. I have had to make some calls, but have always gotten my rebates 
.. The people processing the rebates are willing to fix their "errors" and 
give you the check .. I just wonder if they are really "errors" since I am 
very careful when submitting rebates .. In any case, keeping copies of 
everything ensures you'll get it after talking to them.  I have to call 
about 20% of the time.



Date: Sun, 27 Jul 2003 11:01:04 -0500
From: Mike S.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax Rebate Update

I'm a regular visitor to your website.

I thought I'd give you some follow-up on the OfficeMax
Rebate situation on my end.

I sent an email at your suggestion asking about what
was going on with my rebate and sent an explanation
of what response I had so far received from their Rebate
department.  I had to follow that up about 2 weeks later
with a note asking what happened to the first email.

Finally, I got a response from

Brenda Lavender
Rebate Coordinator
Merchandising Department
OfficeMax, Inc.

BLavender@officemax.com
      Please respond to this e-mail with your mailing address, date
      of purchase, manufacturer names and the amout of each rebate.
      Thanks

I responded immediately with the information requested and got the
following response the next day.

      Each of your rebates have been validated and you will receive
      them within 15-25 business days.

That was on July 10th -- I have not seen any rebate yet or any further
communication.  But is has been only 10 business days or so since then.



Date: Sun, 27 Jul 2003 10:11:19 -0700
From: Albert Z.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: officemax

just a note
i think it is right not to post their deals any more, b/c they never
delievered their promises.
i have sent in a rebate of $40 for a couple monthes already, but there is
nothing happened. they only care when u swipe ur credit card.
 
i personally will not look at anything related to office max anymore, b/c
i do not think that is the way to do business



Date: Sun, 27 Jul 2003 11:20:06 -0700
From: David L.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OffixeMax Rebate

Dear Sir,
 
FYI, I followed your instructions regarding resolving OfficeMax rebate
problem     I am happy to report that  both rebate problems that I had
were resolved, i.e. I received both rebate checks about 3-4 weeks after
reporting my problems to OfficeMax.
 
Thanks very much for the information.



Date: Sun, 27 Jul 2003 13:10:56 -0700
From: Kyle K.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax rebates

With all this OfficeMax bashing going on, i have to say that I've
received all my rebates from OM (over 10 at least).  One thing that
interests me is that Staples is supposedly great w/ fulfillment but OM
isn't but both company's rebates are handled by rebateshq.com (parago?). 
I just received my 2nd rebate for a F.A.R. CDRW from OM.  Maybe I'm just
lucky.
 
One bit of advise to rebate submitters.  Make sure your handwriting is
very clear.  My friend was complaining that he never got rebates so I
took a look at one of his submissions.  His handwriting is terrible. 
Don't give them any excuse to reject you... write clearly!
 


Date: Sun, 27 Jul 2003 18:12:18 -0500
From: [anonymous]
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Toll free contact info for Office Max rebate problems + status update

Saw you'd posted my epistle about dealing with Office Max & rebates in
general in the topic's comments on your site. Buried in my msg was toll
free & direct email contact info for an OM rep who's handling unpaid
rebates.

Many users may not read far enough in the msgs or in my msg to find that
little nugget. No sense in a customer having to pay for a long distance
call to resolve the company's problem.

Please consider post the info in a conspicuous place like you did the
long distance numbers in the "Update on OfficeMax rebate problems" entry
presently appearing on your site. The contact info is:

        Name:   Carin Hill
        Phone:  800-661-5931, x1420
        Email:  chill@officemax.com

Btw, Ms Hill called me last Wednesday, 07/23/03, to report that she'd
discussed the matter with a "corporate department manager" & that the
corporate office would send me a check for my rebates within 10 business
days.

Did my threat to dispute the credit card charge have anything to do with
the issue's escalation & the company's decision to pay my rebate
directly? We'll never know, but I like to think it did. As I mentioned
in my earlier msg, disputes are time consuming for merchants & fees for
upheld disputes are stiff. Most firms work assiduously to avoid
contested charges.

Finally fwiw, August 7th will be the 60th day after the charges for the
OM merchandise with unpaid rebates were posted on my account. I fully
intend to dispute the charges on that date. Contested charges are an
annoyance for credit card providers as well & my experience is that they
provide no leeway in the filing of a dispute.

Having endured the hassle OM has put me through over these rebates, I
simply have no choice but to protect my rights in this matter.



Date: Mon, 28 Jul 2003 18:02:19 -0400
From: John B.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Office Max Rebate Problems

Dear Mr.  Maniac:
OfficeMax continues it's horrible policies about granting rebates.
On 6/7/03 they acknowledged 2 separate rebates ($6 & $5).
After 5 weeks, I sent e-mail inquiries which remain unanswered.
Calls to the rebate hotline just gave me yet another number to call.
That seemed like an endless loop.
After finally getting through they would only repeat what the original
message stated- that the rebate was in the final process.
I finally got my check today 7/28/03.
OfficeMax has lost a customer forever-all because they wouldn't honor
their $11 commitment.
 


Date: Tue, 29 Jul 2003 10:47:11 -0700
From: Yeoh
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: office max rebates

For the past year, I've dealt with tens of office max rebates.
So far, I have received each one of them without any problems
at all. In fact, office max is the best rebate fulfiller I have
come across among those I've dealt with. Their rebates are
ontime and frequently early. I felt I needed to send this to
let you know that there are people out there who appreciate
office max's effort in ensuring an efficient rebate fulfillment
system.



Date: Wed, 30 Jul 2003 18:00:44 -0700 (PDT)
From: Charles M.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax Rebates

I purchased a refurbished HP 5550 in May & mailed the $20 rebate form to
OfficeMax 5/31/2003. I found on their site easierrebates.com that they
had received my form but had not mailed the rebate.I called their #
888-880-6863 & was on hold 40 minutes but never talked to anyone.I called
The # that you guys suggested 215-471-6202 & left a message, no respose
back.I went to the OfficeMax site & sent an e-mail requesting my rebate &
advising them of no luck trying to get a response from numerous
avenues.They responded saying that their rebate system was aproximately
16 weeks behind & I could expect my rebate in 8 to 12 more weeks. Thanks
for keeping the internet up to date on these types of problems.



Date: Thu, 14 Aug 2003 13:53:24 -0400 (EDT)
From: T. W.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: You assigned my rebate to wrong promotion! (fwd)

Hi Maniac,

You can add me to your long list of people complaining about OfficeMax
rebate processing. I have omitted the attachments due to privacy reasons.
Keep up the good work.





Date: Wed, 13 Aug 2003 20:39:27 -0400
From: S. J.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax vs Staples Rebates

Dear Maniac,
 
Let me begin thanking you for your recent posting about OfficeMax rebate
problems on your hot deals club (www.hot-deals.org). Several people
complained about OM rebate and praised Staples's rebate. However, my
experience is totally opposite. Just want to share my experience with
problems with both store's rebate.
 
I've couple of rebates pending from www.rebatesHq.com for my purchases at
OM and Staples. Rebate company claims that they are issueing the checks
and most importantly MAILING them but I never received them (strange,
huh). Not even one of them. I complained about this to both OM and
Staples and here goes my experience.
 
OfficeMax Rebate
--------------------------
As soon as I read on your web site about OM rebate problems and contact
information on your web site, I dropped a line to OM rebate center
(omxrebate@officemax.com) complaining about the problem. To my surprise,
I got the reply next day, saying they are investigating this. Not only
this, I had all of my rebate checks issued urgently. Within 10 day, I had
very same checks in my hands by the same rebate company that issused
checks multiple times in the past but never reached to me.
 
Thanks to folks at OM rebate center (Brenda Lavender, Christina Gurgul)
and of course to hot deals maniac.
 
Kudos to OM rebate center!!!
 
Staples Rebate
----------------------
I couldn't find any contact information for Staples, so I decided to send
an e-mail to their customer support (support@orders.staples.com ).
Staples replied back giving me the phone number and web address of
rebatesHq.com which I already knew (what a big help). After some more
research, I found the e-mail of Staple's Vice President, Public Relations
and wrote to him about this problem. Probably he has got better things to
do rather than looking at stupid rebate problems. Finally, rebate house
informed me via e-mail and over the phone that they will NOT issue any
more checks to me because they already issued them 2 times. I'm waiting
for about $135 in rebate checks but as per rebatesHQ.com CSR, I should
consider this money as gone. I wish, I could have used this money for
some noble cause.
 
Staples sucks!!!
 


Date: Mon, 18 Aug 2003 01:02:08 GMT
From: S. J.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Re: OfficeMax vs Staples Rebates

Hi Maniac,

After sending mail to Staples support, OM rebate center and you about rebate
problem, very next day, I got a call from Staple's President office asking
for the receipt of all the purchases. Not only that, Staples support sent
me an e-mail requesting the details of rebates. I don't know what happen
all of sudden, Staples started responding positively. May be folks at
Staples are scared of your hot-deals club :-)

I want to thank you sincerely for your good work and keep it up.

Thanks again.



Date: Wed, 20 Aug 2003 19:09:54 +0000
From: K. S.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax rebate problems continue!

Just to let you know this zebra hasn't changed its strips.  Officemax 
continues to stonewall me about a small rebate, saying that their Seattle 
processing house is to blame, not officemax themselves!  Who hired the 
processing house... not me!  They are hoepless and ANYONE who hopes to get a 
rebate from officemax does so stupidly after reading all these complaints 
here on this board.

I have files online complaints with
BBB both for corporate officemax in missouri and for local officemax in my 
state.
FTC
Postal inspectors
State attorney general in Missouri and my own state.



Date: Wed, 27 Aug 2003 08:26:13 -0700 (PDT)
From: Steve
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: rebate info

Becareful of officemax rebates, we had them telling us we had the wrong
UPC bar codes, but we called them and told them we have copies, and read
them off too them and they sounded a little mad and said we get them in
4-6 weeks and we got paid. Now they have come up with a new trick, they
are now sending cards saying we didnt mail them on time, however the 256
chip rebate I know was mailed two days before the post date, we live in a
small town and mail at the post office and the mail goes out every nite
at 5:45 pm, we mail at 2 pm. There no way we can prove it, so they found
a way to keep money.



Date: Wed, 27 Aug 2003 17:28:12 -0700 (PDT)
From: P. P.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Happy with OfficeMax Rebate program

Not too long ago, your site mentioned customers of
officemax.com who were encountering difficultites
receiving their rebates.  Initially, some of my
rebates from officemax were not fullfilled. However,
after inquiring at
omxrebates@officemax.com, the rebates arrived in two
weeks. They were very prompt in responding.

Most of my officemax rebates came thru without a
problem. Like any organization, things don't always go
right. Officemax will honor their rebates, you may
have to inquire but you will receive your checks.

I am happy with officemax.



Date: Thu, 28 Aug 2003 11:18:46 -0400 (EDT)
From: Hot Deals Maniac
To: P. P.
Subject: Re: Happy with OfficeMax Rebate program

I have heard this too.  People have their rebates lost or denied, they 
contact the OfficeMax rebate center 1-5 times, only then do they get their 
rebates.  That's ludicrious!  If I already took time out of my day to 
submit a rebate form, why would I want to spend more time calling or 
emailing them just so they can send me the rebate check!

Have you ever received a rebate check from OfficeMax without having to 
contact them before they sent you your check?



Date: Thu, 28 Aug 2003 17:16:55 -0700 (PDT)
From: P. P.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Re: Happy with OfficeMax Rebate program

Definitely. I would say the first time success rate is
90%.



Date: Tue, 9 Sep 2003 12:52:56 -0400
From: Paul
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Office Max

For the 2nd time in less than 4 months I am having problems with Office
Max rebates. I know on several occasions you have posted information
regarding issues with their rebates.
 


Date: Wed, 05 Nov 2003 13:34:58 -0500
From: Steve S.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Re: wd1200jbrtl-hot

i have had very good luck with om rebates, although i always include
a type summary of the rebate with my name and address. they even
automatically paid a cendyne rebate on a free after rebate cd-rw. i
used to get misspelled names which i think is a large part of the
problem.



Date: Mon, 10 Nov 2003 23:41:42 -0600
From: William
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Re: OFFICE MAX REBATE INFO

I called Office Max as you wrote...and sure enough the rebate arrived about
2 weeks later...wonder if they just expect people to forget about them?

Thanks again....



Date: Tue, 11 Nov 2003 09:32:24 -0500 (EST)
From: Hot Deals Maniac
To: William
Subject: Re: OFFICE MAX REBATE INFO

I don't doubt it.  I heard most people have to call 2-4 times before they 
finally crack and say that the rebate is on the way.



Date: Tue, 16 Dec 2003 07:41:22 -0500
From: Mike D.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax rebate woes continue (from a HotDeals member)

OfficeMax online continues to screw its customers. This has to be illegal
(if it can be proved). My guess is (1) the rebate house is getting
kickbacks on “sucessfully unfulfilled” rebate amounts, or (2)
the rebate house gets a percentage of the total submitted rebate revenue
and uses that as an incentive to not fulfill rebates. I’m disgusted
– this has happened to me several times now. Today I got a rebate
status update of:

KHypermedia 50pk CD-RW We’re sorry the UPC you submitted for this
product is incorrect.

Which is totally untrue. I’m not an idiot – I know how to cut
a UPC code out of a package and put them in an envelope. If there are
more than 1 UPC codes on the packaging I send them all.

Again – this has happened several times.

And, for the record, OfficeMax never fulfilled my Cendyne CD-RW rebate.

Thanks for having such a great site.



Date: Mon, 29 Dec 2003 19:18:46 -0500
From: Edward
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Office Max Rebates

I still have a major problem getting my rebate from Office Max.



Date: Wed, 7 Jan 2004 17:39:43 -0600
From: SM
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Officemax rebate update

just wanted to let you know about a recent thing with office max.  i
bought one of those manager's leather chairs, sent in rebate ($30) and
dind't get anything.  no rejection, nothing.  calling the actual # on the
rebate form just got a busy signal, so i called those numbers you posted,
the rebate # specifically.  I talked to SHirly, and it got taken care of
right away.  She said to expect a check (not even mail in copies of
UPC..etc) withn 10-15 days.  You should encourage other users to follow
up on these rebates and it will get taken care of!



Date: Wed, 7 Jan 2004 22:59:07 -0800
From: [anonymous]
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax Rebates

I just got through reading the endless entries about OfficeMax rebates.

I'm an OfficeMax Store Manager.  I'm wondering if we'll ever get out of 
the rut we've created.

::Sigh::

I can say though, that *I* have even submitted rebates that were 
denied.  I can say, unequivocally, that the submissions I sent were 
true and correct.

Oh well.



Date: Sun, 11 Jan 2004 23:04:51 -0500
From: Nick
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax Rebate

I know from reading your site daily that you have had some issues with
OfficeMax.  Here is another one to ponder;

In November OfficeMax had 2 rebates offered on DVD+R from KHypermedia.  I
purchased at the store and received cash register rebate slips along with
the actual cash register receipt.  I received original rebate forms in
store.  I carefully submitted the rebates (the original UPC to the
manufacturer and a UPC copy to OfficeMax).

Now I get an e-mailed link telling me “we’re sorry the UPC
you submitted for this product is incorrect”.  This is only on the
OfficeMax rebate, not the manufacturer rebate  That is not possible, as
the UPC is correct.

OfficeMax is a real low end operation.

I have copies of everything and I will take care of this through
OfficeMax.  As you have stated many times, when it becomes this much of a
hassle, the rebates are not worth it.

The funny part is OfficeMax does these “loss leader” moves to
get customers into their stores.  I am so turned off by them…..the
Office Depot down the block will get my business and my company’s
business.  This type of fooling around with the rebates only turns people
away….when they intended just the opposite.

You have my permission to use this e-mail in any way you see fit.



Date: Mon, 12 Jan 2004 13:38:05 -0500
From: Bernard
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax rebates

Like you, I thought that Officemax was trying to clean up their act with respect to
rebate fulfillment.  I was wrong.

I just got back my status from stuff purchased on Black Friday.  Two of the
Khypermedia products were rejected because of invalid UPCs because they were copies.
Problem is that there was a rebate directly from Khypermedia as well.  I had actually
called OfficeMax customer service on 11/18/03 and was told that they were aware of
the problem, so to go ahead and send the copy to them.  But they still rejected it.
And then another rebate (on the same form) mysteriously disappeared, so they
effectively are trying to steal $24 promised in rebates.  Although resubmission is
possible, it is such an aggravation, with no guarantee that they will fulfill it that
time either.

I just talked to a family member who bought some similar stuff, and they, too, have
the same problem.

But that is it.  No more rebate offers from OfficeMax- ever, and no rebates at all
with anybody, unless they have a fantastic record of fulfillment (e.g. I have had
excellent luck with Staples in terms of speed and accuracy).

I just thought I would let you know since you have discussed the situation with
OfficeMax before on your site.



Date: Sun, 11 Jan 2004 09:07:44 -0500
From: Matt
To: rebates@parago.com, omxrebates@officemax.com, syarbrough@officemax.com,
Cc: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Re: OfficeMax Promo Center Email

All I can say, OfficeMax, is this is unacceptable.  The probability that
2 rebates shipped on two different dates could be lost in the mail is
almost none.  So that means that OfficeMax must be "misdirecting" these
rebate submissions on a very frequent basis after receiving them.  I am
very upset because of OfficeMax's inability to handle a very simple task
of rebate submission, I am forced to spend hours sending and responding
to emails.  I want to be very clear about something.  I do not appreciate
having emails that I have taken the time to type up, not responded to. 
And I especially do not appreciate being asked for the same information
more than once, all of these, OfficeMax has done.  OfficeMax has acted in
a very deceitful manner that has wasted several hours of my time.

I will fax you the information you have requested.  I will also be
calling the person in charge of rebate fulfillment and customer service
at the OfficeMax Corporate Headquarters on Monday.  Based on my
discussions then, I will consider weather I feel that OfficeMax as acted
in a fraudulent manner and take this matter to the Georgia Governor's
Office of Consumer Affairs and file a complaint.

----- Original Message -----
From: rebates@parago.com
Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2004 16:08:49 -0400 (AST)
To: Matt
Subject: Re: OfficeMax Promo Center Email

> Dear Matthew Bates:
>
> Thank you for your rebate inquiry. We apologize, but we are unable to
> locate your submission in our database. Your rebate submission may
> have been misdirected or lost in the mail. If it has been longer than
> four weeks since you sent in your rebate request, please mail or fax
> a copy of your UPC barcode, sales receipt, and rebate form to:
>
> Rebate Special Services
> PO Box 028516
> Miami FL 33102-8516
>
> Fax Number: (800) 886-8370
> Please allow 24-48 hours to process your fax.
>
> Please understand that you are resubmitting your original rebate
> request, so it will take up to 8 weeks to receive your rebate.
>
> Also, if your initial submission was not sent to our processing
> centers in Texas or Florida, you should contact the store where you
> made your original purchase to locate the correct rebate processing
> center.
>
> We appreciate your participation in this promotion. If there is
> anything else we can do to assist you, please contact us at
> rebates@parago.com. We are always happy to help. You can also track
> the status of your rebate at www.RebatesHQ.com.
>
> Alvaro
> Promotions Customer Service



Date: Sun, 25 Jan 2004 12:47:48 +0000
From: Jim L.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax 

RE: OfficeMax, West Des Moines, IA - unable to get $ 50 rebate on HP DVD 
writer - unable to get several rebates due

Having spent a small fortune recently at the West Des Moines, IA OfficeMax it 
appears that I have shopped there for the final time. 

The problem I am having has to deal with the rebate process. First, I 
purchased an HP DVD writer that came with a $50 mail in rebate. No problem. I 
complete the forms, attach all the required documentation, and drive it to the 
post office myself to make sure it is postmarked timely. Rebate refused. They 
send me a postcard that tells very little about why they refused. The best I 
can gather is they are claiming it wasn't postmarked on time. No number to 
call, nothing to get it corrected. 

I consult OfficeMax 'customer service' via e-mail. No help the reply was "I do 
apologize, but all rebates are set up through a rebate center and we are at 
the mercy of the submission guidelines established by the rebate centers."

Which seems odd that they wouldn't be more supportive, unless they really 
don't want the rebates paid, the rebate center works for OfficeMax I would 
assume.

Second issue I have run across was with another HP product I purchase there 
for $399 with a $40 OfficeMax rebate as a OfficeMax Gift Card. I had a problem 
with the product so I needed to return it and exchange it for a new one. 

I called the store and after explaining the problem the manager told me to go 
ahead and box it up, bring it back and he'd have a new one waiting for me. I 
did as he required, and he followed through just fine. Now the problem with 
the rebate. 

After having the product, finding a defect in it, and returning it, it seems 
as though I am now outside the terms of the rebate (since if I had filed it I 
would have taken the UPC code from the original box I couldn't file it earlier 
or I wouldn't have been able to return it). The rebate submission guidelines?

Two weeks from date of purchase. Nice, I barely got the defective one returned 
in that timeframe, now I'm ripped out of my $40 gift card. So that's $90 they 
hosed me out of in two deals. 

I finally tracked down the rebate center and they were no help either. After 
one response to my initial inquiry, I replied and again asked them to make it 
right and they have decided the best way to deal with me is to ignore my 
request. 

So OfficeMax in West Des Moines, IA, I would suggest if you want to continue 
to keep my business you work on correcting this situation. Otherwise, I'll 
shop somewhere that values my continued business and actually honors the 
rebates they offer. 

I have had an issue on a rebate in the past at another merchant, the store 
simply gave me an adjustment and I got my 'rebate' directly from them. I 
continue to shop at CompUSA since that is the kind of service and response to 
issues that keep customers coming back.



Date: Mon, 26 Jan 2004 07:38:36 -0500
From: Leo
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax rebates

This is my two cents in regards to OfficeMax rebates tale. Honestly
speaking I never (knock on the wood) had major problems with OfficeMax
rebates. Last year I was on of the unlucky ones to buy 2 of the Cendyne
products within two month before Cendyne went bankrupt. Both CD-RW and
DVD-RW were bought from OfficeMax within one month of each other and
required 3 rebates in total. By that time, I have received one rebate and
only 2 were left
 
Of course when I heard the news about Cendyne going belly up I called the
OM's rebate vendor (at that time it was Parago, www.rebateshq.com, this
time they added another one, www.easierrebates.com). I tracked my rebates
online all the time, so I knew the progress. Parago customer rep. told me
that manufacturer delays paying the rebate so this should be another few
weeks. Well, few weeks past and my new call to Parago gave the same
results.
 
I called OfficeMax rebate fulfillment hotline. The lady on the other end
asked me if I have a copies of all the rebate documentation. Since I keep
a track of all the rebate submissions, it was a no brainier. I faxed all
the docs to her and she promised to expedite this request. There may have
been a one or two more phone calls to find out the status until both
rebate checks came in. Both of these checks were from OfficeMax direct.
 
As such, my suggestion to all the customers who take advantage of the
rebates. First and foremost: Always take a copy of every single document
you need for the rebate fulfillment. Read the rebate form very carefully
to make sure you did not miss any document and did not send extra. Almost
every rebate form nowadays include the rebate contact information such as
website or telephone number or both (all OfficeMax rebates offers I used
do). If rebate does not include such information go with this deal with
caution as it will be very hard to track the status of the rebate. Fill
out all the information they require. Be aware that rebate vendors
sometimes use phone number or email for tracking purposes, so do not
hesitate to give it. Call them in 2-4 weeks after submission or check the
rebate status online to verify that your submission is indeed valid and
all the required documents are indeed received.
 
And lastly, I would like to warn people about PCMall.com rebates. Be
aware that they are not trackable. The rebate form does include the phone
number that leads to a PCMall account executive. It is virtually
impossible to get to their Rebate Fulfillment Department or Customer
Service since their menu is forcing you to account executive who can only
sell you anything but unable to help in any complains resolution. Company
has a rebate tracking link on their website, but it does not work. Their
customer service is extremely unfriendly. If you ask them to help you
with rebate resolution they will likely to put you on hold which throws
you into the root menu (you know, the Thank you for calling PCMall.com.
For account executive press 1... etc.) or simply disconnect completely.
Neither Customer Service nor the Rebate dept. have their direct phone
number. I am in currently in process of tracking my rebate with them for
the 25-pack of DVD+R disks. So far I have no success and neither have I a
will to buy anything else from them (their prices are overinflated
anyway).



Date: Mon, 26 Jan 2004 09:13:42 -0500 (EST)
From: Hot Deals Maniac
To: Leo
Subject: Re: OfficeMax rebates

Thanks for your email.  Your suggestion to photocopy all rebate documents
is exactly what I'm suggesting to everyone who deals with OfficeMax
rebates.  The trend I have seen with OfficeMax rebates is they do in fact
send out rebate checks but usually not until the customer calls or emails
their rebate center.  Some people often receive rejection letters, call
the rebate center 2-4 times (sometimes fax photocopy of documents) and
only then their rebate forms mysteriously re-appear or the rebate center
just sends a check right away.  According to your email, you said you've 
never had problems with OfficeMax rebates but you also said that you 
always follow up with a phone call.  This coincides with what everyone 
else has told me - they only get their rebates after sending emails or 
calling the rebate center.

This leads some customers to think that OfficeMax is playing dirty tricks
on its customers by hoping they all forget about their submitted rebates,
and only sending out rebates when the customers do remember and follow up.  
There are a lot of customers that feel OfficeMax rebate fulfillment
process is a scam.

For someone like you who follows up, I'm sure you'll have few problems.  
Most people reportedly send in all the required forms correctly, forget
about it, and never get a check back.

I know that this is just the nature of the beast.  Rebates fail to go 
through a lot from every company.  I've had a few rebates denied from Dell 
recently.  Simply by 1-3 phone calls to Dell, speaking with someone 
helpful, and they simply credited my card with the rebate amount.  Very 
easy.  One of my rebates were actually my fault since it was not 
postmarked in time, but they still gave it to me.  The reports from 
OfficeMax are very scary, and are something I would expect from a low 
quality store like eCost and Tigerdirect, not from a huge store like 
OfficeMax.



Date: Mon, 26 Jan 2004 22:19:48 -0500
From: Chris
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: OfficeMax Rebate Assistance

I read the reports of OfficeMax not paying rebate. I think this info may
help everyone. I used this same approach with TCA Rebates of NY. I filed an
online complaint with the NY State Consumer Protection Board. Within 5 days,
TCA got me a check. I live in Maryland!

OfficeMax is an OHIO based corp. You will need to use the OHIO CP Office,
regardless of where you live.

Info you will need to file a complaint:
Violators' Name & Address:
OfficeMax
3605 Warrensville Center Rd.
Shaker Heights, OH 44122
Phone: (216) 921-6900

Date of purchase, Item Purchased, Place of Purchase (Which OM?),Rebate or
Promo #, Rebate Amount, Date Mailed, ANY Tracking or USPS # you have for
mailing rebate, anything else pertinent to your complaint.

On-Line Complaint:
http://www2.ag.state.oh.us/sections/consumer/ccapsplus/welcome.asp

VERY IMPORTANT:  Under comments or remarks, ALWAYS include the following
statement.
"Furthmore, it is my opinion that OfficeMax's practices constitute unfair or
deceptive acts or practices,in or affecting commerce to be in violation of
Section 5(a) of the Federal Trade Commission Act."

WHY?: 5(a)FTC Act empowers and motivates the state authorities to act. They
may literally SHUT-DOWN a company if they do not comply with the State's
orders. They can seize assets, incoming & outgoing mail, etc. State AGs
would prefer to keep their 'own house' in order without the Feds getting
involved.

It sometimes helps to send a copy of the report to your local Postal
Inspection Service office with a letter stating you believe OfficeMax's
executives to be engaged in a conspiracy to promote mail &/or wire fraud
(18USC63). Make a note of this action on your OHIO complaint.

Although this may seem extreme, for bigger rebates it isn't. If you're
dealing with $30, $50, or more in rebates that enticed you to buy from OM,
they need to PAY UP or suffer your wrath.

Finally, if you shop in an actual OM store, find the Store Manager and let
him know of your displeasure and what you're doing about it. Staples &
OfficeDepot will be glad to take his business!

Hope this is of some help!



Date: Wed, 28 Jan 2004 20:22:30 -0500
From: Jeff
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Officemax rebates

I read on your site that you're aware of many people having trouble with
Officemax rebates. Well, you can add me to the list. I've submitted about
12 rebates to them. The first several came in without a hitch but all the
others were either delayed or ignored. I meticulously checked each rebate
for accuracy so I know they were valid yet they claimed they weren't.
After many phones calls I got some others but two still were way over
due. I went to the store manager with copies of all the forms, etc. She
copied them and told me she'd look into it. She did and told me it would
take another 4-5 weeks to get them. Guess what? I got them both in less
than a week. I figure you have to really put the pressure on them to get
the rebates. Lesson learned. NO MORE OFFICEMAX REBATES. They are either
dishonest or very disorganized. Thanks for your comments to warn others. 



Date: Tue, 17 Feb 2004 18:21:10 -0600 (Central Standard Time)
From: T. R.
To: Hot Deals Maniac
Subject: Office Max rebates

I never thought I would see the day when Office Max delivered on a rebate
in record time.  A few weeks ago they offered the 50 pak of blank dvdr's
for $9.99 after a $20 rebate.  Office Max now allows you to register and
print out your rebate information on their website.  They say this
expedites your rebate by several weeks.   I did this and mailed it in
right away.  I received my $20 check today after less than 4 weeks.  I
purchased the  disks on January 21st.  This was an Office Max rebate and
not a manufacturer rebate.  That could be why I received the rebate so
quickly.  Given this positive result I will be more inclined to buy
something else on rebate from Office Max in the future.  I belive this is
what they would like also.