Most companies are issuing rebate cards nowadays to encourage customers to patronize the product or service they are offering. Rebates or loyalty points are awarded to customers for every purchase made or service availed from the rebate card issuer. The rebates are credited in a plastic rebate card and form part of its balance that consumers may use at participating establishments. The limitations on the use of rebate cards, for example on rebate card balance that can be used by customers, depend on the rebate card issuer. If there are such requirements that limit the use of rebate cards, there are companies that offer to buy rebate cards. These companies usually advertise on the internet. The companies will purchase rebate cards depending on the rebate card balance.
What features must rebate card holders are aware of in order to take full advantage of their rebate cards? Some rebate cards may only be used at limited locations. It is true that most plastic rebate cards issued today carry the Visa or MasterCard logo which makes them valid wherever credit cards are also accepted. However, there are rebate cards that are only valid at participating stores. Some rebate cards also have expiry dates. If the rebate card balance is not used after a certain time, the rebate card balances expire and are forfeited. Also, some rebate card issuers stipulate that rebate balances earned may only be used in full for a certain period. After the period specified lapses, only part of the balance may be used. These are just some examples of what rebate card holder should know about in order to enjoy the full perks of their rebate cards.
Rebate cards are meant to be rewards to loyal customers. However, there are rebate card features that limit the advantages that can de derived from the rebate cards. These features include rebate card balance expiration, limited validity of rebate card, and limit on the use of full rebate card balance, among others. Rebate card holders must always be aware of these limiting features. If they find that they can not use the rebates or points in their rebate cards, or if they are near forfeiting the balance of their rebate cards, they may opt to sell their rebate cards to companies that purchase rebate cards in exchange for cash.