I worked for Staples for many years, so I can't speak for any other retailer, but since I had to help customers on may occasions with rebates I can share a couple things with you.
1. Submit online with Staples with the easy rebate system. It ususally takes around 3 to 4 weeks to get your check. The store employees will help you if you ask to fill it out while there in the store.
Your check looks like a postcard when you get in it the mail, so you would'nt believe how many times people throw them out thinking it was junk mail. So be careful when sorting your mail!
2. If you have to mail it in, FOLLOW ALL THE DIRECTIONS. I'm not trying to put anyone down, but I'd say 90% of the time people with problems did not fill everything out, didn't send the UPC, bought the wrong product, did not send the receipt in, etc, etc, etc.
3. If all else fails, just go down to the local store and talk to a manager. Be sure you bring all your receipts and bar code copies, and your rejection postcard if you have one. The manager can call the rebate hotline and often fix everything and get it validated on the spot. The store can't give you any money, but they will help you get your rebate validated.
Hope this helps!
