Ebates... How do you get this thing to work?

[Spiffster]

I signed up for Ebates and have even installed the plugin for Chrome.

Seems like a pretty simple concept. If I visit an eligible site, the Ebates plugin generates a small popup that allows me to activate a varying discount, depending on the site I am at. Problem is, I have activated the discounts and made my purchases but still have no pending credits on my Ebates account.

Even as I am checking out and entering my CC information the plugin is showing as activated (green border on ebates icon). But after the transaction is completed, Ebates shows zero for balance and pending balance.

What the heck am I doing wrong?

[rennigade]

Nothing wrong. It takes a couple days for the order to be process. The retailer will notify ebates and they will then post the money to your account.

YOu'd be better off using shopdiscover...at least from my experience. At least you know you'll get your money...ive been stiffed by ebates.

[wjcalderon]

You also need to be sure that the items you're buying are eligible.
For example: Not everything on Amazon qualifies for the rebate - only certain categories.
The best way to make sure is to go to ebates.com and then choose the store. It will show you what is eligible.
Some stores post the rebate immediately. With others, it might take several days.
If you have a Discover card, almost all online purchases will give you 5% cash back thru the end of the year.
And if you shop their "Discover Deals", it could be even higher.
I just got $5 off a $50 purchase at HomeDepot.com and 10% cash back.