Today’s Consumer Topic: Shop Now, Buy Saturday

This Saturday, May 8 at 9 a.m., Oklahoma consumers may start purchasing appliances that will earn them cash back as part of the Oklahoma Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program. But with the crowds expected at area retailers, it’s a good idea to shop early.

Oklahoma’s rebate program, which is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, kicked off on April 22 when appliance dealers and HVAC installers started registering to participate in the program. More than 350 retailers have registered so far.

Consumers who wish to participate in the program are urged to visit okcommerce.gov/appliances for details about the program. Consumers may also visit okappliancerebate.com where they can search for a retailer by name or find a nearby retailer who sells a specific appliance. Consumers who have a favorite retailer should check to see they are registered in the program or encourage them to do so if not. 

It’s important for Consumers to know the rules of the program to ensure their rebate request won’t be rejected.  Here are some important tips to ensure a successful purchase/rebate:

Consumers’ rebate reservation form and sales receipt MUST show a time/date stamp after 9 a.m., Saturday, May 8. Purchases made prior to that time are not eligible.

If a retailer is going to dispose of the old appliance, the retailer must sign the rebate reservation form. If the consumer is going to dispose of the appliance, he/she must sign the form and check the box stating you are “self-certifying” to dispose of it properly.

The rebate form and sales receipt must be mailed and postmarked by 5 p.m., June 30.

It’s wise to shop early, especially because there will be no exchanges of appliances purchased in conjunction with the rebate program. But beware of overly aggressive retailers who suggest they have a way for consumers to buy ahead of time. No retailer will have access to the rebate reservation system until 9 a.m., May 8, so it is impossible to guarantee a consumer a rebate before then.