Sprint has traditionally offered mail-in rebates. Now, according to Sprint, all their phones include an instant rebate when purchased on-line, by phone, or in Sprint stores. The instant rebate offer is for a limited time. Rebates start at $50 and go up from there, with the popular Android phones offering $100. For example, the popular Evo and Epic phones are $199.99 after savings with a two year contract, and the Epic Shift is $149.99. Some multi-specialty retail outlets do not have access to immediate rebates.
Receiving an instant rebate should ensure all customers receive the rebate, which as been an issue in the past. According to Consumeraffairs.com, $500 million in rebates across all industries go unclaimed every year, and redemption rates range from 5% to 80%, depending on the dollar amount. An August 3, 2010 article in PC World addressed issues specific to cell phone rebates, which are often in “gift card” form when received. However, consumers are often left waiting for 6 months or more for rebates, while some never receive them.
Sprint phones purchased on-line will include free shipping and free activation when a new line of service is purchased, according to Sprint. While this will save $36 per phone, users will not have access to in-store services, such as phone tutorials and data transfer services.
Sprint is also offering “Your Satisfaction. Guaranteed.” New customers, or current customers adding a new line of service, can try Sprint out for 30 days. The “Sprint Free Guarantee” promises if these customers are unhappy for any reason, they can cancel within 30 days for a full refund, provided the phone or data-card is not damaged. According to sprint.com, it is “just one more thing we give you that our competitors don’t. And one more reason why there’s never been a better time to give us a try.”
Current customers that upgrade their phones also have options. Within 30 days, customers that are unhappy with their new phone can return it for a full refund. They can apply the purchase price to a new phone, or get a refund and go back to their old phone and old plan. Sprint promises that “whether you buy online or from a Sprint store, we are committed to making sure you are satisfied with your purchase.”
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