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Using Rainchecks at an Electronic Store

10 Nov 2011 | Category: uncategorized | Author: admin

What is a rain check?

A rain check is a ticket you receive when an item is out of stock. They are placed at the courtesy counters and all you normally need to do is ask for one.

How do I get a rain check?

When an item is on sale it normally sells out quickly. When this happens, most people will leave the store in disappointment. But, the bargain shopper will immediately go to the courtesy counter and ask for a rain check.

The person behind the counter will fill out a form which has the item # and the sales price. You can then use this form for up to 60 days after you receive it according to the FTC (Federal Trade commission)...This means, once the item is in stock, you can get it at sale price.

Why do I want a rain check?

As stated above, the main reason to get a rain check is to get an item for sales price even after it has run out of stock.

The second and most beneficial reason to get a rain check is to combine the sales price with a store sale. Most people don't know that the rain check becomes the price of the item. So, if there is a store coupon or a coupon for the item, you can use that coupon in addition to the rain check.

This means you are almost always better off waiting for the sale item to run out and getting the rain check rather than just buying the item at sales price.

Here's an example:

Anywhere Computer Store is running a sale on Maxell CD Roms 100 PK

The sale is: Maxell CD Roms $29.99 now $14.99

You arrive at the store and these CD's are out of stock

You go to the courtesy desk and ask for a rain check

The rain check will say Maxell CD Roms 100 PK $14.99

Combine with sale:

The bargain shopper will hold out on the rain check until there is a store sale.

Store Sale: 50% off all Maxell CD's

Now, you go to Anywhere Computer Store with your rain check during the 50% off sale and you have now received those $29.99 CD's for $7.50

Real World Problem:

Only grocery stores are forced by the FTC to give rain checks. Other stores are encouraged to sell you a comparative item for the sale price.

Don't despair

Good Situation:

If you get the right person at the courtesy desk, they will give you a rain check. You can explain that only that product will work for your situation. Some people will give in and give you the rain check.

Better Situation:

You have a friend who works at the courtesy counter. They will give you the rain check. When you finally purchase the product they will also give you an employee discount.

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