I just thought that since we're always on the lookout for great deals, we shouldn't forget about our friendly neighbourhood rainchecks.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p>
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Most stores offer them when they run out of sale items. But did you know...<o:p></o:p>
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1) Grocery rainchecks are transferable, meaning no personal information is taken down, so you can pass them on to family or friends who missed out on the sale<o:p></o:p>
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2) The average raincheck is valid for 30 days from date of issue. If the product is still not available within those 30 days - or - on the 30th day when you happen to return - the store will re-issue a raincheck for another 30 days<o:p></o:p>
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3) Some stores limit the amount of goods that can be purchased with a raincheck (usually a limit of 6)<o:p></o:p>
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4) An exception to the raincheck policy is sometimes where stated "While quantities last" - although some stores will still issue one to promote customer loyalty if you ask nicely<o:p></o:p>
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5) Zellers rainchecks are valid for TWO YEARS!<o:p></o:p>
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Several times I've found myself at a grocery store twice in one week, and have noticed that a sale item that I previously purchased is now sold out. Getting a raincheck is like having the sale price all over again up to one month later - perfect for those groceries like milk or eggs that you can't really stock up on due to close expiration dates.<o:p></o:p>
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I recently used a Zellers raincheck issued to me LAST APRIL during their dollar event - and bought a bottle of Fructis shampoo for $0.13 after I used my current $1.00 off coupon.<o:p></o:p>
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And I’ve never paid more than $11.77 for the club pack of Pampers wipes at Loblaws (reg. $16.99) – because they never seem to have more than 6 in stock, so I’ve had a running raincheck for the last 4 months where I pick up one box when I need to at the sale price and have my raincheck re-issued due to insufficient quantities.<o:p></o:p>
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So next time you see a sale bin empty, don't forget to take a walk down to customer service and get yourself a deal (or a repeat deal!)