<prompt> Human: I came into a bit of money recently, and decided to spend it on parts for a PC. My budgeting on this matter was based off of the assumption that I would be able to cash in a mail in rebate. However, I am perplexed. The rebate forms require information that can only be found on the boxes of the items I purchased, some of which may arrive after the expiration date of the rebate. So, my question to you is: does the expiration date mean that I have to order the item before the date, or mail in the form before the date?Thank you.  <response>: Usually on rebates there are two sets of dates - rebate good on purchases X to Y and rebate must be received by Z or postmarked by Z Those are your terms. So, lets say you ordered an MSI Radeon CrossFireX Support Video Card - where there is a 15 rebate out for it. It says you must buy it before 123115 and it must be postmarked within 15 days of purchase. If the thing is backordered a month, you are up a creek. Be VERY careful to fulfill all the requirements. If they want the address written on a 3x5 card, do NOT use a 4x6. If they want the original UPC code, razor it off and send it, making sure that you know that this will void all returns. And yes, you really should keep copies of all of your submissions in case it doesnt turn up or they argue. Ive sent in a lot of rebates over the years, and Ive only had to argue about 2, including one currently. And thats a lot of rebates under my belt. 