Is this the season or what? It seems like suddenly this week I'm receiving notices about how many 'rewards dollars' I've earned. I just received my Costco rebate check. I have a decent balance at Cabela's and REI, too. I've gotten so many e-mails about places where I can spend my credit, I have almost lost track of them all. I feel like saying, "Forget the credit, just send me the money." However, that isn't how those programs work. I have to shop at their store to use the credit. What if I don't need anything?

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"Poor people work for their money. Rich people make their money work for them."

Do they expire or can you wait to use them until you need something? Do you need to purchase a gift for anyone in the near future?

Another thought do you have a friend that might need them. You could barter with them for something you need and they could use your certificates.

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You can cash your Costco rebate check at any Costco. You do not need to spend it there. You could even spend a portion and get the remainder back in cash or put it on a Costco Cash Card (what we did with ours, since it was more than we usually spend on a "run").

I think that bartering them is a good idea!

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SAHM of 4

July food budget: $500 Total spent: $38.53
June food budget: $500 Total spent: $625

I've heard of people turning in their store credits for cash, but the price paid is that they had to take a cut. For example, turning in their $50 store credit for $35 cash. But if you're not going to use it anyway, it might be worth it. I'm sure you'd have to talk to the manager, and probably on his/her good day. Bartering with them is an awesome idea, too.

how are you getting these rewards and credits?

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Good question