Don't let rebate cards pick your pocket

In Canada you can't even call them rebates. But in the U.S., rebate cards are becoming more the norm than the checks that had long been the standard.

But this isn't just a switch to a more modern method; it's a way companies can make more money from you because many people leave balances on them or forget to use them at all. In addition, some expire in just a few months and/or begin draining down the balance if they aren't used. Those are not problems you'll have after cashing a check.

And even though the cards carry the logo of a major credit card, that doesn't mean they enjoy the protections afforded credit cards. They don't. They're not credit cards. They're not even gift cards, which also are afforded some protection.