WO2006121541A1

WO2006121541A1 - Automated rebate system and method

Info

Publication number: WO2006121541A1
Application number: PCT/US2006/012761
Authority: WO
Inventors: John W. Bumb
Original assignee: Bumb John W
Priority date: 2005-04-05
Filing date: 2006-04-05
Publication date: 2006-11-16
Also published as: WO2006121541B1

Abstract

A method and system for an agent that facilitates electronically processing, financing, taking rebate as collateral, redeeming, obtaining rebate pre approval, and facilitating rebate offers is provided. Functionality and structure include: automating the rebate process by minimizing or eliminating the need for a product buyer to perform any task to initiate the rebate redemption, ability for rebate issuers to safely and more securely offer real-time, or near real-time, rebate offers, providing the customer with a certain level of instant gratification related to the purchase price of the product, allowing the product seller to obtain a certain distance from the middle man role in which they are placed, enhancing risk management capability for the rebate issuer, providing the rebate claimant efficient and expedient problem resolution recourse, and providing cash on the spot for qualified rebates and claimants, and so on.

Description

AUTOMATED REBATE SYSTEM AND METHOD

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to rebates. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for an agent to provide various rebate-related functionality on behalf of any party in a product or service supply chain.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

Supply Chain Management (SCM) is a common problem for any organization involved in the design, development, manufacture, marketing, and distribution of goods and services. SCM is particularly important in retail organizations where the successful management of product inventory and the promotion of consumer satisfaction are essential for efficient operation, consumer loyalty, and optimal profit margins. Common SCM activities for rebate issuers as well as product sellers in the supply chain such as distributor, wholesale/retail consolidators, and traditional retailers, include inventory control, supplier network development, purchasing, merchandising, marketing and sales. This is true of all types of operations whether they operating from a brick and mortar operation or are direct marketers such as a web store or catalog marketer.

One well-known marketing tool is to provide customers or end users with purchasing incentives, such as rebates. Prior art rebate systems, however, that attempt to optimize the performance of a rebate promotion typically require a Product Seller to manually track a manufacturer's promotions for a particular product and provide the appropriate rebate information and forms to customers. In addition, with such prior art systems, the following events must typically occur to achieve a successful rebate transaction: a customer must retain sales documents, a customer must obtain and fill out rebate forms, a customer must supply proof-of-purchase, typically from the product packaging, a customer must enclose such information in a correctly addressed envelope with the appropriate postage and mail the entire rebate package to the product manufacturer or a third party rebate processing entity, the product manufacturer or third party must receive and correctly process the rebate information, the product manufacturer or third party must mail the rebate check to the correct customer address and the rebate check must be delivered to the correct customer address, and the customer must keep track of such rebate check until the customer makes a trip, often a special trip, to his/her financial institution to deposit such rebate check into his/her account.

Such prior, proposed and emerging art rebate systems place both inconveniences and costs on all parties in the supply chain from the rebate issuer, to the product sellers such as, but not limited to retailers and on down the chain to the product buyers and are unnecessarily inflexible in today's electronic world. First, such prior art systems do not allow for real-time, or near real time, rebate offers making such rebate programs slow in responding to customer shopping trends. Second, rebate issuers must bare the administrative costs associated with manually processing rebate redemption paperwork and such costs reduce the amount of rebate a rebate issuer can offer. Third, product buyers must invest their time and money to assemble and mail such paperwork and wait weeks for the rebate to process. Many customers today desire and expect instant gratification, i.e. an instant rebate, e-bate or cash, and the relatively long time between making a purchase and seeing a rebate check coupled with the previously described burdensome rebate related tasks often result in all but the most frugal of customers ignoring or forgetting about rebate offers. Such processing related inconveniences and costs greatly reduce the effectiveness of rebate offers to the rebate issuer, benefit to the prospective rebate claimant and goodwill sought by the product seller. Another disgruntlement of rebate claimant is essentially the need to pay sales related or taxes referred to as value-added- tax (VAT) upon the rebate amount. Amounts of rebates can be substantial; therefore, the amount of taxes such as sales and VAT can be substantial as well. Thus, the true value of the rebate offered at the retail level is nearly always diminished from minor to significant degrees. Fourth, instant rebates and related requirements associated with prior art are simply not practical for rebate issuers and/or product sellers. There are simply too many variables to consider, parties to interface with, sophisticated computer hardware and software systems, database records to develop, keep, and maintain, and agreements to be made that the permutations are near endless. Thus the burden upon these parties by the proposed or existing art is not cost effective and inefficient.

Recently developed electronic rebate processing improvements minimize many of the above noted issues with older paper intensive prior art rebate systems. For example, Kepros et al, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. U.S. 2002/0152119 A1 , Method and Computer System for Processing Electronic Rebates (October 17, 2002) discusses a way of processing electronically by providing a purchase identifier linked to a purchase of a product. The purchase identifier is listed on a receipt upon the purchase of the product or contained in an electronic mail message sent to an electronic mail address accessible using a user computer system. Information is then received via a network from a user of the user computer system to complete a rebate claim for the purchased product. The received information is verified to determine whether the purchase identifier was provided. The rebate claim is granted if the received information is verified as correct. However, such prior art systems still require a user or product purchaser to access a computer system and supply additional information, days or even weeks after the purchasing event, depending on the diligence of the customer, to complete the rebate process. Such prior art systems also require a customer to wait for a rebate check and manually cash such check or deposit such check into the customer's bank account. Finally, such prior art systems do not provide a manufacturer with the ability to offer real-time, or near real time, rebate offers.

In another example. O'Shea et al in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. U.S. 2005/0149387 A1 , RFID System and Method for Instant Rebates (July 7, 2005) discusses a way of redeeming and processing product marketing rebates using radio frequency identification system proof-of-purchase technology. RFID smart tags are associated with products where each distinct product is associated with at least one smart tag. The smart tags contain product information including product identification information and/or rebate related information. However, such prior art systems place significant burden upon either or both the rebate issuer and/or the product seller. Either one or both the rebate issuer and the product seller are required to maintain up-to-date databases on each of their product buyers. In addition, it must be settled as to which entity will actually perform fraud checks on each of the product buyers making a rebate claim. However, there is still the requirement that the manufacturer offers the rebate without leveraging a rebate broker or agent to handle the rebate on behalf of the manufacturer, including carrying the associated risks.

Various other methodologies have been devised to improve upon the current state of providing rebates to consumers. For example, Chris Quinlan and Edward A. Devlin, U.S. Patent No. 6,748,365, Method and System for Redeeming Product Marketing Rebates (Jun. 8, 2004) discuss a system and method for processing product marketing rebate claims submitted by a consumer in satisfaction of a rebate offer, the consumer having purchased designated products in a qualified transaction recorded by a point-of-sale data processing and storage system that issues a receipt containing a corresponding transaction serial number. The method comprises providing a designated site of a computer information network and accessible by the consumer, and receiving a rebate claim on the designated site. The rebate claim comprises (i) the transaction serial number corresponding to the qualified transaction, and (ii) identifying information corresponding to the consumer. The transaction serial number and the identifying information is stored as a stored data record. An electronic file transfer is received from the point-of-sale data processing and storage system comprising purchase data records, each record comprising the list of products purchased and the transaction serial number for a qualified transaction in which at least one designated product was purchased. Each stored data record is associated with a purchase data record having an identical serial number, and the records are processed to validate the rebate claim. Finally, the value of the rebate offer is transferred to the consumer. Consumer access by the designated site may be via the global computer information network or by telephone, and may also optionally integrate paper-based and smart/credit/debit-card-based rebate claims. It should be appreciated that Quinlan et al do not teach placing immediate cash and/or credit into the hands or accounts of associated members by financing the rebates. Further, Quinlan et al require numerous interfaces be created between a plurality of merchants and a plurality of fulfillment houses and therefore require that a merchant maintain individual interfaces between numerous fulfillment houses and correctly distribute rebate data to the corresponding fulfillment house.

In Catalina Marketing's Checkout Rebate Offers Simple Solutions to Traditional Rebate Programs, Feb. 24, 1998, PR Newswire, a rebate program that instantly prints a rebate form when the consumer purchases a participating item is announced. It should be appreciated that the electronic rebate is printed only after the purchase of the participating product. There is no means for a consumer to indicate intent to purchase. Also, there is no teaching or suggestion of providing instant cash and/or credit to the consumer.

In the prior art systems the bulk of the rebate claimant data must come from the product seller and the rebate issuer has the option of rejecting the claim. The product seller has no desire to be placed in a position where they may become at odds with the product buyer. As well, the product purchaser may not desire to be burdened with the requirement to register with either a multitude of rebate issuers or product sellers such as a retailer. Nor is it likely that the average product buyer can want such information to be so widely available to each product seller with which the product buyer performs business. Further, should a rebate claimant be denied a rebate the recourse a rebate claimant may have is likely to be limited and/or an exercise in frustration. That frustration could initially be released and directed toward the product seller. Therefore, a need exists for a rebate redemption and processing system and service that more fully automates and provides for significant flexibility for all parties related to the rebate process by minimizing or eliminating the need for the product buyer to perform any task except to identify themselves as a member of a service, loyalty program or other organization to initiate the rebate redemption process after leaving a point of sale, by minimizing or eliminating the need for the product seller to perform any task except basic rebate availability notice to the product buyer, by minimizing or eliminating the need for the rebate issuer to perform any redemption function but basic fraud, verification and audit checks in regards to the rebate redemption process, that provides for cash on the spot in the pocket of the product buyer for their rebate prior to departing the location of the product seller via a designated rebate processing device (RPD) such as an automated teller machine (ATM), point of sales (POS), or other automated or semi-manual means, that provides the product buyer the ability to have their rebate pre approved prior to purchase of a product and to receive either credit or cash for their pre approved rebate, that provides the ability for rebate issuers to offer real-time, or near real-time, rebate offers or near equivalent, that eliminates the rebate bank draft or check, that provides the product buyer with some level of instant gratification, that provides the product buyer with an independent advocate that will strive to resolve rebate denials and related problems to the benefit of and without the need for further action to be taken by the rebate claimant, that the rebate issuer is assured the identity of the rebate claimant and rebate- claim-information is accurate and has been independently verified, that provides rebate issuer significantly higher quality of marketing data relating not only to the claimant, but the product and product seller, that provides for a significant reduction and in some cases the elimination for the need of a rebate issuer to interface the systems of a multitude of product sellers, except for basic rebate information, that provides for significant reduction associated with the complications of a product seller as they relate to rebates, such as the product seller needs not to collect or maintain rebate-claim-information from each person or entity claiming a rebate, reduction of amount of interface requirements between a multitude of rebate issuers, eliminates or significantly minimizes the need of a product seller to act as a middleman/referee in regards to their product buyer and the rebate issuer, that provides the product seller the ability to better focus on their core business and use resources once used or planned for rebates related activities in other productive areas, and that provides for seamless or near seamless participation by product sellers that are not the traditional brick-and-mortar type operations such as, but not limited to, web stores, mail order houses, telephone and television direct marketers.

It further would be advantageous to provide all parties with effective and attractive services that bring not only higher levels of satisfaction to the consumer, but bring the value of additional sales, profit, and cost savings to the merchant and rebate issuer.

It further would be advantageous to provide automated transaction processes in the rebate fulfillment industry and that can facilitate traditional rebates through mail and product fulfillment when requested.

It further would be advantageous to provide the customer of an enterprise with immediate in-store cash or credit on the customer's rebate, i.e. in one stop, in one process, with no more hassles, and with no more worries.

It further would be advantageous for a merchant to provide the customer ability to receive additional and immediate disposable cash while in the merchant's store, thereby producing in store rebate revenue, attracting a merchant's Web customers to the merchant's brick and mortar location and vice-versa, and obtaining same visit sales. It further would be advantageous for the merchant to obtain higher levels of satisfaction and greater customer loyalty, i.e. repeat business.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A method and system for an agent or network of agents working in concert that facilitates electronically processing, financing, taking rebate as collateral, redeeming, obtaining rebate pre approval, and facilitating rebate offers is provided. Functionality and structure include: automating the rebate process by minimizing or eliminating the need for a product buyer to perform any task to initiate the rebate redemption, ability for rebate issuers to safely and more securely offer real-time, or near real-time, rebate offers, providing the customer with a certain level of instant gratification related to the purchase price of the product, allowing the product seller to obtain a certain distance from the middle man role in which they are placed, enhancing risk management capability for the rebate issuer, providing the rebate claimant efficient and expedient problem resolution recourse, and providing cash on the spot for qualified rebates and claimants, and so on.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing product registration according to one embodiment of the invention ;

Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing passive receipt acquisition over a network according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram showing semi-active receipt acquisition over a network according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing active receipt acquisition over a network according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an RPD Login according to one embodiment of the invention;

Figs. 6a-6c is a schematic diagram showing an ATM - Rebate according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram showing RPD Rebate Post Processing according to one embodiment of the invention; Figs. 8a-8c is a schematic diagram showing RPD Rebate Credit Advance according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing RPD - CDD Cash Withdrawal according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a View Print Receipt according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 11 is a sample receipt according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram is of a prior art Diebold ® ATM that has been modified and configured to offer the features and perform the functions of a stand alone ATM/kiosk/Rebate Processing Device.

Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram of a stand alone ATM/kiosk with an added sidecar according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram of a stand alone ATM/kiosk with an added sidecar and an added topper according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram of a stand alone ATM/kiosk with an added sidecar and an added topper in a configuration for higher volume according to one embodiment of the invention;

Figs. 16a - 16af are sample screen shots that a typical user encounters while using the rebate service and system at a kiosk according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 17 is a high level schematic diagram showing actors and relationships according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 18 is a schematic diagram showing a 3-way relationship according to the prior art; Fig. 19 is a schematic diagram showing a 4-way relationship according to the prior art;

Fig. 20 is a schematic diagram showing a service augment according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 21 is a schematic diagram showing member recognition according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 22 is a schematic flow diagram from the perspective of a sales system of a Web merchant according to one embodiment of the invention;

Figs. 23a-b is a schematic diagram showing the flow of an initial rebate qualification check;

Figs. 24a-c show a basic exemplary illustration of the processes related to final qualification processes by the Service for a rebate as well as the final qualification according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 25 is a schematic diagram that illustrates processes involved with post initial qualification, final qualification, and service type selection of the MOTS according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 26 is a schematic diagram of member rebate submission forms and envelopes according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig, 27 is a schematic diagram of a member or non-member rebate submission form according to one embodiment of the invention;

Figs. 28a-d are schematic diagrams of Service Proof of Purchase tags according to one embodiment of the invention; Fig. 29 is a schematic diagram showing an RPD - E-Document - Wireless Device according to one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 30 is a schematic diagram of a wireless device according to one embodiment of the invention; and

Fig. 31 is a schematic diagram showing the scanning of an E-Document barcode of the Service according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

It should be appreciated that the system and method herein may be referred to as a rebate system, a rebate service, rebate agent, and a Company interchangeably, the appropriate meaning depending on the given context. None of the terms are meant to be limiting, but are used for convenience of understanding that which is the invention.

Overview

One embodiment of the invention can be described with reference to Fig. 17, a high level schematic diagram showing actors and relationships. Primary Actors involved in the rebate process evolved and development as integral rolls in the process and are as follows: the rebate issuer 1701; the fulfillment entity 1702 such as an outsourced service provider or an internal service structure/department of the rebate issuer that is specifically contracted or established for the purpose of possessing rebate claims made by a product buyer on a rebate associated product; the buyer 1703, generally, but not required to be, the end user of a product for which a marketing incentive rebate offer is targeted; any entity that sells products that a rebate may be associated with 1704; and The Service 1705, an independent entity that facilitates the rebate process for its members who are buyers of products and between the rebate issuer and the fulfillment company of the rebate issuer, as is applicable.

It should be appreciated that the merchant can be a brick and mortar, direct marketer such as, but not limited to a Web merchant, television merchant, catalog, i.e. mail order merchant or any other type of seller of a product, such as, but not limited to a wholesaler and is also used or referred to herein interchangeably as a "product seller".

Referring now to Fig. 18, a schematic diagram showing a 3-way relationship according to the prior art, i.e. an exemplary representation of a basic original relationship between the Actors and how the rebate process plays out, a buyer 1807 visits or contacts a merchant, or is contacted by a merchant. The buyer purchases a rebate associated product and obtains a rebate claim form at the time of purchase or at a later time, fills out the claim form, attaches any required documentation and submits them to the rebate issuer. Prior to the internet, submissions were almost exclusively made through the mail or by providing the claim to the merchant who would forward it on to the respective rebate issuer 1808. The rebate issuer would then process the claim and if the buy has complied with the terms and conditions of the rebate incentive offer, the rebate issuer would issue the rebate which may take many forms such as, but not limited to an instrument representing a cash amount such as a check, or a premium, such as an article of value or novelty. Referring now to Fig. 19, a schematic diagram showing a 4-way relationship according to the prior art, as rebates became a more prevalent marketing strategy, the complexity and volumes increased. Most rebate issuers or potential rebates issuers found this to be too onerous a marketing strategy that resulted in resource requirements that fell outside their core competencies, abilities and business focus. This opened the door for entities that specialized in the processing of rebates. In addition, the need of a rebate issuer to coordinate their incentive programs increased as well. Thus the introduction of the outsourced Fulfillment Company became an accepted and commonplace facilitator in the rebate process. An additional coordination channel between the merchant and the rebate issuer was introduced 1910; An additional coordination channel between the merchant and the fulfillment company of the rebate issuer was introduced 1911 ; an additional coordination channel between the rebate issuer and their fulfillment company was introduced 1912; and in addition to dealing with the rebate issuer, the buyer interacts primarily with a fulfillment company to negotiate their rebate claim 1913.

One embodiment of the invention can be described with reference to Fig. 20, a schematic diagram showing a service augment. Up until this present period of time, rebates could be regarded mostly as a marketing ploy more than an actual benefit to the buyer. In addition, rebates have become in many cases a detriment to the merchant due to the association they receive with rebates. This detriment is manifested in many other ways such as increased customer frustration, additional customer service requirements and possible customer alienation with their customers due to third part actions or inactions. Fig. 20 illustrates how the Service may play a role in the rebate process by both allowing established rebate processes to continue, but offer the buyer to become a member of the Service, whereby the Service facilitates, automates and adds additional features and functionality to the process for the benefit of the Member of the Service (MOTS). As a byproduct of the process, the product seller is largely removed from the position of being between their customer and their vendor. The Service intercepts all rebate-associated transactions made by a buy and a merchant 2015. If a MOTS identifies themselves to the merchant prior to the purchase of a product or associates the transaction with themselves to the transaction post purchase, the MOTS may process their rebate through the Service. A Communications link 2016 between the MOTS and the Service is provided. This may be made in many forms that include, but are not limited to the utilization of a RPD, a properly configured computer or communication device connected to the Internet, mall, and telephone. A Communications link between the rebate issuer and the Service and common database is provided 2017. It should be appreciated that if the rebate issuer performs fulfillment on their own rebates, the rebate issuer is to report all such activity with the Service. Whereby, the Service maintains databases for the purpose of tracking rebate offers and associated terms and conditions and tracks rebates made by the rebate issuer. As well, the Service posts rebates it has fulfilled to the database. Thus creating a system and database whereby either entity may prior to the issuing of a rebate, first check if a MOTS may have claimed a rebate and if they qualify for an additional rebate. This common database permits the ability to securely avoid improper or double fulfillment of rebates.

A Communications link between the rebate issuer and the Service and common database is provided 2018. If the rebate fulfillment company performs rebate fulfillment on behalf of a rebate issuer, the fulfillment company is to report all such activity with the Service. Whereby, the Service maintains databases for the purpose of tracking rebate offers and associated terms and conditions and tracks rebates made by the rebate issuer. As well, the Service post rebates it has fulfilled to the database. Thus creating a system and database whereby either entity may prior to the issuing of a rebate, first check if a MOTS may have claimed a rebate and if they qualify for an additional rebate. This common database permits the ability to securely avoid improper or double fulfillment of rebates.

Exemplary Rebate System/Service Processes

An Exemplary Product Registration - Member and Rebate Associated An overview of processes associated with a member and rebate associated product registration of purchased products with a product producer having a relationship with the Service can be described with reference to Fig. 1 , a flow chart showing a product registration process according to one embodiment of the invention. A rebate need not be associated with a product registration, however benefits such as warranty, customer support or other service activation may benefit the MOTS. Therefore, the MOTS may be prompted to register their product while processing rebates. Fig. 1 demonstrates a member and rebate associated process. Because the system and processes capture all data associated with all items associated with any transaction and can associate the transaction in either real-time or at a future time, any purchased item that becomes associated with a member of the service is potentially a candidate for product registration. Upon a member registering a product, the system posts the registration with the product producer and generates a registration certificate for the member that is stored for an appropriate period of time. In the event of the need of a member to call upon the product registration for issues such as warranty issues, the member has the ability to recall all related warranty certificate/agreements for reference or evidence of warranty, if needed. This product registration is also tied to extended warranty agreements/certificates a member may have purchased through any channel such as, but not limited to, the merchant, product producer, other warranty service provider, or the Service.

Such methods provides for enhanced ability of a member to quickly and near effortlessly register their purchased products, eliminates the need to fill out and mail in their product registration, maintain physical warranty information, and instantly recall any related data or electronic certificates they may require at a future time. In addition, the systems may also be configured to provide service data such as where the nearest service center is located, contact information related to the product producer and shipping utilities and aids such as computer generated shipping labels for such entities such as, but not limited to the United Stated Postal Service (USPS) the United Parcel Service (UPS). In one embodiment of the invention, product registration may require basic member data such as name, address, phone number, and purchase date. In another embodiment of the invention, product registration may also require basic Product Identification Information and Codes/Product Identification Information Tag (PII/P1IT). A product producer may also require additional data related to the PII/PIIT or the member themselves. This data may be required data or data the member may provide on an elective basis or with incentives from the product producer. The registration process may take place through Rebate Processing Device (RPD), the Web, or other means provided by the service.

It should be appreciated that for purposes of discussion herein, Product Identification Information and Codes/Product Identification Information Tag (PII/PIIT), Proof of Purchase (PoP), Service Proof of Purchase (SPoP)₁ and Company Proof of Purchase (CPoP) can and are used interchangeably herein depending on context.

In one embodiment of the invention and referring to Fig. 1 , a product registration process can be described as follows. A Member of Service desires to register a product (101). The Member user elects to register their product (102). The Service displays products that been purchased by member that the Service has a relationship with the product producer (103). The Service displays applicable items for registration (104). One or more processors of the Service are connectably available (105). A passive, semi active, or active interface with the POSS of the merchant permits the acquisition of transaction data (106). A Rebate Issuer Database of the Service (107) is configured connected to the processor of Service. One or more databases of the Members of the Service (108) are also configured connected to the processor of Service. The user selects products they desire to register (109). The user has ability to batch entry all items selected for product registration or register each product individually (110). All applicable items are batched registered (111). It should be appreciated that as part of the registration process a product producer may desire to conduct a quick survey. The system provides such functionality in a variety of ways, such as permitting a limited survey, a long survey, as well as providing a member of the Service the ability to receive an incentive for participating in the survey. Such desired or required results are input into the system (112). The Service identifies (113) if a product is in queue or not for product registration. If so, user may have ability to choose whether or not to process the next item. If not, service processes registration, posts to applicable accounts or files, and generates an e-certificate for user review (113). The user reviews an e- certificate and ads for other products and services such as, but not limited to, extended warranties and complementary products (114). The user reviews offer and is either returned to former activity or to take further action in relation to ad being reviewed (115). If the user elects to take further action related to ad (116), when complete, the user is returned to select next activity or is directed to activity to be completed (117). That is, the user is either automatically directed to a pending activity (118) or provided option to select next activity (119).

An Exemplary Passive Receipt Acquisition from POSS

The process of acquiring a receipt through simply monitoring a Point of Sale System (POSS) network, also referred to herein as tapping, of a merchant according to one embodiment of the invention can be described with reference to Fig. 2. Stock Keeping Unit/Universal Product Code (SKU/UPC) data are obtained through simple data transfer to the rebate service.

A product purchaser (200) makes purchase at checkout counter (201). The checkout counter includes a POS. The POS terminal at checkout counter records the transaction (202). POS may or may not interact with POSS processor during transaction. The product buyer may identify him or herself as a member of the rebate service through either providing a Rebate Pre Approval Voucher of the Service, providing a Membership number, providing a Member card, or providing other identification tied to the membership such as a loyalty card of the product seller. At minimum, the POS reports all transaction data to the POSS and conclusion of transaction via the network of the product seller (202). It should be appreciated that the invention provides network connections connecting all components of the POSS (203). For example, the network may be wired or wireless or a combination thereof. The network monitor of the rebate service intercepts data traveling over these connections (203). The POSS processor of the product seller may be distributed over one or more processors, computers, servers and storage systems (204). The passive network connection for the network monitor of the Service to the product seller's POSS network (205) does not interact with the POSS of the product seller. It simply copies receipt data transmitted over the POSS network, which may be wired or wireless or a combination thereof. A Network Monitor device of the rebate service monitors all traffic over the POSS network of a product seller, copies the data traffic on the network and forwards that data either to an on-site Receipt Processor or to a receipt processor located at the off-site location of the rebate service (206). The off- site location may be the central processing location of the rebate service or another location so designated by the rebate service. The data may be transmitted via a wired or wireless network. An option is provided of having an on-site receipt processor of the rebate service or one that is located off-site from the product seller location (207). If the receipt processor is on-site (208), then the on-site receipt processor of rebate service extracts receipt data received from POSS network monitor and compiles receipt data into their respective constituent receipts and then transmits each receipt to the central processor or other designated processor of the rebate service via a network that may be wired, wireless or both (208). The on-site receipt data storage is an option used for the purposes of, but not limit to, data backup, data verification and instances when connection to the central processor or other designated processor of the rebate service may not be established (209). The on-site receipt processor is connected via a network connection to the central processor of the service (210) and such connection may be made via a wired, wireless or combination of both. If off-site receipt processing option is chosen (212), then a network connection is provided to the central processor of the Service (211), which may be made via a wired, wireless or combination of both. It should be appreciated that the off-site receipt processor of the rebate service provides the same functionality as the on-site processor, however it resides off-site and may also include an optional rebate data storage system. A network connection is provided (213) to the central processor of the service (214), where the connection may be wired, wireless or combination of both.

It should be appreciated that in one embodiment of the invention, the Service identifies a given product by its SKU or UPC. UPC data can come from the Uniform Code Council, Inc. (UCC). SKU data may come either from the merchant or the rebate issuer. It has been found that it is best to receive SKU data from the merchant on a regular basis through electronic transfer that does not require a dedicated connection between the parties.

An Exemplary Semi Active Receipt Acquisition from POSS

It should be appreciated that semi active receipt acquisition from POSS according to one embodiment of the invention can be described with reference to Figs. 2 and 3, where all features in Fig. 3 remain the same as in Fig. 2, except for the new feature in Fig. 3 which connects (215) the central processor of the rebate service for querying the POSS of product seller for additional data related to a receipt. Such data may include, but is not limited to, when a product seller specific product identifier such as an SKU is used and no UPC number is available, the central processor of the rebate service seeks the product identification for the SKU stored in the POSS of the product seller.

An Exemplary Active Receipt Acquisition from POSS

One embodiment of active receipt acquisition can be described with reference to Fig. 4. A product purchaser (400) makes a purchase at checkout counter (401). The checkout counter includes a POS. The POS terminal at a checkout counter records transaction (402). The POS may or may not interact with POSS processor during the transaction. The product buyer may identify his or herself as a member of the rebate service through providing a rebate pre approval voucher of the rebate service, providing a membership number, providing a member card, or providing other identification tied to the membership such as a loyalty card of the product seller. At a minimum, the POS reports all transaction data to the POSS and the conclusion of transaction via the network of the product seller (402). The network connects to all components of the POSS (403) and may be wired or wireless or a combination thereof. The POSS processor of the product seller may be comprised of, but not limited to, one or more processors, computers, servers and storage systems (404). Via a network connection the POSS of the product seller sends receipt information to the central processor of the rebate service (405). The network connection may be made via a wired network, wireless network or combination of both. Upon receiving a receipt, the central processor of service then begins processing each receipt (406). The central computer of the service may interact with the POSS of the product seller in the event additional data is required, such as, but not limited to, when a product seller specific product identifier such as an SKU is used and no UPC number is available, the central processor of the Service seeks the product identification associated with the SKU stored in the POSS of the product seller.

In one embodiment of the invention, active acquisition provides for the ability of the merchant to collect PoP or SPoP tags, scan the tags into the system, and provide the tags to the rebate service.

An Exemplary RPD Login

One embodiment of the invention can be described with reference to Fig. 5. A user (500) initiates login (501) on to a Rebate Processing Device (RPD) configured to transact rebates. The user is provided the option to insert a member card, or equivalent, into the RPD (502). The user has the option to manually enter the membership or account number via keypad, via touch screen, or traditional keypad (503). Upon acceptance of the member card or number, the user is provided a selection of languages from which to select and under which to continue further activity (504). In the case when the card is used, the system confirms the validity of card (505). In the case when card is not used, the user may manually enter the account/member number (506). The system confirms validity of membership or account number (507). In the case when the member ID was manually entered, the system requests the user to enter or select expiration month (508). Also, the system may request the user to enter or select expiration year (509) and the system may request the user to enter security number of card (510). It should be appreciated that other verification processes and methods may be employed such as, but not limited to, biometrics, request of mothers maiden name, answers to questions previously posed to member and provided by the member, and so on. It should also be appreciated that levels of access or abilities to perform certain functions may be established dependent upon an associated risk assessment of the verification data provided by the member and other criteria established by the Service. For example, a member may be able to process a rebate, but not have access to other functions such as, but not limited to, account review, cash withdrawal, funds transfers or traditional ATM functionalities. The system confirms validity of data provided by user (511). The system requests the user to enter the user's PIN (512) and validates the user (513). If the user and card are not validated, i.e. the system declines the action (516), then the system returns the process to the login (517). Otherwise the card and user are validated (514) and the validated user is prompted to select the type of transaction the user desires to make (515).

An Exemplary RPD - Rebate

One embodiment of the invention can be described with reference to Figs. 6a- 6c, which demonstrate the processes of financing a rebate on the spot by the claimed rebate service and, if a rebate cannot be financed on the spot by the claimed rebate service, then the system passes the rebate along to the rebate issuer's traditional fulfillment house. It should be appreciated, however, that if dealing with a Web Merchant, i.e. Direct Marketer, the Service processes the rebate. In the event a rebate cannot be financed on the spot, the member is provided other options to finance their rebate at a near future date. If the rebate service is not able to finance a rebate under any terms or conditions, the rebate service flags the claim as such in the appropriate database records of the rebate service and the rebate service then forwards the rebate claim to the rebate issuer or the fulfillment company of the rebate issuer to process the rebate. An example of an instance where this can be applicable, but is not limited to, is in cases where a product or premium is offered in lieu of cash, e.g. a member electing to receive a battery for a computer in lieu of the offered $100 cash. In this event, the service may continue to be the agent of the rebate claimant member and act as an advocate on the agent's behalf in regards to their rebate claim. In one embodiment of the invention, a rebate issuer with a relationship with the rebate service requires higher standards of their fulfillment company in regards to rebates it processes. In the event of rejection, the fulfillment company may be required to provide specific reasons for any rejections of claims. The service may provide and exercise appropriate levels of intervention to resolve any rejected claim.

Referring to Fig. 6a, a user has successfully logged in and is prompted to select desired activity type (601). The user selects Rebate the as desired activity type (602). Optionally, the user may provide or reaffirm their consent to the terms and conditions of the rebate service and the expressed appointment of the service as their Agent In Fact in some embodiments, with limited power of attorney to act on behalf of a MOTS for all rebates processed through the service (603). Such may simply be covered in the user agreement, for example. The user is prompted to select type of receipt they wish to process (604). The user selects New Receipt as the next option (605).

New Receipts are receipts the user has in their possession that have not previously been associated with the user/holder. This receipt may be from any source, such as, but not limited to, a retail merchant, having a relationship with the rebate service. If the receipt is not from the merchant where the RPD, e.g. ATM, is currently operating, the user may be prompted to select from a list of merchants with which the rebate service has a relationship. The system may also require confirmation in any event as to the origin of the receipt. This may include, but is not limited to, a different store of the same merchant. Other merchants may include but are not limited to merchants such as web stores, direct marketers, wholesale distributors, or member type merchants, etc. that may or may not be associated with the merchant where the RPD is located.

The user is prompted to select the form of receipt identifier input they desire (606). The user may either manually input specifically requested data contained within the receipt or if a bar code is present in the receipt, may opt to use a more automated process such as scanning the barcode or inserting the receipt into a receptor that scans and reads the receipt. Such process can also allow the Service to create a copy of the actual receipt (606). The user selects to manually input their receipt serial number, or other unique receipt identification data, into the rebate system (607). The user provides instructions. It should be appreciated that graphical help demonstrates where to locate required data and may include a dynamically generated replication of the receipt that indicates where the data sought is located. The user is prompted to enter unique receipt identification data such as the receipt serial number of the receipt (608). As a security precaution, the user is prompted to enter an additional unique receipt identifier located within the receipt (609). This may be any data printed upon the receipt such as the price of an item, sales tax paid, receipt total, etc. Automated receipt identification is provided. The user elects to input their receipt serial number or other unique receipt identification data into the system through an automated process such as scanning a barcode printed upon the receipt (610). Instructions to do so are provided. In the event the system detects a problem or possible problem with the unique receipt identifier, the system prompts the user to manually enter an additional unique receipt identifier in the receipt (611). This data may be any data printed upon such as, but not limited to, the price of an item, sales tax paid, receipt total, etc. As a security precaution, the user is prompted to enter an additional unique receipt identifier located within the receipt (612). This may be any data printed upon the receipt such as the price of an item, sales tax paid, receipt total, etc. The system verifies the validity of the receipt identification data (613) and may display facsimile of receipt upon validation. The receipt may fail a validity test (614). The user may be provided a reason (615). For example, a display of a facsimile receipt, indicating problem may be displayed. The user is provided options to correct the problem, provided further instruction or taken to appropriate sector of system for resolution (616). The receipt may be verified as valid (617). The system associates the receipt with the member (618). The system may display on the monitor a facsimile of receipt or receipts upon association. The user selects pending receipts as next activity (619). For purposes of rebate processing, pending receipts are any receipts that are both associated with the user and contain at least one item associated with a rebate. If a pending receipt is available, the selection is available. Upon selection of this option the system displays all such receipts. Upon a user selecting the Pending Receipt option, the system retrieves all receipts which contain purchased items that are associated with a member and a possible rebate that the user has not previously taken action with and remains as an open item (620). This may include pending receipts from only the location the user is currently located at or may also include pending receipts from any or all other sources. Other receipt sources may include but are not limited to other merchants, web stores, direct marketers, etc. In the event a pending receipt is from a source different than the current location, the member may have the ability to process those types of receipts at that time.

Referring now to Fig. 6b, the system queries the rebate database against all items in an associated receipt for matches with rebates (621). Those associated receipts and rebate associated items within the receipt are identified within the system and further processing such as, but not limited to, time stamping, expiration dating, adding record or rebate locators and such may be added to the record at this time. The system then displays to the user a list of all pending rebate-associated receipts associated with the user member (622). The system prompts the user to select one or more receipts from the list of rebate-associated receipts the user desires to process (623). The selected receipts are recalled by the system (623). The system performs a full initial qualification of all factors associated with the processing and financing of a rebate for each rebate-associated item. The system displays a list of all items contained in the rebate-associated receipts that were selected for rebate processing (625). The user is prompted to select individual items they desire to process for rebate claim/financing (626). The user selects the items to process (627). Upon selection of an item, the member signifies their appointment of the rebate service as their Rebate Agent and the assignment of their rebate to the rebate service. The user is prompted to select the type of service the user desires their rebates processed under as is applicable (628). Factors such as, but not limited to the credit worthiness of the rebate issuer and member can affect the selection of service availability for any given rebate. The system may provide a list for each type to facilitate batch processing. The user selection, Cash Now, represents a sample type of service whereby dependent upon factors derived and determined from the full initial rebate qualification process a member may be eligible to receive full financing on their rebate and thus receive immediate financing of their rebate (629). The user selection, Expedited, represents a sample type service whereby dependent upon factors derived and determined from the full initial rebate qualification process a member may be eligible to receive full or partial financing on their rebate at the time of their current session or some point in time in the near future (630). Other factors such as the need to first verify a Product Identification Information Tag (PUT) with the particular member may result in the necessity to offer this reduced level of service. The user selection of Standard represents a sample type service whereby dependent upon factors derived and determined from the full initial rebate qualification process a member may be eligible to receive full or partial financing on their rebate at some point in time in the future (631). The user selection, Other, simply represents a sample type service whereby dependent upon factors derived and determined from the full initial rebate qualification process a member may be eligible to receive full or partial financing on their rebate at the time of their current session or some point in time in the near future (632). As well, and for example, this may be used to promote making either full or partial payment of a rebate to a charity. At the time the user selects the applicable type of service they desire the system determines if a product serial number or other unique product identifier (PII) is required (633). The system determines if a PII is required (634). The system determines if PII is included in the rebate item record (635). PII may not be included in record (636). The system prompts the user to enter the PII (637). The user may also select graphical help. Graphical help is available to locate PII for the specific product (638). The user manually enters the PII through the use of devices such as, but not limited to, a keyboard, keypad, voice recognition, or touch screen interface (639). The system may also incorporate audible read back of the serial number or other unique product identifier that was previously input or as the serial number or other unique product identifier is being input. The user enters the product serial number or other unique product identifier through the use of devices such as, but not limited to, barcode or Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) scanners (640). The system may also incorporate voice recognition input that includes, but is not limited to, voice input of the serial number or other unique product identifiers being input. The PII may be recorded in record (641). Based upon factors such as the requirements and/or relationships of the rebate service with rebate issuers and merchants, the system may verify Pll's as correctly associated with either or both the rebate issuer and/or the merchant (642). This is primarily an error detection method and secondarily a fraud detection method. The PII fail may fail verification (643). The user is then provided the result, possible solutions and options (644). The PII may pass verification (645). In this case, PII not required (646).

Referring now to Fig. 6c, the system determines if PUT is required to be remitted (647 and 648). The user is prompted to remove the PUT or SPoP from the product packaging for remittance (649). The user may select help to locate PUT or obtain an instrument to remove PUT from product packaging. Graphical and/or text user help provides user assistance with locating the PUT on the product itself or its packaging (650). On either a fee or gratis basis, either the ATM/Kiosk or attached component to ATM/Kiosk may incorporate a dispenser that dispenses instruments that would assist the user with the procurement of PUT or other tags required for submission (651). The user deposits PUT (652). Either the RPD or attached component to RPD may incorporate a physical-product-identifier receptacle. The receptacle may incorporate a scanner that scans the product-identifier-code in one of, but not limited to, several ways such as, scans the tag with a barcode reader and/or RFID reader, and/or scans the tags as an image and employ character recognition and/or barcode recognition software system to read tags. In cases where an image scan of the tag is made, the system may have the ability to transmit the image of the tag to the rebate service in real-time for purposes of customer support, problem resolution, and fraud detection. The system verifies PUT (653). The submitted PUT can fail verification (654). In this case, the system provides user reason for rejection of PUT and provides user options to correct problem and as well as live customer service intervention (655). The PUT can pass verification (656). In this case, the system performs final qualification, verification, and authorization (657). The PUT can fail final qualification, verification and authorization (658). In this case, the system provides reason rebate was declined (659). The user is prompted to select an option available to them (660). Examples of other user options are done, next item, and fix reason for failure (661). The PUT can pass final qualification, verification and authorization (662). In this case, the system posts transaction to all accounts and records (663). The system notifies user that their transaction has been processed (664) and the system determines if another item is in queue (665 and 666). The system takes the user to a first step in process for next item in queue (667). No additional items are in queue for processing (668). The system generates a transaction summary (669). A transaction summary is displayed (670) and the user is taken to post processing functions (671).

An Exemplary RPD Rebate Post Processing Methodology

One embodiment of the invention can be described with reference to Fig. 7. The system displays transaction summary Post rebate processing (701). The user is asked if they desire to register their product with the manufacturer (702). The user signifies desire to register product(s) (703). All products whether or not associated with a rebate and associated with a member of the service and that are associated with a product producer having a relationship with the Service may be registered through the Service. The user undertakes product registration and related services (704). The user completes registration activities (705). The user elects not to register products (706). The user is prompted to select a next activity (707). The user selects the new activity (708). The user is taken to the activity type selected (709). The user elects to make a cash withdrawal (710). The user is taken through cash withdrawal operations (711). The user makes a decision to perform another transaction or activity (712). The user can elect not to perform another activity (713). The user can elect to perform another activity (714). The user is taken to an area of Select Activity area of the system (715). The user completes desired transactions (716). The system generates a receipt for preview (717). The user is taken to Receipt Preview (718)

An Exemplary RPD Rebate Credit Advance Methodology

One embodiment of the invention can be described with reference to Figs. 8a- 8c. It should be appreciated that any of that graphical and audible context sensitive help is available throughout system. RPD rebate credit advance according to one embodiment of the invention advances funds on a rebate for a product that is to be purchased prior to checkout. Ability to use this service is dependent upon and weighted against factors such as, but not limited to, credit worthiness of rebate issuer and the creditworthiness of member. For a member or rebate issuer lacking proper credit worthiness, this process is essentially a pre registration and qualification process.

Referring to Fig. 8a, a user/member logs into the system (801). The user is prompted to select a desired activity (802). The user selects Rebate Credit Advance (803). The user is prompted to enter PUT, which may be manually entered or scanned into system (804). In addition, the user may elect to enter multiple items they desire to process. The system automates the process whenever possible. The rebate service is confirmed as the user's Rebate Agent (optional) (805). PUT (UPC/SPoP/other) is validated and the product is confirmed as rebate-associated or not (806). If Product PUT is invalid or not rebate-associated or another reason, then the system provides a reason for rejection (807). The system may provide brief a rebate history if applicable. The system provides options to user such as, but not limited to, Product ID reentry (808). If there is no rebate association, the system may suggest a comparable item that is rebate associated, etc. If the product is rebate associated, the system determines if one or more Pll's, such as a serial number, is required (809). If Product-identifiers are required, the system prompts the user to enter the product-identifiers (810). The user may either manually input the PII or if a bar code is present on the packaging, the user may opt to use a more automated process of scanning the barcode. The system may require one or more Pll's. The system can perform a PII- validation process of all required Pll's (811). In the event of a product- identifier rejection, the system provides a reason for rejection (812). In the event of a product-identifier rejection, the system provides options to the user as are applicable (813). The system performs a full-rebate-qualification- process (814). This function is performed at this stage due to the likely need of the user to remove the PUT or SPoP from the product packaging if user/member is qualified for a rebate. If removed prior, such action might result in obvious problems such as, the buyer may decide not to purchase the item and packaging would be damaged. The utilization of SPoP tags may avoid this problem and the order of processing could be changed to that similar to that of a post purchased product because the SPoP permits the MOTS to remove the SPoP without or with inconsequential damage to the product packaging and the product seller has the ability to replace the SPoP in the event the product is subsequently not purchased or is returned post purchase by the MOTS. Thus the product seller may return the item to stock as a salable item. In the event of rejection for some cause arising from the full-rebate-qualification-process, the system provides the reason (815). In the event of rejection for some cause arising from the full-rebate-qualification- process, the system provides the user with options as are applicable (816). The system determines if a physical PUT such as, but not limited to, a UPC or SPoP is required (817). The user is prompted to deposit physical PUT, or select help to identify PUT or locate it of product packaging, elect to obtain an instrument that will assist with the removal of the PUT from the product packaging, or mail rebate in at later time (818). The user may also be notified that the removal of the physical PUT from the packaging constitutes their legal commitment and obligation to purchase item. Context sensitive graphical help screens are provided that aid with the identification of the product-identifiers and/or location on the product packaging (819). An instrument can be obtained from a dispenser for the purpose of removal of physical PUT from product packaging (820). The user/member elects to mail in physical PUT at later time (821), The system verifies that member qualifies for mail-in option. The user/member is allowed to proceed with credit advance on rebate with promise to mail in the physical PUT at a later time (822). The user may be provided a printout that contains instruction and pertinent information such as mailing address, time period in which to complete by which the member may attach the PUT to, fold and place in the mail, and may even include the postage. The RPD may also include an envelope dispenser for such purposes. The user deposits physical PUT into provided receptacle (823). The user may have option to provide PUT at another time and/or by another method such as mailing PUT into service.

Referring to Fig. 8b, either the primary RPD or attached component to it may incorporate a physical-PIIT receptacle (824). The receptacle may incorporate a scanner that scans the PUT, i.e. UPC or SPoP₁ in one of, but not limited to, several ways such as scans the tag with a barcode reader and/or RDIF reader and/or scans the tags as an image and employ character recognition and/or barcode recognition software system to read tags. In the event required data cannot be retrieved using the forgoing methods the user may have the option to first submit the required data using a method such as discussed hereinabove in Fig. 3 (345 through 348) and then submit the physical tag. In cases where an image scan of the tag is made, the system may have the ability to transmit the image of the tag to the rebate service in real-time for purposes of customer support and problem resolution. The system displays to the user the reason of rejection of physical-product-identifier-code (825). The system displays and provides options to user as is applicable (826). The rebate is formally assigned to the rebate service (827). The rebate is posted to all applicable accounts and records (828). The rebate funding options are determined (829). The rebate funding is authorized (830). The user is prompted to select a choice from displayed applicable rebate funding options (831). The user selects the voucher or pre paid card that is to be submitted to the cashier at checkout (832). Upon presentation to the cashier and the ringing up of the items associated with the advance credit, the rebate service debits the member account for the appropriate amount and pays the merchant the credit available for the item or items associated with the voucher. The user is prompted to process next item (833). The user has no further items to process (834) and the system posts transaction to all appropriate accounts and records and generates voucher/prepaid card or similar. The user is prompted to begin processing of next item, if any (835). The user/member selects Credit Account (836). Upon successful completion of the rebate processing of item and the purchase of the item, the account of the member of the Service is credited with the amount of the rebate less any applicable fees. Dependent upon the credit worthiness of the member, the member either immediately has the cash available in their account or at some future point in time, effectively an advance registration and qualification, whereby they may withdrawal the funds from a cash dispensing RPD or use the funds as provided for under the services available to their account as are provided by the rebate service. The user is prompted to process next item, if any (837). The user has no further items to process (838) and the system posts the transaction to all appropriate accounts and records and generates a voucher/prepaid card or similar. The user is prompted to begin processing of next item (839). If applicable, the user/member selects tax-avoided rebate for this item (840). These types of rebates are available on products from participating rebate issuers, whereby the rebate issuer directly pays the seller of their product when a qualified customer purchases a qualified product. In effect, the rebate service pre qualifies the member and the product. When both the Certificate of Qualification of the Service, accompanied by the appropriate product(s) are presented at the cashier, the merchant receives an immediate credit for the rebate which is reflected on the receipt of their customer as a discount on the item. No sales or other taxes such as VAT is applicable to the discounted price. The user/member selects tax avoided rebate (841). The user has no further items to process (842). The system posts the transaction to all appropriate accounts and records and generates voucher/prepaid card or similar. The user is prompted to process next item, if any (843). Referring to Fig. 8c, the user is instructed to collect their voucher or pre paid card (844). The system may provide a summary of the rebates, fees charged, total amount available, and other pertinent information. It should be appreciated that the member may not be required to use vouchers or prepaid cards. The member may simply be required to present their membership number at time of purchase, post processing. The systems may be configured to recognize and associate the advance processing of the member and apply credit as is appropriate. The process of using a voucher or prepaid card simply addresses instances where a merchant may not have the ability to configure their POSS to interoperate with the systems of the service. The user collects the voucher/ pre paid card (854). Upon completion of their session at RPD, the user/member proceeds to checkout with all items (846). The user is prompted if they would like to make another transaction or perform another activity (847). The user indicates their desire to make another transaction or perform another activity (848). The user declines to make another transaction or perform another activity (849). The user is prompted to select next activity (850). The system generates transaction summary (851). The user views Transaction Summary and completes processes for rebates post processing of Fig. 7.

An Exemplary RPD - CDD Cash Withdrawal

One embodiment of the invention for cash withdrawal from a rebate processing device (RPD) and cash dispensing device (CDD) can be described with reference to Fig. 9. The system displays a transaction summary after or post rebate processing (901). The user is prompted to select next activity (902). The user is given the option to make a new transaction (903). The user is given the option to make cash withdrawal (904). The user is given the option to terminate making transactions (905). The user is given the option to visit other areas of system such as, but not limited to, deals of the day, specials, rebate list, and the like (906). The user is prompted to confirm amount of cash withdrawal (907). The user confirms amount (908). The user confirms amount is incorrect and is returned to reenter amount to withdrawal (909). The system posts transaction to all applicable accounts and records (910). The ATM dispenses cash and user is prompted to take cash (911). After taking cash, the user is asked if they desire to make another transaction (912). The user elects to make another transaction (913). The user elects to not make another transaction (914). The user is taken to Transaction Type screen (915). The user is provided an opportunity to review a text or graphical receipt prior to printing receipt or logging off system (916). Advertisements may be imbedded or displayed along with receipt. The user is able to select the advertisement to learn more or accept the offer. The advertiser is billed/credited for add display. The user selects the ad displayed (917). The advertiser is billed/credited for add activity. The user is taken to screen related to advertisement (918). The user is prompted if they desire a receipt (919). The user may be given a choice of how or if they would like to receive or not receive a receipt (920). The user may have the option to elect and select not to receive a receipt (921). The user may be given the option of receiving both a printed receipt and a receipt emailed to them, such as if the email address is on file (922). The user may be requested to confirm or enter email address. The user may have ability to change email address or select from a list of email addresses used by the user. Both the printed receipt and the email may contain advertisements. If so, the advertiser will be billed/credited for the advertisement. The user may be given the option of receiving only a receipt emailed to them, such as if email address is on file (923). The user may be requested to confirm the email address. The user may have ability to change email address or select from a list of email addresses used by the user. The email receipt may contain text and or graphical advertisements. If so, the advertiser is billed/credited for the advertisement. The user may be given the option of receiving only a printed receipt. The printed receipt may contain text and or graphical advertisements. If so, the advertiser is billed/credited for the advertisement. A thank you screen is provided (924). The system returns to the greeting screen after a designated period (925).

An Exemplary View Print Receipt One embodiment of the invention can be described with reference to Fig. 10. Post rebate processing, the system displays a transaction summary (1001). The user is prompted to select the next activity (1002). The user is given the option to make a new transaction (1003). The user is given the option to make cash withdrawal (1004). The user completes making transactions (1005). The system displays a receipt for review prior to printing (1006). The system may provide the user with the ability to contact customer service regarding a question or problem. The system may also display one or more text or graphical, such as, but not limited to, thumbnail or small, advertisements or marketing Incentives. These ads may include, but are not limited to, random advertisements by marketers, targeted ads with limited scope not based upon member data by a marketer such as merchant or product producer, or ads specifically targeted and tailored to the specific member that is based upon criteria such as, but not limited to, demographical profile, buying habits/history and/or other data specific, but not limited to, the merchant, marketer and/or the member. If the ad is selected from step (1006), a full sized add is displayed (1007). The ad contains the ability to select whether to respond further to the ad in such ways as, but not limited to, the purchase of the advertised product, to participate in a poll or survey, with which the participation in, or completion of, a reward or incentive may be associated. The user is taken to a shopping section of system (1008). The user is given the option to print or not to print a receipt (1009). The user elects not to print the receipt (1010). The user elects to print the receipt (1011). The user may elect to have both a printed receipt and a receipt emailed to them (1012). The system may confirm the email address. The user has the option to only receive an emailed receipt (1013). The system may confirm the email address. The user may elect to only receive a printed receipt (1014). The system displays a message, e.g. "Take your receipt" and displays appreciation of the users business (1015). The system returns to the Greeting Screen (1016).

A sample of a rebate according to one embodiment of the invention can be described with reference to Fig. 11. A member name and member account number are listed, 1101 and 1102, respectively. The member's current balance 1103 and pending balance 1104 are shown. Essential rebate related transactional information is listed, such as type of service activity: rebate 1105, a payment transaction 1106, and a transfer of funds transaction 1107. Also listed are party names 1108, date of activity 1109, status of transaction 1110, amount of transaction 1111 , and fee for the service 1112. In the lower panel are items of interest 1113 and 1114, respectively. They may have and show rebates that are available, 1115 and 1116, respectively, At the very bottom of the receipt is a list of brands which provides product producers having a relationship with the Service an opportunity for recognition and branding opportunity.

Receipt Preview

In one embodiment of the invention each receipt contains advertisements that generally are related to items complementary to that purchased or being purchased. Emphasis may be placed upon any criteria desired by the Service such as, but not limited to, items that are primarily rebate associated and offer the Service revenue generating opportunity. The user has the ability to select any of the advertised items and or incorporated shopping aids. Upon selection of an advertised item or shopping aid:

The system displays more detailed information regarding the item;

• If system in use is a RPD, the system may display a map of the merchant location indicating where the item may be located;

• If system in use is a RPD, the system may provide the user the ability to print displayed maps. Each printout contains additional advertisements that may include, but not are limited to, products, discounts or rebates on products, offers to finance, offers to warranty or other incentives or types of advertisements; • If system in use is a RPD, the system may provide the user the ability to not only process any related rebate but also provide the user the ability to purchase the item, e.g. self checkout;

• The system may provide for the ability of user to select an advertised item and the system sends a message to the department where the product is located and alert a sales person to bring the item to the user at the RPD;

• The user may have the ability to purchase an advertised item and pick up the item upon departure from a will call counter or other designated location. The user may have ability to print out instructions on how and where to pick up the item and such instructions may include a map;

• Should an item not be in stock at the location, the user may have the option of having the item shipped to them; and

• Should item not be in stock, the system may have the ability to issue and print a rain check. Such rain check may include specific terms and conditions that may be verified by the system upon redemption. Further, the merchant may notify the Service when the product is again in stock and the Service notifies the member of the renewed availability of the product and includes applicable reminders of terms and conditions of the rain check such as, but not limited to, remainder of the number of days within which the member is required to purchase the item. It should also be appreciated that rain checks may extend the validity period of a rebate or other incentive for the member.

An Exemplary Kiosk

Herein, R2C is an acronym used for Rebates to Cash. For ease of understanding some embodiments of the invention herein, R2C is used to represent conceptually a collection of software and hardware components, that may or may not be distributed over a computer network, parts of which may, singly or in combination, implement such embodiments of the invention.

The discussion herein below focuses on the advance of credit on rebates for products or services that have not yet been purchased just prior to the R2C Member reaching the POS. Such focus is by way of example only and is not meant to be limiting, but inclusive of the other types of rebates.

Prior to an R2C Member purchasing a product at a point of sale (POS) of a merchant, one or more kiosks are installed for the purpose of preprocessing an R2C Member's rebates. Such one or more kiosks provide a credit worthy

R2C Member with the ability to receive advanced credit for the rebate on the products they are about to purchase at the POS, thus providing the Member with greater purchasing power at the POS. The R2C Member may pay a premium for this prePOS service that is above what can normally be available at a post POS R2C ATM. Upon receipt of preapproval, the Member has funds available in the Member's R2C account with which to make purchases.

In addition to providing advanced credit on rebates, the kiosks may be used for general information, specific Member information, and the identification of products that have current rebates associated with them. Providing the ability to search for rebates and respective products and services can be a very high value form of advertising for a vendor or anyone in the supply chain. Therefore, R2C should be paid for each impression made, no different than if the vendor were to pay for these impressions through Web advertising. Given that each impression made is in a location and at a time when the opportunity and motivation are at an optimum, these types of impressions should attract a healthy premium.

Kiosk Features

In one embodiment of the invention, a kiosk has a touch screen monitor that enables the Member to operate the system. In addition, it has a color laser printer, hand held barcode scanner and card scanner for the member card and numeric keypad for PIN entry. Depending on a particular design, the kiosk may also include wide screen monitors for advertising and promotional purposes. The kiosk may also incorporate a UPC/PoP reader receptacle. The ability to deposit the UPC/Pop at the kiosk enables a Member to forego stopping at the ATM post POS. The kiosk may also incorporate a UPC/PoP cutter dispenser.

Dependent upon multiple factors such as, but not limited to, the credit worthiness of the MOTS, requirements of the rebate issuer or type of product seller, the Member may or may not be required to deposit the UPC at the kiosk in order to receive advanced credit. For example; a product seller such as CostCo typically purchases inventory in such quantities that products they offer to their members are often specifically packaged only for CostCo. As well, CostCo only sells to members of their organization and track each item purchased by their member. Therefore, it is a straight forward process between the Service and CostCo to confirm that a product has indeed been purchased by a specific individual and for the Service to notify CostCo that a rebate has been made by the Service in any given item so that in the event the product is subsequently returned, CostCo may deduct the amount of the rebate from the amount of the product cost refunded to their member and in turn, forward the retained rebate amount to the Service. It should be appreciated that the MOTS need take no further action with the Service in regards to the rebate and that all such activity would simply be reflected in their periodic statements or upon review of their account with the Service.

Additional features may include:

• Wide screen video display that maximizes potential advertising opportunities.

• Telephone handset for contact with a Member Services Representative. • Dispenser capabilities. It is envisioned that numerous products may be dispensed from such a unit such as:

o Prepaid phone cards;

o Cell phone SIMs chips;

o Cell phones;

o Certificates;

o Funded cards of all types; and

o Any other small sized product.

o Each item or product may be related to a rebate or not.

In one embodiment of the invention, R2C kiosks are not required to be solely located just prior to the POS where one might think such a device for such purpose would logically be located. Due to their robust capabilities and flexibilities, Kiosks may also be located in any number of departments within a product seller's location that are customarily associated with products or services typically having high incidences of rebates. It should be appreciated that such location may provide sales personnel of the product seller with significant sales tools for closing a sale and as well, enhancing the sale with additional sales of product or services complementary to the initial product. In one embodiment of the invention, features and functionalities are incorporated into the kiosk systems that permit the product seller sales person to facilitate the process and thus insure closure of the sale.

Some embodiments of the invention can be described with reference to Figs. 12-15, schematic diagrams of a kiosk according to one embodiment of the invention. Fig. 12 shows a stand alone a prior art Diebold ATM that has been modified to perform the additional functionality of a RPD with the following functionality

■ Color LCD touch screen;

■ Security lighting and camera; ■ Multiple denomination currency dispenser;

■ Automated card reader;

■ Intuitive graphical user interface; and

^■ High security.

^■ Voice recognition; ^■ Audible read back, Help, etc.;

■ Biometric interfaces;

^■ PoP/SPoP receptacle/validator

Additional functionality is added or transferred to or through the use of adding a sidecar, as in Fig. 13, with the following functionality:

^■ Color LCD touch screen;

^■ Customer service phone;

■ Coin/change dispenser; ^■ UPC/Serial number scanner;

■ Envelope dispenser;

■ Color/Black and While laser printer;

^■ Automated UPC receptor; and

^■ Wherein the sidecar may also be employed as a vending machine of rebate premium or non rebate premium items due to its' highly configurable and versatile design.

It should be appreciated that the sidecar may also act as a vending machine for other products or services not related to rebates, but may be directly related to other R2C products and services, or to a third parties products and services. The size and configuration of the sidecar is not limited. As well, the products and services sold through the use of a sidecar is only limited by the amount of floor space allotted by the merchant. In another embodiment of the invention, additional functionality is added relating to visibility and advertising strengths through the use of adding a topper, Fig. 14, with the following functionality:

■ Wide screen color display; o Provides added visibility and exposure; and o Advertising opportunity and revenue.

In another embodiment of the invention, additional configurations provide additional customer service and revenue means, Fig. 15, such as:

^■ Configurations for higher volume locations;

^■ A counter for customer convenience; and

■ Multiples of advertising opportunities, such as much advertising space.

Kiosk Processes

Member

In one embodiment of the invention, R2C Members desiring to process or clear their rebate redeemable items pre POS and receive advanced credit on their purchases go through essentially the same process as at an ATM. The exception is that the member makes the initial input of rebate items into the system and is not able to withdraw cash from the kiosk.

At the time the Member has entered the items into the R2C system, the R2C system pre qualifies both the Member and respective rebates. Upon verification, the Member is immediately notified while at the kiosk as to whether the Member and the item qualify for a rebate and the type of rebate service that is available for that particular Member and item. The Member has the option of selecting or declining the type of service available.

Upon the end of their session, the R2C kiosk prints a receipt/tag that is to be presented at the time of checkout at the POS. This serves three purposes: confirmation of the purchase of those items, tying the purchase of those item to the Member, and eliminating need for the Member to register the transaction post POS payment.

Provided both the Member and the rebate qualify for instant credit, the Member, at the merchant POS, receive credits on their purchase instantly. Those Members or rebates not qualifying for instant credit are placed into the appropriate redemption category and processed accordingly.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, if, as an alternative to receiving credit at the POS, the Member desires cash, the Member may stop at the R2C ATM or any other ATM post purchase.

The Member has the ability to preprocess any rebate redeemable item at any time during the business day. The Member may make as many individual submissions as they desire during their visit. The R2C systems can automatically store these transactions pending checkout at the POS. At time of checkout, the Member simply needs to present their R2C receipt they received at the R2C kiosk. Only one receipt initially is required. The R2C system then automatically matches each item the Member purchases at the

POS with each item presented to the cashier on that invoice/receipt. Those items that match and qualify are credited to the account of the Member in real time. Additional options may be available to the Member. Such options may be dependent upon the particular relationship R2C has with an individual Merchant and the state and level of interaction between the systems of R2C and the Merchant.

In one embodiment of the invention, the member can tap their rebate credit in one of two ways:

• By submitting a R2C receipt received at the kiosk for each item appearing on the receipt/invoice. The cashier scans the barcode appearing on the receipt. The system of the merchant is able to process that receipt as though it were any other credit instrument such as a gift card. The credit for the rebate, less the R2C finance charge, appears as a credit on the merchant receipt/invoice and thus deducted from the total of the invoice/receipt; and

• By paying for the transaction with the member's R2C Member debit/check card.

R2C

In one embodiment of the invention, when a R2C Member uses the R2C kiosk the R2C system begins the process of confirming in real time the identity of the Member, confirming the Member's credit line, confirming that the product the Member enters into the system is associated with a valid rebate, verifying all information desired is collected, such as product serial number, and posting the transactions in the R2C systems as pending transactions.

Once the Member provides the receipt to the cashier of the merchant and the cashier then scans the R2C rebate receipt into the POS system, the R2C systems begins the process of finalizing the rebates of the Member associated with that R2C rebate receipt and the merchant receipt.

At this time it is anticipated that the POS system of the merchant, i.e. a merchant that has enrolled in this service, is able to interface with the R2C computer system in a way that enables the merchant to receive a credit from R2C on the Member's R2C receipt and automatically apply that credit to the purchase transaction the member is making. This credit appears on the invoice/receipt of the merchant and applied toward the final balance due by the Member to the merchant.

In one embodiment of the invention, the receipt printed at the kiosk for the Member is printed in two parts: the member's copy and the store's copy. In one embodiment of the invention, the Member signs the merchant copy at the time of submission to the merchant and the merchant retains that copy. In another embodiment of the invention, should a merchant not have a POS system that is interfaced with the R2C systems, the merchant may still scan the R2C receipt of the Member and the R2C systems automatically associate the transaction with the receipt and the rebate items as they are posted. Anything scanned or input into the merchant POS is captured by the service. This is true if utilized by the POS of the merchant or not. The R2C Member then has the ability to then use the Member card at the POS to access the member's money and pay for the member's purchase, simply proceed to the ATM for cash or leave the funds on the member's account.

Merchant

In one embodiment of the invention, a service is provided in which a merchant enrolls. In an alternate embodiment of the invention, a merchant cooperates with a service. If a merchant enrolls in this service, all required R2C systems are interfaced with those of the enrolled merchant. The merchant pays a fee that is based upon the percentage of funds that are transacted between R2C and the Merchant. The fee can be about one-third to one-half less than what the merchant would otherwise pay on a credit card transaction.

If not enrolled in this service, the merchant is expected to cooperate with R2C and scan each R2C rebate receipt when it is presented to the cashier at time of checkout. It should not matter whether the receipt is presented at the beginning or end of the ring-up of the items being purchased, so long as it is accomplished prior to the final payment and closure of the merchant sale. The R2C system has the ability to correlate, compile, and associate the rebate items and R2C Member with the transaction of the Member so long as the scan is made prior to the closure of the merchant's invoice/receipt.

The R2C Member is able to submit multiple R2C rebate receipts to the cashier at one or separate times.

Starting at the Pre POS kiosk/RPD: Once the Member has finalized the session at the kiosk, i.e. pre POS, the member may proceed to checkout or continue shopping.

At the time when a Member goes to the cashier and presents the R2C rebate receipt to the cashier, those items being purchased that qualify for an instant credit may be credited against the actual purchase at the time of checkout at the POS, if the merchant has enrolled in this service. The funds for the transaction are transferred from R2C to the merchant in much the same manner as in a credit card transaction.

Should the merchant not be enrolled in this service, the merchant still accepts and scans the R2C rebate receipt, however in doing so, it will not have an effect upon the current transaction made by the merchant. The R2C Member does not receive a credit on their purchase at the POS, but simply receives a credit on their R2C Member account.

From the perspective of the merchant, the transactions should be no more complicated or time consuming than any other transaction. However, implementation dependent, the level of interaction between the systems of the merchant and R2C may play a significant role.

These kiosks are not limited to being placed solely at a place just prior to checkout. They may be strategically placed in numerous locations throughout the location of the merchant. As well, they may be setup to provide numerous merchant customer service functions such as:

• Providing the merchant customer with the ability to scan in a UPC and obtain the price of an item;

• Identifying other items having a rebate;

• Providing internal store and store location maps; • Advertising, e.g. kiosks may have the same displays as the ATMs;

• Providing customer surveys; and

• Providing other customer service functions.

In one embodiment of the invention, due to the planned versatility of the kiosks, commissioned based sales personnel also play a role in facilitating rebates and sales. Therefore, commission based sales staff of the merchant also can have a significant tool for making sales and acknowledgement of those sales with vendors. In another embodiment of the invention, many vendors may wish to establish loyalty programs of their own for sales personnel of the Merchant. While a merchant may not desire a vendor having such direct interaction with their employee, however, R2C may take a neutral roll by keeping the personal information of the employee anonymous to the vendor by facilitating and executing programs and payment of rewards to the merchant employee on behalf of the vendor.

Sample screen shots

Figs. 16a-af are sample screen shots that a typical user encounters while using the rebate service and system at a kiosk according to one embodiment of the invention.

An Exemplary Web, TV and Mail Order Merchant Rebates Methodology

Non Brick and Mortar Merchants

In one embodiment of the invention, Non Brick and Mortar Merchants (NBMM) are product sellers that operate businesses and comprise a significant segment of not only the retail market, but numerous markets in the product supply chain. They span a wide spectrum of media outlets such as, but not limited to: • Web Merchants;

• Mail In Order Houses;

• Television Shopping Programs; • Television Info Commercials;

• Catalog Showrooms; and

• Many other forms.

Web Merchant Processing

Purchases of products made via the Web, or its equivalent in the future, such as, but not limited to some form of virtual reality store whereby the user may have the vision or feeling of being in an actual store, bring convenience to the shopper that does not need a product that day or time period comparable to a visit to a merchant. The user san Simply click a mouse a few times, maybe fill out an online form, e.g. primarily, first time shoppers, and the item arrives at the door within anywhere from the next day to a few days later. The average Web Merchants (WM) work with or in conjunction with other types of NBMM operations and many also have traditional brick and mortar type store front operations.

Nearly all WMs indicate if a rebate is available for any given product or service. However, few WMs make it any easier to redeem the rebate. When they do assist in the process, such assistance is generally very limited and the customer is still faced with a long wait to receive their rebate funds.

One embodiment of the invention addresses this issue through several techniques. WMs have the ability to offer its customers the ability to register the purchases with a Service of the invention at or upon checkout on either a default or one-time basis.

At any point during the checkout process, the customer of the WM may register with the Service the entire list of items that comprise the transaction or an individual item in the transaction. Upon conclusion of the transaction, the WM forwards an electronic notice of the transaction to the Service.

The notice of transaction sent to the Service contains the account or member number of the Member of the Service (MOTS), and all data required to begin the process of executing the redemption/financing of a rebate that is associated with any item in the transaction through the Service.

Other NBMM Processing

Apart from utilization of the Web, these entities rely upon either the telephone or the mail for order taking. Both processes permit the implementation of the services of the Service.

Mail Order

This methodology provides the MOTS or potential MOTS with the greatest limitations in taking optimal advantage of the services of the Service. When the MOTS places their order, the MOTS is limited to simply including their MOTS number on the order form of the particular merchant and depositing it in the mail. It is anticipated that this individual is also less likely to have computer skills and or not be Internet enabled. Therefore, this type of MOTS may be required to rely upon paper statement and access to their account via a portal or automated phone system of the Service, or speaking to a live customer representative of the Service is also an option.

For the Service, a MOTS of this nature primarily represents limitations in regards to signing up new members to the services of the Service and the need to correspond with this type of member primarily via mail or telephone. This customer of the Direct Marketer (DM or DSM) might be offered the ability to sign up as a MOTS either through an Internet portal, via the telephone or mail-in registration form.

Telephone Orders While this methodology provides the MOTS or potential MOTS of the Service with a greater opportunity in taking optimal advantage of the services of the Service it still may not provide for optimal flexibility. In most cases, when the MOTS places their order, the MOTS has the ability to speak with a live customer service representative of the NBMM. The NBMM has the option of training their personnel how to sign up a new MOTS, receive a Service MOTS account number on behalf of their customer and include the new MOTS number in the order. This type of DM customer may also be less likely to have computer skills and or not be Internet enabled. Therefore, a significant percentage of this type of MOTS might be required to also rely upon paper statements and access to their account via a portal, of the sService, such as an automated phone system, live customer service representative or other customer service of the Service.

Such techniques represent improvements to the limitations of offering and issuing incentives to customers of a DM and in signing up new members to the services of the Service and the need to correspond with this type of member primarily via mail or telephone.

Shipping and Collection of Product Data

For all NBMM entities, the process of shipping the product to their customer and getting the balance of the transaction data to the Service remains the same and is generally automated. From this point forward there are several paths towards completion of the process beginning when the NBMM ships the product purchased by the customer. Each method places or shifts levels of duty and responsibility onto either the NBMM or the customer of the NBMM. Based upon the methods employed, the overall process for the customer is eased to varying degrees.

Generally, when a rebate issuer does not employ the Service's SPoP tag, the first requirement at this stage in the process is the need of the Service to receive the serial number (SN) of the product. The second and equally important and generally required requirement is to obtain the physical Proof of Purchase (PoP) of the item. Generally, the PoP is the UPC barcode that is removed from a product packaging and sent to the fulfillment company of the rebate issuer.

Either the NBMM or their customer can digitally transmit the SN to the Service. However, the Service must generally physically obtain the PoP. In some instances where a product has been specifically designed, developed and or packaged for a specific merchant and the merchant is able to verify through their own records that they sold it to specific individual whom is known to the NBMM, the PoP is generally not required. It is not required because the buyer cannot return the item to any other merchant and the fulfillment company has the ability to exchange transaction data and thus notify the merchant when a rebate has been redeemed.

Therefore, if the product is returned, the merchant knows to deduct the rebate amount from the product refund if the rebate has been redeemed. A wholesale corporation, such as Costco Wholesale Corporation, is a membership-based company that tracks all member transactions and is able to employ this methodology. However, the rebate process can still take up to eight weeks before the buyer receives their check. Also the buyer initiates the process either via the web or mail.

For other types of merchants, examples of the processes and methods to meeting PoP acquisition requirements are, but not limited to products with a rebate system, or Service, PoP Tag Examples of products with and without a rebate system, or Service, PoP tag are as follows:

Products With A Service PoP Tag

These are easier products to process because the Service PoP, i.e. SPoP, Tag is or may be tied to a wealth of information. Following are several scenarios follows which relate to the Service and the NBMM: Scan a Redemption Evident 8PoP bv NBMM. At the time of shipping to the customer, the NBMM scans the Redemption Evident SPoP tag. The scanned SPoP tag data is then automatically associated with the customer, i.e. MOTS, and transmitted to the Service at or near real-time, or another point in the near future such as the end of the business day or other short cycle of time. At this point, the NBMM performs no further action. At this point, the Service has received all required information and the MOTS has all services of the Service available to them that are associated with that product and services available to that specific MOTS. Based upon any preexisting instruction or the absence thereof from the MOTS, the MOTS either does not need to take any further action with respect to the rebate or the MOTS uses any portal of the Service to instruct the rebate system of the Service how to further process the rebate.

Scan and Collection of SPoP bv NBMM. At the time of shipping to the customer, the NBMM both scans and retains the SPoP tag. The scanned

SPoP tag data are associated with the customer, i.e. MOTS, and transmitted to the Service at or near real-time. At this point, the SPoP tag is removed from the product and retained by the NBMM. The SPoP is then forwarded on to the Service by the NBMM at a near later date. At this point, the Service has received all required information and the MOTS has all the services of the

Service available that are associated with that product and services available to that specific MOTS. Based upon any preexisting instruction or the absence thereof from the MOTS, the MOTS either does not need to take any further action or they use any portal of the Service to instruct the Service how to further process the rebate.

Scan Only bv NBMM. At the time of shipping to the customer, the NBMM scans the SPoP tag and that data are associated with the MOTS. That data is transmitted to the Service at or near real-time. At this point, the Service has all required data related to the product, except that the MOTS submits the SPoP tag to the Service. Though the Service has all related data to the product, the Service cannot process any given rebate until a required SPoP or manufacturer PoP is sent in to the Service. No Scan or Collection of SPoP Tag. In this case, the MOTS is required to submit to the Service the required data, e.g. SN, and SPoP through established channels.

Products Without a SPoP tag

The steps to processing this scenario generally require a higher level of interaction and burden placed upon the end user customer. Following are several scenarios follows which related to the Service and the NBMM:

Scan and Collection of SN and PoP by NBMM. At the time of shipping a product associated with a rebate to their customer, the NBMM both scans the SN and retains the PoP. The scanned SN data are associated with the MOTS and transmitted to the Service at or near real time and the PoP tag is retained by the NBMM and then forwarded on to the Service at a later time. At this point, the MOTS has all services of the Service available that are associated with that product and services available to that specific MOTS. Based upon any preexisting or the absence of instruction from the MOTS, the MOTS either does not need to take any further action or employs any portal of the Service to instruct the Service as how to further process their rebate.

Given this scenario employs the physical removal of a PoP from the product that can result in the permanent damage to the product packaging, this scenario may be employed only in rare or special circumstances.

Scan SN Only by NBMM. At the time of shipping to the customer, the NBMM scans the SN. The scanned SN data are associated with the MOTS and transmitted to the Service in or near real-time. At this point, the Service has all required data related to the product, except that the MOTS submits the PoP to the Service. Though the Service has related data to the product, the Service does not process the rebate until the PoP is sent to the Service through established channels. No Scan or Collection of SPoP Tag, In this case, the MOTS submits to the Service the data, e.g. SN, and PoP, if required by the rebate issuer.

In instances where the MOTS is required to submit either the SN or PoP, or both, the Service employs a number of methods to ease and facilitate the process. These methods include, but are not limited to scanning, voice input with audible read back, and the like.

The NBMM encloses with the shipment of the product pre addressed envelopes of the Service with or without prepaid postage and additional options with complete instructions to redeeming the rebate.

Mailing pre addressed envelopes with or without prepaid postage to the MOTS at the time the transaction is registered for all items contained in the transaction that are associated with a rebate or become so. Prepaid postage can be deducted from the rebate.

Submit data such as a SN via the Web site of the Service and during the same session print out a form on which the PoP may be attached and sent in to the Service. In one embodiment of the invention, the MOTS also has the ability to print prepaid postage.

Upon registration of a transaction, the rebate system of Service transmits via email an electronic form by which the MOTS can submit the data the Service has identified as being required. The MOTS has option to print out the form to which the PoP may be attached and sent into the Service. Pre paid postage is also be an option.

The MOTS has the option to use any Service RPD to complete the rebate process.

The MOTS also has the ability to use an automated or non automated call-in center. NBMM customers, such as WM customers, that are not members of the Service may also use the system. Those clicking the Service transaction register button are taken to a web page that provides for the entry of a MOTS member number. In the alternative, the user may register with the Service online during their session with the NBMM. Until such time as the identity of a new online registered member is verified, the account of the new member of the Service has limited functionality. The functionality of each existing and new account is based upon numerous criteria established by the Service.

At the time the MOTS elects to have the Service facilitate the identified rebates related to any given registered transaction, the MOTS is prohibited from redeeming their rebates with all other entities providing fulfillment on the rebate. With respect to any registered transaction, from that point forward, Service will assume one or more of the following rolls:

• Sole Agent with respect to any item associated with a rebate that has been issued by an entity having a formal relationship with the Service; and

• As an Advocate of and for the MOTS with respect to the rebate. The Service facilitates the redemption process on behalf of the MOTS.

• Further, the Service plays additional roles and functions such as providing financing on the rebate of a qualified MOTS at a time prior to when a redemption claim is formally made. Hence, the MOTS receives an advance on the rebate for the full or partial face value of the rebate, less a finance/service charge.

As well, an agent that provides continued monitoring of any item in the transaction in the event that the item becomes associated with a rebate in the future. This service benefits all members of the rebate service should an item in the transaction become associated with a rebate in the future. Reasons for which an item becomes associated with a rebate include, but are not limited to: When retroactive rebates are issued;

The rebate service begins a new formal relationship with a rebate issuer;

• Assists with securing a portion of, or the entire transaction through a related service of the Service that offers alternatives to financing their purchase, extending warranties, service programs, and the like. Such service is referred to herein as Offers2;

• Assists with the securing of financing and/or refinancing is provided on a portion of, or the entire transaction at a later date that is post transaction for up to a period of time defined by the Service, i.e. see Offers2. In most cases, refinancing can amount to a cash advance that is based upon the credit score of the individual member of the Service. The actual result can be to open a new credit card account or revolving credit account with a financial institution partnered with the Service;

• Provide extended warranty services from partners and NBMM and all other product sellers through entities such as Offers2;

• Provide service offers from partners that may or may not include the NBMM, such as Offers2;

• Provide through Offers2, any other service that is or may be complementary to any item purchased; and

• Provide the merchant with the ability to make additional sales to their customer that can or would otherwise not be realized.

Based upon the level of cooperation between any individual NBMM or product seller and the Service, the Service provides varying levels of interaction and services to the NBMM or other product sellers and their customer. An optimal goal is to obtain a level of service that the MOTS need not be required to take any further post purchase action related to a rebate than to check and manage their MOTS account.

Exemplary Web Merchant Flows

Member Recognition

One embodiment of the invention can be described with reference to Fig. 21 , a schematic diagram showing member recognition. This figure exemplifies how a customer and/or member of the Service (MOTS) visiting a web store of a web merchant (WM) may either be recognized as a MOTS or register as a MOTS. As is common practice, when a WM markets a rebate associated product their customer must wait until their product arrives post purchase to claim any associated rebate and to actually make the claim, and are generally required to 1) download and print the rebate offer from the rebate issuer. This presents the first set of obstacles a) claim form and/or reminder generally do not accompany the product, therefore b) the buyer must either access the website of the WM to track down the appropriate web location of the offer at time of purchase, during the period between purchase and receiving the product, or after the product arrives; 2) collect, assemble and provide via the post all of the same information commonly associated with brick and mortar merchant purchases; and 3) wait an indeterminate period of time for their rebate or notice of denial.

Of the primary steps towards eliminating the current processes is the implementation of an automated process whereby A) a shopper who is a MOTS is recognized as such by the WM during their visit to the web site of the WM, or B) is able to become recognized as a MOTS, or c) the shopper may become a MOTS and upon doing so, is recognized by the WM as a MOTS. Such recognition can be displayed by the WM. Assuming a WM has established a formal relationship with the Service, the recognition of a MOTS may be accomplished in a number of ways, including, but not limited to:

■ Providing a MOTS with the ability to establish WM recognition within the customization of their account with the Service. Such customization may be accomplished through web access to their account or through a properly configured rebate-processing-device (RPD) or other properly configured device, whereby the MOTS may select one or more WM's having a relationship with the Service, whereby:

o if utilizing a home based computer or other properly configured device and a browser or other program configured to provide access to the web site of a WM and is connected to the internet, the Service, will place a home domain identity cookie (HDIC) for each selected WM on the home domain device (HDD) of the member. Whereby, upon a visit to the WM site by the MOTS, the MOTS will immediately be recognized as a MOTS by the WM and such recognition may be displayed on the site of the

WM in one or more locations, or;

o if utilizing a properly configured RPD of the Service to access the web site of a WM and is connected to the internet, the Service:

^■ automatically identifies the MOTS to the WM, and;

^■ if the configuration is new and implemented at an RPD or other properly configured device is not their HDD, the system sends an email to the member at the designated email address of the member, that when opened contains a link that the member may select that places the new HDICs on the device they are utilizing to access their email. If the member is not receiving the email on their personal HDD or a HDD they desire does not to have such data located on, or desires to reload HDICs to their HDD, the user may later visit the web site of the Service, log-in and initiate the process of installing all desired

HDICs' on their HDD.

^■ In the event a member desires not to utilize HDICs or has not implemented them, the WM provides at one or more locations within their web store the ability for a MOTS to identify them self as a MOTS.

Exemplary methods of such are outlined, but not limited to, the disclosed figures herein.

^■ In the event a visitor/shopper to the web store of the WM desires to investigate or become a MOTS, the WM provides at one or more locations within their web store the ability for their customer to select a link whereby their customers are directed and may conduct such tasks as identifying themselves as a MOTS. Exemplary methods and processes are outlined, but not limited to, the disclosed figures herein.

^■ Dependent upon privacy issues, policy, and relationship with WM, the individual membership data of a MOTS may be utilized by the WM to expedite the purchase process. An exemplary example of this is in the event a MOTS who is a first time shopper with the WM may elect to have their membership data propagate the required checkout information of the WM, thereby eliminating or reducing the need to manually enter required data.

^■ Dependent upon privacy issues, policy, and relationship with WM, the Service may place an HDIC on the HDD of a MOTS that a WM may recognize when a MOTS visits their web store irrespective of whether or not a MOTS has made a prior visit to the web store. Fig. 21 shows an overview of a WM customer becoming recognized as a MOTS, whereby a shopper may identify themselves as a member of Service or become a MOTS at any time during a visit to the merchant Web site.

An individual 2101 utilizes a properly configured device, connected to the internet 2102, and visits the Web store of a WM 2103. It should be appreciated that the home page or any other page, such as, but not limited to a search page of a WM can be accessed. At this or other points a MOTS with a HDIC located within their HDD is recognized as a MOTS; a MOTS may select an identified link whereby the MOTS may identify them self to the WM; or a non MOTS may investigate, research and evaluate the Service. A non member or the Serve may register and become a MOTS.

An exemplary web page of a selected product that is rebate associated is provided 2104, whereby all of the attributes related to the Service are available to the shopper or shopper/MOTS, where the product is specifically identified and generally the offered rebate is further described and/or additional information regarding the offered rebate is made available through one or more links.

An exemplary a web page containing a list of selected products that are either being considered for purchase or are the products to be purchased by the shopper of the WM is provided 2105. It should be appreciated that all of the attributes of Items 2102 and 2103 are incorporated as well as the ability of the MOTS to further instruct the Service how they would like their prospective rebates processed as is applicable to the abilities and services provided by the WM or services available to the member by the Service.

An exemplary a web page representing the final list of selected products being considered for purchase by the shopper of the WM 2106 is provided. This page represents the final pre purchase point where all of the attributes and elements of the services of the Service may be employed by the shopper or shopper/MOTS. Another member recognition process can be described with reference to Fig. 22, a schematic flow diagram from the perspective of a sales system of a Web merchant. This flowchart is a basic exemplary processes related to both the initial pre qualification check by a MOTS for a rebate as well as the initial qualification processes for claiming a rebate by a MOTS.

Though this initial qualification process is fairly straight forward, factors such as not receiving PII data may impact the reliability of a pre qualification check by a MOTS. As well, the completion process of completing the entire rebate process can be more cumbersome with a WM or DM processed rebate due to factors such as receipt by the Service of PII data at time of purchase or shipping, and or the point where the physical PUT is secured by the Service.

The interface between all parties is highly dependent upon many factors such as, but not limited to systems (hardware and software), systems development and deployment capabilities of WM; systems (hardware and software), systems development and deployment capabilities of Service; relationship of WM and Service; privacy issues; ease of use by MOTS; and overall resource requirements and availability of either the Service and/or the WM.

The user interface seen and utilized by the MOTS may be implemented by the Service in any number of ways such as, but not limited to a one to one to one chain of data exchange whereby all data from either the MOTS or the Service is passed through the systems of the WM; or whereby all or nearly all interaction by the Service with the MOTS is actually performed through separate network connections, whereby data required by the Service is directly communicated to the Service by the MOTS and any data required by the WM is sent directly to the WM by the Service and visa versa.

Referring to Fig. 22, a customer/shopper 2200 of WM utilizes a properly configured device connected to the internet 2201 accessing the web store of a WM. The customer accesses the Web store home page of WM 2202. It is determined if the shopper that is visiting the store a recognized customer of WM 2203. It is confirmed that the customer is a recognized customer of WM 2204. Here, the customer is not a recognized customer of WM 2205. It is determined if a recognized WM customer is a recognized MOTS 2206. Here, the recognized WM customer is not a recognized MOTS 2207. The recognized WM customer is a recognized MOTS 2208. The system of WM displays recognition of shopper as a MOTS 2209. MOTS selects a rebate associated item for review and/or purchase 2210. MOTS selects a fink indicating desire to check their pre qualification for a rebate associated with the product or initiate initial qualification process 2211. The inquiry is sent over a secure wired and/or wireless network connection to Service 2212. The system of WM stands-by in regards to Service 2213. The shopper selects a rebate associated product 2214. The shopper selects a link to Service to check on initial pre qualification of a rebate or initiate initial qualification process 2215. It is determined if the shopper us a MOTS 2216. The shopper is not a MOTS 2217. The shopper is a MOTS 2218. Through secure network connection, WM displays MOTS log-in (log-in assumed successful) 2219. It is determined if the WM customer desire to become a MOTS 2220. The WM customer desires to become a MOTS 2221. Data is transmitted to the Service via a secure network connection 2222. Via a secure network connection, WM customer registers to become a MOTS (assumes successful registration) 2223. The WM customer indicates desire not to become a MOTS 2224. The WM site displays standard rebate data or other data as is applicable 2225. As is applicable, the Service performs pre or initial qualification and/or registration processes 2226. Processed data is transmitted via secure network connection 2227. WM and MOTS receive processed data as is applicable 2228.

Initial Rebate Qualification Check

This is a multiple use process that may be employed at nearly any point during a visit of a member of the Service (MOTS) to the web site store of a web merchant (WM) in relation to a rebate. A member may utilize this function to simply see if they qualify for an advertised rebate offered by the WM or in may be employed and/or incorporated to the processes at the checkout (payment) time of a product. A method and apparatus for securely displaying and communicating trusted and untrusted internet content and other sensitive or otherwise confidential data such as personal data via a web browser is desired between a three way, or more party communication session. Certain data related to any individual transaction of one or more transactions may be securely communicated directly to a MOTS or prospective MOTS (both referred to hereinafter as MOTS), and only specific authorized data will be communicated to the WM. An exemplary rebate fulfillment and finance system interfaced or configured to interact with one or more electronic marketplaces or WM systems is provided in which rebate-related and MOTS's personal related content is displayed in one or more windows of a member's web browser while WM product-related content is displayed in a second window (or the equivalent of a second window such as a frame) of the member's web browser, such that the rebate-related content and the item-related content are prevented from or substantially prevented from interacting with their respective sources such as, but not limited to the primary sources of the Service and WM, or one or more secondary sources such a product producer and/or a rebate issuer. The method and systems further provides for simultaneously communicating in real-time, predetermined information between multiple documents opened in multiple web browser windows in cases where the documents are served from multiple domains of related or unrelated entities and/or domains. Further, at a point within the transaction, generally upon the closing or finalization of the transaction by the selected data and information may be transmitted to the WM for inclusion in their web pages such as, but not limited to financial credits to the WM that the MOTS may apply towards the purchase of the product by the MOTS with the WM.

An exemplary methodology permits the service to act as a gate keeper of data and information between second and third parties, but permits the Service to facilitate the possibility of obtaining a better deal for the MOTS on any one or more products they may be considering. For example, it is common for pricing wars on any given product or product category to occur and a chief weapon often employed in such wars are often rebate incentive programs. Obviously, such wars simply tend to lead to confusion and indecisiveness of the consumer. The Service is in a unique position to monitor and detect when a MOTS may be considering like products and to notify the producer of a product with a relationship with the Service when such an event occurs. At the time of such an event, the product producer may elect to provide an additional incentive to the MOTS through the Service that would sweeten their offer and possibly tilt the table in their direction. In the event both rebate issuers have a relationship with the service, the Service is in the position to essentially facilitate a bidding war between the product producers and/or incentive issuers.

Incentives may be as simple as simply pointing out superior features and functions of a product over that another product or may offer premiums and/or monetary incentives.

Because the Service essentially records and stores all data related to any transaction associated with a MOTS, the Service has the ability to facilitate upgrade programs by becoming the independent witness or authority to confirm the prior purchase of a product. Thereby, insuring the MOTS receives their incentive without the need or requirement to retain the original PoP or prove otherwise. Going a step further, a product producer may be alerted when the Service detects that a MOTS who has previously purchased a specific product is considering the purchase of a comparable product of a competitor. If a MOTS approved of participating or requested inclusion in such a program, such a program provides the producer of the original product with the ability to intercede with such measures such as, but not limited to, customer support intervention whereby the product producer may not only gain the opportunity to retain the buyer of their product, but upgrade the product, fix the product, or simply gain information as to why the buyer is considering or making the purchase.

Referring to Figs. 23a-b, a member of Service 2300 uses a properly configured apparatus connected to the global information network (internet) or other type of wired or wireless network connection such as, but not limited to a virtual private network (VPN) connection. The user visits the web site of web merchant and either identifies them self as a MOTS or does not, but through either to web merchant, web merchant notifies Service of visit, and confirms Service membership 2301. The processor and data storage systems of rebate merchant are provided 2302. A member views a rebate associated product offered on web site of merchant 2304. The member initiates an initial pre qualification for associated rebate. This process may be initiated at any time such as, but not limited to times when, 1) viewing a rebate associated item, 2) when or as a part of the process of adding an item to their shopping cart, 3) viewing items in their shopping cart, 4) at actual checkout and purchase of a product, and 5) review of a list of rebate associated items published by the merchant. A network connection between web merchant and Service is provided 2304. The connection may be via a dedicated connection such as, but not limited to, a VPN connection or common internet connection with utilization of security systems and protocols. The Processor of Service receives query and initiates initial prequalification process 2305. The system may perform additional member verification processes 2306. The User/Member is verified 2307. The User/Member fails verification process

2308. The Member of Service is prompted with reason for failure and provided options and recourse to correct. The System validates PUT data

2309. PUT data is valid 2310. It should be appreciated that though PUT may be a valid rebate-associated product, the Service may provide alternative product suggestions that may or may not be rebate-associated that offer a better value to the member. Should a product not be in stock and the time period in which is required to stock the product exceeds that of the rebate offer, the Service may be able to offer a rain check for the rebate, which would be processed at the time of shipment (plus a time allowance if member must remit physical PoP/SPoP) if member commits to purchase of item. PUT data is valid 2311. It should be appreciated that PUT may be invalid simply due to the inability of the Service to process a rebate-associated product because the Service does not have a formal relationship with the rebate issuer. Agreements with merchants preferably include a provision that requires the merchant to require their vendor to register with thf Service. As well, merchant should not advertise a rebate unless the vendor/rebate issuer has done so. It is determined if the record contains PII 2312. The record contains no PII 2313. The record contains PII 2314. The validation of PII being required is determined 2315. The validation of PII is not required 2316. The validation of PII is required 2317. The validation of PII passes 2318. The validation of PII fails 2319. PII is validated 2320. It is determined if there a Premium associated with rebate or premium associated with purchase 2321. The Premium associated 2322. The premium is not associated 2323. One or more processors of Service is provided 2324. One or more databases of Service is provided 2325. A Check or post command to rebate issuer / rebate database of Service is performed 2326. No checking or posting to database required 2327. No further action required 2328. A check of database and/or posting to database is required 2329. This database is utilized by the Service as a central location whereby 1) a rebate issuer may obtain real-time data related to their rebate program, 2) a fulfillment company working with the company may post a rebate they have fulfilled with a member of the Service or check to see if a rebate on a specific rebate has been fulfilled by the Service, and 3) if a rebate issuer also employs a fulfillment company to process its rebates, the Service will check to see if a fulfillment company has posted a fulfillment on the product with the Member 2330.

It should be appreciated that postings to this database may be made on a temporary basis. Such temporary posting may be for reasons such as, but not limited to 1) required PII data must be obtained post purchase, 2) give a prospective purchaser time to conclude checkout process, 3) Physical PUT must be received prior to finalization of rebate claim. Temporary posting may be time determinable. For example a) a temporary posting while a member continues to shop may be for only an hour or two, or b) if a physical PUT is required, may be a few days or out till the rebate offer expires.

Approvals that may be made are provided and are not limited to 1) a rebate, 2) initial qualification of a rebate by a member, 3) a premium, and 4) a combination incentive 2331. The system requests additional data from the web merchant and/or member 2332. The system provides web merchant and/or member rejections, denials or other problems and provides context sensitive work-around 2333. The System of web merchant receives and processes data from Service and provides data as is applicable to customer/member of Service as well as process data for own purposes 2334. The system displays results of prior action 2335. User selects or takes an action 2336. Dependent upon type of action initiated by member, this may conclude session with web merchant or simply another step in the process initiated.

Final Qualification and Authorization

Figs. 24a-c show a basic exemplary illustration of the processes related to final qualification processes by the Service for a rebate as well as the final qualification processes for claiming a rebate by a MOTS and the types of services offered/available to the MOTS.

Though this process is fairly straight forward, factors such as not receiving PII data from the WM may impact the availability of one or more types of service and/or result in a delay in the period of time in which a type of service is available to the MOTS for any particular rebate claim or financial funding they desire.

A customer of WM who is a MOTS 2400 utilizes a properly configured device connected to the internet accessing the web store of a WM completing their final rebate qualification process and selection of applicable types of services offered by the Service. A Web store Site of WM is provided 2401. Also provided are a processor, data storage and communication system of WM 2402. MOTS initiates final checkout process and rebate/rebate services processes 2403. Network communication such as, but not limited to VPN or Internet is provided 2404. This link may also be made directly with the MOTS and in concert with WM. The processor, data storage and communication system of the Service are provided 2405. Retrieval of completed Initial Qualification recorded and data is provided 2406. The processor performs final rebate qualification, type of service qualification, additional data requirements and authorization 2407. Process "A" performs PII data requirement checks and operations 2408. It is determined if the record from WM contain required PII data 2409. The record contains required PII data 2410. The record does not contain required PII data 2411. It is determined if WM provides PII data upon Shipping 2412. WM provides PII data upon Shipping 2413. WM does not provide PlI data upon Shipping 2414. Process "B" performs PUT data requirement checks and operations 2415. It is determined if WM withholds physical PUT (PoP/SPoP) at time of shipping product for forwarding to Service 2416. WM does withhold physical PUT (PoP/SPoP) at time of shipping product for forwarding to Service 2417. WM does not withhold physical PUT (PoP/SPoP) at time of shipping product for forwarding to Service 2418. The processor posts or upgrades its "Temporary" posting of rebate to "Pending" in Rebate Fulfillment Database of Service 2419. In the alterative to posting in the Rebate Fulfillment Database of Service, the Service may perform the same function in the fulfillment database of the rebate issuer and/or their contracted fulfillment company. The processor posts and records applicable data to applicable databases and records 2420. The Rebate Fulfillment Database is utilized by the rebate issuer and/or their fulfillment company and the Service 2421. Process "C" performs internal Service requirement checks and processes for service type qualification and authorization 2422. The credit score of MOTS is checked for weighting purposes related to type of Services that can and will be available to the MOTS 2423. The credit score of rebate issuer is checked for weighting purposes related to type of Services that can and will be available to the MOTS 2424. The Rebate is assigned to the Service 2425. The system evaluates and assigns types of service qualifications 2426. The system authorizes applicable service types 2427. A data storage of Service is provided 2428, Process "D" is provided, i.e. MOTS selection of rebate items to process and selections of applicable service types 2429. The system finalizes Process "C" items and begins processing rebate qualified items 2430. Item(s) pass processes A, B and C 2431. If more than a single item, rebateable items list is displayed to MOTS 2432. It is determined if there is more than one item to select or review 2433. There is more than one item to select or review 2434. MOTS is prompted to select item to transact 2435. Batch processing may also be available. A single item is provided 2436. MOTS is prompted to select applicable service type desired 2437. The service Type "Cash Now" 2438; Service Type is "Expedited" 2439; Service Type is "Standard" 2440; and Service Type is "Tax Avoided" 2441. It is determined if processing delay is required 2442. This could be due to need of Service to wait until a product is shipped and at that time the WM would submit/retain required data/PoP, or WM does not provide required data/PoP upon shipment and Service must wait until MOTS makes remittance upon receipt. Processing delay is required 2443. Process "AB" is provided 2444, i.e. required when a WM does not retain a required PoP and/or provide PII data to the Service. In this case, there is delay of final processing until after shipment of product 2445. The delay of final processing until after MOTS remits required physical PoP and/or PII data and are verified 2446. Notice of delay of rebate processing is provided and provides reason and offer further support/assistance 2447. An option for MOTS is provided to accept or reject web/mail assistance of the Service 2448. MOTS rejects web/mail assistance of the Service 2449. MOTS accepts web/mail assistance of the Service 2450. MOTS is taken through web submission Assist 2451. WM ships product to MOTS 2452. WM transmits to Service notification of shipping product to MOTS with method of shipping 2453. The Service sends MOTS notice that it has been notified that their product has shipped with a reminder of rebate submission requirements 2454. The service may send second reminder at approximate time after receipt of their product. MOTS proceeds with data and artifact submission processing 2455. Process "AB" is provided and is required when a WM retains required PoP at time of shipping, but does not provide PII data to the Service until product is shipped 2456. Delay of final processing until PoP is confirmed as retained and PII data is transmitted sometime prior to or after shipment of product 2457. A notice of delay of rebate processing is provided and a reason and offer further support/assistance are provided 2458. WM retains PoP, records PII data and ships product to MOTS 2459. WM transmits to Service confirmation of PoP retention and PII data 2460. The service begins final post shipping processing 2461. The system runs processes A through C to reverify rebate and service qualifications 2462. The system passes or fails pending rebate and/or service type selection 2463. The system fails pending rebate and/or service type selection 2464. MOTS sent notice of denial, reason for denial, options for possible remedy, and Service contact info 2465. A notice of denial transmitted 2466. MOTS responds to notice of denial 2467. Final rebate qualification, verification and/or authorization fail 2468. A reason for denial is provided 2469. MOTS is prompted to make selection from menu 2470. Menu selection options is provided 2471. No processing delay is required 2472. WM provides all required data at time of order and commits to retention of physical PoP/SPoP. Process "AA" is provided 2473 where the system processes rebate in realtime and the rebate amount may be utilized toward purchase of product or immediately made available in account of MOTS. The system posts to all accounts and records as is applicable 2474. The system displays and notifies MOTS that their rebate has been processed 2475. A Process "AD" is provided 2476 where next item and completion of transaction routine is provided. It is determined if another item is to be processed 2477. No other item to process 2478. One or more items remain to be processed 2479. The system takes MOTS to next item on list to process 2480. The system generates a transaction summary 2481. The system displays transaction Summary to MOTS 2482. The system takes MOTS to post processing 2483. The system passes final verification 2484. The system runs MOTS through the process "AD" post rebate processing routine 2485.

MOTS Post Purchase Submission Requirements

Fig. 25 illustrates the processes involved with the post initial qualification, final qualification and service type selection of the MOTS, wherein a Web merchant or other type of direct marketing merchant (both referred to as "WM") does not provide the PII data and/or retain the product's physical PoP at time of shipping or a claim by a MOTS is made post shipping of the product.

Notwithstanding, it is assumed that a MOTS may identify them self at any point during their transaction or within a certain period of time post transaction. In instances where the Service receives a copy of all transactions of the WM and archives those transactions for possible future MOTS (including new MOTS) or rebate associations, a new or prior registered MOTS has the ability to make a rebate claim post transaction through the Service.

This illustration picks up at the time when the MOTS has received their product from the WM and has submitted the required data and artifacts to the Service as is applicable.

Referring to Fig. 25, MOTS prepares submission of required data and or PoP or other artifacts 2501. MOTS transmits required data and artifacts to Service 2502. In cases where only PII data is required, that data may be transmitted to the Service through other communication means such as, but not limited to the web, email, telephone, and VIOP. The service receives and begins processing submission of MOTS 2503. The processor system of Service is provided 2504. The system recalls pending items of MOTS and properly associates with submission of MOTS. It is determined if MOTS is required to submit PII data 2505. MOTS is not required to submit PII data 2506. MOTS is required to submit PII data 2507. MOTS has provided PII data 2508. The Service/System verifies receipt of PII data 2509. The system verifies PII data 2510. PII fails verification 2511. PII passes verification 2512. It is determined if MOTS is required to submit a physical PoP 2513. MOTS is required to submit a physical PoP 2514. MOTS is provided a physical PoP/PIIT 2515. The PUT is verified 2516. The PUT fails verification 2517. The PUT passes verification 2518. MOTS is not required to submit a physical PoP 2519. Further processing or verification required is determined 2520. Further processing or verification is required 2521. The system runs processing routines 2522. Further processing routines return rejection/failure 2523. Further processing or verification is not required 2524. Further processing routines pass 2525. MOTS sent a notice of denial or rejection 2526. MOTS provides a reason 2527. MOTS provides options to remedy problem 2528. Options may be communicated via multiple means 2529, such as web, mail, and phone. Samples of options 2530 are provided. The system posts to all accounts and records 2531. Rebate or rebates are processed 2532. MOTS is notified by applicable means such as through email, of successful processing of their rebate 2533.

Member Rebate Submission Form/Kit

One embodiment of the invention can be described with reference to Fig. 26, a schematic diagram of member rebate submission forms and envelopes. Such form is for utilization in cases where a WM does not provide either or both the PII in the transaction record sent to the Service or retain a required PUT (PoP/SPoP) on rebate-associated products purchased from the WM.

In such cases, the MOTS has the ability to request that the Service send one or more rebate claim forms that may be completed on-line through the web site of the Service and run through the printer of the MOTS in an easy user friendly automated processes. This process is intended to be initiated at any point from when a MOTS has placed either a temporary or pending rebate claim and the selling WM of the product does not provide the PII data or retain the physical PUT.

The MOTS simply completes the PII data on the web site of the Service, select prepaid postage if desired that is deducted from the rebate, insert the form in the proper orientation into the printer of the MOTS, print the form, attach the PoP, if required, detach the form from the envelop and instruction section, enclose the form into the envelope and place in the mail.

Exemplary Features and functions are as follows: A Blank claim form 2601 with incorporated envelope is provided. A member is sent one or more in a kit. Instructions 2602 for printing and submission are provided. Additional detail is available online and/or is provided in a supplemental sheet. Perforated detach points for ease of detachment 2603 are provided. A Rebate attachment area 2604 is provided. An adhesive area with removable adhesive cover may be incorporated. An envelope section 2605 is provided. An exemplary completed claim form 2606 is provided. Claim data 2607 includes, but not limited to PII data, member data, WM data, purchase data, member signature and so forth. A tracking barcode 2608 is provided. It may be associated with a unique transaction code and/or associated with the postal barcode of an estamp. The return address of member 2609 is provided. The US Postal Service approved and possibly prepaid electronic stamp 2610 is provided. The address of the Service 2611 is provided. The data associated with the mailing address of the Service may also include additional routing or rebate offer codes for internal reference or other use of the Service. A view of the backside of form demonstrating incorporation of envelope 2612 is provided. An adhesive strip 2613 for sealing of envelope is provided. The envelope 2614 is provided. An illustration 2615 of the insertion of the claim form into the envelope is provided. A Proof-of-purchase 2616 is attached to claim form. A completed envelope 2617 ready for mailing is provided.

Member/Non Member Rebate Submission Form

One embodiment of a Member/Non member rebate submission form can be described with reference to Fig. 27. The features and functions of the following can have dual roll applications. The first is for the Service and the second is for any rebate issuer.

The Application For The Service

An alternative option for the convenience of the MOTS for processing a claim is provided. In the event the MOTS desires to simply complete any required

PII data via the web site of the Service and directly complete a claim form from their web browser or interface with the Service providing comparable features and functionality, the MOTS may simply print out the completed form, attach the PoP, if required, provide their own envelope, address it and mail everything to the Service for processing.

The Application For Rebate Issuer Typically, one of the time-consuming efforts associated with the fulfillment of rebates is the receipt and processing of claim forms. It is a time consuming process because documents must be sorted, manual data entry must be made and verified as correct. Herein a methodology is provided wherein such process is made less costly, less error prone, more efficient, and automated. Frequently, a purchaser of a rebate-associated product must access the web site of a rebate issuer to obtain their rebate claim form, download for printing or simply print it out. At this point, the rebate issuer has missed a golden opportunity to not only capture data they would not normally obtain, but take an additional step towards reducing their fulfillment cost by automating a piece of the process. This may be accomplished by simply allowing their customer to fill out the a claim form online, assign a unique transaction number to the claim form that is also associated with a corresponding bar code. The customer prints the completed claim application and rebate offer, attaches the PoP to the form, if required, and mails it in.

Upon receipt by the rebate issuer or the fulfillment service, the barcode on the claim form can be scanned and reconciled with the corresponding record containing all required associated data. The requirement to perform manual data entry of OCR processes is eliminated. Further, the PoP is physically attached to and auditable artifact and therefore establishes a physical audit trail for such purposes as, but not limited to an internal audit or an audit by a rebate issuer.

An exemplary completed and printed claim form 2701 is provided. Instructions for printing and submission 2702 are provided. An indication, such as the dotted line, is provided to demonstrate where to detach claim form 2703. The claim data 2704 includes, but are not limited to PII data, member data, WM data, purchase data, member signature and so forth. A unique barcode 2705 associated with the record submitted by claimant is provided. A designated area 2706 wherein to attach PoP, if required, is provided. An exemplary illustration 2707 of required documents and properly marked envelope is provided. An exemplary PoP 2708 attached to claim form is provided. An exemplary completed envelope 2709 is provided. A postage reminder 2710 is provided. A Routing/Product offer code or other required data 2711 are provided.

It should be appreciated that the system herein that generates the claim form can be designed to dynamically create claim forms that meet PoP size requirements, data requirements, customer/buyer signatures, and on.

An Exemplary Rebate System (Company) PoP Tags and Labels Methodology

At a time when the Service reaches a critical mass with the number of merchants and vendors it works with, in one embodiment of the invention, the Service establishes not only branding opportunities, but also the ability to place a Service Proof of Purchase (SPoP) barcode, or similar, including RFID, labels on most vendor products. In place of using a UPC barcode as a Proof of Purchase (PoP), SPoP can be used in its place. A SPoP tag bearing a unique serial number that is tied to the essential product information is designed to be easily removed or not removed, collected and/or read at a RPD of the Service, POS of product seller, Web/Catalog Merchant shipping station, or be mailed or submitted to the Service through other authorized channels by a product seller and or Direct Marketers (DM) such as, but not limited to, Web Merchant, catalog merchant, TV Merchant or any other authorized product seller in the supply chain or rebate service member, i.e. Member of the Service (MOTS). The essential information tied to any SPoP may include, but is not limited to:

• Vendor name;

• Manufacturer name;

• Product Serial Number;

• Product Model; • Product UPC number;

• Merchant Identification;

• Merchant SKU;

• Lot Number; • Component information; and

• Other information required by a merchant or vendor.

One goal of a SPoP system is to enable a high level of efficiencies and reliability into not only the processes of financing and redeeming of rebates, but to increase the confidence level of financing or redemption of a rebate and increase customer/member experience and satisfaction with a rebate issuer and product seller while significantly reducing the threat of fraud.

The ideal system eliminates the need of the rebate recipient to submit physical proof of purchase items to the rebate issuer and fully automates all process related to rebate redemption. To accomplish this task employs the phasing in of methodologies, processes, tools and equipment. It should be appreciated that there is a spectrum of methods by which merchants process products through their businesses. As well, the requirements of and methods employed by vendors, also referred to herein as rebate issuers, to push their products through the supply chain are equally complex.

The cost of handling and financing rebates can significantly decrease, however the initial overall overhead related to such a scenario may not be initially and fully offset. This can be due to factors such as:

• The ratio of products carrying such a label verses the number of products that have a rebate associated to them at any one time.

• Technologies employed may have not reached a point in their life cycle where widespread adoption brings scales of economy that make certain technologies economically feasible.

Factors that can offset these costs include, but are not limited to:

• Reduction of fraud; • Elimination of need to handle physical PoPs; and

• Ability to significantly reduce cost of a rebate program though full electronic automation of the rebate process.

The Hurdles To Overcome and Their Solutions

The most significant hurdle to overcome is due to the general requirement that a rebate issuer requires a physical Proof of Purchase. As mentioned hereinabove, the PoP is generally considered to be the UPC bar code located on every product. The purpose behind this requirement are not immediately obvious and has drawbacks such as:

1. The UPC bar code is the only standardized product identifier universally employed to date. The information tied to this number is basically the identity of the product producer, the name of the product, and its model number. Not enough information is provided for which a rebate of a higher value may be redeemed.

The SPoP number is tied to not only information related to the UPC, but an array of information that includes specific product information such as the serial number of the product.

2. The removal of the UPC and the submission of it provide the rebate issuer a relative security that the customer will not redeem a rebate more than once for any given item.

The SPoP tag replaces the UPC as the PoP. Because the SPoP number is unique to each product it can only be used with the specific item to which the number was assigned.

3. The absence of the UPC is used as a signal to the merchant that a rebate has been applied for or has already been redeemed. The policy of most merchants is not to permit returns of products when the UPC is missing. However, some merchants do permit product returns when the UPC is missing from the product packaging. In these cases, it is generally the policy of merchants to deduct from any refund due their customer, the value of a rebate that was in effect during the period the product was with the customer. Generally, is cases such as this, this policy permits the merchant to avoid the need to modify their inventory control/POS systems to interface with a plurality of fulfillment companies and place the product back in stock at a price less the amount of the rebate value, thus maintaining an incentive for a potential buyer to purchase the item. In theory, this may sound good, but in practice it is another matter.

This single issue of a removed UPC/PoP is perhaps the prickliest issue related to the implementation of a fully automated SPoP methodology. However, it is feasible due to the ability to tie the product return systems of a merchant to the SPoP databases of the Service. .At the time this occurs, the merchant need only interface with one entity in regards to rebates. However, to get to this point it can require a number of years for all merchants to have this ability.

Until all merchants that sell products of any one particular product producer have this ability, the Service can employ several methodologies and types of SPoP tags. Initially, the Service can require the remittance of a physical SPoP up until and leading to a point in time where all that is required is a simple scanning of the SPoP to be performed to transact a rebate.

4. The removal of the UPC can be and is generally damaging to the product packaging. Therefore, should the product be returned to a merchant for a refund, the merchant may have no choice but to return the item to the shelf in less than optimal saleable condition. Further, as a way to entice the sale of the product, the merchant may be required to apply a significant discount to the item that is in addition to the rebate amount. This is a costly proposition. The SPoP can eliminate this problem. The SPoP is an easily removable sticker type tag or the equivalent, such as, but not limited to a hang tag or other form of tag serving a similar purpose and is also referred to herein for purposes of illustration as simply a "sticker", that may be removed by the consumer or a merchant at time of sale, at a RPD prior to sale, or post sale. Though the sticker is easily removed it cannot be applicable to any other product. It can also not be activated for a rebate until it is associated with a valid sales receipt from an authorized merchant. It should be appreciated; that should a SPoP be removed from a product having a unique PII, prior to sale, a merchant may replace it. In such case, the prior tag number can be voided and the new tag number activated in the place of the prior SPoP tag if the rebate associated with the item has not been redeemed.

In the event a SPoP tag has been removed from a product and a rebate has been made, the merchant can deduct the amount of the rebate from the refund they give their customer. The merchant can then forward the deducted amount to the Service to be placed in trust against a future rebate for that item or forwarded to the rebate issuer and the merchant may then reregister that product for a rebate. Thus no destruction of the product packaging has occurred and no discount on the item is required for the offset of the inability of the customer to receive a rebate on a product that has been replaced on the sales floor.

5. The consumer is required to cut the UPC from the packaging and send it into the product vendor or their fulfillment service provider. If the product has a serial number, generally this is also required to be submitted along with the UPC. This often results in confusion as to what is actually required and how to comply with other related requirements. Often the consumer becomes frustrated and angry when they are notified that their rebate has been denied.

The methodology and SPoP design prevents this confusion. The SPoP tag and systems supporting it are designed to provide optimum differentiation and distinction qualities that should significantly reduce or eliminate confusion. Nothing other than the submission of SPoP tag need be required. At a time when the SPoP program matures, the simple scanning of the SPoP is the only step required. The SPoP tag may not be required to be physically submitted. The scanning or submission of the SPoP may be accomplished at any portal of the Service or at the POS at time of purchase.

6. No standardized rebate system or service, or prior art as disclosed is known to exist for either the rebate issuer or merchants.

Though it is doubtful that any single standardization can ever occur for all rebate scenarios, the SPoP is a significant standardization of a significant portion of the rebate and or other incentive processes and methods.

7. Both Vendors and Merchants vary significantly in their need, requirements, and ability to employ inventory control and related technologies.

For example, one merchant simply employs price stickers that are manually input into a cash register and another may have the ability to scan a barcode that is tied to relevant information of the product.

8. The UPC is already universally accepted as the method by which all products are identified at the retail level.

To create yet another standard by which to identify any product is not preferable and can lead to confusion and error. The time that such a scenario can be advantageous is in cases where a UPC has not been issued for a given product or service. A service contract for cell phone service can be a good example of such a case. A product sold exclusively by a specific merchant can be another. Yet another example might be items that were originally destined to be components of a product, but were later independently made available to the end user. Therefore, in this case, the SPoP is tied to and associated with products having a UPC.

Example: an authorized merchant of a vendor not enrolled or lacking the technological ability to participate in the program of the Service may unwittingly subject the rebate issuer to fraud or a degree of customer irritation. Therefore, until such time as ali dealers of any given vendor is first able to participate, and second, are actually participating in the SPoP program, the need to collect a physical PoP or SPoP may continue to be generally necessary.

SPoP Implementation

In one embodiment of the invention, the Service provides the development of a SPoP tag with versions that can be applied to all products of any given vendor.

Here, a vendor is defined as any entity that produces or introduces a product or service into a supply chain and offers a rebate to a purchaser of a given product at some point in the supply chain. For example, a manufacturer may offer a rebate on a given item to the end user, their dealer, distributor, or other agent.

It should be appreciated that for purposes of this document, the description and methodologies employed herein this section relate to rebates that are issued and intended for the end user consumer. However, numerous other application for the supply chain may be applied.

The characteristics of a SPoP tag address many factors at this time. This is primarily due to the wide disparities found in the technology employed by any given merchant. Vendors actually represent less of a hurdle to overcome in terms of the ability of the Service to employ the latest technologies in the rebate process.

Full Integration of SPoP Systems

In one embodiment of the invention, the solution is a system whereby the SPoP tag is not required to be removed from any product. The systems of the Service are integrated with both the vendor, including their fulfillment service provider, and each authorized dealer, i.e. merchant, of the vendor. Each vendor with a formal relationship with the Service can apply the SPoP tag to each of their products and all authorized dealer merchants can scan each SPoP for a MOTS or non MOTS at checkout and/or upon return of the product.

The scanning of the SPoP at the time of a return of the product can be an important aspect to this process as it can serve to confirm whether of not:

A related rebate was redeemed or not. If so, the amount received by the customer for the rebate can be deducted from the product refund to the customer and:

If redeemed by a MOTS, the merchant can reimburse the Service; or

If redeemed by other than a MOTS, the merchant can forward the funds to the Service and the Service can forward the funds to the proper entity.

For this methodology to work, all merchant systems need not be fully interfaced with the Service, however electronic communication with the Service can be significant. The purpose being that all merchants can at minimum be able to scan or manually enter both the UPC and the SPoP and transmit that data to the Service. In response, the Service can provide a clearance or notice of redemption to the merchant. This method may also be accomplished through, but not limited to, an automated telephone system. Should a vendor use a company to perform fulfillments on their rebates as has been traditional, the fulfillment company of the vendor of which may be the vendor themselves, can be required to confirm with the Service prior to issuing payment for a rebate claim that no other claim has been made on that SPoP and if so, the fulfillment company will reject the duplicate claim. Conversely, the Service would do the same. The SPoP tag for this scenario may be a simplified tag that does not require a physically evident feature appearing on the SPoP tag that the SPoP was being or had been submitted to the Service for redemption or finance.

Partially Integrated Systems

This can be a case where the vendor has adopted the policies and practices of the Service and has implemented the SPoP program. However, all authorized dealer product sellers have not reached a level of participation that can provide for the ability to rely on a fully automated SPoP rebate program. For these types of vendors the Service might need to collect the physical SPoP. The absence of the SPoP is the signal to the product seller that the customer has applied for or received a rebate on the product and to deduct the amount of the rebate.

One embodiment of the invention contemplates exploring the feasibility of employing Redemption Evident SPoP tags. These tags can permit a MOTS to simply scan the SPoP at a RPD of the Service or other properly configured device and during the process of scanning, the tag can change in some manner that demonstrated that it had been submitted for financing/redemption through the rebate system of the Service or other entity. Should such a product be presented to the merchant for refund, it would be physically evident that the customer had initiated the rebate process on the item and that the, product seller should deduct the value of the rebate from their refund.

Other SPoP Applications

Merchant/Product Seller Applications

Due to the flexibility of the SPoP tagging system and an embodiment of the invention, merchants are enabled to apply SPoP tags to any product or service agreement that is or may be at some future time associated with a rebate. This can be applied to existing and future supplies of a product and as well. Providing this ability to the merchant may be of significant benefit to them in certain circumstances. For example; the merchant may desire:

• to provide in-store rebates and apply such rebate in an manner not directly appearing to be initiated by the product seller;

• to have the ability to apply SPoP tags to items such as service agreements, for services such as a cell phone service contract;

• in instances where a vendor and/or a merchant desire to respond immediately to a market force, situation or special promotion; and

• to include scenarios where an existing inventory at a merchant does not have a SPoP, but future deliveries from a vendor can.

Commonly associated with product purchases is the scenario where a store customer can employ the assistance of a salesperson. In this case the sales person often provides a higher level of service that may include a pre checkout operation or the actual checkout of their customers item(s). This is an excellent time for the sales person not only to identify the customer and item purchased, as is customary, but also to provide advance rebate services of the Service by identifying the SPoP pre POS or at the POS and possibly identifying if the customer is a MOTS. If so, the sales person can enter that data into the system and thereby associate the records. The sales person or a cashier may also be authorized to collect the SPoP, if the SPoP is required to be collected, and thereby eliminate any further need for the customer to process their rebate. Post checkout, the customer can simply select an access point to the Service to finalize the type of rebate service they desire, if the MOTS has not established a default, and the determination of how or where they can like their funds. The Service can either provide to or provide sources for both the merchant and vendor the hardware, systems or application interface to accomplish this task. It should be appreciated that numerous cost effective funding opportunities can develop as the Service reaches a critical mass that can justify either or both the merchant or vendor to pay for such services and or hardware.

In some situations, some or many product or service vendors may desire to use the SPoP tag exclusively as Proof of Purchase of their product or service in lieu of what has been historically or previously considered a Proof of Purchase.

If so, both the vendor and their primary fulfillment organization can be provided access to the SPoP database of the Service. Both the vendor and their fulfillment organization can benefit in a number of ways such as:

• The SPoP tag is actually tied to a specific product. The ability to identify and quantify the origin of the item against the rebate application of the MOTS can be readily made. Thus the risk of fraud is significantly reduced;

• If the item is associated with the purchase of a MOTS, the vendor fulfillment organization can have the benefit of comparing the MOTS data associated with and against the redemption claim. Thus the risk of fraud is significantly reduced or eliminated;

• The vendor receives real-time feedback on their promotional effort; and

• Gray market purchases can be inhibited or eliminated due to the ability of the Service to quickly identify and provide a qualified on screen and printed reason for not facilitating such a rebate if desired by the rebate issuer. Currently it is frequently customary for a rebate issuer to pay such gray market rebates so as not to alienate their customer. In the case of a gray market item, the Service acts as the buffer between the rebate issuer and MOTS. Thus the rebate issuer eliminates or significantly reduces the cost of such gray market rebate activity. The Service may only work with a rebate that is associated with a merchant having a business relationship with and is an authorized dealer of the rebate issuer. Detection methods of such activity can be incorporated into the systems of the Service and reported to a rebate issuer in real-time, thereby providing the rebate issuer with an additional tool to proactively identify and take preemptive measures against such activity. This form of activity is easily detectable because the receipt the MOTS is required to submit cannot be from a merchant that has not been identified by a rebate issuer as an authorized dealer.

It should be appreciated that the display on product packaging of product producers, of the Service logo or labels similar to what other companies currently employ, such as Intel Inside®, can bring numerous branding opportunities and consumer awareness to the Service and enhance consumer incentive to purchase such an item due to their knowledge that additional financial or other benefits may occur at the time of or post purchase. In addition, such systems can act as a fraud prevention tool by alerting those with such intent that the product is fully tracked. Therefore it is much more difficult to commit rebate fraud.

The SPoP of the Service may also be used for other forms of promotions such as, but not limited to, a marketing campaign that is specifically tied to a specific identifier such as a product serial number or the SPoP itself.

Non Serialized Products and Services

This section further expands on the concept of using the SPoP tag for all products that normally do not have a serial number or are not typically associated with rebates such as, but not limited to, apparel, non electronic hardware, office supplies, gift items, services, and furniture and so on. Traditionally, these types of industries rely on significant discounts or sales at the retail level to clear their supply chains of product excess. Promotional sales at the retail level often do not attain the level of effect desired by a manufacturer. For the retailer, though they may have made an earnest effort to clear inventories, they generally have agreements with the manufacturer that require the product manufacturer to take back excesses and credit the retailer for those returns. The product manufacturer has little or no alternatives to clearing the supply chain through their primary merchant. The requirement of product manufactures to take back excess inventories of merchants is a very expensive aspect and operation of their business. The ability to have an additional tool at hand that enables a reduction and possibly a significant reduction in this activity and thus reduces or eliminates this cost is attractive.

The SPoP tags can accomplish this by providing the product manufacturer/vendor with alternatives to clearing such excesses in the supply chain at the primary target merchant that are not solely dependent upon the merchant. Such a SPoP tag can be included with each product item. In effect, it can provide each product item with both a unique serial number and PoP.

Because such a PoP (SPoP) can be registered with the Service, very flexible and very targeted promotions can be initiated, such as contingency rebates having attributes such as, but not limited to:

• Being tied to multiple purchases of a particular brand or number of brands, styles or catagories;

• That are tied to a particular price point or rebate value;

• That are tied to a particular model or variation of it, e.g. such as a different colored item; • That are tied to a specific merchant or number of merchants or a store or stores in a specific merchant's chain of stores; and

• That can be tied to and offered to a specific MOTS.

In addition to gaining the added benefit of rebates, the manufacturer or incentive issuer can gain access to the end user of their products. Each time a transaction is associated with a MOTS, the rebate system of the Service can capture that data that is directly associated with their product and the buyer of the product. This can occur whether the MOTS redeemed a rebate or not. The manufacturer can have the possible benefit of specifically targeting that individual in a marketing campaign or simply be able to gain marketing insight with specific information the manufacturer has not had in the past.

Component Rebates

Using the computer industry as but one example, in an embodiment of the invention, the SPoP is used to provide the end user with rebates on the components that make up a computer. Items that may or may not have unique identification marks or numbers can be specifically identified and associated with the SPoP. Examples of the types of components include, but are not limited to, the following components:

• Computer Case, Frame or housing;

• Mother Board;

• BIOS; CPU;

• Video card or chip; • Sound card or chip;

• Drives - CD, DVD, Hard Drive, Zip Drive or other drives;

• Drive Controller Card or Chip; • Monitor, such as one incorporated or bundled into a unit not sold separately and/or other peripheral devices, e.g. a printer, which may also be bundled;

• Network Card or Chip; • I/O or other cards; and

• Other components.

The method may be employed by those manufactures or systems integrators that employ component tracking into their process whereby each significant or even one significant component is tracked either by model number or model and serial number and assigned to the serial number of the completed product.

Due to the significant flexibility of the SPoP tag of the Service, the SPoP record maintained by the rebate system may include not only the relevant data of the completed item, but a record of the components comprising the completed unit.

Such capability provides for numerous opportunities for the component manufacturer, distributor, manufacturer/assembler, or any entity that may issue a rebate in the product supply chain, such as:

• Component Supplier

• Anyone involved in the supply chain may proactively initiate a rebate for the purpose of spurring sales of products containing, bundled with, or whose product is a part of any given product generally sold as or made into a single unit.

• The component product becomes a highlighted component product. Thus, the component supplier enjoys stronger branding opportunities and is not simply a part of a long list of components in the products marketing materials, but a focal point. • Any entity whose product is part of any given product but is also sold as an individual product may include in their rebate program a component that was incorporated into another product. In doing so, greater attention to their product can occur due to the additional advertising and branding opportunities they can receive in areas not normally associated with their product. For example, instead of advertising a component solely in the related component section of a merchant store, such as an adaptec® drive controller card, their component can also be advertised in the computer department and become a part of the promotion of any computer or number of computers that contain that product.

• The related fulfillment costs of such a promotion can be significantly reduced due to the automation that can be employed and the elimination of certain processes such as the requirement of the Service to obtain the physical PoP or SPoP for such items, as long as the MOTS registered the main product SPoP with the Service, the MOTS and the marketer can benefit.

Product End User - MOTS

• The MOTS rebate recipient gains from the possibility of realizing additional remuneration on any product purchase through:

• Rebates associated with any component associated with a product;

• Further tracking of constituent components that may be associated with a rebate and notification by the rebate system in the event a rebate does indeed become associated with a component of a product or service they purchased; and • No further need to send in or submit a SN or PoP other than for the primary product. The purchase of the primary product and complying with the rebate terms and conditions of that item can equate to the proof of purchase of any related component registered with R2C.

• Primary Manufacturer/Assembler

• This entity gains additional tools and abilities for their promotions, such as:

• They may place the burden and associated costs of a rebate program directly on to their vendors;

• They may eliminate, distance themselves from, or reduce possible negative connotations that a rebate associated with their product somehow reduces the value of their product because the end user perceives the product as being phased out or is being discounted because of some form of shortcoming of the product;

• Augment and enhance their rebate promotion with rebates from their vendors; and

• Their vendors can be enabled to be proactive.

• The Merchant

• The merchant gains through:

• Receiving the monetary benefit of reduced or eliminated need to further discount a product; • Providing their sales staff additional discussion and selling points without additional cost to the merchant; and

• Greater levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty.

The SPoP and Comparison Pricing

The SPoP can also enhance the ability of the MOTS to apply pricing comparisons through the systems of the Service on identical products against the prices of other types of merchants. The pricing comparisons can be initiated by the MOTS through a search for the same item at any portal of the Service. The search can be limited to those entities with a formal relationship with the Service or can be expanded to include any merchant on the Web advertising the product.

Other SPoP Tags

RFID

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags are not new. They have been available for many years. However, the full acceptance and employment has been curtailed by a number of factors. Until recently, the expense of these tags has been one of the greatest inhibitors to their widespread deployment. The expense of RFID tags is not only related to the cost of the tag itself, but costs the merchant must incur with the deployment of the required equipment at each location of the merchant or other product seller in the supply chain.

Exemplary Service Proof of Purchase Tags

Exemplary Service Proof Of Purchase Tags (SPoP) can be described with reference to Figs. 28a-d, schematic diagrams of such tags. These figures are illustrative of moderate to inexpensive, but cost effective P roof-of- Purchase- Tags (PoPT) that 1) may be produced and deployed with products of producers or others in the supply chain in applications where a physical proof- of-purchase is required or, maybe in the future, may become or is an integral component of a marketing incentive or service program such as, but not limited to, a rebate; 2) is or may become a component in a product registration and/or warranty program; 3) wherein the value of the product or incentive justifies the requirement for a proof of purchase; 4) whereby, a properly configured apparatus may machine read and analyze the tag for authenticity, through the utilization of, but not limited to codes, symbols, data and other characteristics contained upon and within the tag; and 5) whereby, the sum of the analysis and reading of the codes and or data provides for an automated means by which to verify and authenticate the PoPT and associate the machine readable codes obtained, with product-identification-information (PII) and ultimately associate that data with the purchaser of the product or service.

Drawbacks of Prior Art and Benefits of New Invention

The goals of prior art methods primarily relate to: 1) methodology that is more appropriately associated with low value incentives that do not justify the additional cost of retaining a physical PoPT and the conveyance of an "instant ebate" and are not of a significant fraud abuse concern; 2) require an impractical direct relationship of the merchant with either or both the manufacturer of the product or their fulfillment company of the rebate issuer, 3) have the significant requirement of the merchant to acquire or develop systems or multiple systems and interfaces with a multitude of manufactures, 4) requires a comprehensive database on the customers of a merchant for higher value rebates, 5) places the merchant in possible direct conflict between the manufacturer and their customer.

Typically, removal of the traditional PoPT at the point-of-purchase is also not appealing to a merchant. Such activity places an administrative burden upon the merchant and places the merchant in a position of being in the middle between the rebate issuer and their customer. All merchants desire not to be placed in this position and to be relieved of the associated costly administration overhead. Further, the removal of such a PoPT from the product packaging almost always results in the inability of the buyer to return their product if so desired due to the destructive nature of removing the PoP from the product packaging.

The SPoPT coupled with the disclosed systems and methods herein eliminate that problem because 1) the removal of the tag does not damage the product packaging, 2) the merchant may in most cases cancel the original SPoP and replace the SPoP with a new one that replaces the prior SPoP and it is then associated with the product in place of the prior SPoP. There are no limitations on the number of times that this may occur. As well, the product producer or any authorized entity or individual in the supply chain may control this process/function.

The Service or an assigned entity of the Service issues or controls all aspects of the SPoP except actual affixing of SPoP to product and initial PII association to the SPoP, thus creating a Service-proof-of-purchase tag (SPoP). In such an embodiment, the Service may deploy Rebate Processing Devices at merchant locations that are equipped to process such tags. Such tags provide the Service with a significantly higher level of confidence that the PoPT or SPoP received is indeed not a counterfeit and therefore able to more readily finance or make an actual instant or expedited fulfillment on a rebate.

SPoPs/PoPT's disclosed herein may be generated with varying degrees of fraud deterrent methods that may or may not increase the cost of such tags, but can reduce issues of fraud. In addition, such tags significantly enhance the flexibility of incentive and service offerings. Issues such as damaging the product packaging through common practice of removing UPC or other types of PoP printed upon a product packaging are eliminated. The primary PoPT is easily removed from the packaging or other tag such as, but not limited to, hang tags for instance. Due to the usual requirement of an incentive issuer, that a PoP be associated with a transaction record, the need to implement significant anti-counterfeiting measures is limited. In most cases, it is sufficient to simply mark, attach or embed one or more features into and/or onto a PoPT that is generally not readily replicable. In most cases, it may suffice to affix a PoPT to a product that if, for example, is photo copied, will be rejected by the device that analyzes and interrogates the tag. In cases where a product is also linked to PII data, the ability to feasibly counterfeit SPOP tags is nominal at worst and costly at best. For example; unlike counterfeiting currency, where the counterfeiter has untold number of potential targets with which to pass their bogus currency to, any given counterfeiter need only be required to generate a single serial number for any given denomination bill that is destined for many targets. Whereas, a counterfeited SPoP tag may be targeted only at a single target, that being the SPoP issuer. A counterfeiter would not only need to replicate individual one-off tags specifically tied to a specific product, but have the ability to generate electronic transaction records of a product seller and introduce the transaction record into the an otherwise secure communication link between the Service and product seller and the Service would need to recognize it as a genuine transaction of the product seller. Such activity would be readily detectable by the Service. Internal threats of fraud at the Service, rebate issuer, product seller or a coordinated threat between the two entities by coconspirators would pose greater levels of threat. Significant safeguards against this type and other types of fraud threats are addressed.

In the event of a product return, a merchant that has a network interface with the Service may determine the status of any incentive the product buyer may have claimed and make a refund to the buyer that is less the value of any incentive received or claimed by the product buyer. In turn, the merchant may reapply a new SoPT to the product by associating the new SoPT number to the newly affixed SoPT with the Service. Thus, the former SPoP identifier would be canceled and replaced with the new identifier. The characteristics of a PoPT as disclosed herein lend themselves very well to direct sales merchants (DSM or DM) such as, but not limited to, web merchants. At the time of shipping a product purchased by their customer, a DSM could readily remove the PoPT/SPoP on behalf of their customer, scan it, transmit that data to the Service and the Service could then confidently and expeditiously process a rebate claim, other marketing incentives and register the product for warranty or other purposes of the MOTS. The DSM then periodically remits retained PoPT's/SPoPs to the Service. Product returns to the DSM are handled in much the same manner as a brick and mortar merchant.

It is an embodiment of the invention that the characteristics of the SPoP tag as disclosed herein also lend themselves to and offer valuable incentive opportunities throughout the product supply chain as the tags may also be applied to not only individual products, but other types and groups of packaging such as, but not limited to the cases, crates, cartons or other multiples of a product that are shipped within them. As well, an SPoP may be assigned and affixed to and upon such items as a shipping pallet of even larger lots or product such as a shipping container. An example of such an opportunity would be in the instance where a product producer or rebate issuer in the supply chain may desire to offer a product seller purchasing incentives on each case or other multiples or quantities (unit or units) of product purchased. A SPoP may be assigned to a defined unit or any multiple of units of products, and if desired, the PII data or SPoP tag data associated with each individual product that comprises the unit. Upon receipt or another time of the product seller's choosing, the product seller may remove such designated SPoP tags and redeem them through the Service in the same manner or fashion as an end user of a product that is a MOTS or as otherwise arranged with the Service. It should be appreciated that such tags may be issued in multiples and be specifically designated to be used or redeemed by a specific person or entity in the supply chain such as, but not limited to a, a tag being issued and intended for a distributor and another tag being intended for a product seller. Again, each SPoP tag may be associated with all units within that which comprise the unit the SPoP is assigned to. The permutations to such and other scenarios are near endless.

Utilizing a common or central registry of a product also permits the product producer to include a list of components that are a part of what comprises their product. For example; a computer manufacturer may utilize many different components from many different vendors such as a CPU, graphics card, sound card, cd/dvd ROM/recorder, hard drive and so on. At the election of any vendor or at the encouragement of the main product producer, any of the component producers may offer a marketing incentive to an end user or anyone in the supply chain to purchase or promote the product their product is incorporated into.

A Primary Proof-Of-Purchase Tag (PoPT/SPoP) 2800 is provided. This tag may be very varied in construction and design and applied to a near limitless array of products. Basically, this is a paper, plastic or other suitable mono or composite material manufactured into a sticker, tag or of other suitable construction for similar purpose that may be laminated with common laminates or more complex laminates such as, but not limited to holographic laminates. The sticker should be relatively easy to remove from the substrate it is attached to such as, but not limited to a product packaging or a hang tag attached to a product. Once removed by the end user or other intended person or entity of the product, it may be sent to a marketing incentive issuer or their agent, or the Service, or a deposited into a properly configured RPD of the Service for purposes of claiming a marketing incentive or product registration. Further it incorporates features that better enable a properly configured apparatus such as, but not limited to a Rebate Processing Device, to mechanically and/or electronically analyze and/or interrogate the PoPT/SPoP to verify authenticity of the tag itself and one or more product codes and/or product identification-information (PII) that is assigned to or are associated with it. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other forms and/or types of tag may be provided within the scope of the invention. A Security and DNA feature 2801 is provided. For purposes of illustration, the word "STAMP" is used. It is intended to simply indicate that anywhere upon the PoPT/SPoP one or more types of stamps that may be affixed to, printed upon it may be employed to aid with the determination of the authenticity of the PoPT. Stamps may come in any form such as, but not limited to, a hologram, barcodes, changing color ink, utilize inks or dyes that may only be read at a specific frequency of light, in the form of a watermark, heat sensitive color changing chemical treatment and implemented in one or more ways simultaneously. The forms and design of stamps may be as infinitely varied as snow flakes or fingerprints and may be individually employed by a product producer, incentive issuer or the Service. As such they may be utilized for other purposes other that security, such as, but not limited to lot tracking, supply chain tracking or associated with any other purpose desired by the Service, product producer, incentive issuer, merchant or other entity involved in the supply chain, to the end user of the product.

A Primary barcode 2802 is provided which may be of industry standard or proprietary format. It may incorporate a layered barcode whereby the primary code is printed with an ink or dye that is visible in the visible light spectrum and overprinted with one or more secondary barcodes printed with inks or dyes that are not visible in the visible light spectrum but different spectrums of light and each are therefore able to be differentiated and readable by a properly configured apparatus. The purpose of such a methodology may be utilized for such purposes such as, but not limited to, 1) maximizing the ability to reduce the size of the tag in applications where real estate availability is limited, while retaining the required quantity of coded data retrieval; 2) added security; and 3) the ability to utilize the real estate utilized by a UPC by imprinting the UPC in the visible light spectrum and printing an additional code or more in the invisible or nearly invisible spectrum that the Service would associate with PII/SPop or any other data or code desired by the Service or intended users of the tag.

A statement of registration with Service and Proof-Of-Purchase 2803 is provided. An example of a sub layer of an SPoP tag 2804 is provided that may be printed upon a product packaging itself whereby the SPoP is applied at a later time. A visual cue 2805 that SPoP has been removed is provided. A replica of a primary barcode 2806 that is dependent upon one or more application requirements is provided that may also include dual (or more) layered bar coding. It is also utilized for product returns whereby a merchant may associate a new SPoP to a product and may also be used by end user such purposes as secondary PoP. This may be printed to the product packaging or to a separate tag which would then become the substrate layer that the SPoP would be affixed to. A demonstration 2807 of the layer involved with the implementation of an RFID attached to a SPoP is provided. The SPoP that the RFID is permanently affixed to 2808 is provided. An exemplary RFID 2809 that may be permanently affixed to a SPoP and programmed with PII data that would be read by an appropriately configured apparatus is provided. A sub layer tag 2810 is provided. An exemplary RFID device 2811 affixed to the back of a SPoP tag is provided. An exemplary RFID device affixed to the back of a SPoP tag 2812 assembled with sub layer tag is provided. When removed from a product and inserted into a properly configured device such as a RPD, all encoded data may be analyzed for authenticity, read and decoded for the information either contained in or to be associated with. An exemplary view 2813 of a magnetic stripe affixed to the back of a SPoP that may be electronically encoded with PII data that may be machine read by a properly configured apparatus is provided. The sub layer tag is also exposed. An exemplary full view 2814 of a magnetic stripe affixed to the back of a SPoP is provided. Examples of laminates that may be applied to a SPoP as a single laminate or multiple laminates to the SPoP 2815 are provided. An exemplary top or primary layer laminate 2816 that may be employed for purposes such as, but not limited to protective purposes, visual effect and security is provided. This laminate may also incorporate designs and effects such as, but not limited to, a) watermark, b) holograms, printing of characters and/or designs. An exemplary of a sub layer laminate 2817 that may incorporate one or more layers that may be employed for purposes such as, but not limited to those exemplified in 2816, but also digitally encoded in a similar method such as commonly employed in the digital encoding of single or multiple layer compact disks and DVD's, except that encoding would not necessarily be employed In a radial fashion, but generally in a lineal fashion. Such encoding may be accomplished in any number of directions, combination or multiples thereof and encoding may be replicated or striped one or more times for fault tolerance and parity purposes, Encoded data may be machine read and decoded by a properly configured apparatus such as, but not limited to a POS or RPD. Such encoding may also be placed in multiple occurrences such as, but not limited to essentially checker boarding a tag. It should be appreciated that other technologies and methods may currently exist or may be developed in the future that may be applied to a SPoP tag.

An additional embodiment of an application of a laminated tag is that the top primary laminate may be easily removed and the user/member utilizing the SPoP for such purposes as higher level incentives is required to provide biometric function such as, but not limited to, a finger or thumb print on the sub layer prior to submission. A properly configured apparatus then captures, analyzes and associates their biometric signature.

An exemplary SPoP 2818 to which the laminates are attached/adhered to is provided. The SPoP may also incorporate any or all features and functions disclosed herein.

It should be appreciated that the secondary tag may include and incorporate one or more of the above mentioned attributes, features and functions as well.

It should be appreciated that the sub layer may be printed upon the product packaging and one or more tag layers added post printing of the product packaging.

Tags comprised of composite materials and/or laminates may include materials that would aid in the analysis and verification of a SPoP. Such material may included properties such as, but not limited to are, 1) magnetic, 2) reflective, 3) coloring agents, 4) light absorption, 5)energy absorption, 6) fibrous, and 7) engineered nano particles, of which may be incorporated into the composite, laminate or any material in any combination or order that may also be incorporated into the tag in specific designs, shapes, textures or patterns that may be either or both machine or human recognizable and/or readable. Tags may also include substrates such as one or more filaments such as filament wires or treated or coated materials such as is commonly found in currency today. Essentially, the higher the value of the product and potential value of the application will determine the complexity and economical cost justification of any SPoP and its counter part secondary tags.

The apparatus that receives, analyzes, reads and validates a SPoP may also be configured to write, or print upon, to or digitally encode to a SPoP at time of submission. This may include, but is not limited to 1) time and date stamps; 2) transaction codes; or 3) any other data required data or codes required by the service, merchant, incentive issuer. Further, each element, code or other data either generated, captured and recorded becomes an integral element of the transaction DNA, this function provides for an additional physical audit artifact that may be used and utilized by ail related parties to the transaction and further tied to elements such as, but not limited to, a) videos of a member of the Service making the transaction at a RPD, that may also be tied to biometric analyzers such as facial recognition; b) other biometric data obtained as a part of the login procedure to a RPD; or c) payment information such as a credit card number.

Because each SPoP is registered to a specific product, any authorized individual or entity in the supply chain such as, but not limited to, a merchant or law enforcement, may augment the data related to the registration of any SPoP for their own purposes or intent. For example, a marketing incentive such as a rebate may be predicated on factors such as, but not limited to, the weight or size of a product, whether the end product was augmented with additional options or accessories of an incentive issuer or one or more partnering incentive issuers. For example, a) a bike manufacturer may issue an incentive for a basic bike and an entity within the supply chain such as a distributor of the bike whom also sells a complementary product may include an accessory that they bundle with the bike that the manufacturer of the accessory also offers an incentive on or the distributor desires to include an incentive with; b) a meat producer may desire to promote their brand of meat and the incentive may be based upon the weight of the product purchased, that is a SPoP could be instantly generated and attached to the product by the butcher; and c) a diamond cutter that cuts a special cut of diamond may desire to provide an incentive, however, a condition of the incentive may be that it is mounted into something first. In this case, a jewelry manufacturer could register the diamond with any other data required by the cutter, prior to sale. The buyer then receives the appropriate incentive amount upon presentation to the Service, the diamond cutter or their fulfillment company.

An Exemplary RPD - E-Voucher Wireless Device Apparatus and Method

E-Documents - Vouchers and Similar Documents

E-Documents, vouchers and other documents are provided and may be issued by a properly configured RPD/CDRPD (RPD), the web site of the Service or other third party having a relationship with the Service. Principally, these types of documents are rebate related.

In addition, many other types of E-Documents that are unique to or not unique to the Service may be generated, transacted, and transmitted in a similar manner by the systems of the Service, such as, but not limited to, Rebate Qualification Certificates, Credit Advance Vouchers, call tags or any other type of transaction or combination of transactions where an E-Documents or e-transaction are applicable. Such transactions originated at a RPD are not limited to the services of the Service, but may be made available to or for an application of a merchant or other third party where an RPD is located or may be generated by an RPD for E-Document applications not located where the RPD is located and not limited to applications such as event tickets or passes, discounts, travel tickets or passes, electronic proof of purchases that may be utilized for the redemption or collection of a product producers incentive redeemable or collectable at the location of a merchant or another location not affiliated with or near a merchant, or any other document traditionally made in printed form.

A minimum requirement for the negotiation of E-Documents of the Service at a merchant or other none merchant locals is a telephone connection and the enrollment with the Service, of the intended honoring party in this service of the Service or with an authorized agent of the Service, whereby the entity intended to honor the E-Document may call a designated number of the Service and when prompted, enter an access code, enter the E-Document transaction code and possibly one or more other codes, and receive an authorization or rejection code from the Service. When an authorization code is received, the provider and/or issuer of the service or product is credited or debited as is applicable for the transaction and the E-Document holder receives their applicable service or product.

As well, the entity intended to honor the E-Document may have a properly configured device having a wired or wireless direct network connection or other network connection such as, but not limited to, a connection to the Internet, capable of transacting the E-Document of the Service in a fully electronic and highly automated manner.

E-Document transactions may be highly automated and fully electronic whereby one to a few clicks of a button by the E-Document holder executes a transaction at a POS or other properly configured device and executes the transaction or in other instances may be accomplished with varying degrees of human activity such as showing or reading a transaction code to a cashier, or person of equivalent or similar function, i.e. the attendant, or the attendant scanning the transaction barcode on the display of a properly configured device of the E-Document holder. It should be appreciated that such transactions, if transacted with the utilization of properly configured devices, may be transacted between a merchant and the Service in all of the same manners as that of a printed voucher or other printed document of the Service, i.e. the systems of the Service only need detect a code of the service being input at a POS of the merchant in order to complete the intended transaction.

An embodiment of the invention is that a user may not be required to submit all E-Documents and/or similar functioning paper documents of the Service at the time of any one transaction made at the POS of the merchant. The systems of the Service have the ability to differentiate and associate as is applicable to each transaction made at the POS or other properly configured device used for purposes of transacting printed or E-Documents of the Service.

This functionality permits the MOTS the ability to make one or more separate transactions at the RPD and one or more separate transactions at a POS or other properly configured device that may be made in a fashion that is in one or more immediate back-to-back transactions or any number multiple transactions at differing times during their visit or on another subsequent visit to the merchant or other intended honoring entity. Thus, time limitations to utilize such printed documents or E-documents is established, tracked, accounted for by the systems of the Service and executed on case by case basis and applied as is applicable, appropriate, user defined, or Service defined to each transaction and/or item associated with the E-Document or equivalent printed document of the Service.

There may be instances where a MOTS has made a transaction at an RPD or through the website of the Service or a merchant or product producer having a relationship with the Service, that an E-Document and/or an individual transaction event associated with the E-Document has not expired. In such cases an E-Document may be permitted to be transferred to another device that is not a wireless device, but having a display capable of a proper minimum resolution and display size. The device may be then transported by the user to the merchant or the intended honoring entity whereby it is utilized by either the presentation of it to the cashier, or equivalent, and scanning of it by a properly configured device of the intended honoring entity, or verbally read to the cashier, or designated individual, or the user may print the E- Document and submit it to the intended honoring entity during a subsequent visit.

It should be appreciated that such documents may not only reflect monetary values, but a host of other values such as, but not limited to, points, units, credits, instances such as admitting one or more persons, authorization to collect one or more items, or one or more different monetary currencies.

An RPD - E-Document - Wireless Device can be described with reference to Fig. 29, a schematic diagram. It illustrates an E-Document transaction between a properly configured RPD to a properly configured wireless device of a user such as, but not limited to a cell phone, PDA or similar device of the user and between a properly configured POS or other properly configured device of a merchant or entity intended to honor the E-Document.

The RPD 2901 symbolizes the time at which the user of the system has completed a transaction, such as a rebate credit advance, and the user is prompted to select the type or form of document they desire as is applicable or available. The user selects E-Document. The user may have several options as to the wireless device they would like the E-Document sent to. The user may select one or more devices, as the document may only be used in a single or allotted number of instances.

The RPD sends the E-Document 2902 to one or more devices selected by the user or permitted by the Service or system. This may be over a telephone, VOIP or network connection to a cellular address, which through the cellular service of the user, is transmitted wirelessly to the cell phone of the user, or may be transmitted by the RPD directly to a properly configured wireless device of the user, as is applicable. The wireless connection of the RPD to the device of the user may be limited in range such as with a Bluetooth or other similar transmission protocol or may be made through other much longer-range transmissions capabilities and protocols. Transmission between devices may also be accomplished by the user touching their properly configured wireless device to an RPD configured with such functionality to one or more designated locations on a RPD so configured.

A connection 2903 symbolizes the wireless transmission of electronic data to or between one or more wireless devices of the user and an RPD of the Service, It may incorporate two-way communications for such purposes such as, but not limited to verification of device or confirmation of receipt by the user of an E-Document.

A wireless device 2904 of the user/member is provided.

The E-Document is received 2905 by the wireless device of user, user notified of receipt, and E-Document is or may be displayed at time of receipt or may require some action by the user to view the E-Document. RPD system confirms transmission to the user via the visual and/or audio human interface of the RPD, and if applicable, the verification of the users E-Document receipt. The user then completes their business at the RPD and proceeds to checkout at POS or continues shopping.

In side the device 2906, the initiation of a transaction id initiated by the user with a properly configured target device such as a POS of a Merchant.

The wireless transmission of electronic data 2907 to or between one or more wireless devices of the user and a properly configured target device such as a POS of a merchant is provided.

A properly configured target device 2908 such as a POS of a Merchant is provided.

A wireless device can be described with reference to Fig. 30. A wireless device of user 3001 is provided. Also provided are: Name of Service 3002; type of E-Document 3003; and Date, time, and a code 3004. The code or codes are optional and may be associated with a security code or other purposes. A code may be, but is not limited to being multiple codes such as, the name of a MOTS and expiration of the E-Document.

Also provided are a transaction barcode 3005 that corresponds to the transaction code of the E-Document; the transaction code/number 3006; Service Name and E-Document type and codes 3007; and the transaction code/number 3008.

Fig. 31 is a schematic diagram illustrating the scanning of an E-Document barcode of the Service displayed on the wireless device of a MOTS.

Accordingly, although the invention has been described in detail with reference to particular preferred embodiments, persons possessing ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains will appreciate that various modifications and enhancements may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims that follow.

Claims

1. A full service rebate processing system, comprising: a full service rebate processing agent in processing one or more rebate transactions of a consumer; means for acquiring a receipt from a point of sale system (POSS) of a merchant by any of or any combination of: passive receipt acquisition, semi active receipt acquisition, and active receipt acquisition; means for a user logging on to a full service rebate account of said

RPD comprising validating said user; means for processing one or more rebate transactions comprising: qualifying, verifying, and authorizing; means for posting said qualified, verified, and authorized one or more rebate transactions to associated accounts and systems; means for post processing posted rebate transactions comprising option to register associated products with said one or more posted rebate transactions and generating a full service rebate receipt reflecting said one or more posted rebate transactions; means for advancing funds on a rebate transaction; means for registering a purchased product that creates an association with a member, a rebate, and with a registered producer of said product; a cash withdrawal service for a customer; means for funds transfer between accounts of said consumer; means for facilitating and executing programs and payment of rewards; means for reviewing said full service rebate account; and means for presenting said full service rebate receipt.

2. The system of Claim 1 , further comprising any of or any combination of: a sidecar that provides full service rebate related functionality; a sidecar with a topper that provides added visibility and exposure; and a counter for customer convenience.

3. The system of Claim 1 , further comprising a redemption type for said one or more rebate transactions, said redemption type comprising any of: cash; expedite; and standard.

4. The system of Claim 1 , wherein said funds transfer accounts comprise any of or any combination of the following: credit card; debit/check card; bank account; as associated merchant's credit card; and an online payment broker.

5. The system of Claim 1 , further comprising: means for creating and subsequently processing a pending consumer receipt.

6. The system of Claim 1 , wherein said active receipt acquisition provides means for a merchant to collect a Proof of Purchase (POP) or a Service Proof of Purchase (SPoP) tag, to scan said tag, and provide said tag information to said full service rebate agent.

7. The system of Claim 1 , wherein said user is prompted to select from a list of merchants that said agent has a relationship with, wherein said list of merchants may include a merchant at a different store and other merchants such as web stores, direct marketers, wholesale distributors or member type merchants, and the like, that may or may not be associated with the merchant where a related rebate processing device (RPD) is located.

8. The system of Claim 1 , further comprising: graphical help that demonstrates where to locate required data.

9. The system of Claim 1 , further comprising: means for performing Product ID re-entry and if no associated rebate is found, then, suggesting a comparable item that is rebate associated.

10. The system of Claim 1 , wherein means for advancing funds further comprises: a full-rebate-qualification-process.

11. The system of Claim 1 , wherein a user can select a tax-avoided rebate.

12. The system of Claim 1 , wherein means for advancing funds further comprises any of: means for instructing said user to collect a voucher or pre paid card; and a member presenting a membership number at time of purchase or post processing, wherein said system and any related systems are configured to recognize and associate the advance processing of the member and apply credit as is appropriate.

13. An automated full service rebate method, comprising the steps of: recognizing a shopper as a Member of the Service (MOTS) during said shopper's visit to a Merchant Web site (WM), wherein said WM has an established and formal relationship with a full service rebate Service

(Service); providing an initial pre qualification check by a MOTS for a rebate; providing final qualification processes by the Service for said rebate; providing service type selection for said MOTS; and providing a member or non-member rebate submission form and envelope.

14. The method of Claim 13, said recognizing a shopper further comprising the step of: providing an interface between any parties, wherein said interface is dependant upon hardware and software systems, systems development and deployment capabilities of WM, systems development and deployment capabilities of said Service, a relationship of WM and Service, privacy issues,) ease of use by MOTS, and overall resource requirements and availability of either the Service and/or the WM.

15. The method of Claim 13, said recognizing a shopper further comprising the step of: providing a user interface seen and utilized by the MOTS that may be implement by the Service in any number of ways such as, but not limited to: a one to one to one chain of data exchange whereby all data from either the MOTS or the Service is passed through the systems of the WM; and interaction by the Service with the MOTS is performed through separate network connections, whereby data required by the Service is directly communicated to the Service by the MOTS and any data required by the WM is sent directly to the WM by the Service and visa versa.

16. The method of Claim 13, wherein said initial pre qualification process further comprising the step of: providing a premium associated with a rebate or with purchase.

17. The method of Claim 13, wherein said initial pre qualification process further comprising the step of: providing a database utilized by the Service as a central location whereby a rebate issuer may obtain real-time data related to their rebate program, a fulfillment company working with the company may post a rebate they have fulfilled with a member of the Service or check to see if a rebate on a specific rebate has been fulfilled by the Service, and if a rebate issuer also employs a fulfillment company to process its rebates, the Service will check to see if a fulfillment company has posted a fulfillment on the product with the

Member; and providing a posting to said database that may be made on a temporary basis, wherein such temporary posting may be for reasons such as, but not limited to required PII data must be obtained post purchase, give a prospective purchaser time to conclude checkout process, Physical PUT must be received prior to finalization of rebate claim; or wherein said temporary posting may be time determinable.

18. The method of Claim 13, wherein said final qualification process further comprising the step of: providing a final qualification process by the Service for a rebate; and providing a final qualification process for claiming a rebate by a MOTS,

19. The method of Claim 18, further comprising the steps of: providing a process for when factors such as not receiving PII data from the WM impact the availability of one or more types of service and/or result in a delay in the period of time in which a type of service is available to the MOTS for any particular rebate claim or financial funding the MOTS desires.

20. The method of Claim 13, wherein said WM does not provide Product Identification Information (PII) data and/or retain the product's physical PoP at time of shipping or wherein a claim by a MOTS is made post shipping of the product.

21. The method of Claim 13, further comprising the step of: initiating completing a member rebate claim submission form at any point from when a MOTS has placed either a temporary or pending rebate claim and the selling WM of the product does not provide the PII data or retain a physical Product Identification Information Tag (PUT).

22. The method of Claim 13, wherein said providing a non-member rebate submission form and envelope further comprises the steps of: said MOTS simply printing out a completed form, attaching a PoP if required, providing said MOTS' own envelope, addressing it and mailing everything to the Service for processing; and upon receipt by the rebate issuer or the fulfillment service, scanning a bar code on the claim form and reconciling with a corresponding record containing all required associated data, wherein the PoP is physically attached to an auditable artifact.

23. A method for performing an E-Document transmission, comprising the steps of: providing and configuring a Rebate Processing Device (RPD); said RPD transmitting an E-Document; providing and configuring a wireless device to communicate with said RPD; said wireless device receiving said transmitted E-Document; and providing and configuring a POS device, other properly configured device of a merchant, or entity, to communicate with said wireless device, and to honor said E-Document.

24. The method of Claim 23, further comprising the step of: said RPD sending said E-Document to one or more devices selected by a user or permitted by a full service rebate service (Service).

25. The method of Claim 23, wherein said transmitted E-Document incorporates two-way communications to verify said wireless device or confirm receipt by a user of said an E-Document.

26. The method of Claim 23, further comprising the steps of: upon receiving by the wireless device of a user, notifying user of said receipt; making said E-Document displayable at time of receipt; said RPD confirming said transmission to the user via visual and/or audio interface of said RPD; if applicable, verifying users of an associated E-Document receipt; and user then completing business at the RPD and proceeding to checkout at said POS or continues shopping.

27. The method of Claim 23, further comprising the step of: scanning a barcode of said E-Document that is displayed on said wireless device of a Member of the Service (MOTS),

28. A full service rebate method, comprising the steps of: providing a full service rebate processing agent in processing one or more rebate transactions of a consumer; acquiring a receipt from a point of sale system (POSS) of a merchant by any of or any combination of: passive receipt acquisition, semi active receipt acquisition, and active receipt acquisition; a user logging on to a full service rebate account of said RPD comprising validating said user; processing one or more rebate transactions comprising: qualifying, verifying, and authorizing; posting said qualified, verified, and authorized one or more rebate transactions to associated accounts and systems; post processing posted rebate transactions comprising option to register associated products with said one or more posted rebate transactions and generating a full service rebate receipt reflecting said one or more posted rebate transactions; advancing funds on a rebate transaction; registering a purchased product that creates an association with a member, a rebate, and with a registered producer of said product; providing a cash withdrawal service for a customer; funds transfer between accounts of said consumer; facilitating and executing programs and payment of rewards; reviewing said full service rebate account; and presenting said full service rebate receipt.

29. The method of Claim 28, further comprising any of or any combination of the steps of: providing a sidecar that provides full service rebate related functionality; providing a sidecar with a topper that provides added visibility and exposure; and providing a counter for customer convenience.

30. The method of Claim 28, further comprising the step of providing a redemption type for said one or more rebate transactions, said redemption type comprising any of: cash; expedite; and standard.

31. The method of Claim 28, wherein said funds transfer accounts comprise any of or any combination of the following: credit card; debit/check card; bank account; as associated merchant's credit card; and an online payment broker.

32. The method of Claim 28, further comprising the step of: creating and subsequently processing a pending consumer receipt.

33. The method of Claim 28, wherein said active receipt acquisition provides means for a merchant to collect a Proof of Purchase (POP) or a Service Proof of Purchase (SPoP) tag, to scan said tag, and provide said tag information to said full service rebate agent.

34. The method of Claim 28, wherein said user is prompted to select from a list of merchants that said agent has a relationship with, wherein said list of merchants may include a merchant at a different store and other merchants such as web stores, direct marketers, wholesale distributors or member type merchants, and the like, that may or may not be associated with the merchant where a related rebate processing device (RPD) is located.

35. The method of Claim 28, further comprising the step of: providing graphical help that demonstrates where to locate required data.

36. The method of Claim 28, further comprising the step of: performing Product ID re-entry and if no associated rebate is found, then, suggesting a comparable item that is rebate associated.

37. The method of Claim 28, wherein said step of advancing funds further comprises the step of: providing a full-rebate-qualification-process.

38. The method of Claim 28, wherein a user can select a tax-avoided rebate.

39. The method of Claim 28, wherein said step of advancing funds further comprises any of the steps of: instructing said user to collect a voucher or pre paid card; and a member presenting a membership number at time of purchase or post processing, wherein said system and any related systems are configured to recognize and associate the advance processing of the member and apply credit as is appropriate.

40. An automated full service rebate service and systems, comprising: means for recognizing a shopper as a Member of the Service (MOTS) during said shopper's visit to a Merchant Web site (WM), wherein said WM has an established and formal relationship with a full service rebate Service (Service); an initial pre qualification check by a MOTS for a rebate; final qualification processes by the Service for said rebate; service type selection for said MOTS; and a member or non-member rebate submission form and envelope.

41. The system of Claim 40, said means for recognizing a shopper further comprising: an interface between any parties, wherein said interface is dependant upon hardware and software systems, systems development and deployment capabilities of WM, systems development and deployment capabilities of said Service, a relationship of WM and Service, privacy issues,) ease of use by MOTS, and overall resource requirements and availability of either the Service and/or the WM:

42. The system of Claim 40, said means for recognizing a shopper further comprising: a user interface seen and utilized by the MOTS that may be implement by the Service in any number of ways such as, but not limited to: a one to one to one chain of data exchange whereby all data from either the MOTS or the Service is passed through the systems of the

WM; and interaction by the Service with the MOTS is performed through separate network connections, whereby data required by the Service is directly communicated to the Service by the MOTS and any data required by the WM is sent directly to the WM by the Service and visa versa.

43. The system of Claim 40, wherein said means for initial pre qualification further comprising: a premium associated with a rebate or with purchase.

44. The system of Claim 40, wherein said means for initial pre qualification further comprising: a database utilized by the Service as a central location whereby a rebate issuer may obtain real-time data related to their rebate program, a fulfillment company working with the company may post a rebate they have fulfilled with a member of the Service or check to see if a rebate on a specific rebate has been fulfilled by the Service, and if a rebate issuer also employs a fulfillment company to process its rebates, the Service will check to see if a fulfillment company has posted a fulfillment on the product with the Member; and a posting to said database that may. be made on a temporary basis, wherein such temporary posting may be for reasons such as, but not limited to required PII data must be obtained post purchase, give a prospective purchaser time to conclude checkout process, Physical PUT must be received prior to finalization of rebate claim; or wherein said temporary posting may be time determinable.

45. The system of Claim 40, wherein said means for final qualification further comprising: a final qualification process by the Service for a rebate; and a final qualification process for claiming a rebate by a MOTS.

46. The system of Claim 45, further comprising: a process for when factors such as not receiving PII data from the WM impact the availability of one or more types of service and/or result in a delay in the period of time in which a type of service is available to the MOTS for any particular rebate claim or financial funding the MOTS desires.

47. The system of Claim 40, wherein said WM does not provide Product Identification Information (PII) data and/or retain the product's physical PoP at time of shipping or wherein a claim by a MOTS is made post shipping of the product.

48. The system of Claim 40, further comprising: means for initiating completing a member rebate claim submission form at any point from when a MOTS has placed either a temporary or pending rebate claim and the selling WM of the product does not provide the PIl data or retain a physical Product Identification Information Tag (PUT).

49. The system of Claim 40, wherein said means for a non-member rebate submission form and envelope further comprises: means for said MOTS simply printing out a completed form, attaching a PoP if required, providing said MOTS' own envelope, addressing it and mailing everything to the Service for processing; and means for, upon receipt by the rebate issuer or the fulfillment service, scanning a bar code on the claim form and reconciling with a corresponding record containing all required associated data, wherein the PoP is physically attached to an auditable artifact.

50. A system for performing an E-Document transmission, comprising: means for providing and configuring a Rebate Processing Device

(RPD); means for said RPD transmitting an E-Document; means for providing and configuring a wireless device to communicate with said RPD; means for said wireless device receiving said transmitted E-Document; and means for providing and configuring a POS device, other properly configured device of a merchant, or entity, to communicate with said wireless device, and to honor said E-Document.

51. The system of Claim 50, further comprising: means for said RPD sending said E-Document to one or more devices selected by a user or permitted by a full service rebate service (Service).

52. The system of Claim 50, wherein said transmitted E-Document incorporates two-way communications to verify said wireless device or confirm receipt by a user of said an E-Document.

53. The system of Claim 50, further comprising: means for, upon receiving by the wireless device of a user, notifying user of said receipt; means for making said E-Document displayable at time of receipt; means for said RPD confirming said transmission to the user via visual and/or audio interface of said RPD; if applicable, means for verifying users of an associated E-Document receipt; and means for user then completing business at the RPD and proceeding to checkout at said POS or continues shopping.

54. The system of Claim 50, further comprising: means for scanning a barcode of said E-Document that is displayed on said wireless device of a Member of the Service (MOTS).