I purchased the 12-piece Philippe Richard cookware set on May 25 and received it by FedEx delivery on June 1. The rebate form has the logo and name of Linens N Things on it, it is NOT a manufacturer rebate. There is no identification of another processing party. I mailed the rebate form, the original UPC, and a copy of my receipt on June 4, 2007. The rebate form clearly states that the valid purchase dates run from May 18 through June 3, 2007, with submission postmarked no later than July 3, 2007. The form also indicates processing time of 6-8 weeks.

On June 24, I received an email from The Express Group. This is the first notification that this entity was involved in the rebate process. No documentation received prior to this date referenced this entity. The email gave me a personal reference number along with the following note. ***We are pleased to advise you that your entry is being processed and has been qualified. Please allow for 10-12 weeks for the delivery of your check/product.***

The above reference email gave the first indication of deceptive and fraudulent business practices. The rebate form clearly stated the processing time of 6-8 weeks and now the processing company has changed the processing terms of the rebate contract to 10-12 weeks.

On August 7 at 6:30pm, I called the number referenced on the rebate form (800-992-5263) with the intent of obtaining an update on the status of the rebate. The representative informed me ***they are changing rebate systems and will not be able to provide an update for 10-15 days.***

On August 7 at 7:15pm, I attempted to contact the processing entity (The Express Group) through the contact-us link on their website. This attempted contact was immediately returned to me as undeliverable.

On August 8, I filed a consumer complaint against Linens N Things and its parent company, Linens Holding Co. with the office of the Arizona Attorney General.

I have contacted the company, Linens Holding Co., in writing on September 10, September 17, and October 5. I sent the two most recent letters Certified Mail to confirm receipt.

As of today (November 2), I have not received the rebate for this purchase. My additional demands for payment have gone unanswered.

Word to the wise for all consumers; avoid Linens N Things at all cost. Any money spent with this company endorses the fraudulent and deceptive practices of this company.