Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IPS Rebates program?
The IPS Rebates program gives you access to exclusive rebates on thousands of brand-name products, along with additional member-only benefits through our Smart Rewards loyalty program.
By enrolling and signing a Letter of Participation (LOP), your distributor shares your purchase data with IPS Rebates. We use this data to collect rebates from suppliers and consolidate them into a single quarterly check for you.
How it works:
Enroll in the IPS Rebates program and authorize IPS to collect purchase data from your distributor.
IPS Rebates gathers your purchase information.
We match your purchases to eligible supplier rebate programs.
Rebates are collected and distributed to you quarterly.
What is Smart Rewards?
Smart Rewards is our exclusive member loyalty program. As a member, you earn rewards for engaging with the IPS Rebates program—such as participating in promotions, completing activities, or reaching milestones. It’s our way of recognizing and rewarding your continued participation.
What will this cost me?
There is no cost, the entire program is completely FREE. Once you complete the enrollment form all you have to do is take advantage of all the program offers.
Why do suppliers offer these programs to IPS Rebates and its members?
Suppliers use multiple marketing and pricing strategies, including IPS Rebates, for increasing their sales. IPS Rebates processes rebates for suppliers for thousands of customers nationwide and sends the suppliers market data on their own products. The Smart Kits feature monthly promotions that highlight specific products for suppliers. IPS Rebates members can also review opportunities to increase their rebated purchases, allowing the member to receive more savings and the supplier to grow their market share.
Will the IPS Rebates program affect other rebates, offers, or coupons I already receive?
No. The IPS Rebates program will not interfere with any coupons, promotions, or offers you receive from your distributor. In some cases, a supplier coupon or seasonal rebate may not be redeemable if you’re already receiving an automatic IPS rebate—eliminating the need for extra paperwork. If you have a specific coupon in question, your Regional Business Manager can help determine if it can be used alongside IPS Rebates. If you have a direct agreement with a supplier or broker, be sure to list it on your enrollment form to avoid duplicate rebate claims.
Will the IPS program affect my relationship with my distributor?
No. The IPS Rebates program does not change your relationship with your distributor. Distributors are valued partners, and we work collaboratively together to support your business. As part of the IPS Rebates process, your distributor is simply asked to electronically share your proof of purchase data with IPS so we can collect rebates from suppliers. Most distributors already provide this type of reporting as part of their standard service.
Why do you need my distributor account number?
We use your distributor account number solely to request your usage information from your distributor. Distributors typically rely on this number to identify your account and generate accurate reports. Without it, we’re unable to retrieve the necessary data on your behalf.
When can I expect my first rebate check?
You can expect your first rebate check approximately six months after enrolling with IPS Rebates. Rebate funds are distributed quarterly to participating organizations. Please note that IPS operates on a calendar-year schedule, not a school-year calendar.
Will any of the past quarter’s rebates be retroactive?
Unfortunately, IPS Rebates is unable to retroactively issue rebates for previous quarters due to contractual agreements with our vendors. However, once your accounts are entered into our system, we begin requesting purchase data starting with the current quarter. IPS also makes every effort to collect historical purchase data on your behalf to ensure you receive the maximum benefit moving forward.
What should I do if I change distributors?
If you change or add a distributor, please notify us as soon as possible. This allows us to begin by requesting your purchase data from the new distributor to ensure your rebate reporting remains accurate and uninterrupted.
Which of my purchased items are eligible for rebates?
IPS Rebates processes rebates on thousands of items across a wide range of categories, and the list of eligible products is continuously updated as new supplier programs are added. An electronic system matches your purchase data with our rebate database to ensure all qualifying items are captured. While rebate eligibility depends on supplier participation and purchase volume, IPS works to maximize your rebate potential by identifying both current and potential rebate-eligible products.
How can I increase my rebate check?
To maximize your rebate earnings, keep an eye out for our monthly rebate tips and product sampling opportunities. You can also meet with your Regional Business Manager for a rebate review—this helps identify which of your current purchases are already earning rebates and highlights alternative items you could switch to for even greater savings.
What is IPS Rebates’ relationship to Aramark?
IPS Rebates is part of the group purchasing division of Aramark, operating independently and focusing solely on self-operated school districts. We benefit from unmatched purchasing power and supplier relationships, combining the scale of a national GPO with the personalized service of a team deeply invested in K-12 success.
