REBATE: Has strings attached

After spending some time researching and shopping, I found the perfect replacement for my old, inefficient and terminally ill washing machine. Not only was it on sale, but it qualified for 2 Energy Star rebates, one offered by the state of Idaho and one by Kootenai Electric Cooperative.

In processing the form for the state rebate, naturally, I had to agree with the terms and conditions of the rebate. To my horror, the statement included the following: “If requested, a representative from the Idaho Appliance Rebate Program must be given reasonable access to your property to inspect installations before and/or after paying rebates.” The KEC Web site stated much the same, the representatives being from KEC or BPA.

While I agree that accountability is necessary with public funds, I also know that my home privacy is worth far more than a $75 rebate. Or in my case, a total of $150. Ultimately, I decided that my privacy is of higher value than a rebate.

The beauty of a free society is the ability of the individual to choose. Be sure to read the fine print and choose wisely.

All “free money” has strings attached and who knows when or how they will be pulled.

KATHRYN O’HARA

Hayden