How to get a Windows tax refund

[Michael]

I recently purchased a new laptop computer from Dell. As a GNU/Linux user and believer in Free Software, I knew from the start that I wasn't going to run Microsoft Windows. Unfortunately, Dell didn't offer this laptop with Ubuntu or a no-OS option, so I tried getting my Windows refund from Dell after the purchase. After working with customer service, I received a refund of $52.50. In the course of getting my refund, I found some techniques worked better than others. By knowing what works, you may be able to get your refund quickly and easily.

http://community.linux.com/community/07/01/03/227237.shtml?tid=12

Would be a fun thing to try... I wonder how Lenovo would handle it.

[joshuapurcell]

Very nice find. I've heard people arguing with companies and getting a refund, but I haven't ever been in the position of getting one myself. I'll try this out if I'm ever in the position. Has anyone else gotten a refund?

[Michael]

Very nice find. I've heard people arguing with companies and getting a refund, but I haven't ever been in the position of getting one myself. I'll try this out if I'm ever in the position. Has anyone else gotten a refund?

This article is an example of someone getting their refund, and I have heard of a handful of others getting refunds. However, these refunds seem to mostly come from Dell.

[1c3d0g]

Excellent reading. :D More people should do this! Down with M$...

[Michael]

Excellent reading. :D More people should do this! Down with M$...

I am considering asking several computer manufacturers that I am in contact with as to whether they would honor legitimate Windows refund requests, and what steps they would require... It certainly would make for an interesting list, and consideration for some budget Linux users when purchasing their next desktop or laptop.