Frequently Asked Questions
What is IPS?
IPS delivers Incentives, Partnerships and Solutions.
IPS gives you access to exclusive rebates on thousands of brand name products, along with additional member-only benefits through our Smart Rewards program.
How does it work?
- Enroll in IPS by signing the IPS Letter of Participation-by doing so, you are authorizing IPS to collect purchase data from your distributor.
- IPS shares the Letter of Participation with your distributor.
- The distributor now has permission to send your purchase reporting details to IPS.
- IPS uses the purchase reporting to match products to available rebates, consolidate those rebates and deliver them in the form of a check to the district 4 times per year.
What is Smart Rewards?
Smart Rewards is the IPS incentives and resources program that rewards member engagement. Through SmartRewards.now, members can earn rewards by participating in promotions, completing activities, and reaching milestones, then redeem them for equipment, supplies, gift cards, and more. Plus, you’ll gain access to valuable tools and marketing resources designed to support your program.
What will this cost me?
There is no cost. Once you complete the enrollment form all you have to do is take advantage of your membership benefits.
Why do suppliers offer these programs to IPS and its members?
Backed by Aramark, our Sourcing Team leverages Billions in purchases and a global supplier network to negotiate rebates for IPS Members.
Suppliers partner with IPS to promote their products, increase program participation, and grow their presence in K–12 schools. Through rebates, promotions, and member incentives, suppliers can connect schools with products and resources that support their nutrition programs.
IPS helps facilitate these programs by providing market insights, managing rebate processing, and developing promotional opportunities that create value for both members and suppliers. The result is greater savings, helpful resources, and access to student-focused promotions that drive engagement and participation.
Will the IPS program affect other rebates, offers, or coupons I already receive?
No. The IPS program will not interfere with any coupons, promotions, or offers you receive from your distributor. In some cases, a manufacturer 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. If you have a direct agreement with a manufacturer 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 program does not change your relationship with your distributor. Distributors are valued partners, and we work collaboratively to support your business.
As part of the IPS process, your distributor is simply asked to electronically share your proof of purchase data with IPS so we can collect rebates from manufacturers. Most distributors already provide this type of reporting as part of their standard service.
All distribution decisions are controlled and maintained by the district, not IPS.
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. 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 is unable to retroactively issue rebates for previous quarters due to contractual agreements with our suppliers. 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 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, utilize Smart Rewards to access the menu and marketing toolkit. Tools are available to help you increase your rebate check.
You can also meet with your Member Consultant 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.
