Category: Blog Posts

You’ve probably been there: you find the perfect item on Amazon, add it to your cart, and then spot the same product for less on another website. Your first thought might be, “Does Amazon do price match?” It’s a smart question, as getting the best deal is always the goal. The short and direct answer is that Amazon does not have a traditional, company-wide price matching policy. Unlike some major retailers, you can’t simply call customer service and ask them to match a competitor’s advertised price after your purchase.

However, that doesn’t mean you’re completely out of luck. While the official policy isn’t there, Amazon has its own unique way of handling prices that can sometimes work in your favor.

How Amazon’s Pricing Works for You

Instead of a formal price match, Amazon uses a dynamic pricing system. This means the prices of items can change frequently based on competition, inventory, and demand. The system is designed to be competitive automatically. So, while they won’t match a price from another store after you buy, their algorithms are often working to offer a low price from the start. The key is that the best price is usually the one you see at the moment you decide to check out.

What to Do If You See a Price Drop

Let’s say you buy a coffee maker, and then a week later, you notice the price on Amazon has dropped. What can you do? This is where a little-known benefit comes in. Amazon often has a post-purchase price protection window on items sold and shipped by Amazon.com. If the price drops within 7 days of your delivery date, you can sometimes contact customer service and request a refund for the difference. They are not obligated to do this, but it’s always worth a polite inquiry.

A Smart Alternative to Price Matching

Your most powerful tool is your cart. Since prices fluctuate, a great strategy is to add desired items to your cart or your Wish List and monitor them. You can watch the price over a few days or weeks to see if it goes down. Many third-party tools and browser extensions can also track Amazon prices for you and alert you to any dips, helping you buy at an optimal time without needing to ask for a match.

While Amazon’s approach is different from a standard price match, being an informed shopper puts you in a great position. By understanding how their system works and keeping an eye on prices yourself, you can still feel confident about getting a good deal on your next purchase.

If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you might have noticed a tempting new perk: a free Grubhub+ membership. This benefit has led many to wonder if the e-commerce giant has expanded its empire to include the popular food delivery service. The connection between these two companies is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no.

While the partnership is significant and offers real value, it’s important to clarify the actual ownership structure. The relationship is a strategic alliance, not an acquisition. Let’s break down what this partnership means for you and who actually owns Grubhub.

The Actual Owner of Grubhub

As of now, Amazon does not own Grubhub. Grubhub is a subsidiary of a European company called Just Eat Takeaway.com. This parent company was formed by the merger of the UK’s Just Eat and the Netherlands’ Takeaway.com. There have been talks and rumors about Just Eat Takeaway.com potentially selling Grubhub, but no deal with Amazon or any other buyer has been finalized. So, for the time being, Grubhub operates under its current ownership, not Amazon’s.

What the Amazon Partnership Offers

So, what’s the deal with the free Grubhub+? Amazon has secured a partnership that provides a major benefit to its Prime subscribers. By linking your Amazon account to your Grubhub account, you can receive a complimentary Grubhub+ membership. This subscription service normally costs a monthly fee and offers perks like $0 delivery fees on eligible orders, exclusive member deals, and donation matching. For anyone who orders food delivery regularly, this can lead to significant savings over time.

Making the Most of Your Prime Benefit

To take advantage of this offer, you’ll need to take a couple of simple steps. First, ensure you have an active Amazon Prime membership. Then, visit the Amazon Prime benefits page and look for the Grubhub+ offer. You’ll be guided through the process of linking your existing Grubhub account or creating a new one. Once activated, your Grubhub+ benefits will be available for a year, and the membership will renew automatically as long as you remain a Prime member.

In summary, while Amazon does not own Grubhub, their partnership is a powerful collaboration that brings tangible value to customers. It’s a strategic move that deepens Amazon’s reach into everyday services without the company having to make a full acquisition. For you, the user, it means easier access to food delivery with fewer fees, making those dinner decisions just a little bit simpler.

If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling through streaming options and wondering about that Amazon Prime subscription you pay for, you’re not alone. A very common question pops up: does my Amazon Prime membership include access to Prime Video? The relationship between these two services can sometimes seem a bit tangled, but the answer is wonderfully straightforward.

The Simple Answer: Yes, It’s Included

When you sign up for an Amazon Prime membership, you are indeed subscribing to a whole bundle of benefits, and Prime Video is a central part of that package. You don’t need a separate subscription or an additional fee to start watching. Your regular Prime membership grants you full access to the entire Prime Video library at no extra cost. Think of it as getting a popular streaming service bundled with your fast, free shipping.

What You Can Watch on Prime Video

So, what does your membership get you? The catalog is vast and consistently updated. You’ll find thousands of popular movies and TV shows, from classic films to recent blockbusters. A major draw is Amazon’s own original content, known as Amazon Originals, which includes award-winning and critically acclaimed series. There are also channels you can add for a separate fee, but the core Prime Video experience is entirely included with your Prime account.

How to Start Streaming Today

Getting started is easy. You can watch Prime Video on almost any device. Simply visit the Prime Video website or download the Prime Video app on your smart TV, phone, tablet, or gaming console. Log in using the same Amazon account credentials you use for your shopping. Once you’re in, you can immediately start browsing and watching. There’s no secondary activation needed; it’s all right there.

Prime Video vs. Other Amazon Video Options

It’s helpful to know the difference between Prime Video and other ways to watch video on Amazon. Prime Video is the subscription service included with your membership. Alternatively, Amazon also operates a “Video Store” where you can rent or buy movies and shows that aren’t included with Prime. These purchases are separate, and the app will always clearly tell you if something requires an additional payment, so you never have to guess.

In short, your Amazon Prime subscription is your all-access pass to the world of Prime Video. It’s a significant perk that adds tremendous value to your membership, offering endless entertainment alongside your shipping benefits. Happy streaming!

You’ve just bought something from Amazon, only to see its price drop a few days later. It’s a frustrating feeling, and it leaves you wondering if you can get that money back. Many major retailers offer price adjustments, but when it comes to the online shopping giant, the policy might not be what you expect.

Let’s clear up the confusion and look at what your options are when an item you purchased goes on sale.

Amazon’s Official Price Adjustment Policy

Simply put, Amazon does not have a formal price adjustment policy. Unlike some brick-and-mortar stores that may refund the difference if a price drops within a certain window, Amazon generally does not offer post-purchase price matching. This means if the price of an item decreases after you’ve already placed your order, you typically will not receive a refund for the difference.

What to Do If You See a Lower Price

While there’s no standard policy, all hope is not lost. Your best course of action is to contact Amazon Customer Service directly. In some cases, especially if the price drop happens very soon after your purchase, a representative might be willing to issue a courtesy refund or credit. This is not guaranteed, but it’s always worth a polite inquiry.

A Smarter Strategy: Timing Your Purchase

Since price adjustments aren’t a sure thing, a more reliable approach is to be strategic about when you buy. If you’re not in a rush, consider placing items in your cart and monitoring their price over a few days. You can also use browser extensions or Amazon’s own wish list features to track price history. This way, you can feel confident you’re buying when the price is right.

Your Best Bet: The Return and Rebuy Method

If the price drops significantly and your item is still within the return window, you do have a powerful option. For many items, you can simply repurchase the item at the new, lower price and return the original, more expensive one. Be sure to check that the item is eligible for return and note that this process is easiest with items that haven’t been opened or used.

Navigating price changes on Amazon requires a bit of proactivity. While you can’t rely on automatic adjustments, a quick check-in with customer service or a strategic return can often help you secure the best deal.

Sometimes, even with the world’s largest online store at your fingertips, you need a little human help. Whether a package is running late, an item isn’t as described, or you have a billing question, knowing how to get in touch with Amazon customer service can save you a lot of time and frustration.

The good news is that Amazon offers several ways to connect, from quick self-service options to direct conversations. Let’s walk through the most effective methods to get the help you need.

The Quickest Way: Amazon’s Help & Customer Service Portal

Before you pick up the phone, your first stop should be Amazon’s own Help section. This is often the fastest path to a solution. Log into your account and navigate to “Help & Customer Service.” Here, you can track packages, manage returns, and view your orders. The site will often guide you through automated troubleshooting for common issues, which can resolve your problem instantly without needing to wait.

Connecting with a Real Person by Phone

For urgent matters or complex issues, speaking directly to an Amazon representative is often the best choice. You can request a phone call from Amazon through the Help portal. After selecting your issue, look for an option like “I need more help” and then “Contact us.” You’ll often see a “Call me” button. Enter your phone number, and Amazon’s system will call you within a few minutes, connecting you directly to a support agent.

Using Live Chat for Instant Messaging

If you prefer typing to talking, the live chat feature is a fantastic alternative. Found in the same “Contact us” section, live chat allows you to have a real-time text conversation with a customer service agent. This is perfect for when you’re in a quiet environment or need a written record of your conversation for reference.

Helpful Tips for a Smooth Support Experience

To make your customer service interaction as efficient as possible, have your information ready before you connect. This includes your order number, the email address associated with your account, and a clear, concise description of the issue. Being prepared helps the agent understand your situation quickly and provide the right assistance.

With these methods at your disposal, getting help from Amazon is a straightforward process. Whether you solve it yourself online or have a friendly chat with a representative, support is just a few clicks away.

Thinking about joining the millions of people who shop on Amazon? Opening an account is your first step to accessing a world of products, from everyday essentials to hard-to-find items, all from the comfort of your home. The process is straightforward and only takes a few minutes. Whether you’re planning a major purchase or just want the convenience of quick deliveries, setting up your account is the gateway to it all.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Before you click the sign-up button, it helps to have a few things ready. You will need a valid email address and a mobile phone number. Amazon will use your email as your primary username for the account. You’ll also need a credit card, debit card, or another accepted payment method to place orders. Finally, have your shipping address handy so you can enter it correctly the first time.

Creating Your Amazon Account Step-by-Step

Head to the Amazon website and look for the Account & Lists menu. Click on the Start here link. You’ll be guided to a form where you enter your name, email, and a password of your choice. Amazon will send a verification code to your email to confirm it’s really you. Once you enter that code, you’ll be prompted to add your phone number for additional security and then your preferred payment method. It’s a simple, guided process from start to finish.

Choosing the Right Account for You

You have a couple of options when you sign up. The standard Amazon account is free and perfect for most shoppers. However, you might also consider an Amazon Prime membership. While it comes with a fee, Prime offers benefits like free one-day or two-day shipping on eligible items, access to streaming video and music, and more. You can often start with a free trial to see if you like it before committing.

Keeping Your New Account Secure

As with any online account, security is important. Choose a strong, unique password that you don’t use on other sites. Enabling two-step verification adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a code from your phone whenever you sign in from a new device. Always be sure to log out if you’re using a public or shared computer.

And that’s it! In just a few minutes, you can have your account ready to go. You’re now all set to browse, shop, and enjoy the convenience that Amazon offers. Happy shopping!

If you’re an avid reader with an Amazon Prime membership, you might be looking at your benefits and wondering about all those ebooks. It’s a common question that pops up: since Prime includes Prime Video and Prime Music, does it also include a massive library of books to read? The relationship between these two popular services can be a little confusing at first glance.

Kindle Unlimited and Prime Are Separate Services

Let’s clear this up right away: Kindle Unlimited is not included with your Amazon Prime subscription. They are two distinct programs with their own costs and benefits. Think of them as siblings rather than a package deal. Your Prime membership gets you free, fast shipping and access to movies and TV shows, while Kindle Unlimited is a dedicated service focused solely on reading.

What Your Prime Membership Actually Offers for Reading

This doesn’t mean Prime members are left with nothing to read. Your subscription does include a nice reading perk called Prime Reading. This gives you access to a rotating selection of thousands of books, magazines, comics, and audiobooks. You can borrow titles without any due dates, though there is a limit to how many you can have out at one time. It’s a fantastic benefit for casual readers.

How Kindle Unlimited Expands Your Library

So, what are you paying for with Kindle Unlimited? It’s a much larger and more comprehensive library. While Prime Reading offers a curated collection, Kindle Unlimited provides over a million titles. This includes many popular series, audiobooks, and magazines. If you read several books a month, especially from genres like romance, mystery, or sci-fi, the flat monthly fee can offer incredible value.

Choosing the Right Reading Plan for You

Deciding which service is right for you depends on your reading habits. If you’re a light reader who already enjoys Prime’s other benefits, Prime Reading is a perfect, no-added-cost bonus. However, if you find yourself constantly running out of things to read and want a vast, all-you-can-read buffet of books, then Kindle Unlimited is likely worth the investment. The good news is you can always try Kindle Unlimited with a free trial to see if its massive catalog is the right fit for your bookshelf.

In short, while they don’t come together, both Amazon Prime and Kindle Unlimited offer great ways to enjoy your next great read. It just depends on how many pages you want to turn each month.

As the air turns crisp and holiday decorations begin to appear, a familiar question pops into the minds of savvy shoppers everywhere: does Amazon do Black Friday sales? If you’re picturing a digital version of crowded store aisles and early morning doorbusters, you’re on the right track. The simple answer is a resounding yes. Amazon is not just a participant in the Black Friday frenzy; it has become a central hub for it, offering a massive event that spans several days and often kicks off well before the actual Friday after Thanksgiving.

Gone are the days when Black Friday was a single-day affair. Amazon has masterfully extended the excitement, creating a weeks-long shopping spectacle that caters to everyone on your list.

What to Expect from Amazon’s Black Friday Event

Amazon’s Black Friday sale is a marathon, not a sprint. It typically starts in early November, with new Lightning Deals appearing around the clock. You can expect significant price drops on everything from high-demand electronics like TVs and headphones to popular toys, home goods, and Amazon’s own devices, such as Echo smart speakers and Kindle e-readers. The deals are plentiful, but they can also sell out in minutes, so a little preparation goes a long way.

Smart Tips for Navigating the Sales

To make the most of the event, it helps to have a strategy. First, create a wishlist ahead of time and add the items you’re hoping to snag. Amazon will often notify you if an item on your list goes on sale. Second, consider trying an Amazon Prime membership if you haven’t already. Prime members frequently get early access to deals, sometimes 30 minutes before non-members, which can be the key to securing a hot-ticket item. Finally, download the Amazon shopping app and enable push notifications so you never miss a flash sale.

Looking Beyond Black Friday

If you think the savings stop after Black Friday, think again. Amazon seamlessly transitions its major sale into Cyber Monday, which often focuses more on tech and gadget deals. This extended shopping period gives you a second chance to find incredible offers, making the entire holiday weekend a prime time for checking off your gift list.

So, rest assured, Amazon is a major player during the Black Friday season. With a vast selection and deep discounts, it offers a convenient and exciting way to shop for the holidays from the comfort of your home. Happy deal hunting!

You’ve just received an Amazon gift card, and that little piece of plastic or digital code is your ticket to a world of products. Whether it was a birthday present or a holiday surprise, it’s exciting to have credit waiting for you. But if you’re wondering about the exact steps to turn that card into something you’ll love, you’ve come to the right place.

Redeeming Your Gift Card Balance

The very first thing you need to do is add the funds to your Amazon account. It’s a simple process. Go to ‘Your Account’ and find the ‘Gift cards’ section. Click on ‘Redeem a Gift Card’ and enter the claim code from the back of a physical card or from your email. The balance will be instantly added to your account and will be automatically applied at checkout for your next purchase.

What You Can Actually Buy

Your Amazon gift card balance is incredibly versatile. It can be used to purchase millions of items sold by Amazon, from the latest tech gadgets and bestselling books to kitchen essentials and clothing. Your balance can also be used to buy digital content like Kindle e-books, Amazon Music downloads, or even rent movies through Prime Video. It’s essentially a universal credit for almost everything on the site.

Checking Your Remaining Balance

It’s easy to lose track of how much you have left, especially if you make several small purchases. To check your balance, simply go to the ‘Gift cards’ section in ‘Your Account’. Your current available balance will be displayed prominently. You can also see a breakdown of your gift card activity to know exactly where your credit went.

A Few Helpful Tips for Spending

Since your gift card balance is applied automatically at checkout, you don’t have to do anything special to use it. One great tip is that you can use a partial amount. If your total is $25 but you only have a $50 gift card, the remaining $25 will stay in your account for future use. Also, remember that gift cards cannot be used to purchase other gift cards, but they can be combined with other payment methods like a credit card if your order total exceeds your gift card balance.

Using your Amazon gift card is a straightforward and enjoyable process. From redeeming the code to choosing your perfect item, that card gives you the freedom to pick exactly what you want. Happy shopping, and make the most of your credit!

If you’re someone who likes to plan your day around the forecast or you just feel better knowing what’s happening outside, you might be wondering about your streaming options. A common question that comes up is whether you can simply turn on The Weather Channel through your Amazon Prime subscription. The answer isn’t a simple yes or no, and it largely depends on how you choose to access it.

The Direct Answer About Amazon Prime Video

If you open the standard Amazon Prime Video app expecting to find The Weather Channel as a standalone channel you can watch for free, you’ll be out of luck. Your base Amazon Prime membership does not include live, 24/7 access to The Weather Channel’s broadcast. It’s not part of the included Prime Video library in the same way as Prime Original shows. However, this doesn’t mean it’s completely unavailable through the Amazon ecosystem.

How to Stream The Weather Channel on Your Amazon Devices

The most straightforward path to watching The Weather Channel is by adding it as a channel subscription through Amazon Prime Video Channels. This is a marketplace within Prime Video where you can subscribe to other services. You can find The Weather Channel here, but it requires a separate monthly subscription fee on top of your Prime membership. Once subscribed, you can watch the live feed and on-demand content directly through the Prime Video app on your TV, Fire Stick, or other supported devices.

Alternative Ways to Get Your Forecast Fix

If you’d rather not add another bill, there are other paths to consider. Many live TV streaming services that carry The Weather Channel have apps available on Amazon Fire TV devices. Services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV often include it in their channel lineups. So, while you’re using your Fire Stick to access it, you’re actually watching through a different app that you already pay for. Another excellent free option is The Weather Channel’s own app, which provides local forecasts, radar, and video segments.

While The Weather Channel isn’t a free benefit of Amazon Prime, it is very accessible through the platform for a fee. Your best bet is to check if you already have access through another streaming service you subscribe to, or to weigh the cost of adding it directly against your daily need for its specific coverage.