This blog briefly explains how to get a refund for the unused balance of IBM hardware and software support when a server is discontinued. This can be very helpful as customer can get refunds of $2,000 to $20,000 or more depending on circumstance. You might be amazed how many customers NEVER request a refund.
I am often asked by customers upgrading to new IBM servers how they can get a refund for the unused portion of IBM hardware (HWMA) and software (SWMA) support for the server that is getting replaced.
For example, a customer may have an IBM POWER6 8203-E4A with 24 months of IBM support remaining. The customer plans to upgrade to a new IBM POWER8 8286-41A.
Let’s say the new 8286-41A arrives in early September and is productive by the end of September.
Now, the 8203-E4A is out of productive use. The customer plans to not keep the unit in operation and wants to discontinue IBM support.
Also, the customer wants a refund on the balance of the unused IBM 8203-E4A support.
To request a refund, the customer must notify in writing or by email the company that sold them their IBM maintenance, either the IBM Business Partner, or IBM direct if that is the provider of the support contract.
The customer must specify to the service provider:
- the server (i.e. 8203) by serial number,
- by date of discontinuance (i.e. the date the new 8286-41A became fully productive), and
- their request for a refund of the balance of the support contract.
Ideally, the customer can also reference the IBM support contract number in the request. This makes it much easier for IBM to process the refund.
In such cases, I suggest you call the service provider to confirm they got your request for a refund so you know it should get processed.
Once the request has been made, be aware that:
- It can take 1-2 months for the refund to be processed, and
- The final balance is NOT the prorated amount based on the remaining months (it will be less than the prorata amount).
Once you have submitted your written request, I think it is a good idea to check back in 1-2 weeks to make sure your request is being processed. Your Business Partner may even have some updates when you can expect the refund.
Generally, IBM will issue the refund to your Business Partner, who will then issue the refund to you.
As straightforward as this process is, I hear many cases where this does NOT go smoothly, often because the former Business Partner is no longer around, non-responsive, or the IBM users do not know who they got their support from.
If you are in this situation, probably the easiest thing to do is call me at 714-593-0387 or email at blosey@source-data.com so I can look into this for you and guide you in the right direction.
Let me know I can help!
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