Minnesota to get over $630K in settlement with Menards over rebate program, pandemic prices

Minnesota is set to receive more than $630,000 as part of a settlement with Menards over claims of deceptive advertising in its 11% rebate program and price gouging during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office announced on Thursday.

The Wisconsin-based home improvement retailer has agreed to pay $4.25 million to 10 states, including Wisconsin, Iowa and South Dakota.

The attorneys general involved took issue with the 11% off rebate program for a few reasons, including saying it was falsely advertising a item discount when it was in-store credit for future purchases.

They also claimed that the retailer raised prices on household items such as rubbing alcohol, garbage bags and dish soap during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Menards also agreed to change how it advertises rebates and to avoid future price gouging.

“An ad that says ‘11% OFF EVERYTHING’ clearly implies that you can buy goods at an 11% discount, not that you can participate in a limited rebate program or get in-store credit for future purchases. Today’s settlement holds Menards accountable for how they advertised their rebate program in the past and ensures that program will be more honest in the future. Furthermore, it is disappointing that Menards took advantage of the fear and uncertainty during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to jack up prices on consumers, so we are holding them accountable for that as well,” said Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison.

5 EYEWITNESS NEWS has reached out to Menards for comment and will update this article if a response is received.

You can read the full settlement below.

2025.12.17 – Menards_MN_Assurance_of_Discontinuance – File StampedDownload
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