This weekend was the first time that I have ever been given bonus buck's at check-in without a hassle. It seems that despite the Ts & Cs the hotels are fairly uniform in giving them at check-out, which is a pain for the express check-out reasons. Additionally it appears some hotels are requiring a two-night stay to get them (I have noticed this in a couple of rate rules, but it hasn't been an issue for me).
Maybe a solution would be to leave the certificate with the bill under the door on the morning of checkout.
Out of curiosity can you use an EEO certificate while staying on a BB qualifying rate?