Get Out Your Scissors – September is National Coupon Month!
Whether you’re a coupon novice just dipping your toe or a full-time coupon clipper, couponing is a terrific and easy way to save your hard-earned cash.
WHERE TO FIND COUPONS
Sunday Newspaper. Not all coupon inserts are created equal. Larger newspapers tend to have more coupons, and the types of coupons can vary from region-to-region. Think about subscribing to more than one newspaper to get the best selection and best deals.
Online Coupons. Printable online coupons can be found all over the Internet, from the merchant’s direct website to Online Coupon sites like RetailMeNot.com, CouponCabin.com, SmartSource.com or TheKrazyCouponLady.com. Make sure to stock up on ink and computer paper!
Store Coupons. Oftentimes, these are given to you at checkout for use on your next visit.
Mobile Coupons – download free SmartPhone apps like GeoQpons, Coupon Sherpa or A Full Cup to get access to coupons right on your phone!
On Packaging. Referred as “peelies” in the Couponing World, these coupons are attached to the actual product. Manufacturers offer these in hopes that you’ll buy their product over their competitor’s sitting on the same shelf.
Loyalty Programs. Many companies have membership cards or “frequent buyer” programs, where customers are given access to special discounts and coupons. Signing up is usually free!
NOW THAT YOU HAVE THE COUPONS, WHAT DO YOU DO NEXT?
Stack Coupons. Some stores will let you stack store coupons with manufacturer’s discounts.
Double Coupons. Some stores will double (or even triple!) your coupon up to a certain dollar amount or up to a maximum quantity.
Be Competitive. Sometimes competitor coupons will be honored. It never hurts to try!
Learn Sales Cycles. Use your coupon when the product is at its lowest price.
Be Flexible. Are you tied to certain brands? Ditch the brand loyalty when coupons are offered from different manufacturers.
Double Check. Check receipt to make sure that the cashier included all the coupons.
GET ORGANIZED!
Think Ahead. Set aside space in your pantry and stockpile non-perishables. Get creative with freezing foods. Stock up on products with a long shelf life: shampoo, deodorant and toothpaste.
Make a List. Let your coupons – not your regular grocery list – be your guide. Make meals based on what foods have coupons.
Use a Filing System. Keep track of all your coupons in an accordion file or in clear binder inserts. Organize coupons
by category, alphabetically by brand, by expiration date, etc. Purge any expired coupons.
GET INSPIRED!
Extreme Couponing. Check out the TLC Network television show Extreme Couponing. These folks have clearly taken couponing to the next level. Click here for the television programming schedule.
Donate. Did you buy more than you need? Consider donating any excess items to charity or to your local food bank.
HOW CAN YOU SAVE EVEN MORE?
Buy discounted gift cards from Plastic Jungle! As the web’s largest gift card exchange, you can save up to 35% on from over 400 merchants. Shipping is free and all transactions are guaranteed.
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