There are
various methods available to reduce your expenses. In this economy, saving
money is crucial. We’re not going to discuss creating a budget. A budget is
definitely beneficial in spend reduction. However, I’d like to touch base on
one particular area.
First area
of discussion? COUPONS! That’s right, coupons can reduce your grocery spending
by several hundred dollars per year. I know what you might be thinking! “Oh,
you’re one of those people….” I’m not saying that extreme couponing wasn’t a
goal at one time. However, I know that couponing has changed. So no, I’m not
“one of those people”. Doesn’t mean that I don’t try!
I’ve heard
all the excuses from those who don’t (won’t) use coupons. This is just a
partial example of the excuses given.–
“I don’t
have the time.”
“You don’t
save enough money.”
“I only buy
healthy foods and organic products.”
“I don’t
know where to find the coupons.”
“Coupons are
too much trouble to use.”
“They don’t
double coupons anymore.”
Does any of
these sound familiar? I want to knock out the second excuse. “You don’t save
enough money.” I don’t know about you, but any savings is worth the effort to
me. It doesn’t matter if the coupon is .50 or $500. The amount on said coupon
is less money coming out of my pocket.
“I don’t
know where to find the coupons.” Not a problem! Coupons are everywhere!
Magazines, Newspapers (Also known as Sunday inserts), Printable from Websites,
mailers, trading, digital, on receipts, neighbors, friends, etc.
Coupons are
not just in the form of paper. Many stores now offer the ability to download
digital coupons to your shopping card. Be sure to check the coupon policy for
each individual store. Some stores allow you to “stack” a paper coupon with a
digital coupon, others may not.
Did you know
that some stores offer occasional free products? Currently, Kroger offers
“Friday Freebies”! Just sign into your account, browse the digital coupons, and
download to your card. It’s that easy! The coupon should come off the total
when you purchase the item. Be sure to read the coupon correctly to ensure the
right product is being purchased.
Coupons are
available to print on various websites. You can generally find some type of
offer directly on a company website. They might require you to create an
account with them. If this happens, you can create an email just for this
purpose. It should help reduce email clutter in your personal inbox. I always
uncheck the newsletter box. However, this doesn’t always prevent the company
from sending an email from time to time.
I’ve learned
that reaching out to a company can sometimes result in finding coupons in your
mailbox. Those are always a nice surprise! A coupon directly from the
manufacture can be higher value. At times, even a freebie is received! Don’t
come right out and ask for coupons. They are interested in product feedback. If
you love a product, tell them about it! Be specific in your emails. Likewise if
you dislike a product. Be completely honest with them. They appreciate honesty!
Where would they be without loyal consumers?
Coupons can
be printed from various resource websites. Generally 2 identical coupons can be
printed via each printer. Here are a few examples:
Be careful
when printing coupons from these websites. Only “clip” and print the coupons
you will actually use before expiration. I’m guilty of printing several wasted
coupons on a regular basis. My intentions were to use them on time. I either forgot about the coupon, couldn’t
find the deal I was hoping for, or financial restraints prevented me from using
them.
Printing
unused coupons is a waste of ink. The cost of ink is not cheap! Let’s not
forget paper waste. Remember: You cannot use both a printed coupon in
combination of another coupon. There are exceptions to this rule! Some stores
will allow you to use a cents off coupon with a “Buy one, Get one free” coupon.
Again, check the coupon policy for that particular establishment.
Sales and/or
clearance items are one of the best ways to maximize your coupon savings.
Don’t
discount the Dollar Tree as “cheap”! There are hundreds of name brand items
sold at the Dollar Tree. Nothing is over $1.00. Did you know that coupons are
now accepted at the Dollar Tree?! Potentially free or deeply reduced products
are waiting for you!
Remember, be
sure to print the coupon policy for each store that you plan on using coupons!
Use the coupon policy as a guide, and to show a cashier if needed.
This is one of my favorite coupon forums. The forum is free of cost. Members post deals, tips, suggestions, coupon match-ups, and much more! The forum is not limited to just couponing. There are other discussions as well. Stop by and say, "Hello"!
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