Coupons

Being a "coupon-er" takes time but can pay off big in the end. In order to do well with coupons, you need to take the time to pull them from the paper, print them from the computer, plus clip and organize them. Of course you need to be familiar with different store coupon polices so that you can get the most bang for the buck. I have added some coupon links under my "Quick Links" to get you started.

Here are a few tips that you need to keep in mind -

1. You need to have some sorta organizational system. Some couponers prefer 3 ring binders with business card pages to divide them. I personally use a traditional coupon sorter. My method takes longer, but I am able to throw it into my purse which is important to me.
2. You will need to go to multiple websites to print coupons. Most online coupon sites will allow you to use the "back" button to print two copies of the same coupon.
3. If you don't want to have all of the mailing list stuff going into your personal email, create another email account to use for this.
4. Know the coupon polices for the stores you shop in. It is not unusual for a cashier to lack this knowledge. You might even keep a copy with you. Stores such as Walgreens, Dollar General and Target will allow you to use a manufactures coupon on top of the store coupon for the same product.
5. Clip coupons you don't normally use just in case you can later double dip and get the item for FREE. I am not saying to cut out denture cream if you don't own any. I am simply saying that you need to cut out anything you MAY use even if it's not your normal brand.
6. You need to be flexible on brands. You may prefer to use brand "X" but if brand "Y" is 1/2 the cost, will you use it?
7. Go to the store without the kids. Kids tend to bump your cart/piles and become impatient while waiting on you to hunt for the exact item on the coupons.
8. Storage, you'll need plenty of it. Sometimes you will have the opportunity to get items at a great price and will need a place to put them. Make sure you keep your storage area organized so that you always know what you have. This will help you avoid buying an item at full price when you had one from before that only cost you a fraction of that. Saving stuff and not finding it is NOT saving you any money.
9. Fruits and veggies rarely have coupons. Seek them out at your local Aldi, Sams club, or your local farmers market to get the best prices.

Here is a Dollar General store run for me:

• Jambalaya mix x4
• Suave deodorant x2
• Suave detangle spray x2
• Pine Sol x2
• Colgate kids toothpaste
• Coast bar soap 3pk x2
• All laundry detergent
• Yoo Hoo 3pk x2
• Root beer barrels x1

My cost after coupons & tax - $12.23

Here is an example of a Target store run for me:

• Ponds facial cloths (bonus packs) x4
• Suave hand lotion (bonus packs) x2
• Energizer batteries 9V (2pk)
• Oscar Mayer bacon x2
• Green Giant steam bag veggies x6
• Birds Eye steam bag veggies x7
• Gallon skim milk
• Cool Whip x2
• Rimmel eyeshadow x2
• Q-tips (bonus packs) x2
• Suave shampoo/conditioner x2
• Panti liners x2
• Planters pistachio nuts (full size bag) x2
• Triscuit crackers x4
• Kraft shredded cheese x2

My cost after coupons, 5% red card discount & tax - $44.62