Coupons save consumers nearly $3 billion annually. Approximately 76 percent of the population uses coupons, with an average savings of 11.5 percent on grocery costs. Yet consumers used less than 1 percent of available coupons in 2005. Consider these suggestions to make using coupons work for you.
* Buy only those items that you normally select for your family. Just because
you have a coupon doesn’t mean you have to use it. Don’t allow coupons to cause you to buy on impulse.
* Comparison shop. Don’t assume bigger is better. It may be less expensive to
buy two smaller items with coupons than one larger item. If a coupon is good for any size, the smaller size is generally a better buy.
* Try different brands. This will expand the coupons you are able to use and may
introduce you to new products you like.
* Know store policies on such things as “buy one get one free” or 10-for-10 pricing. Does the store match competitors’ prices and/or coupons? Do they have double coupon days? Can a manufacturer’s coupon be used with a store coupon?
* Find a coupon organizational system that works for you. Some shoppers organize coupons according to store layout. Some clip coupons only for items they use. Others put the entire ad in a binder. Do what works best for you.
* Always take your coupons when you shop. There may be closeouts or other specials not listed in the store’s ads.
* Remember that even coupons for small amounts add up quickly if they are for items you use regularly.
* For additional savings, combine coupons with rebates, combine manufacturer
and store “buy one get one free” coupons and use coupons on seasonal promotions and closeouts. Using these methods, some items can be free.
* Look for discounts on prescriptions. Many pharmacies offer a discount with
multiple refills. New or transferred prescriptions may receive discounts or gift cards. Know your insurance coverage. It may cost as much for a several-month supply as a one- month supply. Check drug manufacturers’ Web sites for rebates, or visit www.optimizerx.com.
* Don’t forget to look for discounts on such things as home repairs, yard work,
dry cleaning, photo developing, fitness centers, restaurants, car repairs and travel.
* Avoid paying for coupons. In addition to newspapers, magazines, mailers, store ads and displays and product packages, many Web sites offer printable coupons. Some include: smartsource.com; boodle.com; coolsavings.com; livingcheap.com; and mycoupons.com. Other Web sites include: coupons.com; currentcodes.com; coupons-coupon-codes.com; and allfreecoupons.com. Search the Internet to find additional sites that offer coupons.
By: Joanne Roueche - Apr. 25, 2008