How to Coupon

With the economy in the gutter, more people are turning to coupons to help save their wallets. Shows like TLC’s Extreme Couponing prove that using coupons really can save you money. But, while many people want to save money, they don’t want to go to the extra, sometimes nutty, lengths that extreme couponers do. Here are some tips for people looking to save money without having to buy in bulk.

Know Your Store’s Coupon Policy

Make sure you know what your store will and will not allow. Some stores will double your coupons and others allow you to combine a store coupon with a manufacturer’s coupon.

Find Coupons Online

While many people think getting coupons out of the Sunday paper is the way to go, there are thousands of coupons available online for no charge at sites like Shop at Home and RedPlum. Printing coupons is a great way to get exactly what coupons you’re looking for, and you can usually print two of the same coupon per computer.

Join Your Store’s Loyalty Program

Lots of stores have loyalty programs that you can join to snag extra savings. Petco, Petsmart, and Kmart are just a few. Not only do rewards members get extra savings, many have a point system where you can get extra items for the points that you earn through spending

Combine Coupons with Store Sales

If you get the paper, check to see what sales are happening for the week. If not, you can find many of the ads online at the store’s website. By combining what’s on sale with the coupons you already have, you can assure that you are getting the best bang for your buck.

Know Your Coupons

Make sure you know what your coupons will work for, what they exclude, and when they expire. By making sure you know the details about your coupons, you can keep from being embarrassed at the register or losing money.

Hopefully, by using these tips, you can become a savvy saver in no time!