Life on a Budget

The biggest misconception I have heard is that using coupons are a ‘waste of time’. No matter what stage of life you are in, or how much money you may have, coupons are a great, easy way of saving money. You can find coupons in a variety of places including the Sunday paper and local publications. Here are some tips on using coupons that can help you spend less money on regular day purchases.

1. Use coupons only on items that you would have bought anyway

For example, don’t go out to eat simply because you have a coupon. Instead, if you are going out to eat to celebrate a birthday or anniversary anyway, simply choose a restaurant that you can use a coupon – you may even get your meal at half price. Use this same logic for savings with retail and grocery stores.

2. Use products that you can find coupons for

I’ve switched all my everyday soaps/detergents to brands that I can find a coupon for in the Sunday paper. This includes shampoo/conditioner, lotion, toothpaste, deodorant, laundry detergent, dish soap, etc. The best is to wait till these items go on sale (and most will) and then use your coupons and stock up – which brings me to my next point…

3. Stock up if you can

Many coupons have a minimum you need to buy in order to use. The first thing you have to ask yourself is, do I need this much of this item? If no, then it’s not worth the coupon. For example, if you don’t think you will use the 5 cans of soup before they will expire than just get the one that you need now. But if you know that it’s an item you use all the time or may use in a certain time span, then it is probably worth having an extra one or two on hand. Again if you can, wait till the items go on sale and add the coupon savings to that.

4. Shop at stores that double or triple coupons

Some stores will double or even triple the value on the coupons. This is a great way to get an item you want for free or extremely cheap.

5. Read the fine print and play by the rules

I think this is probably one of the things that turn people away from using coupons. Make sure you read the fine print. Many coupons will have restrictions on when it can be used. For example, many restaurants may only be good for one night or certain meals. Most coupons have an expiration date – make sure you look to see when that is and use the coupon before that date. Some coupons will have a minimum purchase in order to use. Make sure you know what the coupon is all about – there is nothing worse than doing all your shopping and getting to the checkout to find out the coupon isn’t valid for 3 more days – trust me – I’ve done it.

Coupons can be great or they can be a headache. I think it’s all how you perceive them. My advice is use them, love them, make them a part of your shopping experience and then decide if they are worth it to you or not. Remember coupons are free money and therefore have the potential to save you a lot of money if used responsibly and on items you were going to buy anyway. Why pay full price when you can get the same thing for less?

How much money can you save? unlimited