Couponing

Here are the simple tips I use to help me navigate the world of couponing.....

1. Choose a weekly budget or goal amount
    - Give yourself a month or so to figure out what amount will work best
    - Put that amount as cash in an envelope each week if you need to

2. Collect ALL coupons that could ever interest you
    * Websites:  coupons.com, smartsource.com, redplum.com, allyou.com, vocalpoint.com, cellfire.com
    * Newspapers & magazines (All You has a bunch of coupons!)
    * Stores
         - Check store ads for store coupons
         - Stack coupons (a pad of coupons where you rip one off)
         - Blinkies (blinking machines that dispense coupons)
         - Catalinas (coupons that print out at the register)
    * Manufacturers
         - Contact your favorite brands and let them know how much you appreciate their product...they just might send you coupons for your effort
    * Products
         - Instant coupons are often on the outside of products
         - Always check the inside of packaging before you throw them out

3. Organize your coupons
     - Your effectiveness and total $ saved depends on this!
     - I use a plastic shoebox container & place the coupons in organized tabbed envelopes
     - Organize based on grocery categories, clothing, stores, etc.

4. Plan ahead
     - Base your meals for the week on the deals you find
     - Shopping lists...write it in the order of the way you'd shop in the store
     - Put the coupons you're using in each store in a labeled envelope (easier to find!)

5. Shop the drugstores
     - Combine their deals with your coupons to get many cheap & free items!

6. Stockpile
      - On the expensive items you go through quickly

7. Do your math
       - Sure you may look like a nerd...but carry that calculator with you, anyway.  This nerd is working hard to save some $!

8. Do what you can
       - Don't get overwhelmed...just experiment and have fun with it!

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