Okay, you’ve read all about couponing 101. You have your coupon stash & you’ve started your stockpile. Now what?
Well if you’re hungry for more deals, read on!
I’m starting a new segment called Extreme Couponing. Each week we’ll discuss a new way to save big for those of us who are SERIOUS about the bargains!
First things first, always know the rules.
I want to honor God with my spending, so it’s important to follow each store’s couponing rules, and to know the law. Getting a bargain at the expense of my conscience is too high a price to pay. We will all face the occasional cashier or manager that makes us feel dishonest for combining sales with coupons to get stuff for pennies. And lets face it, that hurts. But knowing the rules and following them is our greatest defense. So for your first week of extreme couponing, here’s what I suggest:
Step One: Know the Store’s Policies.
Make a list of stores you frequent and email them about their sale and coupon policy. Keep a copy of their response in your coupon stash in case you encounter a cashier or manager who refuses to allow you to use your coupons.
Some questions to ask:
- What is your store coupon policy?
- Do you accept internet printable coupons?
- If you have a buy-one-get-one-free sale, may I use a buy-one-get-one free coupon and get both items for free?
- If you have a buy-one-get-one-free sale, may I use two coupons, or just one?
- Do you honor competitor sale prices?
- Any store-specific questions. For example, at Walgreens you may have questions about register rewards. At Meijer you may have questions about Mealbox coupons, etc.
I have a copy of a recent email from Walgreens corporate HERE.
Step 2 – Make Sure Your Printable Coupons Are Legit.
- Know Where the Coupon Came From – You can feel safe with any coupons that come directly from the manufacturer’s website.
- Beware of PDF’s. Most companies do not use PDF files to store their printable coupons. There are exceptions. Wyeth is the manufacturer of Robitussin, Dimetapp and other products. Presently, they have coupons on PDF. Check one out HERE. I am confident in this coupon because I know where it came from. I never print PDF coupons that come from a third party site like Slickdeals.
In summary, the first step to extreme couponing is to know the rules and follow the rules. Tune in Saturday for your next Extreme Couponing Tip. Here’s a sneak peek at some upcoming posts:
Why I Spend Time Each Week Emailing Manufacturers
More to come on Saturday.
Why I Trade Coupons Online
NOTE: This post was originally written in 2008, long before the show of the same name. I am not what is now known as an extreme couponer. I do not hoard mustard and toilet paper. Just sayin’.
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I just found your blog on from wags to riches. I’m really excited to learn how you trade coupons. Kellie
How do you find the bunch of couponing, to save money.
My husband love me if only spemd less on greocery?
if you buy like five of the same product can u use five coupons on them.