What are Coupons and Why should I use them?
First let’s talk about what are coupons? Coupons are vouchers that are redeemed for discounts off of goods and services. Coupons are everywhere, you just have to find them and use them! Who doesn’t like saving money? Coupons allow you to get more for less and let your dollars go farther.
Where can I find Coupons?
Coupons are available at most stores and restaurants. They can be typically found on their websites, apps, flyers, newsletters, and more. You may receive coupons in the mail, find them in the newspaper, or receive them in response to placing an order somewhere as a thank you.
How do I use a Coupon?
Different coupons have different manners of use. A digital coupon that is clipped to your account online can be used simply by using said account. For example, CVS has a rewards system and on the app and website you can log in and clip both manufacturer coupons and just for you coupons. Once the coupons are clipped, you use your phone number at checkout and your coupons should come right off of your transaction. A paper coupon has to be cutout from a source, like a newspaper for example, and then scanned at checkout before you pay. Keep in mind that all coupons have an expiration date and fine print.
What is the Difference between a Manufacturer Coupon and a Just For You Coupon?
A manufacturer coupon is from the company itself and can be found at any retailer while a just for you coupon is on your personal account based off of what you may buy and cannot be found anywhere else or used anywhere else.
What is a Coupon’s Fine Print?
The fine print on a coupon basically tells you the rules to use the coupon. Most coupons allow only one of the same coupon per transaction, meaning you can’t have a manufacturer coupon clipped online and then a paper copy of the same exact coupon and use both on one of the same item. However you can typically use different coupons on the same item, for example, if you have a manufacturer coupon for $2 off of a pack of toilet paper and a $1 just for you coupon off of the same toilet paper, you should be able to use both. Be sure to read the fine print and if you’re not sure you can always give it a try at checkout or ask an associate for help.
What is a Coupon Policy?
Just like every coupon has fine print, every store has a coupon policy. Every store has the right to set requirements for accepting and applying coupons to a transaction. You should be able to find the coupon policies to your local stores on their websites or by doing a simply search online.
Do I have to use Coupons In Stores?
No, you do not have to limit yourself to couponing only in stores. Many retailers and restaurants allow you to use your coupons on online transactions for either delivery or in store pickup. Doing online orders has it’s pros and cons, one positive is that you can clearly see all of your coupons online and ensure they are all coming off of your transaction, a negative though, is that you don’t know for sure the current inventory of your store and there is a possibility something is out of stock and that can sometimes mess things up.
What Stores are Best for using Coupons?
This question can only be answered by you. It is really based on your location and your preferred method of shopping. CVS and Walgreens are both very popular in the coupon community because they frequently do sales as well as cash back via their rewards programs that will also combine with coupons. Publix is a very popular grocery store for those down south to coupon at. Dollar General is also a pretty popular store. I personally shop at CVS, Walgreens, and I love Shaws. You will find what works best for you in your area!
Are there any Tips and Tricks to Couponing?
Follow the weekly ads to see what items are on sale and if there are any coupons to make them even cheaper. If you are like me, a busy mom, there are so many people online who will do the work for you, every single week. Seeing other people’s breakdowns is super helpful, especially when you are just starting out. I really recommend that every week you set aside a time to go online and clip coupons for items that you use. Another thing is to make sure you subscribe to all email newsletters because lots of companies will send out coupons. Newsletters will also inform you of any deals or sales going on, and that includes at restaurants. Finally, make sure you are signed up for rewards programs. Not only will you earn points when you make a purchase under your rewards, these programs usually offer coupons as well.
Conclusion
It may seem daunting but once you get the hang of it, it’s not only easy, it’s really fun! There is something about getting a super good deal, it’s just exhilarating. Keep in mind though, just because you can get something super cheap, doesn’t mean you need it. You can always donate what you won’t use to someone who will!
