Guide to Using Coupons

Saving money with coupons and rebates is easy, with an organized coupon caddy. Not using coupons is like throwing away money each week.

#1 Get a coupon caddy. This can be as simple as a wallet size accordion file system (available at an office supply company like Office Depot), an old recipe index card box with dividers, or a full blown coupon caddy.

#2 Clip coupons, clip everything except products you are absolutely sure your family won't use. I suggest you clip everything because you never know when a coupon offer will result in a free item. Even if you can't use it, you can donate it to a local homeless shelter or charitable organization.

#3 Organize your coupons by product or department, like paper goods, to make sifting through them easier.

#4 Go through your old coupons each week, and destroy any expired offers. Those near expiration should be moved into a special folder. Check this folder each week to see if you can use it up. You can donate expired coupons to a military PX (they are good for an extra 60 days on bases).

#5 Shop the store specials first, every week. If you pick up just a few extra sale items each week your pantry will be stocked, reducing your shopping trips to once every two weeks in no time.

#6 Check per ounce or per pound price to determine a products best value. Many stores note this price in very small print on the shelf price tags. Use your coupons for sizes that give you the best discount. (take a pocket size calculator if needed).

#7 Complete any rebate forms promptly, before you forget. Make sure that you print legibly, or your rebate or refund may be rejected. Be sure to make copies of everything, and note on your calendar the anticipated due date for the refund. When it comes, line it out so you can keep track of the ones you may need to follow up on.

#8 When using coupons you have to be "brand" flexible. However, that doesn't mean that if you end up not liking the product, you loose out. Take the manufacturer up on their guarantee or offer for satisfaction and drop them a line. (always be nice).