Coupon Basics: How to Start Saving Money Today

*When shopping at the grocery store there are two types of coupons available:

• Store Coupons (which are distributed by your local stores like Target, Publix, Kroger)

• Manufacturer Coupons (distributed by brands like Kraft and Proctor and Gamble)

*You can find coupons in many different places so always be on the lookout for coupons on products you buy. You can find coupons in:

• The Sunday Paper & Ad circulars sent to your home weekly

• Online: Coupons.com, Smart Source, Red Plum, and Brand Sites

• Blinkies: Those machines in the store that kids love grabbing coupons from!

• Magazines: All You Magazine has lots of coupons every month.

* When it comes to using coupons I think your best bet is to find a blog that works on the sales ads for that particular store.

• If you often shop at Publix check out www.iheartpublix.com, or Google the store you use and the word match-ups (Ex. Winn-Dixie Match-Ups).  There are hundreds of blogs that can help you get the best deals at your favorite stores.

• Be willing to only purchase what’s on sale.  If you can shop this way for just a few weeks before long your pantry will be well stocked and you can shop weekly for $50 or less.

• Know your store’s coupon policy.  Check online, and then call to confirm the policy is current.

• Try to “stack” as many coupons as possible if your store allows this.  Stacking is when you use two coupons (1 store / 1 manufacture) on one item.

*Share coupons!  If you have coupons you know you won’t use (like diaper coupons) leave them on the products in the store.  It’s like leaving cash for others to find!

* Ask for help.  If there is something you don’t understand about couponing, find a blog that covers a store you shop at and ask them.  Most bloggers would be happy to help!

Do you use coupons on a weekly basis?  Why or why not?

[photo by dmdonahoo]

Editor’s note: This post was written by Shasta Walton, author of the Faithfully Free blog.