How to Get Savings with Coupons

Don't write off coupons as worthless. With a little planning and some sales papers you can cut your grocery bill in half. I do, and you can, too!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Sales papers from your favorite stores
• Coupons and organizer
• A notebook and pen

1. First, start your coupon collection. The best place to get coupons from is the Sunday edition of a big city paper. You can also find coupons in the local paper, online,or from "junk" mail.
2. Organize your coupons how ever it seems most logical to you. Some people organize by type (dairy, meat, fruit, bread, etc.) or by isle. Make sure that your coupons are easy to find.
3. Next, collect the sales papers from your favorite stores. Match what coupons you have with sales at the stores. Usually, you can find items that are free after the sale and the coupon!
4. Write down your shopping list. By each item that you have a coupon for put a check mark and write down the name of the store that has a sale on the item.

Tips & Warnings

• Shop at stores that double or triple the value of the coupon.
• Remember, fast food coupons are coupons, too! Keep them in the car for easy access.
• Trade coupons with friends, or have them save them for you. My grandma mails me a stack of coupons once a month!
• You can use one coupon per item, so if you buy a buy 1 get 1 free, then you can use a coupon for the item and for the one you get free. This usually makes the item you bought almost free as well.
• If possible, don't go shopping with the kids.
• Don't leave home without your coupons. You never know when you may need them.