CATCHING THE COUPON FEVER!

Whether living on a tight, fixed income or prosperous pension checks, it is important to be good stewards of financial resources. One innovative and fun way to save money is by using coupons. Many people believe that buying generic or no-name brands is still cheaper than using coupons. This is often not true. By using coupons, you can substantially reduce grocery bill! Coupons also introduce products that you would not normally use; so with the savings coupons provide, how can you go wrong? Here are some helpful tips on cashing in on the coupon savings today:

• Check with grocery stores in your area—familiarize yourself with their coupon policies. Some grocers will double the face value of coupons. Occasionally a grocer will have “triple coupon days.” This is a great time to save!
• Watch the mail and newspapers for sale fliers. This is a valuable tool when planning your shopping trip. A good time to purchase items you have a coupon for is when it is on sale. This maximizes your savings!
• Many stores participate in a program that offers web bucks. Grocery stores work in conjunction with the internet and product companies to provide savings for the customer. Websites list the promotional products that, when purchased, generate an in-store coupon for a certain amount off your next purchase, regardless of the product. Ask your local grocer or do a web search under “coupons.”
• Be conscious of expiration dates when using coupons at your local grocer. Clean out your coupons every few weeks. This saves time at the store.
• Organize your coupons by dividing them into categories. Purchase small Ziploc bags to store coupons in to keep files tidy and prevent spillage or purchase a coupon organizer.
• Need resources for gathering coupons? Local newspapers, family, friends, coworkers, networking with others who us coupons, and internet websites (they charge a handling and postage fee).

Need ideas on what to do with the money saved from coupon use?

• Sponsor a missionary
• Pledge to Feed-the-Children
• Donate to local food banks
• Donate to relief efforts
• Give to your church’s building fund
• Pay off other accrued debts