At one point in time or another, you have probably heard about these people who go out there and get all of these items for free simply by using coupons. Many people don’t understand how this can be possible. They doubt that any store is going to give you something for nothing. In reality, you can save just like all of the others and start loading your pantry with items that you didn’t have to pay a penny for out of your own pocket.
When you first start using coupons, it might seem overwhelming and far too much work. Granted, it will take you some time to get used to it, but it will all be worth it in the end. Being able to walk out of the grocery store with a pantry full of items that you didn’t have to pay anything for will bring a smile to your face every time. The process isn’t as difficult as you might think, which is why I am here to help you along the way.
The first thing you need to know is what the store policy is regarding coupons. Ask if they take coupons that you can print online or if they are only willing to take manufacturer coupons. Many stores are limiting the use of Internet coupons, or they are restricting the amount of coupons they will take. Finding the guidelines out beforehand will help minimize any difficulty in snagging your deal at the checkout lane.
Another good thing to know is whether the store doubles coupons. Maybe they double all the time or maybe there are certain days where they double your coupons. Most of the time, they allow doubling up to $1. Even if you don’t live around any stores that double coupons, you can still get items for free.
When you get the ads in the mail, you want to go through them and look to see what items are on sale for the week. Certain stores will match the prices of others, which can help minimize the amount of stores you need to go to for the week. For example, Wal-Mart will match competitor’s ads, so you can get all your groceries there for the same price you would pay elsewhere. Just bring your ad with you and you are all set.
Look through the available coupons available to you online or through your local Sunday paper insert and see what coupons match up with what’s on sale. Sales tend to cycle through once per month, so try to figure out the system at the stores near you. If you want to stock up, you can always get coupons from a coupon clipping service for a small handling fee. For example, if Wal-Mart has make-up remover pads on sale for $1.29 each, you could use the coupon out there for $2 off on the purchase of one item. In the end, you are going to get cash back on each one you purchase.
Another great tool is to pair manufacturer coupons with store coupons to maximize savings even more. Imagine how much money you can get back in your pocket when you buy items that have a coupon worth more than the value of the item. I love going to Wal-Mart and having them pay me to take my items out of the store. It’s all a matter of knowing what to buy and when to buy it. With a little time and patience, you will see your cupboards overflowing with items that you got for free or close to it.
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