How to Save Money Using Coupons

                                                         

September is National Coupon Month. Coupons have been in existence since the late 1800's when Grape Nuts and Coca-Cola offered coupons to encourage consumers to try their new products. Local neighborhood grocery stores have been offering coupons to consumers for over 100 years. 

By the 1960s there were billions of coupons being used by consumers. More than 3,000 companies issue over 300 billion coupons each year worth roughly $280 billion. Approximately eight billion coupons are redeemed which saves consumers $5 billion each year on their grocery costs.

Start collecting coupons for any products that you purchase. Using coupons is easy especially when using coupons that can be scanned from your smartphone. You can find coupons anytime anywhere. Coupons are available for any item not just groceries. You can find coupons for clothing, school supplies, electronic, paper goods, cleaning products, baby supplies, medications, and more. Here are 15 tips on where to find coupons, when to use coupons, and how to use coupons.

Where to Find Coupons

1. Direct mail
2. Coupon clipping services
3. Store circulars
4. Newspapers and Magazines
5. In stores
6. Online

When to Use Coupons

1. When an item is on sale
2. When your inventory is low
3. To purchase bulk items
4. Items heavily advertised in the store or sales papers
5. Items that you buy on a regular basis

How to Use Coupons

1. Have coupons ready before you get to the checkout line
2. Do not photocopy and don’t use expired coupons
3. Use coupons at stores that double coupons and honor competitor prices
4. Use coupons on items based on price per pound or per ounce