iClip to Save: Getting Started!

Today I am launching a new series called iClip to Save. This series will focus on couponing do's, don'ts, how to's, and much much more. Today I thought it would be appropriate to launch the series with why I started couponing and also to introduce the coupon basics. Please let me know what you think! Email me any questions, concerns or feedback! 

iClip to Save: Getting Started

The Clipping Begins..

Two years ago I did my grocery shopping on a budget. That often meant that I had to skip over items we really wanted like seafood or expensive cuts of meat. It also meant we bought the generic brand for everything. When we splurged, it meant we went over our budget and we all know what happens when you go over your budget!

I was not introduced to couponing by a family member, friend or even a coworker. I merely stumbled upon a class offered by ESM & BB when picking my son up from daycare. After a brief conversation with one of the class attendees, I decided to contact these savvy couponers and host a class. That day was life changing! Learning, that just by clipping coupons, I could cut my grocery bill in half ignited a clipping frenzy!

Now, I normally spend $100 or less on $300 or more worth of groceries to feed my family of three. We no longer eat the bare minimum; instead, we are able to eat organic fruits and vegetables, splurge on steak or seafood and pick up all those yummy snacks for our lunches. When I shop I am able to save anywhere from 60-80% on my total grocery bill and often walk out with several items that were free or literally pennies on the dollar. This feels great and while we are eating better, we are spending less.

Couponing Basics
To be a successful couponer you must understand the fundamentals of couponing. To get you started I have compiled the basics. While they may not be exciting, all couponers need to have a foundation of coupon education before getting started.

A coupon, by definition, entitles the holder, or consumer, to a discount off a particular product.  Currently, two types of coupons exist: manufacturer’s coupons and store coupons.

Manufacturer’s coupons:

·       are distributed by the company who produces the product (e.g. Kraft Foods).

·       include retailer terms in fine print which include a mailing address.

·       have a barcode that begins with a 5.

Manufacturer’s coupons are the most common type and can be found in your Sunday paper, online, in magazines and on product packaging.

Store coupons:

·       include name of store.

·       will not include a barcode that starts with a 5.

·       can only be used at the store it is intended for (there is an exception to this rule though, some stores will accept coupons of their competitors).

Store coupons are generally found in the store (typically when you first walk in or behind the customer service counter) and/or in a weekly savings ad. They are sometimes available on the store website, and every so often, you can find them in the Sunday paper.

You can also join special programs the store offers like a baby or pet club to receive other offers.  If you plan to register for store clubs or sign-up for manufacturer programs I recommend that you create a separate email account just for your coupons. This will keep your personal email from becoming overwhelmed with coupons and other special offers. For a while I had everything come to my personal account and I thought my husband was going to have a conniption fit.

Most stores will allow you to “stack” coupons, meaning you can use one manufacturer’s coupon and one store coupon per item. There are always exceptions to the rule so the best thing to do is call the store where you plan to shop and to be sure you are familiar with their coupon policy.

Before you start clipping coupons, it is important to determine how you will organize them. Common methods include:

·       a check file

·       an accordion file

·       a binder

If you are just starting out, you may prefer the check file. I used this method for the first year and it worked great. I just separated the coupons out by categories (e.g. cleaning supplies, dairy, pet supplies, etc.) Eventually, I ended up switching to the binder method so I would have more room.

If you have questions or feedback please feel free to email us! We’d love to answer your questions and share the responses with other readers!

Till Next Time,

The Constant Clipper