Become a Clipper: Basics of Couponing

Welcome! We are so excited that you have joined us. Becoming a clipper (my terminology for couponer) is one of the best decisions you have ever made!

Helping you save money is my prerogative and to help you get started I have compiled the fundamentals of couponing. Read on to learn what a coupon is and how to get started in this journey!

A coupon entitles the consumer to a discount off a particular product. Currently two types of coupons exist: manufacturer’s 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 bar code 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 bar code 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 behind the customer service desk or at a display/turn table at the entrance. You can also locate coupons on occasion in the weekly savings ad. Coupons are sometimes available available on the store website, and every so often, you can find them in the Sunday paper. You can register for special clubs the store offers, and they will occasionally send you coupons through the mail or via email. I highly recommend joining Publix's savings programs as they send great coupons out for name brand and store brand products.

If you plan to register for store clubs or sign-up for manufacturer programs I highly suggest 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. I suggest you DO NOT link your coupon email account to your smartphone as you will receive a lot of emails that do not need immediate attention.

Most stores will allow you to stack coupons. Stacking means 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 or accordion file or a binder. If you are just starting out, you may prefer the check file.

I recommend those who are new to couponing to be sure you do your best to avoid coupon fraud. Fraud is most common with coupons found online. I suggest when printing online coupons you:

• print from a reliable source such as the manufacturer’s website or Facebook page.
• utilize authorized coupon websites such as www.coupons.com, www.smartsource.com or www.redplum.com.
• check www.couponinformationcenter.com  if a coupon seems too good to be true.

Till Next Time,
The Constant Clipper