Couponing 101

Hello friends!

After many past attempts, I have finally mastered the art of couponing! (Well, maybe not mastered, but I'm on my way.) I was talking to another homeschool mom a couple of months ago and she was so excited about couponing! I had clipped coupons in the past, pulled a few when I went to the store, and soon became frustrated because the amount of money I was saving didn't seem to be worth the effort I was putting into it. Finally...finally! I understand the concept of how couponing works and I am saving lots! Thanks, Lisa! So, for all of you out there who have felt the same way, let me assure you it is worth the effort when you understand the principles.

There are many of you who have years of experience doing this, so please comment away with all your tips and strategies.

BASIC INFORMATION REGARDING COUPONS
1. Sales cycles repeat every 6-8 weeks. If you missed that wonderful sale on cleaning supplies this week, don't fret! It will be back soon!

2. Many stores will double coupons with a value of $.50 or less.

3. Some stores will accept competitor's coupons.

4. When a store accepts competitor's coupons, stack these with other coupons for additional savings. (i.e. store sale, store coupon, competitor's coupon, manufacturer's coupon.) Often times, you will get the product for FREE or even make a profit on it!

5. Buy items when they are on sale and use your coupons. (Information on stockpiling to come on later post.) This is the key to successful couponing.  If you only purchase when an item is on sale and use coupons with the purchase, you will save from 50% - 100% on your grocery bills.

While this may not sound very exciting to you now, let me assure you that it is worth it! Here is an example of what I saved last week.

Publix total spent $104. (rounded to the nearest dollar)
Total paid $ 36.
Total SAVED $ 68.

With today's economy, coupons are one way to cut $'s from your budget.