How Coupons Can Help Preserve Your Hard Earned Money

December 2, 2008

The means of saving money today has become pretty sophisticated. There are financial tools everywhere, not to mention any number of debt and credit strategies. Even techniques of investment tend to consume our time and keep us up at night with a complexity of options. Wouldn’t it be nice sometimes to preserve our financial resources like we did in more simple times?

We all remember our mother clipping coupons out of the local newspaper, storing them in her coupon folder and diligently bringing it with her to the grocery store every week. Though coupon clipping may have fallen out of fashion, coupon savings are still widely available and can save you big money.

To learn how coupons, both online and off, can save you a lot of money, keep reading for 5 great coupon clipping and saving tips.

1. Never buy online without first checking for coupons.

Many online retailers offer special rebate codes that give you perks like free shipping, $5 off a $50 purchase or a 10% discount. So, before you click “submit” on that next order, be sure to do a Google search for your retailer’s name and possible coupon codes.

Another ideal place to look for deals and specials is right on the retailer’s web site home page. Remember, they want you to find their coupons.

2. Clipping flyer coupons still works.

Whether you stumble across a manufacturer’s coupon for your favorite razor in a magazine or a coupon in your local grocer’s flyer, clip it out and bring it to the store. Those 50-cent savings can quickly add up and take a big dent out of your weekly grocery bills.

Keep track of your coupons in an envelope that you keep in your purse or bag, or store them in a small filo-folder where you can sort them by product type or retailer.

3. Look for printable coupons.

Many retailers offer coupons on their web site that can be printed and brought with you to the store. Before you head out for your next major purchase, look online for possible coupons that you can use to save money. Even if you don’t think you are likely to find a coupon for a specific product, there’s certainly no harm in trying, and you might be pleasantly surprised at what you uncover.

4. Sign up for retailers’ newsletters.

Many retailers, from major department stores to small boutiques, deliver either printed or digital newsletters to their customers. By signing up to receive these newsletters, you’ll be informed about special deals, exclusive coupons and upcoming sales.

5. Try local coupon books.

If you love to eat out, you may get some big returns off an investment in a local restaurant coupon book. These books typically cost anywhere from $5-$20 and can offer sizable savings, like 2-for-1 meals or free appetizers.

Other coupon book options include entertainment coupons and those that are specifically targeted for retailers in your local area.

Technorati Tags: debt management program, personal loan, debt management, credit card debt, wealth creation