Discounts can be found by using the coupons in newspapers, magazines, flyers, and stores. The coupons are provided by many companies to entice you (the consumer) to use their products. The coupons represent free money if you already use the product. The best source for coupons can be found in the Sunday newspaper. The savings from the coupons will offset the cost of purchasing the newspaper.

     Save the coupons for specific stores which are mainly received in the mail. Be aware that some stores will honor competitor coupons. Ask the store manager for verification as opposed to the store clerk. The store manager will typically honor the competitor’s coupon to keep your business even if it is not company policy.

     Look for coupon displays mounted on the aisles next to a product or on the product you may be purchasing or may purchase in the future. Collect as many as you can use or intend to use. Present the coupons at the checkout register for immediate savings.

     Coupons don’t exist for every product on the market, but the coupons for the products on the market can typically result in savings of 10% to 15% off your total grocery bill. Don’t feel self-conscious when using coupons. Always remember that the savings indicate you are a better shopper by spending your money more wisely, as opposed to being labeled a penny-pincher.

     I have heard the argument from many individuals claiming coupons are a waste of time and that coupons lead people to purchase products they don’t need and the time spent collecting coupons can be better utilized by spending your time earning extra money. My response is that many individuals do not have the opportunity to increase their income. Therefore they need ways to reduce their expenses in the form of savings offered by the use of coupons. Coupons allow you the opportunity to purchase items you already normally purchase at a discount. Coupons also allow you the opportunity to try a new product at a lower price. Remember that many companies will refund you the purchase price if you are dissatisfied. The coupons offer you the opportunity to fight the rising cost of food due to inflation. Companies won’t eliminate the use of coupons with the intent of lowering their prices because companies use coupons as a marketing tool for consumers to purchase more than they need. You the consumer must use the coupons correctly and wisely to benefit from their use the most!


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