COUPONS ARE MAKING A COMEBACK
In today’s hectic world, the thought of saving 25 cents on a 4-pack of toilet paper hardly seems worth the effort or the time. Well, times are a-changin’. With families literally counting pennies, every opportunity to save money is now given a second look. One of those opportunities is coupons.
One way to look at coupons is to view them as cash — no different than the green bills in your purse. For example, if you went to the store and purchased a package of diapers for $16.99 with no coupon, the diapers would run you $16.99 plus sales tax. If you purchased that same package of diapers but with a $2 coupon, they would only cost $14.99. Plus, you get the added benefit or paying lower taxes because sales tax isn’t applied until the coupon is redeemed at the register.
Being a price-savvy consumer isn’t that difficult and can trim down your monthly grocery bill if you take the time, and have a dose of discipline and patience. First, get yourself organized with ironically, an organizer. Either purchase an easy-to-use coupon organizer or make your own.
Next, keep an eye out for coupons on products you use on a regular basis or are seriously interested in giving a try. Don’t be tempted to purchase a product simply because you have a great coupon. Manufacturers are fully aware of consumers who can’t pass up a good buy — even on a product they don’t need.
Coupons aren’t just stuffed into Sunday’s edition of the newspaper. They can be found in magazines, bulk mail coupon mailers, food packaging, the back of grocery store receipts, and even the Internet. You can also join grocery store savings clubs and use manufacturers’ coupons to increase savings.