Getting Started and Organization

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Getting Started and Organization

1) Purchase newspapers in sets of 2 each Sunday.
A good rule of thumb is to purchase one paper for every member of your family, and round up if necessary.
Call 1.800.The.Times and use Offer Code 220

Don’t cut your coupons every Sunday!

That’s right, you do not cut your coupons before you need them. This method shows you how to organize/file your coupons by Sunday date, then find them when you need them with the Match-ups for the sale.

Here’s an example:
Hormel Chili with Beans 15 oz, 2/$3
$0.55/2 Hormel Chili Products 11/7/2010 SS Insert (exp 1/3/2011)

This shows you the item on sale (Hormel Chili 2/$3) and the coupon needed (from the 11/7/10 SmartSource Insert). So…as you put your list together, you can find your coupons as you need them.

2) Collect Blinkies and Tearpads
When you are at the store or gas station (or anywhere else) collect blinkies and tearpad coupons for items you are likely to purchase. These are Manufacturer coupons and can be used anywhere MQs are accepted. Most Couponers keep these organized/filed in a binder or accordion file.

3) Printable Coupons found OnLine
You can print coupons line, usually two per computer. If you see a hot coupon or a high value coupon, you may choose to print as it becomes available to get yours. If not, there is usually a link found on the Match-ups for the sale and you can print as you need them. Grayscale or black/white printing is acceptable and will save you on ink. Most Couponers keep these organized/filed in a binder or accordion file.

4) Magazines
Often times, coupons are found in magazines. The specific magazine and issue date is noted in the Match-ups for the sale. One magazine I have a subscription to is ‘All You.’ This magazine is packed with coupons and pays for itself! You can get a subscription (or two!) or purchase at Wal-Mart.

5) Coupon Database
You will likely need some items that are not on sale – but you can still save something! Check out the coupon databases available (one is listed on iheartcoupons.blogspot.com) Just search for the item you need, and it will display all the available coupons and where to find them. It’s that easy!