6 Keys to Becoming a Master Couponer
Guest post by Natalie Bracco
Using coupons is an excellent way to save money in your household. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced couponer, it takes time and practice to develop the knowledge needed to become a Master Couponer. Here are six keys to help you become the master couponer you were born to be.
Find Multiple Coupon Sources
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In order to maximize your saving as a master couponer, it is important to have several sources for coupons. You can obtain your coupons from sources such as your local newspaper, grocery stores, online, and through the mail. Some master couponers purchase several newspapers daily just for the coupons or even collect left-over coupons from their coworkers, family, and friends. More coupons, more savings!
Get Organized
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Organizing your coupons is the best way to know exactly what coupons you have in your collection and their expiration dates. Some of the popular coupon organization methods are coupon index boxes using tabs, coupon envelope systems, and coupon binders using sheet protectors. Although there are several methods available, what works for another couponer may not work for you. So organize your coupons in a method that works best for you.
Read the Fine Print
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Before you use any coupons, it is important that you read the fine print. Reading the fine print will help you understand what the coupon can and cannot be used for. For example, some coupons can only be used when you purchase a certain size or you have to purchase a certain number of items before you can use the coupon. By knowing the coupon’s requirements, it can help you plan your shopping trip and prevent any surprises during checking out.
Know Your Store Coupon Policies
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In order to prevent coupon fraud or abuse, several stores have implemented coupon policies. These policies outline what types of coupons are accepted at the store and any limitations. For example, some stores only allow a customer to use a certain number of coupons per transaction. The good news is that you can easily obtain a copy of a store’s coupon policy online by visit its website. If it is not online, ask for a copy at the customer service desk.
Purchase Only What You Need
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When planning out your coupon shopping trip, you should only focus on purchasing items that your family needs. Some couponers get caught up in purchasing anything they have a coupon for. However, if you are buying things your family doesn’t use, you are wasting money instead of saving it. So although you may find an amazing coupon deal, you should only obtain coupons that fit your retail needs.
Getting Paid to Clip Coupons
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Once you have mastered your own coupon saving techniques, you can use your skills to help others and get paid for clipping coupons. You can advertise your skills to busy mothers and families who don’t have time to research and find coupon deals. You can even sell your coupon clipping services online. Another way to get paid from couponing is to enter daily to win cash rewards on cash savings websites such as RewardIt.
By using these six keys, you will be on your way to become a master couponer in no time.
- Natalie Bracco is a freelance writer and an amateur baker. When she’s not busy in the kitchen, you can find her writing about technology, travel, food and finance. Follower her on Twitter @NatalieBracco
Sources:
http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/family/5-extreme-coupon-tips-for-normal-people.htm
http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/beginners-guide-to-coupons/thebeginners-guide-to-coupons-2
http://easternshoremom.com/category/become-an-extreme-couponer/
