Do’s And Don’ts Of Using Coupons

New to coupons? Follow these simple tips to have a stress free coupon experience!

Believe it or not, there is more to using coupons than just clipping and handing them to the cashier. There are some do’s and don’ts to make sure you use them correctly and get the most savings for your effort.

DO watch the expiration date. Not doing so can result in embarrassment and frustration at the register. And don’t lose heart if your coupon has expired – coupons come out in cycles, so another deal will come around in time.

DO make sure you read the coupon, and not just the expiration date. Read to be sure you understand any restrictions, and that you know which size or quantity of the item the coupon is for.

DO pay attention to the cashier as she is running your coupons through the system. You want to be sure they are rung up correctly and in their entirety.

DO familiarize yourself with your favorite stores’ coupon policies. Don’t ever just assume – don’t assume the store takes coupons, don’t assume the store doubles coupons. Does the store offer a customer reward card and how does that work with coupons? Ask the store manager or check with customer service if you’re unsure about policy.

DON’T copy coupons. It is illegal.

DON’T ever try to use more than one coupon on one item. Sometimes you can use one manufacturer and one store coupon on an item, but not two of the same.

DON’T take every item off the shelf just because you have a coupon. Be kind to your fellow shoppers, and leave some sale items for them. Take only what you need.

DON’T buy an item you don’t need just because you have a coupon, even if it is a great deal.

DON’T run from store to store, chasing deals. Remember that coupons cycle. You’ll spend more on gas running around than what you save.

DON’T take all the peelies (coupons on a package) or blinkies (coupons on the shelf) coupons – leave some for your fellow coupon users.

DON’T lose your cool if a cashier or someone in customer service isn’t familiar with the way coupons work, or doesn’t know how to handle them. Use it as an opportunity to educate.

Last of all, DO share your coupons. Coupon sharing is a big thing now, and not only does it allow you to share the coupons you don’t want or need, but it allows you the chance to pick up the ones you do want.