Lesson 1: Intro to Couponing

When I got started couponing, I had a heck of a time finding just one resource to go through it all step by step. I hope to make that a bit easier for anyone else who would like to get started. Let's focus on manufacturer coupons.

These are issued by a manufacturer for a certain product. They can be used at any store that accepts coupons.  Pay close attention to the wording on the coupon for sizing and any other product specifics.  Some can only be used for a certain size (or excluding trial sizes), while others may be used on any size.

First, you need to find your coupons. The Sunday newspaper is loaded with coupons every week. There are two inserts that come out almost every weekend (excluding holidays), SmartSource and Red Plum. Proctor & Gamble issues their own coupon insert once a month with some bonus inserts here and there. I have noticed that some papers have different coupons in their inserts than others. For instance, yesterday's LaCrosse Tribune advertised "$61 in Coupons", while the Sunday State Journal (Madison, WI) advertised "$168 Coupon Savings Inside." The difference was the Better At Home insert, which I am assuming is put out by General Mills.

(Like I said, I'm still new at this, so I'm learning as I go too. Bear with me, and add your own comments.)

I typically buy 4 different papers (I know...), and get my "mother-in-law's" inserts as well. If you are lucky enough to know someone who would normally throw their inserts out, I'm sure they're be more than happy to give them to you. Also, carriers generally dump their extras in a recycling bin in the area, and stores toss their unsold papers out as well. These are the people you would be fortunate to know. If you do, please introduce me!! :)

Next, start printing coupons online. Get yourself an inexpensive printer and some paper and save some green. I have heard of some people having trouble using internet coupons printed only in black & white (I never have, personally), so you might want to use color. Some coupon sites to start with are:

SmartSource
Red Plum
Coupons.com

You are usually only allowed two prints of a coupon (per computer). After the first prints, try hitting the back button a few times to get your second coupon. This works on most internet coupons. I don't know if there is a way to reset the print allowments (is allowment a word?)

You can also check out the websites and Facebook pages of your favorite products and companies. Here you are usually able to print out coupons.

Many of the free samples I receive also contain a coupon somewhere in or on the packaging. Be sure to check before you throw it away.

Sometimes you can find manufacturer coupons in-store either attached to the product's packaging (peelies) or hanging on or near the product (hang tags.) If you're lucky, there will be a tear pad near a product with manufacturer coupons on them. Keep your eyes peeled while shopping!

I'll spare your eyes for a bit.  Stay tuned for more.
Lesson 2:  Store Coupons + Manufacturer Coupons = Extra Savings!