How to Start Couponing for Beginners (2022)
Couponing isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but how do you know if it will work for you without trying it out? If nothing else, you should learn how to coupon because it can be a great way to stretch your grocery budget. Whether you save $2.00 or $25.00, that is money that you can put towards your financial goals. It’s easy to get started, according to The Krazy Coupon Lady. While you’ll learn how to start extreme couponing over there, we have collated some of the easier couponing tips on this page to get you primed up.
What to Buy with Coupons
She suggests that while you are learning how to become a couponer, focus your energy on the expensive items. These are things like laundry detergent, diapers and baby formula. Make sure you are only buying things you need. Don’t be tempted to put items in your cart just because you have a coupon. Buying items that you will never use, no matter how much you save, is still a waste of money.
Where to Find Coupons
You can find inserts of coupons in the Sunday paper. One of the best ways to find coupons is to go to the local recycling center for these, or buying discounted Sunday papers on Monday. If you absolutely have to buy a paper on Sunday, try the dollar store. Paying for coupons can negate your savings.
You can also find coupons online. KCL’s data base is a great place to start. There are also P&G coupons that you can bring. Using files or an accordion file is a great way to keep your coupons separated into categories so you can easily find the savings.
Learn How to Use Your Coupons
To start saving, make a list of the items you need to buy. Then go through your coupons and find any that you can use for this list. Pay attention to requirements on the coupon. You may have to buy two, or there may be a certain size you have to buy in order to use the coupon. Also, check the expiration date. Make a note of this on your list so you don’t have to go through the coupons and waste time while shopping.
Once you go to the checkout, hand the cashier your stack of coupons and start placing your items on the checkout counter. When the clerk is done, they should scan your coupons and you get to watch your bill go lower and lower! It’s the best part.
Use Coupons to Grow Your Savings Account
When the clerk gives you your receipt, you should be able to see the “total savings” for that purchase. That is the amount of money you need to transfer to your savings account when you get home. You were going to spend it anyway, so you might as well move that money so that you can save it for something you really want.
It takes a little practice, and you have to get organized and find a system that works best for you, but it will be worth it once you start.
Linda Jacob is a Certified Financial Planner® and an Accredited Financial Counselor®. Linda began working in the banking industry in high school and put herself through college. After years of growing assets for her clients, her true purpose in life became clear. She was put on earth to help everyone become successful money managers, get out of debt, and reach their financial goals. When Linda isn’t working, she enjoys cooking, golfing, and reading.