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Showing posts with label Budget. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Budget. Show all posts

Friday, February 16, 2024

Budget-Friendly Buys: Discovering Quality at Low Prices

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Budget-Friendly Buys: Discovering Quality at Low Prices

Everyone loves to find a great deal, especially when it means not sacrificing quality. But how do you know if you're truly getting the best bang for your buck? Here are some savvy shopping tactics that can help you score high-quality products without breaking the bank.

Read Reviews Like a Pro

Product reviews are like secret messages from people who've already bought what you're eyeing. They can tell you a lot about the quality and value of a product. Here's how to read them effectively:
  • Look for Patterns: If multiple reviews mention the same issue or praise, it's likely a reliable indicator of the product's performance.
  • Check Verified Purchases: Some platforms mark reviews from verified buyers. These tend to be more trustworthy since they confirm the reviewer actually bought the item.
  • Read the Extremes: Look at the best and worst reviews to understand the range of experiences. Just remember, some may be overly positive or negative.

Compare Prices with Precision

Before you hit 'buy', make sure you're getting the best deal out there. Price comparison is key:
  • Use Comparison Tools: Websites and apps can compare prices across different stores in seconds. Try tools like Google Shopping or apps like ShopSavvy.
  • Check Different Formats: Sometimes, buying in bulk or choosing a different size or color can save you money.
  • Consider Total Cost: Don't forget to factor in shipping fees and taxes. The lowest sticker price isn't always the cheapest option once these are added.

Leverage Discount Seasons and Clearance Sales

Timing can be everything when it comes to finding deals. Here's when to shop:
  • End-of-Season Sales: As seasons change, retailers often clear out old stock. This is a perfect time to grab clothes, shoes, and seasonal items.
  • Black Friday and Cyber Monday: These famous shopping days after Thanksgiving offer deep discounts on a wide range of products.
  • Back-to-School and Tax-Free Days: Many states have tax-free days to help with back-to-school shopping, which can also apply to other items.

Get Alerts for Price Drops

Don't miss out on sudden price drops. Set up alerts to stay in the loop:
  • Sign Up for Newsletters: Retailers often send special offers to their subscribers first.
  • Use Alert Services: Tools like CamelCamelCamel track prices on sites like Amazon and alert you when they drop.

Embrace Second-Hand Shopping

You can find barely used or well-maintained items for a fraction of the cost:
  • Visit Thrift Stores: Local thrift shops often have unique finds at low prices.
  • Shop Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay or apps like Letgo connect you with sellers of used goods.

Loyalty Programs and Coupons

Take advantage of loyalty programs and coupons:
  • Join Loyalty Programs: Earn points and get access to members-only discounts.
  • Clip Coupons: Check newspapers, store flyers, and online coupon sites for savings.

Smart Shopping Checklist

Keep this checklist handy when you're on the hunt for quality, budget-friendly buys:
  • Read through several product reviews, focusing on verified purchases.
  • Use price comparison tools to ensure the best deal.
  • Check for cheaper options in different sizes or colors.
  • Calculate total costs, including shipping and taxes.
  • Keep an eye on seasonal sales and special discount days.


By following these tips, you'll become a smart shopper who knows how to spot quality at low prices. Remember, a little research goes a long way in saving you money while still getting the products you love. Happy hunting!


Thank you for stopping by and checking out our Budget-Friendly Buys: Discovering Quality at Low Prices. Which tip was your favorite? Any other tips you'd like to add? Be sure to let us know in the comments below! If you enjoyed this post, we’d be very grateful if you’d help it spread by emailing it to a friend or sharing it on Twitter and/or Facebook. Don't want to lose this? Pin it on Pinterest so you can get back to it later!

Have a great day!





Other Krazy Deal Daze Posts You May Be Interested In:

Friday, January 7, 2022

How to Plan a Party on a Budget

How to Plan a Party on a Budget

This post contains paid affiliate links, please read our Advertising Disclosure Statement.



Every party host wants their guests to leave happy, satisfied, and let’s face it, impressed. But the cost of so many things that go into a party, such as food, beverages, decorations, and party rentals, can add up quickly. If keeping within your budget is important, don’t worry—you can plan a successful party and save money at the same time.

Make Simple Invitations

Small get-togethers require just a phone call or text, but for larger or more formal parties, invitations are in order. The trouble is, buying personalized and mailing invitations can be expensive. If the occasion allows, consider sending out digital invitations. Several websites and social media platforms offer free or low-cost digital invitations. You can design and personalize them online, and collect RSVPs when people respond. If you prefer printed invites or if a keepsake invitation is desired, such as for a special anniversary, you can also take advantage of low-cost websites that let you order printed invitations. Of course, you’ll want to plan ahead to leave extra time for shipping and mailing.


Focus on Free Entertainment

Kids don’t care if you hire an expensive character impersonator or rent an inflatable bouncer—they just want to have fun. For kids, that means being active and playing. If a kids’ party is being held outdoors, you can’t go wrong with classics like sack races or ball tosses. For the indoors, searching games and crafts can be fun. 


Just like kids, grown-ups like games, too. Organize a bean-bag throw contest (called cornhole in some areas) and offer inexpensive prizes for other kinds of competitions. Instead of hiring a DJ, hook up some speakers and stream your own music playlist. This can even work at weddings with some planning.


Reuse Old Supplies

Every party seems to end up with surplus supplies like extra paper plates, napkins, streamers, or balloons. With a little creativity, you can repurpose supplies from a previous party and create new decorations. You can make paper flowers from leftover streamers or party napkins. Or, add a new color and braid streamers together for a fresh look.


For kids, leftover paper plates can be folded into baskets to use for party favor bags. You can also use paper plates for kids’ crafts and games. The backs of paper plates make a great canvas for drawing and coloring. Use scissors to cut holes in the plates, and they can be transformed into masks.


Buy in Bulk

Whether you shop at a big-box warehouse retail store or an online shop, buying in bulk can save you money. Food, decorations, and other party supplies can all be purchased in large quantities at discount prices. Frozen party foods like chicken wings, meatballs, and other finger foods are available in large boxes, for instance, which can save you both money and time. For a large party, buying napkins, paper plates, drinking cups, and other serving supplies are also less expensive at bulk shops. Multi-tiered stands can make food such as hors d’oeuvres and desserts look appealing. Toothpicks add detail to your food presentation that will impress people without breaking the bank.


Encourage BYOB

Drinks are expensive, especially beer, wine, and spirits. For more informal parties, it’s perfectly acceptable to request guests to bring their own drinks or contribute to the bar. You may ask directly by putting BYOB on the invitations, but there are also some fun ways to subtly encourage it. For an adult party, consider throwing a wine tasting or beer tasting party. Ask guests to bring their favorite wine or craft beer. Use plastic shot glasses to set up tasting flights and ask guests to rate and vote for their favorite. The winner can win an inexpensive prize, such as a bottle opener or corkscrew, and afterward, everyone shares the leftover beverages.


Make It Appetizers Only

Unless you’re not specifically hosting a dinner party, you may not need to serve a meal or a full buffet. Everyone loves finger foods, and an appetizers-only party can satisfy your guests’ hunger and save you money in the long run. By offering a wide range of appetizers, from vegetables to gluten-free desserts, you can also meet your guests’ varying dietary needs.

For informal parties, a simple browsing table will work, but if you want to ramp it up a notch, serve some more unusual foods and take some time with the presentation. Tapas and small plates are popular trends these days, and the appetizers-only theme is even being used for weddings.

Use Your Backyard

Moving a party outdoors has a number of advantages, and not just on your budget. Most people’s backyards can comfortably accommodate more people than their living rooms, so you can expand the invitation list. Outdoor parties also require less elaborate decorations: just add some lights or a few flowering plants. If rain is a risk, consider renting a tent or canopy. It can be much less expensive than renting a venue. A backyard party doesn’t have to be a kids’ party or barbecue. With the right touches, you can transform your backyard into a more formal venue. Many couples save thousands of dollars by hosting a backyard wedding.


Make It a Potluck

Family parties are often potlucks, and they’re usually a hit. Everyone looks forward to Grandma’s potato salad or Uncle Joe’s hot wings. But potlucks can be fun experiences for other types of parties, too. Start by choosing a theme, such as a specific cuisine or occasion. Part of the entertainment is getting to sample a variety of dishes. You can ask people to indicate what they will bring or assign people certain categories, such as appetizers, side dishes, salad, entrĂ©es, and dessert. You might also want to set a size or price range per item so that everyone contributes an equitable amount. Label the dishes and encourage tasting size portions.


A great party doesn’t have to be expensive to be enjoyable. Whatever the occasion of the party, you can save money without forgoing anything needed for people to have a good time. With a little imagination, you can host a memorable event that doesn’t break your budget.


Read this next: Why Online Shopping is the Best Way to Shop


Thank you for stopping by and checking out our tips on How to Plan a Party on a Budget. Which tip was your favorite? What other tips would you suggest? Be sure to let us know in the comments below! If you enjoyed this post, we’d be very grateful if you’d help it spread by emailing it to a friend or sharing it on Twitter and/or Facebook. Don't want to lose this? Pin it on Pinterest so you can get back to it later!
 
Have a great day!


Tuesday, March 10, 2020

Tips for Finding a Budget-Friendly Repair Company to Fix Your Heater

Tips for Finding a Budget-Friendly Repair Company to Fix Your Heater
This post contains paid affiliate links, please read our Advertising Disclosure Statement


Is your heater broken? Have you checked your furnace filter, your thermostat, the electrical panel, The pilot light, the vent, and you still haven't solved the issue? Are you looking for tips on how to find an affordable repair option? Well, lucky for you, this article is here to address both your financial and heat repair needs.

Search for Reviews

To begin looking for an affordable option that addresses your needs, you will want to investigate heating repair companies near you. After finding some service options, begin searching online for reviews of the individual companies, since the internet is now a company's primary method for interacting with the public/potential customers. These reviews will give you an idea of what to expect in regard to the cost and quality of the repair. The nature of the reviews should figure prominently into your decision because online feedback is a reliable indicator of what to expect of a company's services. According to Podium, when companies receive positive feedback and high ratings, you naturally have a better impression of them and will choose them over other companies.

Ask Your Friends

According to Omega Heating & Air, you'll also want to ask your friends for potential repair options. The suggestions they provide may be more reliable because of the prior personal relationship you have with your friends, as opposed to the basically anonymous online reviews. Also, if your friends do have recommendations, they might have connections to a particular company, and as a result, be able to hook you up with a good deal and special attention.

Find Special Deals

Continuing from the previous section, you will want to do the best you can to find good deals on the services you are looking for. You can find these either through a friend or by contacting the company themselves to get an estimate. When you contact the companies you are considering for estimates, it would be in your best interest to inquire about possible deals they could offer you. A company may not advertise a deal, but if you push them on it (e.g., by stating your budget) they might relent and give you a good deal. In any case, try what you can to get the service for as cheap as possible

Check Services

When researching heating repair companies, it's also a good idea to evaluate the services they provide to ensure that they do indeed do the work you need to be done. Some HVAC companies have more limited, specialized services, and may not be qualified to perform the service you are in need of. To this point, you should look for HVAC companies who specialize in heaters specifically, as this is the best way to ensure the quality of your repair.

Ask About Rebates

Manufacturer rebates can often be the best way to save money on repairs. Sometimes manufacturers will offer special deals on maintenance work on new equipment, as a way of maintaining their integrity as a company when the integrity of their product has been compromised in some way. So, ask if there are any special rebates on your heater when you contact the repair company.

Collect Quotes

As you contact different companies in search of estimates, it is a good idea to keep a record of these quotes, for comparative purposes. Once you have collected a substantial amount of quotes, begin comparing them by price and value. Don't merely choose the cheapest option. According to the Credit Union of Texas, a bid that is significantly lower than others could be a sign that the company cuts corners or uses cheap, low-quality materials. Obviously, you want to get the best "bang" for your buck, so you will want to ensure that, for the price, you are getting a guarantee of quality and lasting work. Also, make sure that they are providing all the services you are in need of. No one wants to hire someone to do a job, pay them for it, only to discover that more work is necessary and that the company you hired can't provide that service.

When beginning your search for heating repair options, it’s important to look online and read reviews of the company. Don't just look for the star rating — actually read people's comments on the company, as these will be far more informative than the star rating. While you are doing this online research, it is also a good idea to consult your friends and family about possible repair options. You want to cast as wide a net as possible to ensure you get the best deal possible. Once you've narrowed your search a bit, you will want to start contacting companies, collecting quotes, and probing for special deals and manufacturer rebates. Make sure you compare the estimates closely to ensure that you are getting the highest value service you can get.

For more tips on great deals, check out our shopping guides!

Thank you for stopping by and checking out our Tips for Finding a Budget-Friendly Repair Company to Fix Your Heater! Which tip was your favorite? Any other tips you'd like to add? Be sure to let us know in the comments below!

If you enjoyed this post, we’d be very grateful if you’d help it spread by emailing it to a friend or sharing it on Twitter and/or Facebook. Don't want to lose this? Pin it on Pinterest so you can get back to it later!

Have a great day!





Other Krazy Deal Daze Post You May Be Interested In:

Friday, June 21, 2019

4 Budget-Friendly Ways to Brighten Up a Dingy Home

4 Budget-Friendly Ways to Brighten Up a Dingy Home
This post contains paid affiliate links, please read our Advertising Disclosure Statement.

You do not have to spend a fortune to create the home of your dreams. 

With a little creativity and smart thinking, you can brighten up any dreary home. Here are four budget-friendly ways to lighten up any dingy home:


Brighten with White

Rooms painted and decorated in light colors will appear brighter than the same space that is outfitted with dark colors and fixtures. White is the best choice of color when looking to make your house look less dingy. This non-hue does not absorb color, meaning that it sends light bouncing back to other surfaces. This scattering of light makes any room feel brighter and airier.

Touch Up Your Windows

The windows are the source of light for your home. Thus, it makes sense that they need to be clean and free of debris so that light can filter in at maximum effectiveness. The material and style of your frames also make a big difference in how much light makes it through. In addition to giving your windows regular cleanings, be sure to pay attention to the color of the frames and the window dressings. Lighter colored frames will reflect light more naturally and brighten the entire room while breezy curtains will create a softer effect in the space.

Mirror Mirror on the Wall

The old trick of adding mirrors to a room to make it look brighter and bigger truly works. You can double the amount of sunlight that streams into a room by hanging mirrors that reflect light. Strategically hanging a large mirror directly across from a big window will yield the most effective brightening results. Or try a small collection of mirrors in different sizes to lighten a dark and dingy staircase. The good thing about mirrors is while there are some more expensive ones out there, there are also lots of mirrors you can buy that are pretty cheap.

Update Light Bulbs

The bulbs in your lighting fixtures can play a big role in how bright a room appears. LED bulbs with a brighter output will instantly brighten a room. A cooler daylight color of bulb can transform a room from dark and grey to light and cheery. A true white bulb will deliver the most brightness.

You do not have to live with a dark and dingy home. The right color palette and decor items can turn any dreary space into something that sparkles and shines with brightness. By getting creative, you can design this look on any budget.

If you’re looking to do more than just brighten up your home, check out this other article for more ideas on home improvement projects that you can do on a budget!

Thank you for stopping by and checking out our 4 Budget-Friendly Ways to Brighten Up a Dingy Home! Which tip did you find most helpful? Be sure to let us know in the comments below! 

If you enjoyed this post, we’d be very grateful if you’d help it spread by emailing it to a friend or sharing it on Twitter and/or Facebook. Don't want to lose this? Pin it on Pinterest so you can get back to it later!

Have a great day!



Monday, May 6, 2019

Cool Home Improvement Projects You Can Do on a Budget

Check out Cool Home Improvement Projects You Can Do on a Budget
This post contains paid affiliate links, please read our Advertising Disclosure Statement.


It might be time to make some updates around your home.

There are a number of home improvement projects that you can do without spending a fortune. With a little bit of DIY skill and some creative ideas, you can create some incredible transformations.


Closet Organization


You can make your closet look bigger than it really is when you organize it properly. You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to have a professional company to create shelves and drawers. Instead, there are a few DIY tricks that you can do. Use boxes or baskets to keep some of the smaller accessories. Add another clothes rod in the closet, too, allowing you to get a second row of clothes into the same space. You may want to consider installing a few shelves in the closet so that things can be removed from the floor.


Garage Floor Epoxy


Epoxy installation is easier than you might think. If you’re tired of looking at the cracks and stains on your garage floor, there are kits that you can buy. Before applying the primer, you'll want to sand or grind the top of your concrete thoroughly and vacuum up any dust. Then, you can even add colored bits to ensure that you have the garage floor that you have always wanted. It will be easier to keep the garage floor clean, too.


Kitchen Backsplash


If you’re tired of looking at the same boring wall in your kitchen, you can add some color and style with a backsplash. With some glue, tile, and grout, you can create a backsplash above the sink, behind the stove, and around all of the countertops. It’s a great way to keep the area clean, too. Now, if you splash spaghetti sauce or something else on the wall, it’s easy to wipe clean.


Paint


Off-white walls are the standard inside of most houses. You can transform any room in the house with a little bit of paint. Metallic paints can add a luxurious look to dining rooms and hallways while chevron and harlequin prints can add whimsy to bedrooms and home offices. Choose bright colors that can add plenty of personality to a room. With a drop cloth, a paintbrush, and a few stencils, you can accomplish quite a bit.

Don’t be afraid to think out of the box for your home improvement projects. By doing it yourself and using creative ideas, you don’t have to spend a lot of money.

Thank you for stopping by and checking out our MONTH Shopping Guide! Which Krazy Deal are you most excited about this month? Be sure to let us know in the comments below!

If you enjoyed this post, we’d be very grateful if you’d help it spread by emailing it to a friend or sharing it on Twitter and/or Facebook. Don't want to lose this? Pin it on Pinterest so you can get back to it later!


Have a great day!




Other Krazy Deal Daze Post You May Be Interested In: 

Monday, February 11, 2019

4 Tips for Saving Money on Your Next Home Improvement


Check Out our 4 Tips for Saving Money on Your Next Home Improvement
This post contains paid affiliate links, please read our Advertising Disclosure Statement.

Home improvement projects improve the quality of residential properties and can allow you to feel more comfortable in the space. One of the most important parts of the project is the amount of money that you plan to spend. Although renovating or remodeling your home can cost a significant amount of money, there are a few ways to save on your next project.

Specify a Budget and Stick to It


One of the most important steps of starting a home improvement project is knowing how much you can afford to spend. Without crunching a few numbers in advance, it can be easy to get into debt and have remorse for the project. Calculate each cost, which includes paying for siding or other home service professionals. Most budget blowouts happen because homeowners fail to properly count the cost of home services, or don't even try. Determine what you can afford while working with your contractor and add a bit of wiggle room in the budget for unexpected costs that can arise throughout
the process.

Get Multiple Quotes On Home Services


Instead of hiring the first person that you talk to on the phone, opt for getting multiple quotes from different contractors to find the best deal that works with your budget. Contractors each have different rates, which makes it necessary to call around when narrowing down your options. Avoid choosing the contractor that provides you with a cheap deal, which may mean that they'll compromise on the quality of the materials that are used. Once it's time to pay for the services, opt for using cash to avoid paying interest.

Ask the Hardware Store If They Have Any Deals or Promotions


Hardware stores always have items that are discounted because of products that have been returned or to make room for new items that they want to sell. Promotions are also common throughout the year, especially around holidays. Knowing when the products will be discounted can allow you to schedule a time for when you can purchase certain materials or hardware to save more money. You can also purchase leftover materials from manufacturers to get a better deal.

Search for Coupons Online


As more people shop online, it can become easier to find different coupons that allow you to pay less for materials that you already plan to purchase. Some retailers will provide you with a coupon if you sign up for their emails or will give you a discount if you provide your mailing address. Others have coupon codes that are available at different times of the month. Many home improvement stores also offer discounts for people who have AAA or to military members, making it necessary to ask while shopping around.
Source: https://abeautifulmess.com/


Knowing the different ways that you can save money on your next home improvement project can allow you to keep your costs down and make it more affordable. You'll not only avoid stress but can feel in control of the project and have peace of mind once it's completed.

Here’s another handy guide for making the most of your money while designing your home’s interior!



Thank you for stopping by and checking out our February Shopping Guide! Which Krazy Deal are you most excited about this month? Be sure to let us know in the comments below!


If you enjoyed this post, we’d be very grateful if you’d help it spread by emailing it to a friend or sharing it on Twitter and/or Facebook. Don't want to lose this? Pin it on Pinterest so you can get back to it later!

Have a great day!




Monday, August 14, 2017

Couponing Basics for Beginners - What you Need to Know

This post may contain paid affiliate links, please read our Advertising DisclosureStatement.

What's a coupon?

coupon is a ticket or document that can be redeemed for a financial discount or rebate when purchasing a product. Customarily, coupons are issued by manufacturers of consumer packaged goods or by retailers, to be used in retail stores as a part of sales promotions.

Manufacturer coupons

A manufacturer coupon is a coupon issued by a manufacturer that offers a free item or a specific amount off the purchase price of one or more of a manufacturer's products. You will see "Manufacturer Coupon" printed on the coupon.

  •         There are many sources of manufacturer’s coupons.
  •         Manufacturer’s coupons may be used at any store that will accept them (which includes most grocery, drug, and nationally-based chain stores).
  •          Stores accept manufacturer’s coupons as a form of payment at checkout as they will be reimbursed from the manufacturer.
  •          Manufacturers put out coupons to entice you to buy their product.
  •          Manufacturer websites and their social media sites.
  •          In-stores on specially marked displays as tearpad coupons or blinkie coupons.
  •          In magazines and Newspapers.
  •         Writing or emailing the Manufacturer.

YES! You read that last bullet point right! You can write a letter or email your favorite companies, and some will send you coupons? It’s a great way to get exclusive coupons that you won’t get in newspapers or online, and some will even send you FREE product coupons as a thank you for reaching out to them. No this method doesn't work 100% of the time, but when it does It's well worth it!

A few tips when writing Manufacturers:

  • Make your letter personal. Don't directly ask for coupons and no sob stories. Instead explain why you personally love their product.
  • Suggest improvements based off your experience with their product ie.. a new flavor, new packaging suggestion...etc. Companies want to know how they can improve their products for their customers.
  • Don't forget to include your FULL mailing information! They can't send you any coupons if they don't know where to send it..!
  • Sometimes they say no... But it's okay! Others will say yes and send you goodies, so don't get discouraged.


Store coupons



A Store coupon is a coupon issued by the store and can only be used at that store. The store is giving you the discount. Typically you will see the stores logo printed on the coupon.


  •          Store coupons can only be used at the store they are intended for. There are some exceptions, some stores may accept competitor’s coupons. (Always check the stores Coupon Policy, still not sure ask an associate or store manager)
  •          Store coupons normally have a short window of time to use them. The “good through” dates often coincide with weekly store ad cycles.
  •          Store coupons sometimes will let you buy more than one item. For instance when a coupon reads “limit 4.” This means you can buy up to 4 of that item and get them at the stated coupon price with that single coupon.
  •          Most stores allow you to stack a store coupon with a manufacturer’s coupon. (Always check the stores Coupon Policy, still not sure ask an associate or store manager)
  •          Can be found in weekly ads, mailers, in store, Sunday inserts, online at retailers site, even Apps like Flipp.


So how do you tell the difference between a Manufacturer coupon and a Store coupon? Here are three simple things to look for on your coupons:
  1. look at the description. If it says manufacturer’s coupon, then you know it is and should be able to be redeemed anywhere. (Sometimes there is a store name listed and this can make things confusing.) There are times when it may appear to be a store coupon, when it is not. So when in doubt, look further.
  2. look for a redemption address. Store coupons do not need to send the coupon anywhere for reimbursement, so there will not be a remit to address listed. However, manufacturer’s coupons must have this data listed so that the store can get their money back.
  3. Check the barcode. If you see a 4, that indicates that it is a store coupon, but if it shows a 5 that means it is a manufacturer’s coupon (even if it shows a store logo).

Coupons may only be used once. You may not buy ten of the same item and scan the one coupon multiple times. Stores are only reimbursed for the single coupon you scanned per one item.

You may only use one coupon per indicated items purchased. If you have two coupons to save $1 on one item, you can buy two of those items and use both coupons. The coupon will say “one coupon per purchase.” That means you may not use both coupons on one item. If you purchase two items then you may use two coupons.

Coupons may not be copied. Copying coupons is illegal. You can obtain multiples of coupons in legal ways like buying multiple newspapers.

Using a coupon on an item that is on sale or clearance. In some cases you can even use a coupon on an item that is on sale or clearance. It’s always a good idea to check the stores Coupon Policy before planning your trip. Still not sure ask an associate, store manager, or even call corporate.

Always read the wording of the coupon and ignore the picture! Manufacturer’s usually put a picture of their most expensive product on the coupon to make you think that is what you have to buy. If you read the terms of the coupon, it may say “save on ANY brand said product.” That means you can buy even the least expensive product and still save with the coupon!

Always read the fine print of every coupon! In most cases, you are able to use one manufacturer’s coupon per item purchased. That means that if you have four coupons that read “save $1 on 1 item” you should be able to buy four of said item and use all four coupons. However, some coupons have fine print that states things such as “limit 4 like coupons in a transaction,” “limit 1 per shopping trip,” and/or “limit 1 per customer.” Make sure you’ve taken the time to read through the fine print to avoid any surprises at checkout.


Check your coupons expiration date! Yes coupons expire, so always double check your coupons expiration dates before heading to the store. Again, you don’t want any surprises at checkout.

Know your stores coupon policy! Thankfully we have the wealth of the worlds knowledge at our fingertips, so put them to use when planning your shopping trips and research your stores coupon policy (I even suggest printing a copy an taking it with you, just in case there's any misunderstandings with their policy at the register) Knowing your local stores coupon policy will help you plan a successful shopping trip! Also check the policies frequently as they do make changes from time to time, so make sure to keep yourself up-to-date.

Just start off slow, start by collecting your coupons and familiarizing yourself with them. Once you’ve accumulated some coupons you can plan your first trip. Don't be in a hurry to build a stockpile, you'll have plenty of time to work your way up to that level. In the meantime, enjoy the process of learning how to effectively coupon and save money!


Commonly used couponing terms and abbreviations:

  • BLINKIES - In-store coupons near product, usually from a red blinking box.
  • BOGO or B1G1 Free - Buy One Get One Free.
  • CAT or CATALINA - Coupon that prints at the register after purchase.
  • CRT - Cash register tape, coupon that prints in store.
  • DOUBLE COUPON - Coupon that a grocery store doubles in value.
  • ECB - CVS Extra Care Bucks earned for purchases.
  • FREE ITEM COUPON - A coupon that allows you to get the product completely free.
  • IVC - Walgreen’s Instant Value Coupon ( Found in the monthly EasySaver Catalog ).
  • IP - Internet Printable Coupon.
  • MFG or MQ - Manufacturer’s Coupon.
  • MIR - Mail In Rebate.
  • MONEY MAKER- A term used when the final price after coupons, rebates, gift cards, and "on your next order" coupons falls below $0.00. When you earn back more than you pay out, it’s a moneymaker.
  • NED - No expiration date.
  • ONE COUPON PER PURCHASE- Fine print on most coupons states that a customer can only use "one coupon per purchase." That means you can use one coupon ($1 off one, for example) for every item purchased
  • OOP - Out of Pocket, in reference to how much “real money” you will pay at the register.
  • OYNO - On your next order.
  • P&G - Proctor & Gamble Coupon Insert found in the Sunday newspaper.
  • PEELIE - Coupon that you peel off the package.
  • PSA - Prices Starting At.
  • Q - Coupon.
  • RP - Red Plum Coupon Insert found in the Sunday newspaper.
  • RR - Register Rewards.
  • SS - Smart Source coupon insert found in the Sunday newspaper.
  • STACKING - Using a store specific coupon with a manufacturer coupon (most stores allow this).
  • TEARPAD - A pad of refund forms or coupons found hanging from a store shelf or display.
  • TRIPLE COUPON - A coupon that a grocery store triples in value.
  • WYB - When You Buy.
  • YMMV - Your Mileage May Vary

Let's not forget about Online Shopping Apps and Browser Extension Plugins to help you save even more!!



Honey


CouponPaste


Ebates


Ibotta


Happy Couponing!
 

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