If clipping coupons to save money sounds like more work than it’s worth, consider Jeffrey’s story. His sister challenged him to eat healthy on a dollar day for one month. He accepted the challenge and, with the help of coupons, managed to get $597.96 worth of food for $27.08! Based on his advice, and some of our own here at Credit InfoCenter, here are 10 tips to make coupons work for you!

1) Pick up a Sunday paper. Though most of us get our news for free from the internet these days, investing in a Sunday paper can help you save big with coupon inserts just like the ones your mom and probably her mom clipped “back in the day.”

2) Call to request coupons direct from manufacturers. This is an especially helpful tip if you prefer particular product brands and use them often. That said, be open to other coupon offers.

3) Find coupons online. Search for particular products, manufacturers or simply third-party sites devoted to helping you find the best coupon deals.

4) Look for coupons on store shelves. It’s hard to miss these coupon opportunities right there on store shelves, particularly those with motion sensors that invite you to take a coupon as you walk by.

5) Hold on to your paperwork at checkout. There could be a savings opportunity on your receipt. And don’t discount the value of the coupons they give you at chekcout. Some are for products only related to what you just bought,  but sometimes they’re right on the money.

6) Trade coupons with family and friends. You may not want to eat it or use it, but chances are good someone you know will. Hold on to all your coupons, ask others to do the same and get together for coupon trading once a week.

7) Organize your coupons. By product type is a given, but also remember to organize by expiration date so that you don’t lose track of time and miss out on good deals. 

Keep them with you. You never know when you’re going to need to make a quick stop somewhere. So when creating an organization system for your coupons, make it a compact one that you can keep in your purse or glove compartment of your car.

9) Shop on double and triple coupon days. This is a biggie and so easy to do, as most stores post signs accordingly that cannot be missed.

10) Build meals around coupons and good deals. Unless you’re having a special dinner party or event for which you’re intent on serving a certain menu, be flexible with the groceries you buy. Build your meals around coupons nearing their expiration dates combined with in-store sale items.

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