Once you make it into a routine, couponing will save you big bucks that add up. Imagine saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year by using coupons. Now that you’ve made the commitment, you can get into the habit of managing your coupons so that it only takes an hour or two each week to get organized.
How To Organize Coupons: 6 Basic Tips
1. Keep an eye out for Sunday coupons.
First, find out ahead of time what coupons will be featured in your Sunday newspaper. I only buy the newspaper when the Sunday paper coupons that are featured are for things that I need and use. I also check out the blog Learning The Frugal Life. Usually, they have a preview of the Sunday coupons that’s available for a couple of days ahead of time to give us an opportunity to plan ahead for coupon clipping and shopping.
2. Start organizing your coupons.
Next, assemble a notebook for coupon codes, rebate programs, online incentives and your favorite coupon websites. Have a checklist (or bookmark list) to make sure you visit each website weekly to find out the latest deals and coupons. You may also consider subscribing to the feeds of these sites.
3. Apply for discount cards.
Sign up for discount cards at all the major merchants where you shop regularly. For example, CVS has a card for additional discounts. Many grocery stores offer them, such as Stop and Shop and Pathmark. Get all the discount cards you can use in order to ensure you always save the most money. Here’s more on how you can save on groceries.
4. Store, file and categorize your coupons in one place.
Now you are ready to get your coupons together. Create a binder for your coupons and discounts to keep them readily available. Make sections for health and beauty, fruit and vegetables, meat and dairy and other typical categories. All your coupons should be readily accessible.
5. Avoid putting all your coupons in one envelope.
Never pile your coupons in one envelope. When you start couponing, you’ll only have a few. But trust me — if you keep at this, you’ll find that after several weeks, your envelope will be bursting at the seams. You’ll be struggling to find the coupons you need, shuffling through everything from yogurt to spaghetti sauce. It can even mean missing out on savings!
6. Make lists.
Once you get your coupons together, make a list of what you need. Lists keep you organized and on track so you don’t spend on non-essentials. Find the coupons to coordinate with the items on your list. Combine these with other retail savings to save the biggest bucks.
For a neat demonstration, check out this video about putting together a coupon organizer binder:
Happy couponing!
