Let's face it, we all need more money today. We can't always count on having extra money for the things that we want. You can pull literally HUNDREDS of dollars from your current budget and you won't even feel the crunch. The answer is simply the use of coupons. I keep mine in a recipe card box and I never shop without them. It's really VERY easy.
HELPFUL TIPS FOR USING YOUR COUPON
BOX.
People stop me in the store and are amazed by my coupon box. They always say things like, "I'm not that organized." Or, "I never remember to bring them to the store." Or, "I always forget that I brought them." I tell them I have them all divided into categories and I don't shop without them. Free groceries is what it's all about to me. I use an average of between $10-22 a week in coupons. THAT'S $520-$1144 A YEAR THAT I DON'T SPEND AT THE SUPERMARKET. I feed a family of 5 so it's worth it to me to take the few minutes a week to collect and cut them out.
HERE ARE A FEW TIPS SURE TO HELP EVEN THE NONBELIEVER.
--Put your coupon box somewhere visible, and keep it there. You are more likely to remember them if you see it sitting there. Mine is HOT PINK, so I can't miss it. ALWAYS SHOP WITH YOUR COUPONS.
--As you cut out your Sunday coupons (even if it's the following Saturday), look through and pull out all expired coupons from your box. This saves the hassle at the checkout because then you know all of your coupons are still valid. My regular cashiers know that all the coupons I use are good.
--Look through your coupons as you make your shopping lists each week. Place a check (or some sort of mark) next to items on your list that you have coupons for. The first section in my coupon box is for coupons I intend to use on that particular trip. This helps to remind you to save.
--If you accidentally forget to take your coupons to the store, keep your receipt, you can take it back with your missed coupons on your next trip and they will still give you back the money.
--Most stores will gladly honor other competing stores coupons. Even if it says, "valid only at *****." They want your overall business, not your $ .50.
--Sign up for your local supermarket's ad mailers and discount cards (Winn-Dixie and Kash N Karry). You can receive store coupons offered by your store and manufacturers sent right to your home. Discount cards work like coupons when you buy weekly featured items.
--Try discount centers and wholesale clubs such as Wal-Mart Supercenter, Sam's, Costco and others from your local area.
--For "free" items. Write the item's shelf price in the space on the coupon. That way the cashier doesn't have to stop to look up the receipt, and you make sure the correct amount is discounted.
--There are some brands you will always be loyal to. Try store brands for some products. Most are equivalent in quality at a less expensive price. Some stores also print coupons for their own brands, so you get a double bonus.
--Use your coupons in conjunction with sales and 2-4-1's for extra savings. This works particularly well with items you only buy once in a while, or that you stock up on, like paper products and dog food.
--USE THE MONEY YOU SAVE TO DO SOMETHING FUN FOR YOURSELF OR YOUR FAMILY!!. My cousin used to save the money in a jar and then use it as her mad money when her family went on vacation. Remember that this is potentially hundreds of dollars by the end of the year. It could make your holiday shopping a little better.
Questions and savings tips welcome. Please e-mail me.
[email protected]
MNE--MOMS NETWORK EXCHANGE 
