By Ester Gudim
As a stay at home mom of two and a wife of a full time seminarian, I have learn a thing or two the last few years about saving money. One of the greatest ways that God has shown me is how to use coupons to dramatically cut our grocery/personal hygiene budget. By using coupons to their fullest the last few years, I have been able to maintain a budget of about $90 per month for these categories. Here are a few ideas on how to increase your coupon savings:
1. Collect Coupons-Sunday papers are a great place to start, but you can also find in grocery stores, on products, and even in gas stations.
2. Organize your coupons in a way that makes sense to you. You are more likely to use them if they make sense to you. Coupons could be organized by store layout, or categories used most often.
3. Get to know your stores' coupon policies (You can usually inquire at Customer Service). Different savings your stores might offer could include:
-Price matching other competitors
-Doubling coupons
-Taking expired coupons
-Accepting competitor's coupons
4. Trying matching coupons up with sale prices in your ads to maximize your savings.
5. Think about stockpiling. When you come across a good sale, don't be afraid to purchase alot. Often, if an item is free or very cheap, I will figure out how much my family will use before the expiration date and purchase that amount.
6. Start out small. Major couponing can be a little overwhelming. Try starting with just one store and when you master that one add another one.
7. Utilize the internet.
-Print coupons online. They are often of higher value then those in the Sunday paper.
-Read online forums to help you learn what deals are going on at local stores.
-Order extra coupons online from clipping services. They are online stores where you can purchase extra coupons for items you use often or to use on items that are already on sale that you want to pair with a good coupon and stock up.
-Order extra coupons online from clipping services. They are online stores where you can purchase extra coupons for items you use often or to use on items that are already on sale that you want to pair with a good coupon and stock up.
Clipping services
Finally, it is important to realize that this will take some time and effort. It is worth it though. Not only has God provided abundently for my family through coupons, He has also given us so much that we are able to share with others who are in need.
