[fullera35]

I am new to couponing and would really like to get educated on saving money and the best ways to take advantage of coupons. I would also like to know where to begin with the whole new adventure of couponing and AFC. Any advice from the couponing pros would be greatly appreciated!

[Lynda1811]

Here is something that I typed up for my coupon presentation for the headstart program, parent expo, and new members here as well. I hope this help you get a start at least.

Welcome to AFC! LOL Be prepaired for my novel!

Know your stores coupon policy is a must, this included, target, kmart, walmart, and your grocery stores.

1. does your store accept IP coupons = internet printed
2. does your store double/triple, every day or certain days, up to what amount, is there a limit on coupons that will double, is there a limit on like coupons
3. does your store take expired coupons, up to how long expired
4. does your store price match
5. does your store allow stacking of store coupon and mfc on one item
6. does your store accept compieters coupons
7. does your store give rain checks

Remember we all run into problems from time to time.

Organizing your coupons:
You will need to find out what works out best for you. I personally use the binder method, and file by insert, when I order extra inserts.

You can also organize by envelope, binder, insert, photo book or cd case, acordian file, a small recipie box.

I trully believe that having more coupons is better, for example:

Most stores will do a 10/$10 sale, meaning that each item is $1, if there was a coupon for $1/1 then you would get the item for free, but if you bought 5 papers, then 5 free items, and a great stockpile started.
I personally buy 5-10 papers a week, if I see that my store is having a great sale, I have several options to get more coupons:

Post in the ISO = in search of forum, there you can list what you are looking for, and if members have that coupon, then you can make a trade with them, wether it be a ROAK = random act of kindness, where nothing is traded, trade coupons for coupons, or pay with PP = paypal, or CC concealed cash, or even stamps.

Order extra coupons from the coupon clippers, link found under the coupon tab at the top, order from coupons and things by Dede, a member here that also sells coupons, link under the coupon tab at top as well, ebay, or look in the FSOT = for sale or trade forum, to see what coupons other members are selling.

So now you know your stores policy, you have your coupons, and found your origanization that works for you, what's next.

Looking at the weekly ads and shop from there. I used to only shop every other week, until a member here (Kmchaplin = Karen) told me that I would better utilize the weekly sales, by going every week.

If you have a budget, try to stick with it, you aren't saving money if you go over your budget. Make out your grocery list and go through your ads to see where the best place to shop would be.

Remember you don't have to buy everything, sales come back around.

If you have a CVS or Walgreens you can get a lot of health and beauty items really cheap, or free. I would suggest reading thoes forums to get the info. I don't have CVS and just got a Wags = walgreens, so am just learning myself.

If you have a kmart, they are doing double coupons. The promotion has changed a little, so will just have to look up your ad online, it's available thursday for the next week.

Check out the kmart forum, if you have a kmart, see what others have gotten, and coupons used.

Ahh, on to stockpiling:

Stockpiling is having what you need on had at a very low or no cost oop = out of pocket. So that way when you run out, you are not paying full price. You do have to watch expiration dates, but most of us that have had a stockpile learn what is acceptable, and still good after expiration.

Stockpiling isn't just food, health and beauty, house cleaners, it's anything, toys, school supplies, holiday decorations. Really the list is endless. As long as you have room to store your stockpile, just know it will take time to get started, and don't try to rush it.

Don't compaire your trips to others that are posted. Remember, most of us have been doing this for a while and have a stockpile already built up.

Ask questions, we all started in the same boat, and there is no such thing as a stupid question. Anyone of the members are here to help.

Now, one of the most important factors in couponing is, a supportive spouse. They might not understand what you are doing in the begining, but when they see that the cabinets are getting full, or their favorite ice cream is always in the freezer, they will soon be on board.

Now, the second most important factor in couponing is, you may become addicted to them and AFC! LOL

HTH = hope that helps
Lynda

[fullera35]

Thank you so much for the useful information. It is a start and I really appreciate it.

[maree9304]

Definitely check out your stores' forums on here and get to know their coupon policies. Start off with one store if you'd like, just to get your feet wet and then you can move on to other stores later.
Good luck and welcome to AFC! Let us know if you have any other questions!

[michelekeenan]

I saw that Heather offers a seminar wondering if she is coming to your or my area or if we could learn and give them for her start a franchise ;-)
i learned one of the secret tricks is 1) plan your meals weekly around the weekly sale ads for your grocery. 2) grab all the coupons you can on things you use and treats you like 3) the coupons are best used when the store has the item on sale at its lowest price, combine it with store coupons, your coupons, and if the store doubles or triples you can get it for free! stock up on nonperishables too or things you can freeze like hot dogs.

Let's see if i can get Heather "the Coupon Queen" to reply here on our inquiry.

[dobieab]

This is awesome information! Thanks!