Couponing Simplified

The end goal of extreme couponing is to stack as many deals together as possible. Every store has different policies on accepting coupons, but they all run with the same basic premise.

The following is a breakdown of the different ways to save at stores.

Store Sales: Never overlook what's on sale. This is usually where the largest portion of savings comes from. If you do nothing else, make sure you're checking the stores flyer for sales. And remember, their best sales are always on the front page of their flyer.

Manufacturer Coupon: These will say "manufacturer coupon" on them, and can be used at pretty much any store. Often stores will double these. Also, they can be found in Sunday inserts and online at sites such as coupons.com. Sometimes a store will pay for advertising space on a printable coupon, and it will say something like "redeemable at Wal-mart." This is just an ad, however, and as long as it says "manufacturer coupon," you can use it anywhere.

Store Coupon: These will say "store coupon" and can only be used at that specific store.

Digital Coupons: You can load these directly onto your store's savings card from the store's website. They are actually manufacturer coupons.

Catalinas: These are coupons that print out at the register. Buying certain items will trigger them to automatically print. They might be manufacturer, store coupons, or an amount to be used towards your next order.

Promos: These are deals that come off your order when you buy certain products. Example, buy 3 deodorants, get $3 off your order. It comes off immediately and automatically. Or if you're shopping online, you'll usually have to enter a 'promo code' at checkout.

Rebates: Quite a few websites will give you money back for uploading your receipt when you buy certain products. A lot, if not all, are available in apps through a smartphone. Or there's still a few deals you can mail in.


So, how do these deals work together to give you the best deal?

First, you have to familiarize yourself with a stores coupon policy. Feel free to follow any of these links to get a copy for yourself.


 ShopRite.  
Wal-Mart. 
Weis
Price Chopper
Key Food

The game is to stack as many deals together as a store's policy will let you. For example, all of the above stores will let you use coupons for items on sale. You can also use a store coupon with a manufacturer coupon (unless the coupon says otherwise) on a sale item. What's on sale, tends to match available coupons, because stores plan it like that.

If you want examples, and deal ideas, check out Living Rich With Coupons.