10 Hacks to Get the Most Out of Your Coupons

Here are 10 hacks to maximize your coupon savings:

1. Combine Coupons with Store Loyalty Programs: Most grocery and drug stores have loyalty programs that offer exclusive discounts, personalized offers, and rewards points. Combining these with manufacturer and store coupons creates significant savings. For example, if an item is on sale for loyalty members and you have a matching coupon, you’ll save even more.
2. Stack Coupons Strategically: “Stacking” refers to using multiple coupons on a single item. This usually means combining a manufacturer coupon with a store coupon. Some stores even allow you to stack a third coupon, such as a store-specific digital coupon or a cashback offer from an app. Always check store policies to see what’s allowed.
3. Time Your Purchases with Sales Cycles: Most stores have predictable sales cycles for different product categories. For example, cereal might be on sale every 6-8 weeks. By tracking these cycles, you can time your purchases to coincide with sales and then use coupons for maximum savings.
4. Look for Catalina or Register Rewards: These are coupons that print out at the register after you make a qualifying purchase. They often offer discounts on future purchases or even money back. Use these rewards on items you regularly buy to maximize their value. Some stores also have similar programs within their apps.
5. Use Coupon Apps and Websites Strategically: Don’t rely on just one source. Use a combination of coupon apps (Ibotta, Fetch, Checkout 51), websites (Coupons.com, [invalid URL removed], Save.com), and browser extensions (Honey, Capital One Shopping) to find the best deals. Each has its strengths.
6. Contact Manufacturers Directly: Reach out to the customer service departments of your favorite brands. Many companies offer coupons or samples to loyal customers. You can usually find contact information on their websites or product packaging.
7. Follow Coupon Blogs and Social Media: Many blogs and social media accounts specialize in finding and sharing the latest coupon deals and freebies. Following these resources can save you time and effort in searching for deals. They often do the “matchup” work for you, showing you how to combine coupons with specific sales.
8. Use Coupons on Clearance Items: Combining coupons with clearance items can lead to incredibly low prices or even free products. Just make sure the coupon isn’t expired and applies to the specific clearance item you’re buying.
9. Take Advantage of Rain Checks: If a sale item is out of stock, ask for a rain check. This allows you to purchase the item at the sale price once it’s back in stock, even if the sale has ended. You can then combine the rain check with a coupon for even greater savings.
10. Use Coupons for Items You Regularly Use (and Consider Stockpiling): While it’s tempting to use coupons for any free or deeply discounted item, focus on using them for products you regularly purchase. This will help you save money on your essential expenses. When you find a great deal on a frequently used item, consider buying a reasonable amount to create a small stockpile, but be mindful of expiration dates and storage space.

By using these hacks strategically, you can become a more effective couponer and significantly boost your savings. Remember to always be ethical and follow store coupon policies.