Monday, January 3, 2011

When NOT to Use Coupons

Coupons are great to use and can save you money. But did you know that coupons may also make you tempted to spend more money? I am a huge coupon fan and I continue to use coupons. I have saved a lot of money using coupons and there are several pros to using them.

There are also a few cons when using coupons.

*Try not to get caught in the trap of using coupons just because you have a coupon. If the coupon is for an item that you normally do not buy, throw it away or give it away to someone that will use it. You will be wasting money if you purchase items you do not or will not use, even if you are getting it for a low price.

*Many coupons are advertising junk food. Because I am a huge advocate of eating healthy foods, I recommend throwing away any coupons that help you save on junk food. The junk food may be cheap or almost free, but is it worth it to be unhealthy just to save a few dollars? Buying and eating junk food could end up costing you in the future: doctor bills, weight loss supplements, gym memberships, or even your life. Try to find healthy product coupons and stay healthy!

*Anytime you feel anxious, overwhelmed, nervous, or tired of finding and clipping coupons, take a break. There is no need to put your mental health in danger just to save a few dollars. It is ok to take a break for a little while and come back to it later. Just with any job, take a small "vacation from couponing" and come back to it later when you feel a bit more refreshed.

Coupons will save you money if used correctly. Clip coupons on items that you regularly use and stack manufacturing coupons with store coupons to save even more.

*If you have a hard time finding coupons for healthy and organic products, email your favorite companies by finding the "contact us" form on their homepage. Tell them that you love their products and that you would also love to receive a few money saving coupons. Some of the companies may not have coupons to offer, but it's worth the try. You can also sign up for company emails. Many companies send out exclusive coupons or coupon codes by email.


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2 comments:

  1. Hi! Following from Frugal Monday Hop! Come on over to Mommy Rantings and follow back!

    Here's to a prosperous and blessed 2011!

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  2. I make my grocery list first, then I check out the coupons I have and grocerysmarts for what I may have missed. If it's not on the list then I don't buy it (even if it's free to me).

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