Is it really worth it?

Clipping, sorting and storing all those coupons can seem like a pain. Most people give up on coupons even before they start. Some may feel like they don't want to waste all that time only to save a few bucks at the grocery store. Others simply don't know where to begin. I can tell you it does take time, but if you really want to save money, you will see results that make it worth your while.

With the economy the way it is, it only makes sense to use coupons. Who isn't looking for ways to save money? We stay home more, we're not taking vacations, driving less, cutting back on entertainment and eating out. But what if you could continue doing the things you enjoy by simply clipping a few coupons and shopping around for the best price? Makes sense to me. The average family of four can save approximately 25% on their monthly grocery bill when they utilize coupons. For example, if you normally spend $400 per month, you could save about $100 each month, that's $1200 per year. So before you throw the idea of couponing out the door, evaluate your monthly spending and think about what it could be with coupons. The next few posts will help you figure out where to begin and start saving... one penny at a time!

What did you say?

Okay, so you've decided you're serious about saving money... now what? Well, I would suggest getting familiar with the many, many terms you'll run across quite frequently while browsing the web. At first, all the abbreviations will seem like some sort of a foreign language, but you'll be speaking the language like a native in no time.

I've compiled a list of the most common abbreviations and/or terms that you'll come across on various websites, blogs and/or forums. If you run across one not listed, please feel free to let me know and I'll be sure to update the list.

Types of Coupons:

MFR (Manufacturer) - Most coupons are manufacturer coupons (will say "Manufacturer Coupon" somewhere on the coupon... usually by the expiration date).

Store-specific - Coupons that are only valid at specific stores (*some stores do accept competitor coupons).

IP (Internet printable) - A coupon printed from the internet.

Blinkie - An in-store coupon dispenser near the product (usually a red blinking box).

Peelie - A coupon you peel off the product.

WT (Wine Tag) - Coupons usually found around the neck of wine bottles.

CAT (Catalina) - A coupon that prints at the register from a Catalina machine (hence the name).

CRT (Cash Register Tape) - Similar to a Catalina, but prints from the cash register following your receipt.

RR (Register Reward) - A Catalina from Walgreen's.

IVC (Instant Value Coupon) -Walgreen's store coupons found in their ads and/or coupon books.

ECB (Extra Care Buck) - A Catalina from CVS.

SCR (Single Check Rebate) - Rite Aids monthly rebate program.

Rite Aid Video Values - Rite Aid has short videos on their website. After viewing, you can print coupons for that specific product.

Weekly Coupon Inserts:

RP - Red Plum

SS - Smart Source

PG - Procter and Gamble

V - Valasis

* You will usually see these abbreviations in a form similar to this - SS 11/15/09. This is referring to the Smart Source insert from the November 15, 2009 Sunday paper.

* Also note that not every coupon insert is the same everywhere. One paper may have certain coupons and another will not. It's usually best to buy the "big city" papers as they usually have better/more coupons.

Other common terms/abbreviations:

OOP (Out of Pocket) - The amount of cash paid after all coupons, promotions and discounts.

OYNO (On Your Next Order) - You will sometimes receive a Catalina or coupon good for a certain amount off your next purchase. This is often abbreviated OYNO.

MIR (Mail-in Rebate) - Sometimes certain products will have a mail-in rebate attached to them.
FAR (Free After Rebate) - Some products offer a full rebate for the purchase price, or the product will end up being free after coupons and a MIR are applied.

PSA (Prices Starting At) - Because every location may have different prices, this is a common phrase used. It basically gives you an idea of what the price may be, but your store may be higher or lower.

UPC (Universal Product Code) - The bar code found on products.

YMMV (Your Mileage May Vary) - Some sales, promotions, coupon acceptance vary by location.

BOGO - Buy one item get one item free

B2G1 - Buy two items get one item free

$1/1; $1/2; etc - this refers to the coupon value and the number of products required for purchase i.e $1/1 would mean the coupon is $1 off 1 item; $1/2 is $1 off the purchase of 2 products and so forth.

Hello Everyone!!!!

A little about me... I'm a stay at home mom to two wonderful children, which is the most amazing job in the world. I get to be home and watch my babies grow and change every day, but let's be honest - it doesn't pay the bills. I started looking for ways I could "contribute" about 4 months ago. I searched the web and learned that a lot of people are using coupons to save money... LOTS of money. Saving HUNDREDS upon HUNDREDS of dollars just by clipping a few coupons. I was instantly intrigued. I thought to myself, "I can clip coupons if it means saving us that much money and being home with my kids." But I still had a thousand questions running through my head. Starting with where the heck do I even begin? What coupons do I clip? Where do I get these coupons? Isn't it cheaper to just buy in bulk or stick with store brand products? It all seemed a little overwhelming to be honest. Could I really save that much money? Was all the time it would take clipping, sorting, and searching for the best deal going to be worth it? I was lucky enough to find some amazing resources to help me ease into the wonderful world of couponing. The deeper I delved, the more I realized it wasn't going to be as hard as I had thought. Don't get me wrong, it does take a lot of time, patience and work if you really want to see the results, but I whole heatedly believe it's worth every penny I've saved.

I decided to start this blog to help others save money. I think the best part of saving money is sharing it with others. Plus, it's such an amazing feeling... a rush almost, when you snag you're first great deal. There is soooo much information out there and it's really difficult to know where to even begin. I'm hoping this blog will help people learn some tricks of the trade and ease them into couponing to make it fun. And before you know it, you'll be an avid couponer yourself!!! Enjoy!!!!!!