Coupon Policies

Figuring out where to begin may be the biggest challenge you'll face. I think the best place to start is compiling a list of all your local stores and getting their coupon policies (in writing preferably). Most stores have their coupon policy right on their websites, some you may have to contact via email or phone. Having the coupon policy on hand is extremely important for several reasons. Most importantly, sometimes you will run across a cashier, or in some cases, a manager that may be unfamiliar with their own policy. They may "disagree" with you about a coupon when they realize you'll be getting a product free or nearly free. It just makes things much easier on everyone when you have the policy right there in front of you... just in case.

Some common coupon policies:

Some stores will double coupons up to a certain amount. For example, if you have a .50 coupon and your local grocery store doubles up to .50, you will actually get $1.00 off that product. For example, my local Meijer doubles two like coupons up to .50. This varies by region, so that's why it's important to get your local stores policies.

Some stores will allow you to "stack" or combine their store-issued coupons with a manufacturer coupon. Some of these stores include: Target, Meijer, Rite Aid, CVS, and Walgreen's. So say you have a Target coupon for $1 off and a manufacturer coupon for $1 off, you'll actually be getting $2 off that product.

Questions you should ask about coupon policies:

1. Does your store double coupons? If so, what is the maximum value that will double?

2. How many "like" coupons will double per transaction?

3. Do you take Internet printed coupons? (Most stores do, but it's always best to check)

4. Can I combine store coupons with manufacturer coupons?

5. Do you accept expired coupons? (This one's quite rare, but you never know)

6. Do you accept competitor coupons?