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Showing posts with label Couponing 101. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Couponing 101. Show all posts

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Don't Miss Posts: Binder Tutorial & Kmart Super Doubles Bootcamp


Both Kasey and I (Jamie) have spent some quality face time with a computer screen this week to bring you a few helpful "How-To" guides - and I'd hate for you to miss them because they got buried under a landslide of other posts.  So here's just a little reminder - if you're new to couponing, you may really benefit from checking out Kasey's Coupon Organization/Binder Slideshow HERE and my K-Mart Super Doubles Bootcamp HERE.

We just want you to have the knowledge to go forth and be successful in your couponing efforts - so I didn't want you to miss out if either of those would be helpful to you!  What can we say.... we love you guys!
XXOO
- The Time2Save Team

Monday, March 29, 2010

FINALLY!! Binder Tutorial


So many of you have asked us how to start a coupon binder.  We put this tutorial together for you and tried to be as thorough as possible. (Click "Full Screen View" to see everything more clearly) 

Links to store policies that are published are below. 

Helpful Downloads:
  1. Learning the Lingo HERE (simple version), HERE (detailed list)
  2. Printable Meal Planner HERE
  3. Walmart Corporate Coupon Policy HERE, price matching policy HERE, and FAQ's HERE
  4. Rite Aid Coupon Policy HERE
Online Store:
We now have Binders, Baseball Card Holders & All You Magazine available online to purchase HERE.

Saturday, March 13, 2010

Extra Special Help!



We know there is a lot to grasp when you enter the exciting world of Couponing.  We wanted to send over a couple of important links on our website, without YOU having to dig and find them.  (This is going to be going out to our recent workshop attendees, but we thought it would be helpful to post it on the site also!)


KEEP IN TOUCH & ENJOY SUPPORT
  • Don't want to miss any great deals?  Click HERE for a link to our website, scroll down the left sidebar(green side), look for Subscribe to, enter your email address right below.  Delivered by Feedburner - spam FREE.
  • Become a fan of Time 2 $ave on facebook HERE.  Join the community as we share great deals, coupon finds, discussions, pictures and more.  There is also a Time 2 Give page for everyone to share how you've been able to give to others, bounce fun and creative ideas of being a "secret giving agent" with one another.  It is very easy to comment, add any pictures you'd like or join our discussions.   Got a question, no problem there's always someone on the page visiting to answer.


Where to get coupons:
  • Click HERE for brand new Pillsbury coupons
  • CLick HERE to receive this home mailer.  It's got HIGH VALUE coupons!
  • Click HERE to print Smart Source coupons, HERE for Redplum, HERE to print coupons.com, HERE for coolsavings.com
  • Tutorial - How to order coupons from a "coupon clipping" service HERE 
  • Tutorial - What is A Full Cup HERE?  How do I search the coupon database? HERE
  • Tutorial -How to order coupons from Ebay HERE

*************************************
Ebates - Earn Cash Back when you order online!!
Would you like money back when you order online? Like to have cash back from Ebay orders and over 1,000 other merchants?  Sign up for Ebates. Ebates is the pioneer and leader of online Cash Back Shopping. The company was founded in 1998 by two Deputy District Attorneys in Silicon Valley who used to prosecute online fraud & identity theft before starting Ebates (so you can be sure we are very into secure online transactions!). Joining Ebates is always free - you'll never pay them anything. And four times a year or more, they will mail you a Big Fat Check, or transfer the money to your PayPal account if you'd prefer. They can even send the money to your favorite charity. All 100% free.
Sign up HERE and get a $5 bonus!
************************************************************


SWAGBUCKS
Want to earn virtual "bucks" by signing up with swagbucks and using their search engine powered by google? You can spend the "bucks" that you earn to buy gift cards. Amazon - Target - Starbucks - anyone want a FREE gift card? Click HERE to sign up. Don't forget to download the toolbar to increase your chance of winning!
Here is the short and simple version!
1. SEARCH Search the web using http://www.swagbucks.com/ and receive results from Google and Ask.com. 2. EARN Swag Bucks are periodically awarded as you search the web. 3. REDEEMRedeem your Swag Bucks for exclusive swagbucks.com products and more in the Swag Store.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP TODAY!

Don't forget to download the toolbar!!

*********************************************************************
Other Helpful Tools
  • Printable Meal Planner HERE
  • Learning the Lingo HERE (simple version) HERE (for a detailed list)
  • Printing Problems?  HERE
  • What to do if your CATALINA doesn't print HERE.

Sunday, February 7, 2010

Coupon Organization & Storage (With McLinky!)

Well, here we are, already 1/3 of the way into February, and I finally got around to cleaning out my coupon binder (Debbie, the Queen of Clutter-Free would be proud!)  Who knew that I had so many expired coupons stuck in there??  Since many of you are probably cleaning house as well, I thought it might be a good time to talk about coupon organization!  We all have a method to our madness - and what works for one might not work for another.  Here's your chance to share what works best for you and get some ideas from others.

First, I'd like to share what works best for me (Jamie).

 
This is a picture of me at Bi-Lo, with my coupon binder and my little store divider.  This happens to be the system that works for me:
 
1)  I use the large coupon binder, with baseball-card holder pages, to organize my coupons.  The baseball-card holders are perfect for keeping blinkies, clipped coupons, and printables all tidily divided up into convenient categories.  I divide my binder into THREE main categories (based on the layout of my favorite grocery)-
  • Health & Beauty
  • Produce/Meat/Packaged Foods
  • Frozen/Dairy
I then divide those categories into more specific sub-categories (i.e. Teeth, Shampoo, Cereals, Pasta, Canned Goods, etc…) If you've attended a workshop, you might have purchased a binder with an organization list already included.  If so, Yay for you!

2) After I research the weekly ads & matchups, I pull out the coupons I’d like to use for each store and put them in my little purse-sized divider.  I then throw it into my purse so that whenever I have time to stop at a store, I have my favorite coupon-matchups ready to go!  My little store divider is categorized like this:
  • Publix,
  • Bi-Lo
  • Food Lion
  • CVS
  • Walgreens
  • Rite-Aid
  • Target
  • and “Other”(which is where I keep high-value coupons that will work well just about anywhere)
I like to bring my big binder with me, in case I find an unadvertised deal or something that has been clearanced - but the little divider keeps me focused on the deals I came for.

3) And now, I will humbly admit to you that I do not always find the time to actually clip my inserts or printables (GASP!!).  That is why I actually have a THIRD system for keeping printables and newspaper inserts organized until I get to them!  I have a cheap expanding file that I drop the inserts into, according to the week they came out.  (TIP: If you aren’t sure what week they’re from, you can find the date on the spine in tiny print.) 


Despite all the pains I take to keep my coupons “ready for action”- there are some, in reality, that are still hanging out in my minivan, on top the breadbox, and under stacks of mail.  I’m an unorganized procrastinator at heart,  and yet, I still manage to save 50%-90% per shopping trip.  I hope this not only gives you a couple storage ideas for starting out, but also encourages you to “soldier on” in your efforts to save money for your family with couponing (Even IF you are organizationally-challenged like I am!)


Okay, enough about me!  What organization system do YOU use to help corral all those valuable coupons?  Post a link to your own blog post touting your method below!

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

The CouponClippers Tutorial!

The Coupon Clippers

I forgot to buy the newspaper last week. And darn it, I REALLY wanted to have that $1/2 Kraft Cheese coupon to supplement my cheese addiction.  Well, today I went on CouponClippers and ordered 5 of those coupons for 50¢ total.  In fact, I also ordered:


I just spent $4.05 on $50.50 worth of coupon savings.  Woot! 
Interested?  It's very cheap, and very easy, PLUS:
  • Snag coupons you missed out on, especially if your region gets lower value/lower number of coupons than some other regions.
  • Snag MORE coupons for items you really like!
  • Whenever you see a "Sneak Peek" for a grocery store/drug store, you can just order your coupons ahead of time and wait for them to arrive in time for the big sale!
You might be wondering why I ordered so many Hefty, McCormick, and Barilla coupons.  Well, starting on TOMORROW at Bi-Lo Hefty plates, cups and baggies will be BOGO, McCormick seasonings will be BOGO, and Barilla pasta will be on "Price Lock" for $1.

How do you know what next week's deals will be? 
HotCouponWorld, SlickDeals and AFullCup post previews when readers get hold of an early ad.  Use them as an ordering guide :)
So now you know why some savvy shoppers are able to score great deals in bulk while you are left holding a small handful of coupons.  Here's a quick How-To-Guide:

1) Go HERE and click on HOT COUPONS over on the left.  You want to see these first, because these are the coupons everyone's interested in and therefore the supply will run out fast.  Order those first!
 2) Once you've checked on those, click on COUPONS at the top.  You can look at them by alphabetical order, or just type in the name of the product.  You will notice several abbreviations around the coupons description.  (See what they mean in the FAQ section.)  DND = "Do Not Double"
DNT = Do Not Triple
9 or 5 = Let's you know if the barcode starts w/ a 5 (will probably double in a computerized doubling system) or 9 (will not)
3) Interested in tearpads, blinkies, or store coupons that you can never get your hands on?  They have those too!  At the top, where it says Non-SS (= Non Sunday Supplement) you will find random special coupons.  This is one of my favorite parts!

There are lots of features, so get take a look around!

Sunday, January 31, 2010

One Call... That's All!


We had a reader write in today to tell us about a little incident with her diaper purchase, and what came of it. Take a look what Jennifer had to say:
My son is wearing the pullups at night, and he is anal about them having the "cars" on them.  I bought a new pack that had the cars on the package, but upon opening them, to my horror, had buzz lightyear and woody on them.  My son would not touch them until I showed him that they were in fact riding on a car so they were still "carpants."  I called the 800 number on the package to ask if they were changing the designs, and from that one call  (I didn't even complain about anything, just asked) they sent me several $4.00 off coupons for Pull-Ups! Definitely worth the 2 minutes I spent on the phone with them.  Thought other moms might be interested.
Now, I'm not telling you this to prod you to make up any old excuse to call and complain to a company just so you can score some high-value coupons.  I'm telling you this to illustrate how effective a method CONTACTING THE COMPANY can be at scoring coupons!
In fact, just calling a company to say "I LIKE your product - it's awesome!  Can you send me any coupons for it?" will often get you a surprise in your mailbox.  Here's how to go about it:


See? Easy as pie! Writing/emailing companies is also a great way to get coupons sent to you -for a long list of companies worth contacting, and their responses, check out the "5 A Day Campaign": a series of posts HERE on CouponingtoDisney!

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Learning the Lingo

This post is LONG overdue!!
 

Short Version:
  *B1G1 or BOGO - Buy one Get one Free
   *B2G1 - Buy two get one free
   *Blinkie - A small box that dispenses coupons in a store placed near the product
   *CAT or Catalina - Coupon that prints at the register after your purchase is complete.
   *CRT - Cash Register Tape
   *CVS - Drug Store with their own rewards/coupon saving system.
   *DND - Do Not Double
   *Double Coupon  - A coupon that a grocery store doubles in value depending on policy.
   *ECB - Extra Care Bucks coinside with Extra Care Card at CVS
   *FLIP - Food Lion Internet Printable
   *HIPS - Harvey's Internet Printable Coupons released weekly and posted on our website.
   *Insert - Coupons in Sunday Newspaper Smart Source (SS), Proctor & Gamble (PG), and Red Plum. (RP)
   *IP or Printable - Internet printed coupon
   *IVC - Instant Value Coupon - (Walgreens and CVS)
   *MIR - Mail In Rebate
   *MM - Money Maker
   *MQ or Manny Q - Manufacturer Coupon
   *OOP - Out of Pocket
   *OOS - Out of Stock
   *Overage -  This applies when the cost of an item is less than the coupon value. 
   *OYNO - On your next order
   *PG or P&G -  Proctor and Gamble Sunday Insert Booklet. 
   *Peelie - A coupon in the form of a sticker that has to be peeled off to redeem.
   *RC - Rain Check is a piece of paper that guarantees the sale price of an out of stock item.
   *Rebate - Mail in offer by a manufacturer or store that issues a refund based on predetermined criteria
   *RP - Red Plum Insert booklet in the Sunday Newspaper
   *RR - Register Reward printed at the end of a transaction at Walgreen's in the form of a Catalina
   *SCR - Single Check Rebate issued in the form of one check at Rite Aid for various rebate offers.
   *SS - Smart Source booklet, blinkie, or printable coupon issued through News Marketing America.
   *WAGS - Walgreens
   *Wine tag / Ring tag / Hangtag - A coupon hanging from the neck of a product
   *WYB - When You Buy
   *YMMV - Your Mileage May Vary

 Still a little stumped?  Click HERE  for detailed explanations of each acronymn.

Saturday, January 16, 2010

Tutorial ~ A Full Cup

This is a step by step tutorial to help guide you through the process of using a coupon database to search for specific coupons on A Full Cup

  Jaime posted some of the basics earlier in the week HERE in case you missed it.  The cat is out of the bag this resource is one of our "secret weapons" for getting insider info. 



1.  Click HERE for link to A Full Cup.  If you haven't already registered click the circled Join Now, if you are already registered then go to the top right corner to log in.




2.  After you have either registered or logged in move your curser to coupons on the navigation bar as you see above.  Scroll down to the first option, coupon database and click. 




3.  If you are looking for a specific coupon, type the product in the circled box labeled description.  For example, I am searching for a coupon for coca-cola.  I tried coke first and only three coupons were available, so keep in mind the product name when you search. 

Database provides specific details such as:
1. Description of coupon
2. Value of coupon
3. Expiration date
4. Type of Coupon (printable, newspaper insert, etc...)
5.  Category product falls under

 


After clicking "printable" I was directed to CVS.com to print the coupon.  The coupon link at CVS.com is powered by coupons.com the most popular online printable site.  On the CVS website, the coupons are geared more toward CVS products and are different than the coupons offered on the typical coupons.com.  The same rules apply ~ typically two prints per computer.




This is a scanned in copy of the printed coupon.



We are often asked if there are ever coupons for produce.  Here under product description you can type in either "produce" or "fresh fruit."  Personally, I prefer to select all available coupons.  If you wanted to specify printable, blinkie, newspaper insert, etc.. you would indicate that here. 



In this example the product description was left blank intentionally.  Instead, I have selected coupon type "tearpad" to find out what tearpads are available that I may be interested in.  Tearpads can be a gem of a coupon, however they are regional and seemingly few and far between.  It may surprise you so see the number of tearpads available.  Why?  They were not released in our region, ran out before you could get any, were available in a store you don't shop at, or the tearpad bandits may have swiped the entire tearpad.  Don't fret, you can keep an eye out since you know what tearpads are available or you can search for specific tearpads ebay.  For details on how to search ebay click HERE.

Hope this helps you.  There are so many incredible resources available on afullcup.com, however it takes time to learn how.  This is the first segment of A Full Cup Tutorials.  Let us know if this has been helpful!

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Learning the Lingo - Detailed Version

Detailed Version:
If you are looking for the short version of the acronyms below click HERE.

B1G1 or BOGO - Buy one Get one Free

B2G1 - Buy two get one free

Blinkie - In store coupon typically in a small box with a red flashing light near the product that the coupon is for.  (These are distributed by Smart Source not the Grocery Stores

CAT or Catalina - Coupon that prints at the register after your purchase is complete.  It can either be a store or manufacturer coupon.  Sometimes Catalina's are triggered by your shopping habits, other times there is an in store promotion from the manufacturer.  When we find "formulas" for Catalina's we post them on the website.

CRT - Cash Register Tape

CVS - Drug Store, typically high priced, but with their rewards system can be very profitable if you learn how.

DND - Do Not Double * A coupon that states do not double.  This wording applies to coupons redeemed at a grocery store that doubles coupons as part of their coupon policy.  If the UPC code of a coupon begins with the number 5 and the policy of the store is to double coupons the registers are programmed to double automatically.  In this case a cashier would have to manually suppress the register to prevent it each coupon with the wording DND from doubling.  If a coupon begins with the number 9 it won't double regardless of the stores policy.  This is one of those YMMV (your mileage may double) and varies from store to store.

Double Coupon  - A coupon that a grocery store doubles in value.  Applies to coupons redeemed at a grocery store whose policy is to double coupons to entice shoppers to their store.  The face value of the coupon is reimbursed to the grocery store by the manufacturer; however the amount that doubled is absorbed by the grocery store as part of their marketing budget.

ECB - Extra Care Bucks are printed on the bottom of a receipt at CVS to be redeemed at a later time on merchandise in the store.  Value of ECB's printed correspond with weekly/monthly sales.

FLIP - Food Lion Internet Printable Coupon that are released weekly and posted on our website.  They also have Baby and Pet Coupons that are issued quarterly

HIPS - Harvey's Internet Printable Coupons released weekly and posted on our website.

Insert - Coupons in the Sunday Newspaper.  Booklets are labeled Smart Source (SS), Proctor and Gamble (PG), and Red Plum. (RP)

IP or Printable - Internet Printable Coupon printed from an online website.  Most coupons allow 2 prints per month per IP address, before resetting on the first of each month.  However, the reset schedule can vary.  Before printing you may be required to download software that enables your computer to print bar codes.  DO NOT COPY!!   Each coupon has their own barcode that is tied to your IP address.  The exception is when a manufacturer releases a coupon on their website in the form of a pdf file that allows multiple prints.  The bar code of this coupon is the same regardless of the number of prints or computers that it is printed from.

IVC - Instant Value Coupon - You will find these at Walgreens and CVS in their weekly and/or monthly ads.  In most cases these coupons do not need to be cut out rather the cashier will type once and the coupon will apply  to each item (as long as it is within limits).

MIR - Mail In Rebate

MM - Money Maker

MQ or Manny Q - Manufacturer Coupon

OOP - Out of Pocket

OOS - Out of Stock

Overage -  This applies when the cost of an item is less than the coupon value.  For example, if an item cost $0.75 and you use a coupon for $1.00 off the $0.25 difference is referred to as overage.  There are several options as to how the store will handle this situation. 
     1.  The amount of overage is applied to the balance of the remaining balance of the grocery bill.
     2.  The value of the coupon is reduced to the cost of the item, thus canceling overage.
     3.  The value of the item is increased to meet the value of the coupon, canceling overage.
    
OYNO - On your next order

PG or P&G -  Proctor and Gamble Sunday Insert Booklet. 

Peelie - A coupon in the form of a sticker that has to be peeled off to redeem.

RC - Rain Check is a piece of paper that guarantees the sale price of a product when it is out of stock that can be redeemed at a later time.

Rebate - Mail in offer by a manufacturer or store that issues a refund based on predetermined criteria

RP - Red Plum Insert booklet in the Sunday Newspaper

RR - Register Reward is a Catalina that prints at Walgreens at the end of a purchase based on specific sales.  A RR is considered a manufacturer coupon that can then be spent like cash on items in the store.

SCR - Single Check Rebate is a rebate check mailed to a Rite Aid customer who has entered purchases on sales made from the previous month that have been entered on their website.  The amount of SCR is based on advertised sales.

SS - Smart Source booklet, blinkie, or printable coupon issued through News Marketing America.

WAGS - Walgreens

Wine tag / Ring tag / Hangtag - A coupon generally found hanging from the bottle "neck" of the product. (Ketchup, syrup, salad dressing)

WYB - When You Buy

YMMV - Your Mileage May Vary meaning what works at one store may or may not work at another.  Also applies to coupons, pricing of items, stock available, sales price, etc...

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

"A Full Cup" - We use it, do you??

One of the ways we find deals and match up coupons w/sales around here is through  afullcup.com This is kind of like our "Secret Weapon" for getting insider info.  But there's no reason we should keep it a secret from you guys - we want you to have a leg up too!!  So here's a handy-dandy guide and introduction to ......


What It Is
An online community of Coupon Pros (and novices) who have set up forums dedicated to every topic from CVS to Publix to Target Clearance.  The moderators of those forums know A LOT - I sometimes ask them about a deal before I post it - just to make sure it's sound.  Besides that, it is most used for it's fantastic Coupon Database - which I'll tell you more about next.

 What You'll Find
★ Grocery, Drugstore, and National Stores (like Walmart or Target) each have their own forums featuring: Store ads with coupon match-ups, weekly-ad "sneak-peeks", and tips on what works and what doesn't.  See below, there are several threads about Target deals, including After-Christmas Clearance, PM (Price-Matching) Questions, & 79¢ Oscar Meyer Lunchmeats!

★ The Beloved "Coupon Database" is my next favorite feature.  It's an EXTREMELY HELPFUL database of all newspaper & printable coupons - but WON'T list any that are expired .  For instance, in this shoddy screenshot below, I typed in "Snuggle" because I forgot what newspaper insert that great $2 Coupon was from.  It tells me it's from the 12/06 RP!



★ Experienced Coupon Veterans are almost always online to mentor and give advice when you're not sure about something....  Like these people below, who are asking for "HELP!"

★ A "Hot Deals" section on the front page of the site broadcasts the bargains everyone's buzzing about.  This week's "Hot Deals" so far include FREE Fresco Tacos at Taco Bell, 20% Gap Coupon, etc....
★ LOTS MORE!!!  Coupon trading, helpful articles, "How-To" Guides, and tons of other features await you if you're interested!
We really want to make it easy for you to use coupons, and give you the tools you need to be successful at it.  This is a site we've used for a long time, and it just occurred to me that we haven't talked much about it! 
Go HERE to sign up (it's totally free!) and take some time to look around.  I have a hunch you're going to get really excited about a few things!

Monday, December 28, 2009

Pulling Coupons for Christmas Clearance



The weeks following a big holiday are one of the BEST times to pick up ordinary items to stockpile in your pantry.  For instance, I know Kelly stocks up BIG TIME on her ziploc bags in the aftermath of Christmas - as she told me once, while everyone else is running for the toy aisle, she's making a beeline for the baggies!  Here is a little list of items you might want to keep in an envelope or special binder-pocket and bring along as you hit various stores over the next couple weeks.  You never know what you'll find - so keep your eyes peeled!

Air Fresheners/ Candles
Cake Mixes, Frosting, & Decorations
Candy
Coffee & Coffee Creamers ~ Seasonal
Cookies ( packaged & refrig. )
Cranberry Sauce, Stuffing, Gravy
Gift Sets (Like Axe, Bod Man, Old Spice, etc..)
Ham & Turkey
Ice Cream ~ Holiday Flavors
Kleenex (in those Christmasy boxes)
Nuts
Paper Plates, Napkins, Foil
Plastic Storage & Freezer Bags, Plastic Wrap, Plastic Cups
Shower Gel/Hand Soaps (in Holiday Scents like Cranberry Mistletoe something-or-other)
Sparkling Juices
Toys (find some Hasbro/Playskool coupons HERE)

If you get out there in the fray and find any clearance great deals with coupons that match - send us a tip or comment on this post!

Monday, November 23, 2009

Internet Printables ~ Where O' Where are you?

We received an email with a couple of great questions regarding internet printables that we thought others would benefit from. 

1.  "The Publix match up HERE lists a manufacturer internet printable for Ritz Crackers, but when I clicked to print, Save A  Lot came up with coupons, but no Ritz coupons."

Many grocery stores, such as Save A Lot have manufacturer internet printables on their websites.  When the grocery deals are posted, the link is valid.  BUT the manufacturer may only release 70,000 prints for a particular coupon, for example in this case Ritz crackers.  Once the limit has reached, that coupon is replaced with a new coupon.  We always try to keep all of our links updated but it is virtually impossible for us to know when each coupon reaches its limit.  


2.  "Sometimes when I click HERE to print a coupon from the website, I am directed to a page asking a lot of information such as name, address, and email address etc.  Then, after completing the information I can't find the coupon.  Where do I find the Dole printable coupon?"

You are right, many manufacturer's release coupons but ask you for information before you can print the coupons.  Why?  To learn more about you, the consumer, and  to create a database of customers.

2.  "I can't find the Dole coupon!"

Printing this coupon does require a couple of extra steps that could be intimidating to a newcomer.  As always, our goal is to help you be as successful as possible, therefore we have created a step by step tutorial to print the Dole coupon from the Pulbix & Bi-Lo ad. 






Step 1:  The Dole printable coupon is outlined in the square.  Click print, then follow directions below.




STEP 2:  To print the coupon, you need to play a quick online game.  Enter email address and click submit.





Step 3:  New user - you will be directed to the screen above, complete the information, then submit.  Returning user?  You will be directed to the screen below.



Step 4:  You'll need to play a quick game before being directed to print the coupon.  This is a manufacturer's way to inform you on their products.  Click play game.



Step 5:  Play the game by turning over the ornaments to find ones that match.  Even if you don't win, you will be directed to next page.



Step 5:  No grand prize winner today, but hey, they are offering you a coupon!  See the outlined area above move your curser to "click here for coupon."



Step 6:  HIP-HIP-HOORAY!  This is a"bricks" coupon.  Click print coupon, then the backspace 3 times to print your second coupon.  First time printing?  You will be asked to download software so that you can print coupons.

*Note:  If after you have installed the bar code printer mentioned above, and it continues to say "Install printer", Click HERE for suggestions that should resolve that issue.

Thanks for sharing Wanda hopefully this will help.  Please leave a comment if you find that a coupon is not on the link provided.  Also if you are confused you can always leave a comment on the website (at the bottom of post.) and we'll try and clear it up for you.  As a community of "couponers" we can work together to share information  know between us! 

Thursday, November 12, 2009

"But I don't HAVE those coupons!"



I got a comment today from reader Emily, who was feeling frustrated and confused after coming up short, coupon-wise.  Here's what she had to say:


"I think I'm missing something - I can't find several of the listed coupons in the Red Plum or SS circulars. For example - I don't see the Emerald Nuts coupon from 11/8 SS and there have been several others that aren't in my circulars.  Help!! I've just spent an hour going through coupons and have about 3 things to buy at 2 different stores."
Emily, I know EXACTLY how you are feeling right now.  When I started out, I would get so excited, only to feel deflated when I realized I didn't have many of the coupons listed.
The reason for this, is that coupons & inserts vary GREATLY depending on how "Big" your paper is.  The bigger the city you live in, the better your coupons will be.  Always buy the biggest paper around you- to make sure you get the best selection of coupons.

*You can see what coupons your city's paper actually got, right HERE.
 
If that's not very comforting though, here are some tips to pad your coupon collection:



✮ - Order from Ebay or TheCouponClippers the moment you find something you want/need that you don't have the coupons for.  In most cases, these will get to you within 3-4 days, plenty of time to use them! (If the items are sold out by then, just grab a raincheck!)



 ✮ - Be vigilant at grocery, gas stations, chain stores, etc.. for coupon books, tearpads and blinkies.  (The other day I scored Nesquik & Coke coupons from a tearpad at the Shell station!)
 


✮ - If you have relatives or friends in large cities, ask them if they would mind mailing you their inserts (or, offer to pay them to buy a couple just for you).  My Papaw loves to cut coupons, but doesn't do much of his own shopping anymore.  He sends me an envelope of coupons once in awhile, and in return, I send him my best brag-receipts!  It gives him a sense of pride to know that his cheap-ness was passed down to someone in the family....




✮ - Find a local coupon-swap group! What others don't need (baby coupons, pet coupons) you may find to be a Godsend, and vice-versa!! (If you live in Cleveland, go HERE to get updates on a local coupon group!)




✮ - Sign up for all the coupon booklets and mailers you possibly can!  Even samples usually come with coupons.  Plus, who doesn't like finding a little freebie in their mailbox a couple times a week?


✮ - Last but not least, print out new coupons as soon as they come available- the good coupons go fast, and they're often high-value!  We'll try to keep you abreast of all the best new printables, so you don't miss out!

Emily, I hope that helps a little- and just remember: Deals come and go, and if you miss out on a few this time, there will be more just around the corner!  Between Bi-Lo, Publix, and the others, there is never a long gap in great bargains!

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Sunday Newspaper Inserts: 11/08



This week we can expect 2 inserts in the Sunday paper:
1 Smart Source (SS)
1 Red Plum (RP)

There looks to be some good ones- my favorites are Kelloggs, Tylenol cold medicine, Lysol, Pillsbury (in BOTH!), International Delight and Yolpait.  Of course, you never know exactly what to expect, as the coupons will vary GREATLY by region.  By the biggest paper around you for the most valuable coupons!
*ALSO: Check that the inserts are actually in your paper before buying it - Lately, it looks like some people have been taking the inserts out and leaving the sad, sad papers behind for unlucky couponers to find. 

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

CVS and the Magical Coupon Machine

It sounds like a modern-day Fairy Tale, doesn't it?  Well, friends, that's because it IS!  Most of you probably know all about scanning your CVS card to get your CRT's when you visit the store.  But if you're new, this might all be gibberish - so let me just start by introducing you:

THIS is the "CVS Magical Coupon Machine"


Okay...okay.... it's usually just called a "Scanner","Price Checker", or "Coupon Center" and it really looks like this:

But that is just not enough EXCITEMENT! and PIZAZZ! to describe the joy that little machine can bring to your soul!  It's like gambling, but without the guilt or the riverboat.  Let me explain....
Every time you go into CVS, scan your card to see if you get lucky.  If you wait a minute, you may be able to scan it more than once.  Sometimes, I am able to scan my card 3 or 4 times before it tells me "No More Coupons Available". This is what an extra care coupon looks like:


  • You can get GREAT store coupons for regular products ($2 Off Huggies Wipes, etc..) that can be stacked with MFR coupons. 
  • You may also receive $/$$ coupons (I mostly receive $2/$10, but some others are higher!)
To see what coupons or "CRT's" (cash register tape) are printing currently, just check the list over at IHeartCVS.

Friday, October 9, 2009

Catalina didn't print? Who you gonna call?




Who's responsible when a Catalina doesn't print?

Catalina Marketing Company

Phone Number: 1-888-8COUPON
Have your receipt handy.  They will either mail you a coupon, or go over your receipt with you to explain why the Catalina wasn't earned.  If you don't want to worry about all of that, you can kindly ask your cashier if you can return the product.

What is a Catalina?
Catalina Category Marketing (CCM) rewards purchases of promoted products with “catalinas."  You may refer to these as “check-out coupons.”  Catalina's offer incentives good on your next shopping trip to that retailer.  They are generally manufacturer coupons unless the Catalina states that it is a Store Coupon.  For example, Food Lion offers both store and manufacturer coupons via the Catalina machine.  The store coupon may state," $5 off any $15 Baby Purchase at Food Lion."  While a manufacturer Catalina might read, "$2 off your next purchase of Tyson Chicken."  Typically you will have a week up to a month to redeem the Catalina on any  program/incentive promotion.



Q: How are your communications delivered to consumers?
A: Catalina Marketing promotions and advertisements are triggered based on the consumer's purchase behavior (either UPC scans or Card IDs) and delivered at the point of sale, via a full-color, high-speed printer. Catalina Health Resource communications are triggered based on patient's Rx purchase behavior (NDC scan) and delivered at the pharmacy via a high-speed printer.

Q: Does your company just do couponing?
A: No. consumer driven incentives (coupons) are just a piece of the range of solutions that Catalina provides its clients. The company also provides consumer driven advertising, healthcare patient education, interactive solutions, data services and more.

Q: How many stores does your network represent?
A: Catalina is installed in more than 23,000 U.S. grocery, drug and mass merchandise chains, along with more than 17,500 stores installed with the pharmacy network. In addition, the company is installed in nearly 7,000 international stores.

Q: What is the redemption rate of your promotions?
A: Catalina Marketing incentives redeem at an average rate of 6.3%*. This percentage is more than eight times greater than other non-consumer driven traditional promotional methods.

Q: How effective is Catalina consumer driven Advertising?
A: In recent tests, brands utilizing Catalina consumer driven Advertising:
•Raised ad awareness by +16% points*
•Improved ad recall by +24% points*
•Drove volume lift as high as +35%
*Test results of six advertising pilots. Statistically significant difference between test and control at 90% confidence level. Results represent the weighted average performance across all tested executions within each brand pilot.

Q: How many consumers can you reach with your network?
A: Catalina has access to more than 250 million transactions each week, allowing brands to do micro-targeting on a truly mass scale.

Q: How long has the company been around?
A: Catalina Marketing has been targeting consumers with effective communications for nearly 25 years. The company's history can be viewed online.

Q:How can I contact a representative from Catalina?
A: You may contact Catalina at 1(888) 8COUPON

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Solutions for Printing Problems


Printing Problems???

  • Most websites require you to install coupon printing software. This free software download enables your printer to print barcodes.  If the coupon printer doesn't install, you may need to adjust security levels to allow ActiveX items - (like the coupon printer) to install. If you are using Windows XP, SP2, or Vista, a yellow information bar should appear at the top of your window. That bar can only appear if your security levels are set to “medium” and all ActiveX items are set to “prompt” or “enable."  The yellow bar may ask you for permission to download content before installation starts.  In that case, follow the instructions to allow the download.
  • You may have had a problem in the past with another download that has disabled the prompt for downloads.  If so, you can try downloading a new browser to give your browser a fresh start.  If you have Internet Explorer you can try downloading firefox.   (www.mozilla.com/firefox.com

Buddy-up to your Browser!!

Just knowing which browser you use is a great start!  A browser is the progam you use to open internet pages such as: Internet Explorer, FireFox or Safari.

How do I know what browser I am using??

  • Click "Help" on your toolbar menu at the top of the screen. One of the options should be "About Mozilla Firefox," "About Internet Explorer," or "About Safari." Select this option and a window will open that displays the name, version number, and copyright date of your browser.
  • Or look at the very top of the computer screen right above the area that you type a web address to see what browser is  displayed.

    Troubleshoot
    • If after clicking a link to print a coupon you get "Please wait"....and you wait and nothing happens, or "Please Install The Coupon Printer" even if you already have, or "You have already printed this coupon" and you know you haven't... you are not alone and there's really not much you can do at that point. 
    • If a coupon link is created in FireFox, and you have Internet Explorer or Safari, they don't work together.  In other words, the browser that your computer uses and the link that you click to print have to both use the same browser or it won't work.  For example, if you use Internet Explorer and the link that you click was created in Safari - they won't work together and vice versa.

    ✷The Trick✷

    The following is a FireFox link:
    http://bricks.coupons.com/Start.aspt59687503&bt=wg&o=53740&ci=1&cJAY

    Note the "wg" in the URL.  If your browser is Internet Explorer you will continue to get the message "Please Install The Coupon Printer."  To change the link to work on an Internet Explorer link simply change "wg" to "wi" or "vi."   Most of the time either will work, however there may a coupon  that works on one and not the other. ("wi" or "vi") In that case it's trial and error.

    http://bricks.coupons.com/Start.asp59687503&bt=wi&o=53740&ci=1&cJAY

    or

    http://bricks.coupons.com/Start.asp59687503&bt=vi&o=53740&ci=1&cJAY

    In a Nutshell, find out what browser your computer is operating on.  When you have trouble printing check the letters in the URL.  If the letters don't correspond with the browser you are using, then change the two magical characters to match your browser.  Below is the list of browsers along with their matchups:

    Firefox = "wg" or "vg"
    Internet Explore = "wi" or "vi"
    Safari = "xs"

     

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