When to use COUPONS

I got an email from a friend earlier today.  He thanked me for the frugal advice I have given him and was amazed at his savings today.  SO, it got me thinking, how many of you know when to use your coupons? Just because you have a coupon, does not mean you should use it right away (or use it at all, YES I SAID IT).

If it is a coupon for something you were already planning on buying, don't run out and use the coupon right away.  All coupons have an expiration date on them.  Hold on to that coupon until the item is on sale (or the store is having a great store wide sale).  If there is no sale by the time the coupon gets close to expiring, then use the coupon before the expiration date.  Being frugal also means being patience.

Yes there are times when you should not be using coupons.  I can hear the "WHAT THE" now.  Just because you have a coupon does not mean you should buy that product.  THINK before you shop.  Is it something you needed (or wanted and can afford it with the coupon)? NO, then don't go shopping.   I see coupons all time that say things like $10 off a $50 purchase.  Stores do this to get you in and get you to spend more then $50, don't fall for it.  Were you planning on going to that store and making  a $50 purchase?  If you answered NO, don't go shopping.   Stores offer these kinds of coupons all the time and they are always having clearance sales.  SO, wait until there is something you need or can afford to go.


Tip:  Need to start a savings account (or add to the one you already have).  Take the money you just saved from using coupons and put it in your savings account.  If you can't afford to do that, then take a portion of what you saved from using coupons and put it in your savings account.  Every little bit helps to reach your goal.