Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find coupons?
The best sources are the Sunday Newspaper and reputable coupon printing websites.
How can I find a coupon from an older insert date?
You should learn to save all of your inserts, even the old ones. You will eventually have a large collection of coupons and won’t have to worry about missing a deal!
Why didn’t I get any coupon inserts in the Sunday paper?
First, make sure that you did not buy the newspaper on a Holiday weekend. Sometimes inserts are not distributed on holidays, you can check the scheduled dates here. Second, there could always be a possibility of insert theft. Always check your newspapers before you buy them because of this increase in theft!
What coupons will be in next week’s Sunday newspaper?
Some websites and social networking websites will offer previews of upcoming inserts, so that you can plan your trip ahead of time. A good source for insert previews is here.
Why didn’t I get a coupon in one of the matchups?
Remember that all newspapers are not the same in coupon distribution. Usually, the most popular and likely the most expensive newspaper will give out the best coupon inserts. Another point to remember is that coupons can be regional, so one state might get $1.00/1 product, while another state got $1.00/2 products.
How do I know if an internet printed coupon is fake?
The only way to know for sure is to always print from trusted websites such as: Coupons.com, SmartSource, Redplum, Target Coupons or directly from the manufacturer. Never buy coupons online from clipping services or Ebay.
How many times can I print a coupon?
Generally, you can only print 2 identical coupons per computer. If you want more copies of the coupon, you must use another computer or you can ask your friends, family, and co-workers.
Can I photocopy a coupon?
No, photocopying coupons is illegal and you will probably get your printing privileges revoked once caught. Coupons have unique ID numbers that are attached to your computer’s IP address.
My coupon says it’s a Manufacturer’s coupon but also says “Redeemable at Walmart.” Can I use the coupon at another store?
Yes, as long as it is a Manufacturer’s coupon and not a store coupon you may use it anywhere. The phrase, “Redeemable at Walmart,” is simply a suggestion for you to use the coupon at this store. If the coupon says, “Redeem ONLY at Walmart,” then you must use it at Walmart and other stores that accept it will not be reimbursed.
What does “stacking,” mean?
Stacking means to use one Manufacturer’s coupon and one In-Store coupon combined on one product in order to maximize your savings.
What does “One Coupon Per Purchase,” mean?
This means that you can only use one Manufacturer’s coupon per EACH PRODUCT purchased. It does not mean that you can only use one identical coupon per transaction/shopping trip/customer/day. In those cases, the coupon would state “One Coupon Per Shopping Trip,” etc.
Can I use 2 dollar value coupons with a BOGO Free sale?
It all depends on the store’s coupon policy. Walgreens and CVS will allow you to apply 2 dollar value coupons with a BOGO Free sale. One coupon attaches to the paid item and one coupon attaches to the free item, thus bringing down your total out of pocket cost!
Can I use a BOGO Free coupon with a BOGO Free sale?
It all depends on the store’s coupon policy. CVS will allow you to apply a BOGO Free coupon to a BOGO Free sale, allowing you to receive both items for free!
Can I use dollar value coupons stacked with BOGO Free coupons?
It generally depends on whether or not the BOGO Free coupon will apply to one or both of the items. If the value code shows a 00 or 01, the BOGO Free coupon only attaches to the free product. If it shows a 14, the coupon attaches to both products and you may not combine it with a dollar value coupon. Always check with the store coupon policy or manager if you are unsure about how to use a coupon.
What should I do if a store won’t accept my coupon?
Any store has the right to refuse a coupon. To avoid any confusion at the register, you should always carry the store coupon policy with you. If you believe your coupon should have been accepted, you can call customer service.
What is does “Rolling catalinas,” mean?
Rolling catalinas means to separate your shopping trip into multiple transactions in order to use the catalina from your first purchase to pay for your second purchase. You receive a catalina from your second purchase and use it to pay for your third purchase, etc.
What is a filler item? Why do I need to use a filler item in my transaction?
You can only have as many coupons as you have products. When you add catalinas such as Register Rewards (Walgreens) or ECB (CVS), these also act as manufacturer’s coupons and can cause some confusion. For example, you may add a cheap “filler” item, such as $.50 gum, to your transaction and use a higher value catalina to bring down your total out of pocket price. Filler items also come in handy when you are rolling your catalinas, since the final total usually can’t be negative.
What is a MoneyMaker?
MoneyMaker means that the value of the coupon has exceeded the total purchase price of the item. Some stores, such as Walmart, will allow this overage to be applied to the rest of your transaction.
Is it legal to dumpster dive for coupon inserts?
It depends. Usually, it is illegal to dumpster dive on private property unless you have permission. To find out for sure, ask your local police station about the laws in your county. Personally, I find it unethical and unsafe to dumpster dive.
What can I do with all of my expired coupons?
A great way to make use of your expired coupons is to donate them to military families stationed overseas. Military commissions overseas can use coupons up to six months past their expiration date. Find out more here.
