Abe's Grocery Tips
Proven secrets to save you 30% to 50% on your weekly groceries

Ways to Get Grocery Coupons

There are numerous places where you can get coupons. The more you have, the more you save, so start collecting coupons now!

1. Coupons from your Sunday newspaper
   Every week, except for holiday weeks in most areas), the Sunday newspaper of major cities adds two to three circulars filled with nothing but coupons. The cost of a Sunday paper subscription usually comes to about $2.00 per week. Much less than the value of the coupons you get. Plus, you get to read the newspaper. Find time every Sunday to go ghrough all of your coupons from the paper and other sources, clipping and filing them in you coupon box. If you're really not a newspaper reader, ask a co-worker or neighbor if you can have their coupons. (see #2 below)
    
2. Coupons from neighbors and co-workers
   I have asked all my friends, co-workers and neighbors if they get the sunday paper. If so, I ask if I can have the coupons that they don't use. Many people are very happy to give them to me. I am always surprised how many people don't cut any out. Some friends may want to trade coupons instead of just giving you coupons. You will also find that people who live in a different location than you will ahve different coupons in their newspaper!
    
3. Coupons from Product Packaging
   Many products will include a coupon either on, or in, their packaging. They do not always advertise this fact (often, they offer hidden coupons like this as a result of an over charging suit). Before you throw out the box or bag, take a look inside to see if there is a coupon. Many pasta sauces and juices put the coupon inside the label, cereals put the coupon either on, or in, the box. Lipton's pasta mixes usually put them inside the mix, etc. You'll be surprised how many packages have a coupon but don't tell you there is one.
    
4. Coupons on Recycling Day
   Almost every community recycles today. On reccycling day, I get out early and take a walk, usually pushing my baby in her baby carriage. As I walk by the recycling bins, I keep my eyes open for coupons. I usually don't go digging through the newspaper pile, but frequently, i see the pile of Sunday circulars sitting on top. With just a quick flip through, I find the coupons. A leisurely walk through a large neighborhood could get you a couple hundred dollars worth of coupons.
    
5. Create a Coupon Bin
   Most businesses have an eating area for employees. I have started a coupon bin in ours. Put a small cardboard box, a shoebox size, on the counter area with a sign that says, "coupons...take ones you want and leave yours that you don't use". Start the box off with some of the coupons you know you won't use and keep your eyes open for new ones in the box.
    
6. Mailing Lists
   Get yourself on some major brand mailing lists. Many companies often mail out coupons and discounts on a regular basis to the individuals on their list. You can usually get yourself on these lists at the company's website by filling out a questionnaire. I even have some neighbors that allowed me to fill out questionnaires for them and get their coupons when they arrive.
    
7. Online Coupons
   Online coupon sites are always popping up so keep your eyes open. Below are some sites that you can use to get additional coupons:

   CoolSavings - print coupons from your computer
   Coupons.com - print free name brand coupons
   The Coupon Clippers - Order coupons online
    

8. In Your Grocery Store
   Many stores today have coupons on the shelves throughout the grocery store. I always take a few of each. Also, check the entrance of your store. Often there will be coupons there as well.
    
9. Rainchecks
   If an item is on sale, but, there are none left on the shelf, the store will usually give you a rain check for the item. This enables you to buy the item at the sale price at a later date, usually within 30 days. Take this time to try and find additional coupons for the item, hence, coupon-compounding again.
    
10. Get a Grocery Store Shoppers Card
    Store cards are free! This is the card they scan each time you shop and you will often receive coupons at check out. Further, make sure, when applying for the card, make sure to agree that the store may sell your name to advertisers and promoters. There advertisers and promoters, and often the store itself, will send you coupons based on your buying habits.
     
11. Magazines
    Keep an eye open when paging through magazines. Many companies will include a coupon along with their magazine advertisements. I flip through as many magazines as possible when I'm at the dentist and doctor's offices.

(Read More: Triple Coupons)