Coupons

Coupons are THE most important thing in saving money. Seriously, it's like companies send you money almost every week (whether it be in the Sunday paper, mailers, online, or in stores).  Some people have certain reservations about coupons, but there shouldn't be any with the right education about coupons.
 

Myth:  "Well, you end up losing money on coupons because you're buying things you don't need."

Truth: This is where you have to do your research. For example, National Brand X laundry detergent sent out a coupon for $2.00 off any 20oz. box of detergent.  When you get to the store, National Brand X is 7.99 for a 20oz. box - making it $5.00 after coupon.  Good deal, you think. Well, then you peer down and see National Brand Y 20oz. is $4.00, regular price.  It is up to you to make sure you are getting the best deal out there. Sure, some people are brand specific for Brand X, so it is a good deal. BUT, if you just want to get your laundry done and are strapped for cash, Brand Y is your best bet.  That's the thing about coupons. Sometimes you have to put aside brand loyalties to save the most money. I'm a loyalist in some areas, but 9 times out of 10, I buy what's on sale because I can't justify spending extra money. It's up to you, but coupons are not out there to trick you if you know what you are doing.

Myth: "Coupons aren't going to add up to the time finding them."

Well, you're right-- coupons aren't going to make the part time coupon-er rich... I know I'm not sitting on a gold mine; however, couponing can save you a nice chunk of change for things you thought you couldn't afford in the first place. Take for example the groceries. Say your bill for a month of groceries is $300. If you used just 10% in coupons, that's $30 bucks extra a month you've got in your pocket. Take that throughout the year... you have $360 left at the end of the year. Now, I know that 's not going to buy that gold plated coffee mug you wanted, but that can go towards other things like: a vacation fund, savings account, home improvement, mental health days for when your job or school gets the best of you, etc. The possibilities are endless, but it is going to take some dedication from you to start with.

Myth: "Coupons are for little old ladies or soccer moms."

Truth: Coupons are for EVERYBODY. I spent my college years toting around my little orange coupon organizer, gaining jokes from everybody about how I was so silly for wanting to coupon. Well, people started to quiet down when they saw I was getting freebies and they were paying retail.   The only people who shouldn't be couponing are those who WANT to pay full retail.