Coupons – Friend or Foe?

Coupons have been around for decades but they remain unused by millions of Americans. Maybe it’s the misconception that coupons are used by misers who run behind savings of a penny here and a penny there? Or is it the belief that clipping coupons is a waste of time and they lead people to buy products they otherwise would never buy? These beliefs many have been true at one time but with technology and the current problems with the economy, coupons help families bridge the gap between lack and necessity. Many families are finding themselves unable to cover their day to day needs such as food, gas, utilities and housing. And coupons may seem insignificant compared to larger discounts but over the period of a month the savings on groceries can be substantial, and this is true even for couples and individuals without children. Coupons allow you to reduce your grocery expense by allowing you to keep money that would otherwise go to your grocer’s profit margin.

What many fail to realize is that coupon clipping is no longer a time intensive ritual. Many coupons can now be found on the Internet and printed using your home computer (Print Free National Brand Coupons) or even uploaded directly to your favorite shopper’s card. You can also receive coupons by direct mail for your favorite brands, plus you can register online with your preferred stores or even sign up for coupon programs where someone does the clipping for you. Especially in this economy companies are desperate to retain customers and keep business flowing in general. They want you to spend your money with them, so if you already buy their products or are interested in them why shouldn’t you receive a benefit when doing so? Coupons are no longer just for misers and people who have extra time on their hands, they are for everyone who wants to make their income. You may surprise yourself with the savings that you missed by not using coupons.