Couponing Taken To The Next Level

Recently I found a couple of yahoo groups that go along with my latest financial forte into couponing. Couponing when done correctly is a great way to save a ton of green. Which in turn helps stretch your families budget.

Neither group allow trading. Instead they call themselves sharing groups. One is a national group and one is a Texas only group.

Coupon Co-op

This is a sharing group where friends meet to help one another.

Trading is not allowed OR necessary! We do not allow the 'sharing' of stamps. That is a trading commodity.

Please introduce yourself to the group. We look forward to meeting you. ;o)

Permanent wishlists, which are required within '4 days' after membership approval, are put into a File for each member, and you are also encouraged to request specific coupons whenever you need them.

In order to maintain your membership you are required to send out at least ONE sharing envie PER month.


Referrals in your signature line ONLY.

Or post in our coupon trading group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TheTradersPlace

Your PERSONAL business website can be put into the Links Section. For Example: Tupperware, Avon, Scrapbooking, etc.

This is a friendly and chatty group, and we hope you enjoy it!
- Coupon Co-op

Texas Couponers

Texas Couponers is group was created for Texans that coupon and rebate.

RMC membership isn't needed-but, members are welcomed. Interested in subscribing to RMC? Go to: http://refundcents.com/subscriptions.htm?REFID=HLB

You are welcome to post HOT sales, coupons, deals and rebates to this group. We all love saving money.

VISIT OUR NEW WEB SITE AT:

http://www.divagirlsdeals.com

IF YOU ARE NEW TO COUPONING/REFUNDING, VISIT THE WEBSITE AND READ THE PAGE ENTITLED "COUPONING 101"-YOU WILL FIND IT TO BE VERY HELPFUL.

SPAM IS NOT TOLERATED AT ALL. IF YOU SPAM THIS GROUP YOU WILL BE IMMEDIATELY REMOVED AND BANNED!

EMAIL HARVESTING IS NOT ALLOWED OR TOLERATED AT ALL--IF YOU DO THIS, YOU WILL BE BANNED!

NO FLAMING!! IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM, SEND ME AN EMAIL! LETS ALL ACT LIKE ADULTS.

PLEASE DO NOT PROMOTE YOUR PERSONAL WEB-SITE OR BUSINESS BY POSTING IT TO THE GROUP.

YOU ARE ALLOWED TO ADD A LINK TO YOUR SITE OR BUSINESS ON THE LINKS PAGE AND I WANT TO ENCOURAGE YOU TO DO THIS. BUT YOU CANNOT PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESSES THRU POSTINGS. IF THIS IS DONE, YOUR LINK WILL BE IMMEDIATELY DELEATED AND YOUR MEMBERSHIP TO THIS GROUP WILL BE BANNED!!

Thank you for joining our group,hope that you have fun and save lots of money and getting great deals.

PLEASE READ: PLEASE DO NOT LIST TRADE POSTS FOR COUPONS/FORMS ON THIS GROUP. IF YOU LIKE TRADING COUPONS, PLEASE VIEW OUR NEWEST YAHOOGROUP "COUPON FREAKS" AT:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CouponFreaks/join

**ITS OPEN TO All IN THE USA!

*You can give away coupons that are soon expiring as long as you are NOT accepting ANYTHING for them (like a trade, money, paypal, stamps, ect.) you can offer them to groups members.

- Texas Couponers

However, I am not sure how active the Texas group is, as the moderators page Diva Girls Deals is no longer active. The domain name is available and a search in Google finds a blogspot page that hasn't been updated since 2010 and a facebook page that hasn't been updated since June of last year.

On the other Coupon Co-op is very active. I was required to post a coupon wishlist within four days and have already received what the group calls a coupon potluck from one of the members. I encourage everyone to check it out. I think it is going to be really neat. The local one claims to have meetings, but since there hasn't been any updates since June 2011, I am not sure if that is still accurate. If it is still active, expect that I will eventually be posting about them in a future post. Perhaps with pictures.

As for the Coupon Co-op here is the wishlist I posted with them:

Kevin and Pat's Coupon Wishlist

Kevin Surbaugh
PO Box 170670
Austin, TX 78717


BEVERAGES:
Ozarka Water - 24pk Case
Nestle Water - 24pk Case
Dasani - 24pk Case
Folger's Coffee
Tea Bags
Hot Cocoa Mix
Coca-Cola products (preferably cans but 2 liters are good to)
Gatorade - Off 1


BREAD/CEREALS/COOKIES
Any Cereal - off 1
Oatmeal
Grits
Cookies - Off 1


CONDIMENTS:
Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing - Off 1
Kraft or Wishbone Salad Dressing - Off 1
Kraft Miracle Whip - Off 1
Mustard - Off 1
Sugar (Granulated/powdered or brown) - Off 1
Any Ketchup - Off 1
Salsas


CANNED/ JARRED/ DRY GOODS:
Canned Vegetables
Macaroni Noodles
Kraft or Velveeta Macaroni and Cheese
Any Peanut Butter - off 1
Any Jelly - Off 1


DAIRY:
Coffee Mate - LiquidAny Coffee Creamer - Liquid
Eggs
Shedds Country Crock
Daisy Sour Cream
Yoplait yogurts
Kraft or Sargento Shredded/Chunk Cheese/singles
Velveeta (block or singles)

FROZEN FOODS:
Birds Eye Steamfresh or Boxed Vegetables - Off 1
Green Giant Frozen Vegetables - Off 1
Totinos Pizza Rolls - Off 1
Blue Bunny or Breyers or Dryers Ice Cream (Reg/sherbert/yogurt) - Off 1


PAPER/PLASTIC:
Cottonelle Toilet Paper
Bounty or Viva Paper Towels
Glad or Ziplock Sandwich, quart & gallon bags


HEALTH & BEAUTY ITEMS:
Carefree Pantyliner - Off 1
Secret Deodorant
Axe Deodorant
Colgate or Crest Toothpaste
Garnier or Suave Shampoo/Conditioner for color treated hair
Dial Liquid Hand Soap (Foaming or Reg)
Sauve Shampoo (any but especially Mens)

CLEANING ITEMS:
Tide or Gain Detergent (Liquid or Pods)
Dawn Dishsoap
Finish Powerball Tabs or Gelpacs or Quantum dishwasher soap
Jet dry - off 1
Spray & Wash or Tide Stain Sticks - off 1
Downy Unstopables
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Kaboom Foamtastic Shower Cleaner
Lysol Dual Wipes
Comet - off 1
Furniture Polish - off 1
Floor Cleaner (Linoleum)
PET SUPPLIES:
Tidy Cat scoopable Litter -Off 1

Evo cat food

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Coupon Insert Preview for March 18

posted by the Prince of Thrift

3-18 Smartsource coupon preview

Regional coupon inserts & value differences are to be expected!



Air Wick Save $1.50/1 Freshmatic Compact refill (4/15)
Air Wick Save $1.50/1 Freshmatic Ultra refill (4/15)
Air Wick Save $1/1 Freshmatic Flip & Fresh (4/15)
Air Wick Save $1/1 Freshmatic ultra gadget (4/15)
Air Wick Save $1/1 Scented Oil refills twin pack or Save $1/2 singles (4/15)
Air Wick Save $2/1 Freshmatic Ultra or Compact Starter kit (4/15)
Air Wick Save $2/2 candles (4/15)
Air Wick Get Scented Oil Warmer unit free wyb Scented Oil refill fragrance up to Save $1.19 excludes free item packs (4/15)
Aleve Save $1/1 20ct+ excluding D products (6/30)
Aleve Save $2/1 D product (6/30)
Alexia Save $.55/1 frozen item (4/15)
Allegra Save $2/1 children’s (3/31)
Allegra Save $4/1 30ct+ (3/31)
Alouette Save $.50/1 crumbled cheese (7/31)
Alouette Save $1/1 brie cheese (7/31)
Alouette Save $1/1 soft spreadable cheese (7/31)
Alpine Lace Save $1/1 1lb deli cheese (5/31)
Alpine Lace Save $1/2 deli cheese (5/31)
Barilla Save $1/1 pasta sauce AND 1 pasta (5/13)
Bausch+Lomb Save $1/1 Opcon-A product (6/30)
Bausch+Lomb Save $3/1 Soothe product (6/30)
Bausch+Lomb Save $4/1 product (6/30)
Bayer Save $1/1 Aspirin product 20ct+ (6/30)
Betty Crocker Save $3/2 decorating items (7/15)
BIC Save $2/1 disposable razor ets (4/15)
Blue Diamond Save $.55/1 refrigerated Almond Breeze almondmilk (4/30)
Blue Diamond Save $.55/1 shelf-stable Almond Breeze almondmilk (4/30)
Capri Sun B3G1 free 10ct products excluding 100% juice up to Save $2.60 (4/18)
Carefree Save $1/1 product (4/30)
Citracal Save $ 1/1 product (6/30)
Clairol Save $2/1 hair color (4/30) ETS
Clean & Clear Save $1.50/1 body wash product excludes trial and 2oz size (4/30)
Clean & Clear Save $1/1 product excludes trial and 2oz size (4/30)
Crystal Light Save $1/2 drink mix (4/30)
Easy-Off Save $.50/1 cooktop or barbecue grill cleaner (5/18)
Easy-Off Save $.50/1 oven cleaner (5/18)
Elephant Bar Save $7/$25 food purchase (5/7)
Farmer John Save $1/1 bacon (4/18)
Farmer John Save $1/1 breakfast sausage (4/18)
Flinstones Save $1/1 multivitamin product (6/30)
Glass Plus Save $.35/1 (5/18)
Gorton’s Save $.50/1 item (6/23)
Huggies Save $1.50/1 diapers ( 4/14)
Huggies Save $1.50/1 Pull-Ups training pants jumbo pack+ (4/14)
Huggies Save $2/1 Little Movers Slip-On diapers (4/14)
Kaboom Save $.50/1 BowlBlaster or Foam-Tastic Toilet Cleaner (5/31)
Kaboom Save $.50/1 Foam-Tastic Fresh or Citrus (5/31)
Kaboom Save $.50/1 Shower, Tub & Tile or StainBuster (5/31)
Lime-A-Way Save $.50/1 cleaner (5/18)
Lysol Save $3/1 No-Touch Kitchen System starter kit (5/1)
Mitchum Save $1/1 men or women product excluding trial and multipacks (5/15)
Mop & Glo Save $.50/1 product (5/18)
Neo Synephrine Save $1/1 product (6/30)
Neosporin Save $2/1 Essentials product (5/31) ETS
Nissin Save $1/3 Big Cup Noodles (6/30)
o.b. Save $.75/1 product (4/30)
Old English Save $.75/1 product (5/18)
One A Day Save $1/1 adult or teen multivitamin product (5/31)
Phillips’ Save $2/1 product (6/30)
Playtex Buy 36ct+ tampons box, get 20ct- free up to Save $5.99 (5/13)
Purina Save $1/1 4lb+ Puppy Chow, Dog Chow, Active Senior 7+, Little Bites, Healthy Morsels or Fit & Trim (4/15)
Purina Save $3/1 Chef Michael’s for Dogs (4/15)
Purina B1G1 free Beneful Baked Delights dog snacks up to Save $4.29 (4/18)
Purina B4G2 Chef Michael’s for Dogs cans free up to Save $2.20 (4/15)
Revlon Save $5/2 beauty tools TARGET coupon (4/14)
Rubbermaid Save $3/1 Reveal Microfiber Spray Mop (5/1)
Stayfree Save $2/2 products (4/30)
Stouffer’s Save $1/1 Farmers’ Harvest Steam Perfect Bag (5/5)
Stouffer’s Save $1/2 Farmers’ Harvest meals (5/5)
Tena Save $1/1 product (6/30)
Toblerone Save $1/2 chocolate bars or bags 3.52oz+ (5/19)
Velveeta Save $.75/1 Cheesy Skillets dinner kit or Cheesy Potatoes (4/18)
Voskos Save $1/3 (6/30)
Wonderful Pistachios Save $1/2 5oz+ packages (6/30)
Woolite Save $1/1 detergent 50oz+ (4/29)

RedPlum Coupon Preview

Alka-Seltzer Save $1/1 Plus Allergy Fast Relief Formula (6/30)
Alka-Seltzer Save $1/1 Plus product (6/30)
Alka-Seltzer Save $1/1 product (6/30)
C&H Save $.40/1 24oz Organic or 32oz Washed Raw sugar product (4/30)
C&H Save $.40/1 4lb or 5lb granulated sugar (4/30)
C&H Save $.65/1 Organic Light or Amber Agave Nectar (4/30)
Covergirl Save $.50/1 Lip or Eye product (4/30) ETS
Covergirl Save $2/1 Tone Rehab Foundation (4/30) ETS
Gain Save $.50/1 detergent, fabric softener, sheets, dryer bar or scent booster (4/30) ETS
Gain Save $1.50/1 detergents, fabric softeners, sheets, dryer bars or scent boosters (4/30) ETS
Garnier Save $1/1 moisturizer (6/18)
Kettle Save $1/1 4oz+ potato chips (5/12)
L’Oreal Save $1/1 Paris skincare product standard size (5/13) ETS
L’Oreal Save $2/1 Paris RevitaLift Cr10 product (5/13)
L’Oreal Save $2/1 preference (5/13)
Mars Save $1/2 Easter products: M&M’s Chocolate Candies, M&M’s Minis Chocolate Candies, Minis Mix variety bags, 3 Musketeers, Twix Minis, Snickers Minis, Milky Way Minis, Dove Silky Smooth Eggs dnd no size restrictions (4/8)
Nivea Save $2/1 Sun-Kissed Beautiful Legs or Radiant Skin lotion 6.7oz-8.4oz (4/22)
Pringles Save $.50/1 Snack Stacks (4/30) ETS
Pringles Save $1/4 Super Stack cans (4/30) ETS
Purina Save $.50/1 Friskies cat treats (5/18)
Purina Save $.50/4 5.5oz Friskies Plus cans or Indoor wet cat food (6/18)
Purina Save $1/24 5.5oz Friskies cans or Save $1/2 12ct variety packs canned or pouches or Save $1/1 24ct variety pack canned or pouches (6/18)
Purina Save $3/12 Mighty Dog cans or Save $3/1 12ct variety pack (5/7)
Scope Save $.50/1 mouthwash 710mL+ (4/30) ETS
Starburst/Life Savers/Jellybeans Save $1/2 13oz+ bags dnd (4/8)
Suave Save $.50/1 body lotion product (4/15) ETS
Suave Save $.50/1 Professionals styling product ets (5/15) ETS
Suave Save $.50/2 Professionals shampoo or conditioner products (4/15) ETS
Suave Save $.75/1 deodorant product (4/15) ETS
Suave Save $1.50/2 Scalp Solutions shampoo or conditioner products (4/15)
Suave Save $2/1 Professionals Keratin Infusion Smoothing Kit (4/15) ETS
Suave B2G1 free Naturals, Men or Kids body wash products up to Save $3 (4/15) ETS
Sundown Naturals Save $1/1 vitamin or supplement product (4/17)


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go ahead share your thoughts with me now, my ears are open. I'm always eager to hear what you think.

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Scheduled Coupons for the Sunday Paper 3/11/12

posted by Kevin Surbaugh

3/11/12

SMARTSOURCE

A.1. $1/1 steak sauce10oz+ (4/8/12)
Atkins $1/1 bar 5pk dnd(5/31/12)
Atkins $1/1 shake 4pk dnd(5/31/12)
Better Than $1/1 Ears treats(6/11/12)
Betty Crocker $.50/2 FruitShapes, Fruit by the Foot, Fruit Gushers, Fruit Roll-Ups (5/5/12)
Bounce $.50/1 ets(4/30/12)
Classico $.50/2 pasta sauces dnd (5/6/12)
Clear Care $2/1 cleaning and disinfecting solution 12oz+ (5/30/12)
Clearasil $1/1 product(4/22/12)
Clearasil $3/1 Prefecta Wash Automatic Face Wash dispenser & refills (starter kit only, excludes individual refills) (6/3/12)
Colgate $1/1 360 Optic White toothbrush (3/31/12)
Colgate $1/1 Optic White, Total Advanced or Sensitive Pro Relief 4oz+ (3/31/12)
Cottonelle $.50/2 toilet paper4pks or $.50/1 12pk+ (4/8/12)
Downy $.50/1 ets(4/30/12)
Finish $.75/1 Powerball tabs or Gelpacs (4/15/12)
Finish $1/1 Quantum(4/15/12)
Fun da-middles $.50/1 cupcake mix(5/5/12)
General Mills $1/3 cereals(4/21/12)
Golden Grain $1/2 100% Whole Wheat Pasta 13.25oz (4/30/12)
Hamburger Helper $.75/3 Home Cooked Skillet Meals (5/5/12)
Irish Spring $.50/1 3pk+ barpack or body wash excluding 2.5oz (3/31/12)
Irish Spring $1/1 deodorant (3/31/12)
Johnsonville $1/1 Italian sausage links (4/30/12)
Ken's $1/1 16oz dressing(4/30/12)
Kleenex $.30/3 tissue packs or boxes (4/22/12)
Kleenex $1/2 Hand Towels(4/22/12)
Lysol $3/1 No-Touch Kitchen System starter kit (4/7/12) TARGET coupon
Maruchan $.50/1 Yakisoba product (5/31/12)
MidNite $1/1 regular, PM or for Menopause (9/30/12)
NatuRelief $1/1 product(9/30/12)
New York Brand $.50/1 frozen product (5/15/12)
Ocean Spray $.50/1 fruit flavored snacks (5/5/12)
Olive Garden $2/2 lunch entrees(4/29/12)
Olive Garden $4/2 dinner entrees(4/29/12)
Opti-Free $2/1 PureMoist contact lens solution 10oz+ (5/30/12)
Pepperidge Farm $.75/1 Chocolate Chunk Crispy Cookies or Soft Baked Cookies (5/6/12)
Pepperidge Farm $.75/1 Distinctive Cookies (5/6/12)
Pillsbury $.40/2 ToasterStrudel, Toaster Scrambles Pastries or Pancakes (6/2/12)
Pillsbury $.40/3 Crescent dinner rolls (6/2/12)
Pillsbury $.40/3 refrigerated Grands! biscuits (6/2/12)
Rachel Ray $1/1 bag of soup bones or any other Nutrish treats (6/11/12)
Rachel Ray $2/1 6lb+ bag of Nutrish for Dogs (6/11/12)
Revlon $1/1 color cosmetic(4/15/12)
Revlon $1/1 color cosmetic(4/15/12)
Schick $1/1 disposable razor pack excludes 2ct (4/22/12)
Schick $3/2 disposable razor packs excludes 2ct (4/22/12)
Scotch $2/1 Pet Hair Remover or Sweeper refill (4/30/12)
Scotch $2/1 Pet Hair Remover or Sweeper Starter Kit (4/30/12)
Scott $.50/1 Naturals flushable wipes tub or refill (4/22/12)
Scott $1/8+ rolls of bath tissue (4/22/12)
Scrubbing Bubbles $2/2 bathroom cleaners (6/30/12)
Sebamed $3/1 full size haircare product (5/12/12) Redeemable only at CVS
Sebamed $3/1 full size skincare product (5/12/12) Redeemable only at CVS
Sebamed $5/2 full size skincare products (5/12/12) Redeemable only at CVS
Sebamed 50% off conditioner wyb shampoo (5/12/12) Redeemable only at CVS
Tide $.50/1 StainRelease ets (4/30/12)
Tide $1/1 detergent excludes PODS and trial (4/30/12)
Ultimate Flora $3/1 probiotic (6/30/12)
VIVA $.60/1 or more paper towel Big Rolls (5/6/12)
Yoplait $.20/1 Lactose-Free yogurt cup (5/5/12)
Yoplait $.50/8 cups(5/5/12)
Yoplait $.75/1 Greek yogurt4-pack (5/5/12)
Yoplait $.75/2 Go-Gurt, Kids Cup, Trix, Splitz (5/5/12)

REDPLUM

Advil $ PM 4ct+ $1.00/1(6/9/12)
Breathe Right 10ct+ $1.50/1(5/11/12)
Breathe Right 26ct+ $2.00/1 (5/11/12)
Centrum Pro Nutrients $5.00/1 (4/14/12)
Crave soft treats for cats $1.00/2 (4/21/12)
Children's Dimetapp product $1.00/1 (5/05/12)
DermaSilk full size product $5.00/1 (3/22/12)
Dial 3 bar pack 3ct+ or liquid hand soap $1.00/3 (3/31/12)
Dial lotion 12oz+ $1.00/1 (3/31/12)
Dial body washes 12oz+ $1.00/2 (3/31/12)
Dial for Men Speed Foam body wash no trial $1.00/1 (3/31/12)
Emerald Nuts products 5oz+ $1.50/2 (4/22/12)
Florida Crystals Light or Amber Organic Agave Nectar .75/1 (5/31/12)
Florida Crystals Natural or Organic Sugar product .75/1 (5/31/12)
Garnier moisturizer $2.00/1 (6/11/12)
Kellogg's Eggo frozen product 5.3oz or larger .75/2 (5/6/12)
L'Oreal EverCreme, EverSleek, EverPure, EverStrong shampoo or conditioner $1.00/1 (5/6/12)
L'Oreal EverCreme, EverSleek, EverPure, EverStrong treatment $1.00/1 (5/6/12)
L'Oreal EverStyle product $1.00/1(5/6/12)
L'Oreal Sublime Mousse haircolor $2.00/1 (5/6/12)
Marcal Small Steps Towel 8 roll+ or bath tissue 12 roll+ or napkins $1.00/1 (4/15/12)
Meow Mix dry cat food 3lbs+ dnd $1.00/1 (5/5/12)
Nutro Ultra food for dogs $3.00/1 (5/6/12)
Oxy product $1.00/1 (4/30/12)
Oxy Clinical product $2.00/1 (4/30/12)
Pup-Peroni 4.8oz+ $1.00/1 (5/31/12)
Pure Protein powder or drink $1.00/1 (4/22/12)
Pure Protein bars $1.00/2 (4/22/12)
Purex liquid detergent no trial $1.00/2 (4/21/12)
Purex UltraPacks detergent no trial $1.00/1 (4/21/12)
Quaker Yogurt Granola Bars $1.00/1 (4/21/12)
Renuzit Buy 1 Get 1 free Fresh Accents air freshener up to $2.29 (4/8/12)
Renuzit Buy 2 Get 1 free Adjustables air fresheners up to $4.17 (4/8/12)
Rimmel London mascara $1.00/1 (5/31/12)
Rimmel London product $1.00/1 (5/31/12)
Robitussin Product $1.00/1 (5/5/12)
Scotties facial tissues 5 boxes or 2 multipacks $1.00 (4/15/12)
Seeds of Change certified organic seed packs $1.00/2 (5/6/12)
Seeds of Change certified organic food products $2.00/2 (5/6/12)
Soft Scrub Abrasive or Gel product $1.00/2(4/21/12)
Soft Scrub Total product $1.00/1 (4/21/12)
SuperPretzel soft pretzel product .50/1(4/13/12)
SuperPretzel Sweet Cinnamon .50/1 (4/13/12)
Ultra food for dogs $3.00/1 (5/6/12)
Visine product 1/2floz+ $1.00/1 (6/30/12)
Visine Soothing Wipes product $2.00/1 (6/30/12)
Visine Visine-A or Visine product with Hydroblend moisturizers $2.00/1 (6/30/12)
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Expired Coupons? Don't Throw Them Away!

What do you do with the expired coupons that you have? Throw them away like most people? There is better way.

Every month there are hundreds of coupons that expire.

Send them to those who sacrifice for us everyday: our troops around the world. The military and their families are able to use manufacturer coupons up to 6 months after their expiration dates at their Commissaries if they are stationed abroad. There are a number of bases that can use these coupons.

We here at Wisdom Steps 101 have "adopted" a military base in the United Kingdom (England) to send all of our expired coupons to and we want give you the opportunity join us. You could do a search online and find a base that is accepting new "adoptions" as they call it or you can send you coupons to us and we in turn will turn around and mail them out to the base that we have adopted. Either way you will be helping out those that are protecting our freedoms that we hold so dear here in the USA.

Here is the simplicity of it:

1. Cut the coupons.

2. Sort them by "food" and "non-food"

3. Total the batch by dollar amount.

4. Place each batch in a separate envelope or baggie "food' in one, and "non-food" in the other.

5. Send a report to OCP.

6. Note: The base and OCP will not contact you. (For details see: "Confirmation Requests" page.)
- Overseas Coupon Program

The expired coupons should no more then 2 Months Max! Yes expired coupons are accepted. We recommend not sending any coupons older than 2 months expired on the date of shipment. They can use them for 6 months after expiration but remember that the volunteers at the base must process the coupons once they arrive and get them out to be used. We also need to leave enough time for them to have the families sort through them and find the ones they want for use and get to the store with them.

Also no need to send internet coupons as they can get these themselves while still in date. Also do not send any store coupons (IE: store specific coupons as they cannot be used overseas). Finally No restaurant coupons.

Most bases have 2 stores. One is called the “Commissary” which is a grocery store and the other is the PX or BX which is a department store. We therefore ask you to sort the coupons into “food” and “non-food” bundles so that they can more easily be placed in the correct venue once they arrive at the base. If a base wants additional sorting they will let you know but this is the standard sort that OCP is aware of.

Use baggies, envelopes, etc., to contain the different categories -- whatever will keep them separated during shipment

(Do not use rubber bands, paper clips, and similar methods of keeping the coupons sorted as they do not work and will come apart in shipping).

It is important to label the bundles "Food" and "Non-Food" or as the base requests.

Add up the face value dollar amount for the coupons.

When you sort your coupons into "Food" and "non-food" I would write on the outside of the envelope the total dollar amount enclosed (or if you use a baggie on a piece of paper visible through the baggie.

If you send them to us here use this address:

Wisdom Steps 101
Coupons For Troops Effort
PO Box 170670
Austin, TX 78717

and we will make sure they get mailed on to our adopted base within the week.


Note: It is perfectly fine to send coupons that haven't quite expired yet as that will give the troops more time to use them.



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go ahead share your thoughts with me now, my ears are open. I'm always eager to hear what you think.

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Safeway Updates its Coupon Policy

Safeway (which includes Von's Pavilion's, Dominick's, Randall's, Tom Thumb, and Generidi) has updated their coupon policy again. I placed the updated coupon policy below:

This policy applies to Safeway Inc. and its affiliates and subsidiaries in the USA
Manufacturer and Store Coupons:
1. We will redeem coupons only for the specific items included in our customer's purchase transaction. The redemption value will be as stated on the coupon, unless that value yields a final price for such item less than zero; if application of the redemption value yields a price less than zero, the coupon will be redeemed only for the amount that yields a zero price (our customer cannot net a cash credit or payout from a coupon purchase).

2. Paper coupons must be presented at the time of the purchase transaction. We will accept only coupons issued by Safeway or the manufacturer of the relevant product. We will not accept photocopies of coupons.

3. Coupons are subject to advertised offer limitations and all other limitations and restrictions on the applicable coupon or product.

4. Coupons may not be applied against any free item received in any offer.

5. Coupons have no cash value.

6. Safeway will not accept manufacturer coupons (including, but not limited to, coupons issued through a Catalina or other in-store coupon dispenser) that display another retailer's logo or name unless such coupon is for a specific item with the same product identifiers as the product included in our customer's purchase transaction and is sold and available at the store.

7. We will not accept coupons unless they have an expiration date. Expired coupons will not be accepted.

8. We will not accept coupons that, in the determination of Safeway personnel, appear distorted or blurry or are altered in any way.

9. Sales taxes will be applied in accordance with the law of the applicable state, regardless of any coupon or other discount that may apply to the purchase transaction.

10. All applicable bottle and packaging deposits on the purchased and free items must be paid by the customer.

11. Safeway reserves the right to refuse any coupons at its discretion.

12. Purchase reward thresholds (if any) will be calculated based upon customer's final price (after deducting Club Card savings and all other discounts and savings) before deductions for any manufacturer coupons. As an example (and not as an offer), if a $10 minimum purchase is required for a customer reward, a customer's order at full retail would be $12, a Club Card discount of $1.75 applies, and a manufacturer's coupon of $1 applies, the customer would be given credit for a $10.25 purchase, and would be eligible for the reward (assuming compliance with all other requirements) even though the customer's cash payment would be only $9.25. The manufacturer's coupon would not be deducted from the total for purposes of determining reward eligibility. Purchase reward thresholds (if any) will be calculated based upon customer's final price (after deducting Club Card savings, and all other discounts)

13. References to a threshold purchase requirement will exclude purchases of: Beer, Wine, Spirits, Tobacco Products, Fuel, All Fluid Items in the Refrigerated Dairy Section (including Fluid Dairy and Dairy Substitutes), Prescription Items and Co-payments, Bus/Commuter Passes, Fishing/Hunting Licenses and Tags, Postage Stamps, Money Orders, Money Transfers, Ski Tickets, Amusement Park Tickets, Event Tickets, Lottery Tickets, Phone Cards, Gift Cards, and Gift Certificates; also excluded are: Bottle Deposits, Redemption Values, and Sales Taxes.
Internet Printed Coupons:
14. We accept internet printed coupons. The same manufacturer and store coupon rules above apply to all internet printed coupons.

15. Internet printed coupons must be capable of scanning at checkout.

16. Internet printed coupons must have serial numbers and must follow an industry-standard format.

17. Manufacturer internet printed coupons must clearly indicate that they are a manufacturer coupon and must have a valid manufacture address on the printed coupon.

18. We will not accept "free product" internet printed manufacturer coupons.
Load to Card Club Coupons:
19. Internet and digital coupons that have been electronically loaded to a Safeway Club Card are automatically redeemed at the time of purchase after the club card number has been entered. All other coupon policies above apply to electronic coupons that are loaded to a club card. Internet and digital coupons electronically loaded to a Safeway Club Card are not included in any operative “double coupon” or other increase in coupon value promotion. Coupons are not accepted on online shopping orders made on Safeway.com, except Internet and digital coupons that have been electronically loaded the ‘Safeway Club Card’ being used for that order.
Doubling of Coupons:
20. Check with your local store regarding “double coupon” promotions where customers will receive double the manufacturer coupon face value off the regular or club card price up to the identified limit. Not all locations offer double coupon promotions and the terms of such promotions may differ by time and store. Limitations and restrictions for double coupon promotions may change at any time. Changes will be posted in store only. “Double coupon” promotions do not apply to any internet or digital coupons except for applicable internet printed manufacturer coupons. These explanations and restrictions on “double coupons” apply to any promotion that increases the value of a manufacturer coupon beyond its face value.
Coupon Stacking:
21. Safeway does not allow a customer to redeem two or more manufacturer coupons against the same item in a single transaction.

22. Coupon stacking policies for manufacturer coupons apply to paper and electronic coupons that have been loaded to a club card.

23. If a customer presents two coupons for the same item in a single transaction, Safeway will give the highest discount for that item, subject to the terms of the applicable offer and/or coupon.
Rainchecks:
24. Rainchecks expire ninety (90) days from the date issued and will not be accepted at any Safeway store that has the specific item in stock.

25. We reserve the right to limit Raincheck quantities based on product availability and advertised limits.

26. Rainchecks can be issued for up to six (6) items unless otherwise stated in the applicable advertisement.

27. Rainchecks will not be issued for Beer, Wine, Spirits, Tobacco Products, Fuel, All Fluid Items in the Refrigerated Dairy Section (including Fluid Dairy and Dairy Substitutes).

28. Rainchecks can be offered for store super coupon items unless otherwise specified on the coupon. Rainchecks will not be provided for items advertised as "clearance", "while supplies last," "limited quantities," or other designation indicating a limited supply.




All coupon redemption terms are subject to our Coupon Acceptance Policy in effect at time of redemption.

We may change the terms of our Coupon Acceptance Policy at any time. Such changes may become effective without advance notice or advertisement. The current Coupon Acceptance Policy will be posted at the customer service area in each store. You are also advised to periodically check our website for any changes to the terms of our Coupon Acceptance Policy.



Revision Date: 01/20/2012


- Safeway Coupon Policy

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All You Need to Know about Mail-In Rebates

This post was written by Ella Davidson of couponing website Coupons. The website strives to provide consumers with the best possible deals available on the Internet while maintaining a charitable aspect and giving back to the community.

If you have two coupons and then add the possibility of a mail-in rebate, it is like you are practically getting paid to buy the product. This situation is not as uncommon as it sounds. Everyone loves saving money and a great way to fulfill those desires is by using rebates. The complicated but higher saving cousin of the cutout coupon, rebates are advantageous for both you and the company.

The good news for you is that rebates save you money. Mail-in rebates started the trend and were made noticeable by accompanying large electronic items from stores like Best Buy and Staples. Large sticker prices led to even bigger rebates. Nowadays rebates exist in many mediums, not just mail-in anymore. You can get a rebate on hundreds of thousands of different items—phones, car parts, makeup, food, and even beer—and you can get them for a wide range of money anywhere from five dollars to hundreds of dollars.

The added bonus for a rebate is that normally it stacks with coupons and discounts. If you talk to rebate connoisseurs or read about their exploits, it is not uncommon for them to actually get items for free with the coupling of discounts, coupons, and rebates.

As previously mentioned, rebates are also good for companies. This is where the bad news fits in for you and other consumers. Although some of the positive qualities allow companies to conduct surveys and collect accurate data about their consumers, there are also many qualities of the age-old mail-in rebate that try to take advantage of the consumer. If you have used a rebate before, you know the feeling of approaching the register expecting to pay one price. Instead, you have to pay a higher price and wait 6-8 or 8-12 weeks to get that money back.

This is a smooth psychological trick that companies use to make their products seem more appealing. People love seeing that lower price. But we all know what happens when you get home. If you are like many—and not like one of those rebate connoisseurs—then that receipt gets lost at the bottom of the file cabinet, the UPC gets thrown away with the box, or it is two months past expiration before you remember there was a mail-in rebate. This could mean that your pocket is fifty or even a hundred dollars lighter, while the company makes that extra money without having to lift a finger.

Factor this procrastination or laziness over every consumer and you get cases very similar to what happened with the Tivo. Just over 50,000 customers—half of the total people who purchased Tivo—had the same problem as me: they lost receipts, misplaced paperwork, and had that date slip their mind. This means that with the price of a hundred dollars per rebate, the makers of Tivo netted over 5 million dollars off of the mail-in rebate.

The good news now though, is that many rebates are going online. It used to feel like a company was paying you to jump through hoops and fill out paperwork. In some cases those five or ten dollars was not worth the time, the cost of the stamp, and the trip to the store. But now companies are making it easier. With the click of a few buttons you can have a check sent to you or even have the rebate deposited straight into your Paypal account.

Not only does the Internet make redeeming rebates simpler and easier, it also allows you to find more rebates. Now you can plan your purchases around rebates. Making a quick Google search of items you already buy is a good practice to work into your shopping lifestyle. You would be surprised with what rebates you can find. Nowadays there are rebates to turn your home green or to cut down on water usage. Rebates are an excellent way to save money that the Internet is making less and less daunting to take advantage of.





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Getting Serious and Trying our Hand at Couponing

by Kevin Surbaugh

With dozens of coupons printed from the internet, coupons from two Sunday papers and a hand-full of coupons from manufacturers that we had written we set down to do our first official big time shopping spree with coupons. This was an important one. We needed groceries and we needed to slash our grocery spending drastically. How were we going to do it? Please God, let coupons pay for most of this order.

Below is how our shopping trip went:

Item	Reg. Price	Coupon Amount	Final Amount
Tostitos Chips & Dip	$3.99+3.49	$.055	$5.33
Raisin Bran	$2.49	$	$2.24
Potato Chips	$3.29	$	$1.79
Cheese Curls	$3.29	$	$1.79
Saltine Crackers	$2.29	$	$1.79
Whole Kernel Corn (2 cans)	$1.78	$	$1.60
Cream Corn (2 cans)	$1.78	$	$1.60
Tomato Soup (4 cans)	$3.16	$	$2.48
Canola Oil	$3.99	$	$3.41
Grape Jelly	$1.99	$	$1.99
Pioneer Gravy Mix	$1.15	$	$0.79
Helmsman's	$4.59	$	$2.49
Coca-Cola (2-12packs)	$11.98	$4.99	$1.00
Diet Coca-Cola	$5.99	$	$0
Diet Cherry-Coke	$5.99	$	$5.99
Cherry Coke	$5.99	$	$5.99
Dasani Water (24-pack)	$5.49	$	$3.99
Sandwich Bags (300 count)	$ 2.69	$	$2.42
Canned cat Food (24-pack)	$8.99	$	$6.29
Bleach	$2.29	$	$1.79
Conttenelle Toliet Paper	$8.99	$	$8.99
Tide w/ Downy (2 bottles)	$15.98	$2.00	$9.98
Finish Powerball	$11.99	$1.00	$8.99
Finish Powerball Quantum	$11.99	$2.15	$7.84
Tidy Cat Pail (27 lbs)	$12.99	$	$9.59
Snuggle Sheets	$4.99	$0.50	$2.99
Imperial Spread Quarters (2 boxes)	$1.98	$	$1.50
Florida Natural Orange Juice	$3.99	$	$2.99
Pillsbury Grands	$1.79	$0.40	$0.99
Pillsbury Grands	$1.79	$	$1.49
Green Giant Just For One	$3.99	$	$3.99
18 pack Eggs	$2.59	$	$1.73
Shredded Cheese	$2.49	$	$2.24
Yoplait Yogurt (2-8 packs)	$8.98	$	$8.98
Lysol Wipes (x2)	$7.58	$0.30	$4.10
Allergan Refresh eye drops	$12.99	$2.00	$10.99
Mouth Wash (4 small bottles)	$7.96	$	$3.96
Whole Wheat Bread	$1.99	$	$1.79
Jimmy Dean Sausage	$10.98	$	$
Bananas	$0.48/lb	$	$1.10
Tomatoes	$1.99/LB	$	$1.49
SunMaid Rasins	$4.99	$	$4.99
Pom Wonderful Aerials	$3.99	$1.00	$1.99
Pom Wonderful Pomegranate Juice (x2)	$3.98	$2.00 ($1x2)	$0.98
	$	$	$
Totals:	$269.06	$55.51	$157.47

If a brand name is not used, then we bought the store brands on that item.  Some of the coupons didn't get listed under the items they were to match. Making it hard for me to type this list up...They were listed at the bottom with all the other various discounts. As such I have listed the final totals below, to show how we did overall. 

Amounts stated are after employee discounts as well, a savings amount totaling....$8.83
Advertised specials...$43.45
Total paper Coupon Savings....$55.51
Total e-Coupon Savings....$2.30
 Multiplied Coupon Savings....$1.50
Total Savings......$111.59  (44%)
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Coupons Could Literally Save You Thousands in 2012

by Kevin Surbaugh


The more I learn about couponing, the more I learn I don't know. The same goes with the plethora of couponing sites out there. One such site is Coupon Chief. A site that can help consumers and businesses alike to save money. Consumers can save money using coupons from the Sunday paper or one of the many internet coupon sites. Small business are beginning to learn from this and have especially focused on the internet coupon sites, where they can find a coupon codes to enter at of their favorite supplier (say Office Depot or Office Max) of office supplies and furniture.

For the consumer they can save at Walmart.com, Safeway.com, Zales.com, Schwans.com and many more sites.

"We have over 50k coupons for over 15000 stores, giving us one of the largest databases of online coupons on the net," according to Amanda Fouts of Coupon Chief, Inc.

Wow! With such a large database, how come I hadn't heard of them before? It is most certainly the silent up and comer in the online coupon world. However, it is no longer silent. People are taking notice, with over 250,000 visitors each month and has been around since January 15, 2005, when the name was registered through a domain registration service.
The site can't compare to coupons.com, but is still well worth a visit. I know I am certainly going to be adding them to my growing of sites to check out on a regular visit. Especially before I do any shopping online.
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Coupons Tomorrow

As I become more interested in using coupons, I move more toward wanting to buy the Sunday paper. However, what coupons will be in that Sunday paper? There is a website that helps with that. I have learned there are three (3) different coupon inserts and that depending on your area and paper determine what coupons and the values that you will see.
After see a commercial last night for Finish Quantum powerballs (and/or gelpacs) with a message at the end to check your Sunday paper, I began to wonder if there was a place online that shared a preview of what would be in Sunday's website. Boy was I right, there are at least two that I found.

Word is this Sunday (New Years Day) will be double the coupons since there were no coupons last week, because of the Christmas holiday. There are never coupons in the paper for Christmas Sunday, Easter Sunday, 4th of July Sunday, etc). So this is the Sunday to definitely purchase that paper and get your stack of coupons.

1. Southern Savers
   
   
2. Sunday Coupon Preview
   
   Another site that is pretty good, but doesn't really list the upcoming coupons is:
   
3. Coupon Chat

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Free Coupon - $2 off on Tide

posted by Kevin Surbaugh


Tide is giving away $2 off coupons to their Facebook fans. No printer is needed for this one, because they will be sending you the coupon within 4-6 weeks. Tide will be giving away 302,000 coupons so hurry and to be sure you are one of those getting this great coupon. Tide is known for being one of the best laundry detergent out there and this coupon will help make it more affordable for your family and mine!

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Coupons! Where to Find Coupons

It is no secret that I love coupons. However, finding coupons can be a challenge though. But recently, I found that some companies will mail you valuable coupons straight to your mailbox. Below is a list of some of those companies. Coupon availability and specific offers can vary based on each company's supplies. Simply send a nice email to the "Contact" section letting them know you like their products and that you would appreciate being mailed coupons. Be sure to include your mailing address. It doesn't hurt to ask, good luck!

1. Bar-S
   
2. Bird's Eye
   
3. Budding
   
4. Fresh Express
   
5. Citrus World (Florida Natural)
   
6. Colgate
   
7. Dannon
   
8. Dean Foods
   
9. General MIlls
   
10. George Weston Bakeries (Bomboli)
    
11. Hain Celestial Group (Celestial Seasonings)
    
12. Hain Celestial Group (Terra chips)
    
13. Interstate Bakeries (Wonder Bread/Hostess)
    
14. HJ Heinz (Lea&Perrins)
    
15. HJ Heinz
16. Smuckers
    
17. SC Johnson (Pledge)
    
18. Tetley Tea
    

So what are you waiting for? If you want free coupons, start writing those emails and see what companies will send you coupons for your favorite products.

Of course you can also print coupons out from your home computer via one of these two (2) sites:

1. Coupons.com
   
2. SmartSorce.com
   

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Extreme Couponing Meets the Prince of Thrift -- Sorta

I continue to be intrigued by "Extreme Couponing". I have finally seen some re-runs of the shown and created a new shopping list that allows for the inclusion of coupons along with the list. The list is designed more to list the specific items that you want and the quantity that you wish to purchase as well as how many coupons you have. Like my earlier shopping list, you can fill this one out online and then print it out.
With all this in mind I wondered what the different coupon policies were. So below I have listed the five major retailers that does business in Texas, although only four of them does business outside the state of Texas. Those four are all Nationally known retailers (although in some parts of the country they may be known by other names).

1. Kmart
   

   SAVVY MOMS-TO-BE CAN SHOP SMART WITH KMART’S LAYAWAY
   Kmart Makes Mother’s Day Gift Buying Easy and Affordable
   Hoffman Estates, Ill. (Feb. 16, 2009) – While springtime is yet to be in the air, it’s never too early
   to plan ahead for a baby’s spring arrival and Mother’s Day. From outfitting the nursery to outfitting
   the new baby, Kmart layaway is a smart option. Kmart layaway enables soon-to-be parents to
   reserve the must-have baby products, pay in installments and pick up the items in time for the
   arrival of the baby and to celebrate Mother’s Day.
   “Expectant parents have a lot on their minds preparing for their new additions. Kmart’s layaway
   helps soon-to-be parents keep their budget in check as they plan to purchase the new baby’s bigticket
   items,” said Mark Snyder, chief marketing officer, Kmart. “Our hope is that Kmart’s layaway
   helps families to focus on their loved ones this Mother’s Day, not the debt.”
   Kmart makes budget-conscious shopping for parents-to-be easy with a great value on everything
   for baby from cribs and strollers to diapering and nursery needs. Sale prices extend Sunday, Feb.
   15 to Saturday, Feb. 28. Deals include:
   • Delta Childrens Jasmine 5-in-1 Convertible Crib; reg. price $279.99
   • Evenflo Journey Premier Travel System; reg. price $149.99, sale $134.99
   • Kolcraft Jeep Liberty Stroller; reg. price $109.99, sale $98.99
   • Summer Infant Sweet Dreams Smart Solutions “Newborn-to-Toddler” High Chair;
   reg. price $109.99, sale $98.99
   • Small Wonders Newborn Girl’s and Boy’s 6-piece sets; reg. price $10.19
   • Trend Lab Baby Tulip Velour Blanket; reg. price $22.99
   • 10% off all strollers, high chairs, car seats and swings
   Mother’s Day layaway options are not all that Kmart is providing to keep cash in expectant
   parents’ pockets. Kmart’s Double Coupon Event ensures double the savings from Sunday, Feb.
   15 to Saturday, Feb. 28. Smart shoppers can bring in manufacturers’ coupons and Kmart will
   double the face value – up to $2. Some restrictions apply. See store for details.
   “We want to provide every resource possible for our customers to save money but still enable
   them to give the best Mother’s Day gifts. Double coupon deals along with layaway, allow our
   customers to embrace the excitement of the new baby,” said Snyder.
   Beginning on Sunday, Feb. 22, Kmart adds even more value to the Kmart shopping experience,
   both online and in-store. Kmart will start accepting Internet print-at-home coupons, allowing Webfriendly
   consumers the ability to locate coupons on Kmart.com and Coupons.com through easyto-
   use Web pages. These sites will let consumers find coupons based on their geographic areas
   as well as offer tools to track total savings, coupon categories and brands. Coupons will be
   available on a wide selection of products storewide. Some restrictions apply. See store for details.
   Shoppers can also find the latest Kmart shopping news by visiting Kmart.com.
   About Kmart
   Kmart, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sears Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: SHLD), is a massmerchandising
   company that offers customers quality products through a portfolio of exclusive
   brands that include Jaclyn Smith, Joe Boxer, Martha Stewart Everyday and Route 66. For more
   information visit the company's Web site at www.kmart.com or the Sears Holdings Corporation
   Web site at www.searsholdings.com. Holdings' Web site at http://www.searsholdings.com.

   
   
2. Randall's (Safeway, Vons, Carrs, Dominick's, Pavilions)
   

   Manufacturer and Store Coupons:
   1. We will redeem coupons only for the specific items included in our customer's purchase transaction. The redemption value will be as stated on the coupon, unless that value yields a final price for such item less than zero; if application of the redemption value yields a price less than zero, the coupon will be redeemed only for the amount that yields a zero price (our customer cannot net a cash credit or payout from a coupon purchase).
   
   2. Paper coupons must be presented at the time of the purchase transaction. We will accept only coupons issued by Safeway or the manufacturer of the relevant product. We will not accept photocopies of coupons.
   
   3. Coupons are subject to advertised offer limitations and all other limitations and restrictions on the applicable coupon or product.
   
   4. Coupons may not be applied against any free item received in any offer.
   
   5. Coupons have no cash value.
   
   6. Safeway will not accept manufacturer coupons (including, but not limited to, coupons issued through a Catalina or other in-store coupon dispenser) that display another retailer's logo or name unless such coupon is for a specific item with the same product identifiers as the product included in our customer's purchase transaction.
   
   7. We will not accept coupons unless they have an expiration date. Expired coupons will not be accepted.
   
   8. We will not accept coupons that, in the determination of Safeway personnel, appear distorted or blurry or are altered in any way.
   
   9. Sales taxes will be applied in accordance with the law of the applicable state, regardless of any coupon or other discount that may apply to the purchase transaction.
   
   10. All applicable bottle and packaging deposits on the purchased and free items must be paid by the customer.
   
   11. Safeway reserves the right to refuse any coupons at its discretion.
   
   12. Purchase reward thresholds (if any) will be calculated based upon customer's final price (after deducting Club Card savings and all other discounts and savings) before deductions for any manufacturer coupons. As an example (and not as an offer), if a $10 minimum purchase is required for a customer reward, a customer's order at full retail would be $12, a Club Card discount of $1.75 applies, and a manufacturer's coupon of $1 applies, the customer would be given credit for a $10.25 purchase, and would be eligible for the reward (assuming compliance with all other requirements) even though the customer's cash payment would be only $9.25. The manufacturer's coupon would not be deducted from the total for purposes of determining reward eligibility. Purchase reward thresholds (if any) will be calculated based upon customer’s final price (after deducting Club Card savings, and all other discounts)
   
   13. References to a threshold purchase requirement will exclude purchases of: Beer, Wine, Spirits, Tobacco Products, Fuel, All Fluid Items in the Refrigerated Dairy Section (including Fluid Dairy and Dairy Substitutes), Prescription Items and Co-payments, Bus/Commuter Passes, Fishing/Hunting Licenses and Tags, Postage Stamps, Money Orders, Money Transfers, Ski Tickets, Amusement Park Tickets, Event Tickets, Lottery Tickets, Phone Cards, Gift Cards, and Gift Certificates; also excluded are: Bottle Deposits, Redemption Values, and Sales Taxes.
   Internet Printed Coupons:
   14. We gladly accept internet printed coupons. The same manufacturer and store coupon rules above apply to all internet printed coupons.
   
   15. Internet printed coupons must be capable of scanning at checkout.
   
   16. Internet printed coupons must have serial numbers and must follow an industry-standard format.
   
   17. Manufacturer internet printed coupons must clearly indicate that they are a manufacturer coupon and must have a valid manufacture address on the printed coupon.
   
   18. We will not accept "free product" internet printed manufacturer coupons.
   Load to Card Club Coupons:
   19. Internet and digital coupons that have been electronically loaded to a Safeway Club Card are automatically redeemed at the time of purchase after the club card number has been entered. All other coupon policies above apply to electronic coupons that are loaded to a club card.
   Doubling of Coupons:
   20. Check with your local store regarding 'double coupon' advertised promotions where customers will receive double the coupon face value off the regular or club card price up to the advertised limit. Not all locations offer double coupon promotions. Limitations and restrictions for double coupon promotions may change at any time. Changes will be posted in store only.
   Coupon Stacking:
   21. Safeway does not allow a customer to redeem two or more manufacturer coupons against the same item in a single transaction.
   
   22. Coupon stacking policies for manufacturer coupons apply to paper and electronic coupons that have been loaded to a club card.
   
   23. If a customer presents two coupons for the same item in a single transaction, Safeway will give the highest discount for that item, subject to the terms of the applicable offer and/or coupon.
   Rainchecks:
   24. Rainchecks expire ninety (90) days from the date issued and will not be accepted at any Safeway store after that time.
   
   25. We reserve the right to limit Raincheck quantities based on product availability and advertised limits.
   
   26. Rainchecks can be issued for up to six (6) items unless otherwise stated in the applicable advertisement.
   
   27. Rainchecks can be issued for all items, excluding Beer, Wine, Spirits, Tobacco Products, Fuel, All Fluid Items in the Refrigerated Dairy Section (including Fluid Dairy and Dairy Substitutes), which exclusions may vary from state to state.
   
   28. Rainchecks can be offered for store super coupon items unless otherwise specified on the coupon. Rainchecks will not be provided for items advertised as "clearance", "while supplies last," "limited quantities," or other designation indicating a limited supply.
   We may change these rules at any time. All coupon redemption terms are subject to the terms of the rules in effect at time of redemption. Rule changes may become effective without advance notice or advertisement. The current rules will be posted at the customer service area in each store. You are also advised to periodically check our website for any changes to these rules.
   
   Revision Date: 02/16/2011
   
   

3. WalMart
   

   Walmart Coupon Policy
   
   We gladly accept the following types of coupons*
   
   Print-at-home internet coupons
   Must be legible
   Must have "Manufacturer Coupon" printed on them
   Must have a valid remit address for the manufacturer
   Must have a valid expiration date
   Must have a scannable bar code
   Buy one, get one free (BOGO) coupons with a specified price
   Are acceptable in black and white or color
   May not be duplicated
   Manufacturers' coupons
   For dollar/cents off
   For free items (except those printed off the Internet)
   Buy one, get one free (BOGO) coupons
   Must have "Manufacturer Coupon" printed on them
   Must have a valid remit address for the manufacturer
   Must have a valid expiration date
   Must have a scannable bar code
   May not be duplicated
   Competitors' coupons
   A specific item for a specified price, for example, $2.99
   Buy one, get one free (BOGO) coupons for items with a specified price
   Have a valid expiration date
   Are acceptable in black and white
   Soft drink container caps
   Checkout coupons ("Catalinas")
   Printed at our competitors' registers for dollar/cents off on a specific item
   Must have "Manufacturer Coupon" with specific item requirements printed on them
   Must have a valid remit address for the manufacturer
   Must have a valid expiration date
   Must have a scannable bar code
   Are acceptable in black and white
   May not be duplicated
   
   We DO NOT accept the following coupons:
   
   Checkout coupons
   Dollars/cents off the entire basket purchase
   Percentage off the entire basket purchase
   Print-at-home Internet coupons that require no purchase
   Competitors' coupons
   Dollars/cents off at a specific retailer
   Percentage off
   Buy one, get one free (BOGO) coupons without a specified price
   Double- or triple-value coupons
   
   *The following are guidelines and limitations:
   
   We only accepts coupons for merchandise that we sell.
   Coupons must be presented at the time of purchase.
   Only one coupon per item.
   Item purchased must be identical to the coupon (size, quantity, brand, flavor, color, etc).
   There is no limit on the number of coupons per transaction.
   Coupons must have an expiration date and be redeemed prior to expiration.
   If coupon value exceeds the price of the item, the excess may be given to the customer as cash or applied toward the basket purchase.
   SNAP items purchased in a SNAP transaction are ineligible for cash back.
   WIC items purchased in a WIC transaction are applied to the basket purchase and may not be eligible for cash back. Refer to state-specific WIC guidelines.
   Great Value, Marketside, Equate, Parents Choice, and World Table coupons have no cash value and are ineligible for cash back or application to the basket purchase.
   The system will prompt for supervisor verification for:
   40 coupons per transaction.
   A coupon of $20 or greater on one item.
   $50 or more in coupons in one transaction.
   
   

   
   
4. Target
   

   coupon policy
   
   Coupons are a great way to save even more when shopping with us, and it's easy to use them at our stores. When accepting coupons, we follow the guidelines below.
   Target stores coupon policy
   
   manufacturer & Target coupons:
   • Target accepts one Manufacturer Coupon and one Target Coupon for the same item (unless prohibited by either coupon).
   • Item purchased must match the coupon description (brand, size, quantity, color, flavor, etc.).
   • Coupon amount may be reduced if it exceeds the value of the item after other discounts or coupons are applied.
   • We can't give cash back if the face value of a coupon is greater than the purchase value of the item.
   • All valid coupons should be presented to the cashier during checkout.
   • All applicable sales taxes are paid by the guest at the full value of the item.
   • These guidelines apply to all coupons accepted at Target (Color Checkout Coupons, Internet Coupons, Mobile Coupons, Mailed Coupons, Coupons from Newspapers and Magazines, etc.).
   
   internet (print-at-home) coupons:
   • We gladly accept valid Internet coupons that contain a clear and scannable bar code.
   • We do not accept Internet coupons for free items with no purchase requirements.
   
   mobile coupons:
   • Guests can receive Target Mobile Coupons by signing up for Text Alerts at Target.com/mobile or by texting COUPONS to 827438 (TARGET).
   • Message and data rates may apply. See site for full details.
   • To redeem, simply show your coupon barcode to the cashier. With one simple scan, all applicable coupons are applied.
   
   buy one get one free coupons (BOGO):
   • BOGO coupons cannot be combined (i.e. you cannot use two BOGO coupons on two items and get both for free). Unless stated otherwise on the coupon, the use of one Buy One Get One Free coupon requires that two of the valid items are presented at checkout of which one item will be charged to the guest and the 2nd item will be discounted by its full retail price.
   • A second cents-off coupon of the same type cannot be redeemed towards the purchase price of the first item.
   If a Target BOGO coupon is used, one additional manufacturer coupon maybe used on the first item.
   If a Manufacturer BOGO coupon is used, one additional Target coupon may be used on the first item.
   
   exclusions:
   • Coupons are void if copied, scanned, transferred, purchased, sold, prohibited by law or appear altered in any way.
   • We can't accept coupons from other retailers or coupons for products not carried in our stores.
   • Some items may not be available at all stores.
   • We do not accept expired coupons.
   
   

   
   
5. H.E.B.
   

   At H-E-B, we know how important it is for you to maximize every dollar you spend with us. Coupons are a big part of that, so below we have outlined our guidelines for your convenience.
   
   H-E-B accepts the following types of coupons:
   
   Manufacturer issued coupons obtained from printed publications (newspaper, FSI, magazines, etc)
   H-E-B Issued coupons
   H-E-B issued coupons are typically
   Available at store level and typically yellow in color
   Generated by a coupon printer at the register and provided with customer receipt
   Distributed via direct mail to customer households or other printed publications
   
   Printable coupons with a bar code (i.e. Online or Internet coupons)
   
   
   Coupon guidelines and limitations:
   
   Coupons can only be redeemed for items, brands, and sizes as specified by the requirements of the coupon.
   Only one coupon per item is permitted.
   Combining a manufacturer issued coupon with an H-E-B coupon on the same item is not permitted
   
   H-E-B does not double or triple coupons.
   H-E-B cannot give cash back if the face value of a coupon is greater than the purchase value of the item.
   Coupons must be presented to the cashier at time of purchase.
   Coupons cannot be redeemed for cash.
   The following coupons cannot be accepted:
   Expired coupons
   Competitor coupons
   Coupons without a barcode
   Coupons listed as counterfeit at couponinformationcenter.com
   
   H-E-B accepts valid Online and other Printable coupons as follows:
   Online and other Printable coupons should be legible and have a scannable bar code.
   Buy-one-get-one-free coupons (BOGOs) are accepted. (i.e. Buy X, Get X Free)
   "Free product" printable coupons are not accepted (i.e. Get X Free)
   Printable Coupons will not be accepted if they appear copied or are altered in any way. They should be printed directly from the website or email in which they were offered.
   Printable Coupons have unique serial numbers and follow an industry standard format; they are non-transferable, and should not be copied, scanned, sold, traded, or otherwise distributed.
   
   H-E-B reserves the right to refuse any coupon or limit quantities.
   
   
   Updated: November 11, 2011

   
   
   

Some of the policies I am actually astonished at. Which ones are the best, I guess depends on your point of view. I like having coupons doubled or tripled but I like being able to get cash back. Yet few stores double anymore and the one store that allows overages makes it hard to get there since they don't double. So I guess its all a matter of perspective.





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Extreme Couponing

by Kevin Surbaugh


Have you seen the television show Extreme Couponing? I have heard of it a number times, but I have church on Wednesday nights so it isn't on at a time when I normally could watch it. Even if church wasn't a factor the 9 pm central start time is a little late if it is a Thursday morning I have to get up 1 am for work. But that is all good, I don't need to watch a TV show all the time. There is so much more important things in life. Besides if I really wanted to I am sure I could find complete episodes available online to watch at a time more convenient to my wife and I.


Anyway, I did hear that this past Wednesday October 26, 2011 the show had the youngest couponer. Joel, a 16-year-old coupon addict who admits his clipping which was once a hobby has now turned into an obsession.


In the clip above Desirae has extreme (but effective) methods when it comes to maximizing her coupon savings.
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