Grocery coupons are seen as a wholesome, all-American way to save money. We associate them with careful budgeting and frugal housewives of a bygone era. However, behind this clean image lies a surprisingly “dirty” history of fraud, misuse, and organized criminal activity that has cost the industry billions of dollars. These problems didn’t end with…
Using coupons is a popular and effective way to reduce your grocery bill and household expenses. When used mindfully, it’s a smart financial habit. However, for some, the pursuit of savings can become an obsession. This can lead to unintended negative consequences. This “over-saving” mentality, often inspired by extreme couponing, can have hidden costs that…
For frugal shoppers, “coupon stacking” is a celebrated strategy. It’s the art of combining multiple discounts—like a manufacturer’s coupon with a store’s coupon on a single item—to achieve maximum savings. For years, this practice was a key way to get deep discounts. However, many shoppers have noticed that stores are increasingly restricting this practice. While…
Couponing is a legitimate way for shoppers to save money. Retailers and manufacturers offer coupons to drive sales and build loyalty. However, this system relies on trust and ethical use. When shoppers intentionally misuse coupons or behave aggressively, it can lead to negative consequences, including being banned from a store. Retailers have the right to…
The reality TV show Extreme Couponing introduced millions to the world of massive savings through couponing. Viewers watched in awe as shoppers walked out of stores with overflowing carts, paying only a few dollars. While entertaining, these shows often presented a highly edited and sometimes unrealistic picture of how couponing works for the average person.…
Coupon stacking, the practice of using multiple coupons (e.g., a manufacturer coupon combined with a store coupon) on a single item, was once a popular strategy for savvy savers. It allowed for significant discounts, sometimes even resulting in free items. However, in recent years, many supermarkets have tightened their coupon policies. They have severely restricted…
Couponing can be a fantastic way to save money on groceries and household essentials. For many, it’s a rewarding hobby that significantly reduces expenses. However, when couponing becomes an extreme obsession or creates significant household stress, it can negatively impact relationships, even a marriage. Like any intense pursuit, if not balanced with consideration for your…
Couponing often feels like a savvy shopper’s dream—snipping a few vouchers and watching the savings roll in. I’ve personally experienced the thrill of a well-timed deal. However, beneath the surface, there are some downsides of couponing that can catch even the most seasoned saver off guard. Before you dive headfirst into the world of discounts,…
If you’ve ever stood in line behind someone with a binder full of coupons, you know the feeling: impatience, curiosity, maybe even a little envy. Extreme couponers have become legends in the grocery world, scoring hundreds of dollars in savings and sometimes even walking out with more money than they came in with. But what…
Using coupons strategically can help you save more money throughout the year, but timing is everything. While coupons are available year-round, certain months and seasons offer deeper discounts and better opportunities to stack savings. Retailers plan their promotions around holidays, seasonal demand, and inventory cycles, meaning the best time to use coupons depends on what…