1. Get over the "Brand Loyal" thing. Have a open mind. Just because an item isn't your typical "Favorite Brand" or it's cheaper, that doesn't make it not as good as your precious "Brand". When it comes to couponing you need to try the products that have coupons circulating (new products usually have the highest value coupons being offered). You might be pleasantly surprised and like the "Coupon Brand" better than your "Favorite Brand". Also, try the "Store Brands" once in a while. They are usually much cheaper and SURPRISE, a lot of them are your "Favorite Brands" with a store label slapped on them. 2. Shop early in the day for "Markdown Meats". "Markdown Meats" are just meats with a shorter shelf life than regular priced meats. Who cares if the sell by date on the meat is only a day away. Take it home and immediately freeze it for future use. I have stocked my freezer many times with "Markdown Meats". It's even better when they are meats that I would never normally buy because they are too expensive. At a markdown they are the same expensive cuts but fit within your budget. They taste exactly the same as a full priced cut of meat!!!! Your family will never know the difference!
3. Keep an eye on your receipt. In many states there is a "Scan Accuracy Law", where the items must ring up exactly as priced. In the state of Connecticut, If the item rings up higher than the sign, label, or ticket price on the item you will get one of the items for FREE!!! Each store usually has this posted at their customer service desk. Each store is also different as to an "up to amount". Check your state for full details on this law. Most of the time you are going to walk out of the store with a free item, but you have to check your receipts faithfully. After awhile it will become a habit. If you find an error go to Customer Service and bring it to their attention. Then they double check the pricing. There could have been the wrong sticker on it, an old label, or last weeks sign up. Regardless, they still have to give it to you for free. On occasion you may even have to bring it to their attention that you get the item free. Most of the time they do it automatically, but if they don't, ASK!!!!
4. Write letters to companies. Compliment their products or tell them you weren't pleased with a product, or simply ask for coupons. They want the customer coming back so they usually send something. You will be amazed at the response you will receive for giving positive or negative feedback. Your mailbox will be overflowing in no time and you be add to your savings with more coupons!
5. Samples. Sign up for free samples. They may just be a tiny little sample of something, but most of the time they come with coupons for you to purchase the regular size of the product. These coupons are unique and usually can't be found anywhere but in the samples.
