How to Start Couponing with Zero Experience

Couponing can initially seem overwhelming, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll realize how much money you can save on everyday essentials. If you’re new to couponing and don’t know where to begin, this guide will walk you through the basics and help you get started today!

How to Save Big With Couponing!

1️⃣ Understand the Different Types of Coupons

Before you start clipping, it's important to know the different kinds of coupons available:

• Manufacturer Coupons – Issued by the brand and can be used at multiple retailers.

• Store Coupons – Provided by a specific store and can only be used at that location.

• Digital Coupons – Found on store apps like CVS, Walgreens, and Target.

• Printable Coupons – Available online from sites like Coupons.com and SmartSource.

• Cashback Apps – Apps like Ibotta, Rakuten, and Fetch Rewards offer rebates after purchase.

  Ibotta- Get $5 Welcome bonus for using this link - Click Here

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2️⃣ Where to Find Coupons

Coupons are everywhere—you just need to know where to look! Here are some of the best sources:

• Sunday Newspaper Inserts – Traditional but still useful for manufacturer coupons.

• Store Apps & Websites – Sign up for digital coupons on Walgreens, Kroger, and Target apps.

• Printable Coupon Sites – Check Coupons.com, SmartSource, and RedPlum for printable coupons.

• Product Packaging & Mailers – Brands often include coupons in product packaging or mail them directly.

• Social Media & Email Subscriptions – Follow your favorite brands and retailers for exclusive coupon codes.

  
  

3️⃣ How to Organize Your Coupons

To maximize savings, you need a system to keep your coupons organized. Here are a few methods:

• Coupon Binder – Use a binder with categorized sleeves to store paper coupons.

• Coupon Wallet – A small accordion-style organizer for easy access.

• Digital Organization – Bookmark or screenshot digital coupons on your phone.

• Store Apps – Clip and save digital coupons directly in retailer apps.

  
  

4️⃣ Learn How to Stack Coupons for Bigger Savings

One of the best ways to maximize your savings is by stacking coupons:

• Combine a manufacturer coupon with a store coupon for double the discount.

• Use a coupon with a store sale or promotion to get even bigger savings.

• Add a cashback rebate from apps like Ibotta for additional money back.

Example: Buy toothpaste for $3.99 at CVS, use a $1 manufacturer coupon + $2 store coupon, and submit for a $1 cashback rebate—making it FREE!

5️⃣ Best Stores to Start Couponing

Not all stores allow coupon stacking, so it's best to start with stores that make couponing easy:

• CVS – Offers store coupons and ExtraBucks rewards and allows stacking.

• Walgreens – Use manufacturer coupons with Register Rewards & Balance Rewards.

• Target – Stack manufacturer coupons with Target Circle offers.

• Dollar General – Digital coupon deals & frequent promotions.

• Walmart – Accepts manufacturer coupons and works well with cashback apps.

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6️⃣ Learn the Sales Cycles & Best Time to Use Coupons

Stores have sales cycles where products go on sale at predictable times. The key is to save your coupons and use them when items hit their lowest price. Some sales trends include:

• January – Health & wellness products.

• March-April – Cleaning supplies.

• July – Back-to-school items.

• November-December – Holiday food and gift sets.

  
  

7️⃣ Avoid Common Couponing Mistakes

Beginners often make these mistakes—avoid them to maximize savings!

❌ Using coupons on full-price items – Wait for a sale to get the best deal.

❌ Forgetting expiration dates – Always check before shopping.

❌ Buying unnecessary items – Only use coupons for things you actually need.

❌ Not knowing store coupon policies – Some stores limit stacking or doubling.

8️⃣ Start Small & Build Your Couponing Confidence

You don’t need to dive into extreme couponing right away. Start with one or two stores and practice with a few deals per week. Over time, you’ll develop the skills and strategies to save hundreds of dollars a month!

💡 Pro Tip: Keep track of your savings to stay motivated!

Final Thoughts: Ready to Start Saving?

📚 Want to take your savings to the next level? Grab my eBook, Your Ultimate Money-Saving Playbook, where I break down even more couponing secrets, grocery hacks, and budgeting tips to help you save hundreds every month! 

The Ultimate Guide To Saving Money Book

Couponing is one of the easiest ways to cut costs on groceries, household essentials, and beauty products. With the right strategies, you can save today and keep more money in your pocket!

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💬 Have you started couponing? What’s your biggest success story? Comment below!

🚀 Want more couponing tips? Check out my latest posts for the best deals & savings hacks!

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