Coupon Usage and Tendencies

The following post was written by a guest blogger. It's views do not necessarily reflect the views of P.O.V.

By Jessica Snow

Using coupons is the new way of life when it comes to managing your expenses.  With little effort, you can save money on anything ranging from groceries to vehicle maintenance.  So why wouldn’t you want to sit down and pull out your new money saving weapon, a pair of scissors?
           

Couponing in 2012 could not be any easier with the help of the Internet.  From printable coupons to forum boards guiding new couponer’s along the way, it’s almost crazy not to use the “free money” that can make or break a budget.
           

By tracking the use of distributed coupons, we know usage has steadily been on the rise since 2008.  With an increase of $500 million from the previous year, coupon cutters saved an amazing $4.6 billion in 2011. With the economy’s roller coaster ride of ups and downs, everybody is jumping on this train to lessen the strain on their wallets.  With this pattern, the amount saved in 2012 will surly exceed last year.
           

It’s no longer uncommon to use coupons either.  From segments on the news to TV shows such as TLC’s Extreme Couponing, it’s glorified like never before.  The couponers featured on the show don’t just use the coupons, but by doing a little homework, found a way to make the coupons do the work them.  Most of these couponers have turned to coupons after a change in household income or a job loss or they already had a tight budget effected by  rising prices.
           

Baby steps are the best way to start using coupons.  Start small and as you move forward you will learn new tips and tricks.
           

And couponing equals an instant gratification of more than just seeing money in your wallet  My first coupon was for $5 off of formula which was a huge savings to me, but as I investigated different ways to use coupons, I found the store would pay me to buy items.  Coupons in hand, I purchased six Cover Girl blushes for a total of $1.46.  Overages and completely free items, why hadn’t I done this years ago?
           

So, pick up those scissors and clip away.  Start saving money the easy way.  Coupons are a new currency and with simple logic behind how to use them to their full potential, you will challenge yourself each time you shop to save more than you did previously. 

Sources:  Santella &Associates. “Coupon Trends.”

Jessica Snow is a married, mother to a 3-year-old (almost 4) little boy.  Writing has always been a strong passion of hers.  She started journaling at a young age and this has continued into adulthood. This has evolved into lyrical writing, poetry, and hopefully a steady career as a freelance writer. Snow plans to write novella in the upcoming months.  When her notebook isn’t in her hand, Snow can be found playing guitar, doing research, doing crafts  or spending time with family.