Save $2,000 a year!

Coupons are a simple way to save $100-$200 per month. When I first started using them, I was young and living on my own; it was more out of necessity than anything else. Sure I could have paid full price for the groceries, but it would’ve left me little else for the things that I enjoyed. I was fortunate to have that experience, because it gave me insight that has saved me tens of thousands of dollars over the last eight years. I want to give you an example of what I mean. I went to the grocery store today, but before leaving, I took a few moments to look at the grocer’s website and made a list of the things I needed. Then I searched my local paper and www.buyfromyourself.com, for coupons that corresponded with those items. I think it’s appropriate to say one thing, spending money on things that you don’t need is not saving you money. I’ve seen many websites out there make outrageous claims about how much you can save with coupons, but they focus on the savings and not the items that are being purchased; many of which would never be used. One thing I do focus on is “buy one, get one free.”  You can use multiple coupons or money, off a purchase of two. I typically shop once a week to maximize savings.  So here’s a breakdown of what I purchased:

2 – Sara Lee Strawberry Cheesecake
2 – Mini Egg Rolls
1 – Mrs. T. Pierogies
1 – Pledge
1 – Pledge Duster Starter Kit
2 – Oral-B Cross Action, Electric Toothbrush
1 – Nature’s Own Bread
2 – Flaxseed Cookies
2 – Natural Temptation, Cat Treats
1 – Schick Women’s Extreme Comfort Razors
2 – Tennessee Pride, Mild Sausage
2 – Organic Milk

The total for everything before savings was $92.79.

Vendor coupons – $34.52
Store coupon – $1
Advertise Special Savings – $10.98
Advantage Buy Savings – $2.68

Total savings – $49.18

Total out-of-pocket – $43.61

I typically spend $80-$90 per week in groceries, of which I save $30-$50 per week using coupons and shopping for “buy one, get one free.” This savings adds up to $1,500-$2,500 per year. This could be the difference between having to get a second job, or having to sacrifice on the things that truly make you happy. If you don’t necessarily need to save, think of it this way. It uses money to invest in debts you already have. Most people will realize between 20% and 30% return on investment and no risk. When was the last time your stockbroker offered you that? To learn more on how you can save money and become debt free, canceling out unnecessary interest, visit www.managemyinterest.com

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