No-Clip Coupon Tips

I love saving money and will usually go out of my way to do so, but when it comes to couponing, I simply can’t be bothered with sorting through newspapers and circulars. While the traditional practice of clipping coupons and matching them to store sales is a great way to cut costs, there’s a variety of new age couponing options that don’t require hours of searching for the right discounts.

In honor of National Coupon Month this September, what better time to review these no-clip coupon tips than now. Take a peek and start saving faster than ever before!

Use an app.

Nowadays we have the option of receiving coupons instantly in the palm of our hands. Save paper by using mobile apps that take the clipping out of couponing. With apps like Coupon Sherpa, you’re able to choose coupons from thousands of stores. Also, be sure to check out Walmart’s Savings Catcher which allows you to scan your receipt barcode and compares prices from top competitors in the area. If the app finds a lower price on eligible items, you’ll get the difference.

Opt in.

Many stores will reward you with a discount on your first purchase by signing up to receive their e-newsletter. For instance, stores like Old Navy offers a 30% off discount when you opt in to receive emails while Pottery Barn sends a 15% discount upon signing up. Not only is this a great way to get an instant savings, but you’ll be the first to find out about special offers, new arrivals, and exclusive events the store has to offer!

Be loyal.

Why not get rewarded for the shopping you’re doing anyway by signing up for store’s loyalty programs which provide members with exclusive savings, coupons and more. Target’s REDcard loyalty program offers 5% discounts on all purchases as well as free shipping online if you use your store-branded debit, credit, or MasterCard. What’s more, the Petco Pals Rewards rewards members with points for every purchase, providing a $5 voucher for every $100 spent in addition to exclusive-member discount pricing.

Register for texts.

Texting isn’t just a great way to stay in touch with family and friends, but it’s also a great way to save money! By registering for text alerts at any retailer, restaurant or grocery store who offers the service, you’ll receive coupons right to your phone without doing any of the work to find them. Popular stores like Kohl’s will send you a 15% off code just for signing up and will continue to send discounts and alert you on new arrivals.

Review credit card perks.

Credit card companies are getting in on the couponing action and have partnered with various retailers, restaurants and grocers to provide cardholders with exclusive discounts. For example, MasterCard cardholders will receive a 25% discount on car rentals through budget while American Express cardholders are privy to exclusive savings through the location-sharing app, Foursquare.

Set up auto delivery.

When it comes to those can’t-live-without purchase you have to make every month like diapers, groceries and dog food, setting up auto-delivery is a great way to save time and money. Amazon Subscribe and Save program, for example, provides a deal of up to 15% off on automatic monthly deliveries plus free shipping while Pet360.com offers 5 to 10 % off pet food through their auto ship system.

Follow, like or share.

Social media is a fun way to share updates on what’s happening in your life, but it’s also becoming a great tool for interacting with companies and businesses that can help you save money. For instance, I recently received a 15% off coupon to Hotels.com by simply liking their page on Facebook and a 30% off deal to Heels.com for following the brand on Twitter. Other retailers like Florists.com, offer a $5 discount to those who share a picture of an arrangement on Instagram with hashtag #florists_com. So next time you’re posting, sharing or liking, look out for such exclusive deals!