Thoughtful Maven...

Much of my adult life I told myself I would use coupons and discounts, but I didn't have a plan. Your plan can look a number of different ways; you just need to have one. Our plan includes occasionally getting a newspaper & clipping coupons, using online coupons, using freebies on receipts, and things we get in the mail. I have a small accordion file that I keep everything in. It has coupons separated into several categories like household, groceries, baby, and eating out. Then I have a place for any gift cards we have with balances remaining. I also have a special spot in the back for specific deals or ads from different stores. Before I go shopping, I pull out any coupons I will need for that day & put them in the front where it says "This Week". Then I don't forget to use any coupons I have. So, now I am much more organized & usually get the most out of any coupons/discounts I can get. Yesterday, I went to the outlets and bought something. I used a five dollar certificate and an additional 10% off and got a great deal!

Figure out a plan that works for your family and start using it...even if you have to start small & build it up--you will save a lot of money.

Comment on this post to share what works for you or your family. How do you get organized?