Coupon Grammar

Now that you have chosen your favored method of storing your coupons, it's time to learn some basics. Since my son and I use a classical method of homeschooling (Classical Conversations), I know that, in order to learn anything, you must FIRST learn it's grammar...its specific vocabulary...its language! I'm sure you have noticed that, indeed, couponing and couponers have their own language. It is, however, much easier to learn than Latin or Spanish, I promise!

Coupon Grammar:

 BOGO or B1G1:  Buy one, get one free. Buy one item at full price and get the same item free. Don't forget, you can use a coupon on each item when purchasing a BOGO deal, further improving your savings. Also, don't forget that if you have a B2G1 coupon, that can be combined with a BOGO deal to save even more. For maximum savings in that instance, purchase 6 total items and use 2 B2G1 coupons to make the cost of 6 items the regular price of 1. I still have quite a stockpile of Duncan Hines cake mix from that lovely "trick".  (Please do not think I mean "trick" as in "unethical". ALWAYS follow the rules! This is completely LEGIT!)

Manufacturers' Coupons (MFr or MQ): A manufacturer's coupon is published by manufacturers for money off their own product and may be used at any retail location that accepts coupons. Some manufacturers' coupons might have a store name printed on them (such as Publix or Kroger) but, as long as it states that is a manufacturer's coupon, it can be used at any coupon accepting store.

Store Coupons: This is a coupon published by specific retail stores to be used at their own establishment. Some stores, such as Publix, accept competitors' coupons. Check your stores' coupon policy.

Coupon Stacking:  Coupon stacking is the simple procedure of using both a store coupon and a manufacturer's coupon on the same purchase. Many retail establishments allow this. Again, check your store's policy.

Store Coupon Policy:  This is the written policy used by particular retail establishments to govern their coupon policies on such details as the use of competitor's coupons, the legitimacy of coupon stacking, etc. It is a really good idea to have your store's coupon policy in your coupon binder or box with you when shopping. This prevents needless difficulties with knowledgeable cashiers. I have found, however, that cashiers are really being well-trained these days in their coupon policies since couponing has become so prevalent. However, I have recently had a new cashier say I couldn't use a manufacturer's coupon and store coupon on an item at Target. I politely indicated that wasn't the case and she checked with a more experienced cashier who confirmed that they both could be used. 

Catalina: Catalinas are coupons that print out at the register.

Tearpad Coupon: A coupon on a pad hanging close to the product in the store.

Peelie Coupon: A coupon that you peel off a package.

Blinkie Coupon:  A coupon dispensed near the product in the store usually from a "blinking" red box.

eCoupon Coupons: Coupons found on the  internet and uploadable  to a  store card.

Internet Printable Coupon (IP): Printable coupons found on the internet.

Red Plum Sunday Insert (RP): Insert from Red Plum found in the Sunday paper.

Smart Source (SS): Insert from Smart Source found in the Sunday paper.

Proctor & Gamble (P&G or PG): Insert from Proctor & Gamble found in the Sunday paper.