COPYING COUPONS IS ILLEGAL!!

I am often asked about copying coupons. While most people know it is illegal, there are still those who do not. There are also those who think that if 2 printed coupons have the same bar code, then one of them is copied. This is not necessarily true. This post is to point out the differences.  "Like" coupons always have the same bar code. It would be virtually impossible for insert coupons to have different bar codes, and the same is true for printed ones.

If you look closely at the dotted outline, you will see coupon value, expiration date, date and time it was printed, and maybe even an offer number embedded in the there. On most of these, the time is very significant. If a coupon is photocopied, the time will be exactly the same. If it is not, in most cases, the time will be different, even if it's just a few seconds. Some of this info is also embedded below the expiration date.

Most coupons.com coupons have a dot matrix code in the upper right section. The serial numbers on legitimately printed coupons are normally different.

Smartsource coupons normally have an offer number printed on them and a pin number. The pin number will be different on 2 legitimately printed coupons.

Make certain that you are aware of the differences on your duplicate coupons, so that you can nicely point them out to your cashier if you ever have a problem with this. Cashiers are trained to be careful, and many are afraid of losing their jobs.

Remember, always be considerate, and if you can not resolve your issue with the cashier, ask for a member of management or go to Customer Service after you finish your checkout.

Remember, most coupon & manufacturer's website allow you to print 2 coupons per computer. This is totally legitimate. It is illegal to photocopy coupons, and if you do so, you will be guilty of coupon fraud.

THE BASICS OF COUPONING...INSTALLMENT 2

There are many different places to get coupons and several different ways to organize them. First, we will discuss where to get them.

The biggest source for a variety of coupons is your Sunday newspaper. Almost every week, there is a least one coupon insert in the paper, with most weeks having two or more. It is my recommendation that you keep all coupons. Even if they are for items that you have never bought before, and you think that you probably never will. You never know when the right deal may come along. You should always buy the largest paper that is distributed in your area. The best one that I have found is the Charlotte Observer. It is sold, of course, in and around Charlotte, NC, and in several Publixes and newstands around the Upstate of SC. Most couponers buy at least 2 newspapers every week. Walgreens and Ingles sometimes sell newspapers at a discounted price.

THE BASICS OF COUPONING...FIRST INSTALLMENT

If I can not find a way to make the installments on "The Basics of Couponing" page appear on my home page also, I will try and remember to copy and paste it here. This is the first installment.

INTRODUCTION

Couponing has become almost an art and a way of life for many. It enables us to experience many things that we could not have done previously. For instance, since I started couponing, I have donated hundreds of dollars worth of name-brand products to churches and individuals in need. My family has tried a variety of new foods, and I always have food on hand. I have a stockpile of food and toiletries that will last me several months, if need be.


On this page, I will attempt to teach you the easiest and most profitable way to get started and be successful. I will try and cover a different aspect of couponing each day.


The average couponer saves about 65%-70% on their groceries weekly and much more on their toiletries and household items. Do not be discouraged if you are not saving that much right away. It does take a little time. Here are some important things to remember.