How To Organize Coupons

Save money efficiently by learning how to organize coupons.  According to the Federal Trade Commission, coupons can help you save when used wisely. So, here are some tips on how to do so by getting organized and making the most of your time and money.  

1. First, keep it simple.  Don't clip coupons for items you wouldn't normally use or items that will still be more expensive than your usual purchase.  Doing so is false economy and will only waste time and add clutter to the process.
2. Coupon organizer. Stores sell coupon organizers that are basically sturdy envelopes with compartments labeled for different types of items.  Select or create an organizer to contain and separate coupons.
3. Separate Coupons. To organize coupons within a coupon organizer, identify the category each coupon falls under and slip it into the appropriate compartment. 
4. Expiration dates. When using this type of system to organize coupons, take your level of organization a step further by stacking the coupons according to expiration dates from top to bottom with the most recently expiring coupons on top. 
5. Easy Access. Place your coupon organizer in your handbag, near your keys, or on the refrigerator door-someplace where you have easy access for adding coupons and are sure to remember to take it with you on every shopping trip.

If you collect, and even organize coupons, but fail to make use of them, try this alternate method:  create an envelope for each store you regularly visit, such as one for the grocery store and one for the retail store where you purchase personal care items.  As with the above method to organize coupons, simplify the process from the start by refraining from clipping coupons that you won't use or truly save money from, stack your coupons according to product type and expiration date, and be sure to carry them with you at all relevant times.  To increase the power of clipping coupons, organize coupons and put them to work for you.