A “Match Up” is when you have a coupon and match it up to current or upcoming sale items. Various websites, such as Hotcouponworld, Afullcup, and Couponmom all have match ups for different grocery stores each week. You can also Google search “Coupon Match up” plus the name of the store you shop. The sites do most of the work, including telling you which insert the coupon is in and from which week the coupons are from, or in the case of printable coupons, what website you can get printables from. Matching coupons with sales is the number one way to save money when using coupons.
Depending on where the writer of the match up gets their information on sales and coupons, the coupons you receive may be slightly different in value. Additionally, not all products are carried nationwide, so there may be some variants in the advertisements and coupons you receive.
You can also do your our match ups by making your shopping list and grabbing the circular for your favorite store from the junk mail. Most stores run sales starting at the opening of business on Wednesday until the following Tuesday at close of business, so you’ll get your circulars in Monday’s junk mail- that gives you 2 days to do your own match up scenarios. Once you have the list, and your circular, take a look at what’s on sale that you need and you can match your coupons.
Remember to go to the store at “off” times (not right after work or Saturday afternoon) when you are new to couponing so you do not feel rushed, and it’s always better to shop alone, so you can stick to your list, guilt free.
I like to circle the items in the advertisements that I am going to buy and bring the ad with me to the store. I pull my coupons, and put them in a zip lock bag. I put them in the front of my coupon wallet. I always bring my entire wallet with me- JUST IN CASE. You never know when something will be on clearance or when there will be an item that the store accidentally ordered too much of and they had to mark it down!
Match up Examples
Match up sites generally use a type of short hand to save posters time when they are typing up all of their deals!
Lingo: There will be a set of initials that indicate where the coupon came from.
SS: Smart Source,
PG: Proctor and Gamble- sometimes P&G
RP: Red Plum (In selected markets Red Plum doesn’t come in the paper, it comes in the weekly junk mail),
IP: Internet Printable (Most match up websites will link to the site where the printable came from)
Then there are the other usual sorts of coupons: Blinkies, in magazine (followed by the name and month), direct mail, on package, in package.
Then a date will be listed, this will be the date the insert was in the paper. On the cover of the coupons, on the spine there will be the date and the “market” the coupons are for. Example: 10/10/10 San Diego Union Tribune.
Here are a couple of examples from the 1/13/10-1/13/10 Albertson’s ad:
Coffee-mate Flavored Creamer 16oz $1.99 ($.50/1 RP 11-01)
Raisin Bran 20oz ( $1/1 Package coupons & Peelies, $1.50/2 Redplum IP) This example gives you a couple different coupons to choose from. Remember one manufacturer paper coupon PER ITEM purchased. You can’t use all of these coupons on one package/item.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Coupon Previews- You can see your Future Savings!
There are several websites that preview the weekly coupon inserts. However, there are regional differences due to product availability. There also may be slight differences in the value of each coupon. Most coupons received on the West Coast have a higher value, .50 or more each due to the increased cost of food.
http://www.taylortownpreview.com/
www.sundaycouponpreview.com/
Not all media outlets carry all of available the coupon inserts. Generally, Smart Source or Vlassic arrives weekly, Proctor and Gamble AKA The P&G Saver arrives about once a month, and General Mills Puts out a smaller insert with their brand specific coupons in it about once a month. Red Plum Coupons does not come in the newspaper in some areas. It may be delivered with the weekly bulk/junk, including the grocery and drug store fliers. If you do not receive Red Plum in your paper, visit http://www.redplum.com/ and type in your address to see which local newspaper delivers the Red Plum Insert. In Southern California, it’s the LA Times.
http://www.taylortownpreview.com/
www.sundaycouponpreview.com/
Not all media outlets carry all of available the coupon inserts. Generally, Smart Source or Vlassic arrives weekly, Proctor and Gamble AKA The P&G Saver arrives about once a month, and General Mills Puts out a smaller insert with their brand specific coupons in it about once a month. Red Plum Coupons does not come in the newspaper in some areas. It may be delivered with the weekly bulk/junk, including the grocery and drug store fliers. If you do not receive Red Plum in your paper, visit http://www.redplum.com/ and type in your address to see which local newspaper delivers the Red Plum Insert. In Southern California, it’s the LA Times.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
I love target
It was not that long ago that I did not have a loving relationship with my local Target. They hire very unfriendly cashiers who cannot read or understand coupons or their own companies coupon policy.
I don't try to do any Complicated scenarios at my local Target any more. I don't try to use coupons on trial sized packages, even if they are not excluded and i don't piggyback coupons most of the time. I don't stack coupons, especially if I am in a cashier's line and I haven't dealt with them before. It's pretty sad that I limit myself to only a handful of items because it is Not worth the aggravation.
My new love of Target began about 3 months ago. I applied for a Target Red Card Debit card. It links to your bank account. A nd works just like your ATM card does, EXCEPT.... You receive 5% off your purchase, just for using the card. Pretty sweet. That five percent really makes a diference.
Additionally when you fill 5 rX's at the. Pharmacy and pay with. Your red card, you receive a. Five percent Savings Certificate to be used all over the store. That's one shopping trip where you can use the certificate with your red card and save 10%, in addition to your coupons.
Today I hit up Target to pick up my rX and I had received a $10.00 gift certificate coupon for the new new rX I filled in the store. I also picked up more infant formula (the saga of breastfeeding and milk supplies is for a completely different post, lemme tell ya!), which was on sale for $32.00 and WYB 2, you receive a $10.00 gift card.
I had 2 $5.00 formula checks and 2 $2.00 Enfamil coupons, so I saved $14.00, plus I received a $10.00 gift card! After coupons and the gift card, I paid only $40.00 for approx. a months worth of formula!
My rX was $15.00, so after my gift card, it was only $5.00!!
I'll use the gift card to buy groceries, and to make sure I get. My 5% savings, I'll spend just a smidge over $20.00 and put the rest. On my target red card!
I don't try to do any Complicated scenarios at my local Target any more. I don't try to use coupons on trial sized packages, even if they are not excluded and i don't piggyback coupons most of the time. I don't stack coupons, especially if I am in a cashier's line and I haven't dealt with them before. It's pretty sad that I limit myself to only a handful of items because it is Not worth the aggravation.
My new love of Target began about 3 months ago. I applied for a Target Red Card Debit card. It links to your bank account. A nd works just like your ATM card does, EXCEPT.... You receive 5% off your purchase, just for using the card. Pretty sweet. That five percent really makes a diference.
Additionally when you fill 5 rX's at the. Pharmacy and pay with. Your red card, you receive a. Five percent Savings Certificate to be used all over the store. That's one shopping trip where you can use the certificate with your red card and save 10%, in addition to your coupons.
Today I hit up Target to pick up my rX and I had received a $10.00 gift certificate coupon for the new new rX I filled in the store. I also picked up more infant formula (the saga of breastfeeding and milk supplies is for a completely different post, lemme tell ya!), which was on sale for $32.00 and WYB 2, you receive a $10.00 gift card.
I had 2 $5.00 formula checks and 2 $2.00 Enfamil coupons, so I saved $14.00, plus I received a $10.00 gift card! After coupons and the gift card, I paid only $40.00 for approx. a months worth of formula!
My rX was $15.00, so after my gift card, it was only $5.00!!
I'll use the gift card to buy groceries, and to make sure I get. My 5% savings, I'll spend just a smidge over $20.00 and put the rest. On my target red card!
Monday, April 25, 2011
Working away!
I promise, I've got some great posts coming up- I'm working away!
I've been slacking on stuff around the house too. Our Family Binder is a mess and I am hoping on getting that up and running again soon.
For those who aren't familiar, a family binder is the central hub of our family "stuff". I have a 3 inch 3 ring binder that contains our family address book and emergency contacts, recent bills, calendars, insurance info, shopping lists, price book, menu planner, budget, vehicle maintenance, groupons/online GC's, and other misc. stuff.
Most everything is contained in page protectors, the sections are divided with tabs. Most of the pages came from Organized Home, however, some sections I came up with and made up my own spreadsheets/workbook pages.
I try to spend about 30 minutes each week on the family binder- filing bills, menu planning for the week(s) ahead, and updating the calendar. It really helps us stay organized and on budget!
I've been slacking on stuff around the house too. Our Family Binder is a mess and I am hoping on getting that up and running again soon.
For those who aren't familiar, a family binder is the central hub of our family "stuff". I have a 3 inch 3 ring binder that contains our family address book and emergency contacts, recent bills, calendars, insurance info, shopping lists, price book, menu planner, budget, vehicle maintenance, groupons/online GC's, and other misc. stuff.
Most everything is contained in page protectors, the sections are divided with tabs. Most of the pages came from Organized Home, however, some sections I came up with and made up my own spreadsheets/workbook pages.
I try to spend about 30 minutes each week on the family binder- filing bills, menu planning for the week(s) ahead, and updating the calendar. It really helps us stay organized and on budget!
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Freevies- Earth Day Edition
Usually I just direct everyone to my Twitter feed for all of the great freebies (I re-tweet freebie and printable coupon offers daily), however, in honor of Earth Day (That's tomorrow!), I thought I'd do a special post.
Earth Day is tomorrow 4/22/11.
Starbucks is giving away brewed coffee or tea. You must bring in your own reusable mug.
The Disney Store is giving away reusable shopping bags (1 per person). You just have to bring in 5 plastic bags.
Origins is giving away free full sized cleansers in their stores (note- not makeup counters within department stores- only the stand alone Origins stores), all you have to do is bring in an empty skincare product bottle for them to recycle.
And an everyday way to save the earth and some $$- At Target, for every reusable bag you bring in and use, you will receive .05 off your purchase! .05 isn't much, but if you do your grocery shopping there (or shop there frequently), it adds up! I save about $1.00-$2.00/month using reusable bags at Target.
For more Earth Day Freebies, check out this yahoo article!
Earth Day is tomorrow 4/22/11.
Starbucks is giving away brewed coffee or tea. You must bring in your own reusable mug.
The Disney Store is giving away reusable shopping bags (1 per person). You just have to bring in 5 plastic bags.
Origins is giving away free full sized cleansers in their stores (note- not makeup counters within department stores- only the stand alone Origins stores), all you have to do is bring in an empty skincare product bottle for them to recycle.
And an everyday way to save the earth and some $$- At Target, for every reusable bag you bring in and use, you will receive .05 off your purchase! .05 isn't much, but if you do your grocery shopping there (or shop there frequently), it adds up! I save about $1.00-$2.00/month using reusable bags at Target.
For more Earth Day Freebies, check out this yahoo article!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Free stuff that isn't worth it...
I subscribe to several money saving magazines, blogs and newsfeeds. Every one of them has at least once every few months an *exciting* article on "Free Stuff" and how you can save hundreds, if not thousands of dollars.
This month, in All You, there is an article " Grab 25 Fabulous Freebies". Some of these freebies, well, are not useful, or actually free. Before you say, "Don't look a gift horse in the mouth", I am of the belief that when writers offer advice, it should be tested, useful and one shouldn't have to go out of their way to obtain a free item or service. If I have to drive for 2 hours for a free sample or service, it is no longer free (especially with gas at $4.17/gallon in my neighborhood!)
1- Free WiFi: Awesome. Free internet is great. But if I have to leave home and go to "bookstores, coffee shops, restaurants and libraries" any time I want to surf the net, that's not free. I have to spend money on gas and potentially have to buy something (in the case of coffee shops and restaurants). That also means any time I want to surf the net, I have to leave my house. Not ok unless I have a laptop or tablet device. My suggestion- Shop around for the best deal on internet service.
2- Unlimited texts from your PC: I love to text. Its great to shoot off a quick reminder or check in with someone when you are on the go. "Sign up for a free email account with google or AOL and as long as you have access to a computer, you can text any mobile number (and receive texts) through your account for free." But... When I'm not home (or at a computer), I can't do that. Most of the time when I text, I'm not at home, and that is the same for many adults. So, this may not be a super Freebie for everyone. My suggestion: look into inexpensive cell carriers or an unlimited texting package you ca afford. Or- don't text!
Skipping ahead because some of these freebies are good suggestions, like Vista Print business cards (What the article doesn't tell you is that if you get the free cards, Vista Print puts their logo on the back. They are free, but you are advertising for Vista Print). Other good ideas include joining the Aveda Pure Privilege program. Aveda has tons of freebie offers throughout the year, and you get a full sized freebie the month of your birthday.
11- Makeup Application: Now at day spas, most do offer complimentary makeup application after a spa service, however, at Department stores, the idea behind the makeup application is that you will buy one of the products that are used on you. Not buying anything is.. well, crappy. Here's why: As a former Macy's Makeup Counter Girl, you are expected to sell makeup. Shocker! When people come in for a free "make over" and don't buy anything, that wastes the counter girl's time, when they could be selling makeup to walk up clients.
Also, on an related note: people stick their dirty fingers in the makeup testers that are used to do those free makeup applications. People also put the lipstick on their mouths, and mascara on their eyelashes with the tester wand instead of using the disposable applicators. People have cooties, and pink eye and herpes. EWW.
Those are the high (or low) lights of the article.
Remember- just because something is free, doesn't mean that you have to go out of your way to obtain it. There are a lot of freebies that I signed up for, but later wasn't able to redeem them, so in the end, I could of spent that time with my family or friends, instead of chasing down a freebie.
Example: Godiva Chocolate Rewards Club. The local Godvia shop doesn't participate, so I spent 15 minutes signing up and validating my email for no reason. However, I can just walk into my local See's candy shop and get a free piece of candy. No club, no sign ups.
This post wasn't meant to bash All You Magazine. Overall, they have great articles and information that helps woman all over the US save money. I want to make frugalistas and freebie seekers aware that not everything that is labeled "free" actually is free. Caveat Emptor (Yeah, ever when it's free!).
This month, in All You, there is an article " Grab 25 Fabulous Freebies". Some of these freebies, well, are not useful, or actually free. Before you say, "Don't look a gift horse in the mouth", I am of the belief that when writers offer advice, it should be tested, useful and one shouldn't have to go out of their way to obtain a free item or service. If I have to drive for 2 hours for a free sample or service, it is no longer free (especially with gas at $4.17/gallon in my neighborhood!)
1- Free WiFi: Awesome. Free internet is great. But if I have to leave home and go to "bookstores, coffee shops, restaurants and libraries" any time I want to surf the net, that's not free. I have to spend money on gas and potentially have to buy something (in the case of coffee shops and restaurants). That also means any time I want to surf the net, I have to leave my house. Not ok unless I have a laptop or tablet device. My suggestion- Shop around for the best deal on internet service.
2- Unlimited texts from your PC: I love to text. Its great to shoot off a quick reminder or check in with someone when you are on the go. "Sign up for a free email account with google or AOL and as long as you have access to a computer, you can text any mobile number (and receive texts) through your account for free." But... When I'm not home (or at a computer), I can't do that. Most of the time when I text, I'm not at home, and that is the same for many adults. So, this may not be a super Freebie for everyone. My suggestion: look into inexpensive cell carriers or an unlimited texting package you ca afford. Or- don't text!
Skipping ahead because some of these freebies are good suggestions, like Vista Print business cards (What the article doesn't tell you is that if you get the free cards, Vista Print puts their logo on the back. They are free, but you are advertising for Vista Print). Other good ideas include joining the Aveda Pure Privilege program. Aveda has tons of freebie offers throughout the year, and you get a full sized freebie the month of your birthday.
11- Makeup Application: Now at day spas, most do offer complimentary makeup application after a spa service, however, at Department stores, the idea behind the makeup application is that you will buy one of the products that are used on you. Not buying anything is.. well, crappy. Here's why: As a former Macy's Makeup Counter Girl, you are expected to sell makeup. Shocker! When people come in for a free "make over" and don't buy anything, that wastes the counter girl's time, when they could be selling makeup to walk up clients.
Also, on an related note: people stick their dirty fingers in the makeup testers that are used to do those free makeup applications. People also put the lipstick on their mouths, and mascara on their eyelashes with the tester wand instead of using the disposable applicators. People have cooties, and pink eye and herpes. EWW.
Those are the high (or low) lights of the article.
Remember- just because something is free, doesn't mean that you have to go out of your way to obtain it. There are a lot of freebies that I signed up for, but later wasn't able to redeem them, so in the end, I could of spent that time with my family or friends, instead of chasing down a freebie.
Example: Godiva Chocolate Rewards Club. The local Godvia shop doesn't participate, so I spent 15 minutes signing up and validating my email for no reason. However, I can just walk into my local See's candy shop and get a free piece of candy. No club, no sign ups.
This post wasn't meant to bash All You Magazine. Overall, they have great articles and information that helps woman all over the US save money. I want to make frugalistas and freebie seekers aware that not everything that is labeled "free" actually is free. Caveat Emptor (Yeah, ever when it's free!).
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
New recipe- Crunchy Onion, chicken and noodle bake
This is a modified version of a recipe available at French's website. I used Philly cooking creme instead of cream of mushroom soup and milk, due to a guest's allergy to an ingredient in the soup. If you are a vegetarian, you could leave out the chicken.
Our family loves French's French fried onions (and who doesn't!!) YUM! I made this casserole last night for a girl's night in, where we clipped coupons and hung out.
1 package Philly Cooking Creme ($1.50 coupons available at coupons.com)
1 cup FRENCH'S® Original French Fried Onions, divided (Coupon available from frenchs.com, also in newspapers about once a month)
1 c chopped onion sauted in 1 teaspoon butter
1 medium bag frozen broccoli (Coupon available from coupons.com)
2 cups cubed cooked chicken
1 package egg noodles, cooked and drained (No yolks egg noodle coupons available from their website)
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
combine all ingredient except 1/2 c. of cheese and onions in a greased 9x13 baking dish.
Top with remaining cheese and onions, bake at 350 for 30-45 minutes.
Our family loves French's French fried onions (and who doesn't!!) YUM! I made this casserole last night for a girl's night in, where we clipped coupons and hung out.
Ingredients:
1 package Philly Cooking Creme ($1.50 coupons available at coupons.com)
1 cup FRENCH'S® Original French Fried Onions, divided (Coupon available from frenchs.com, also in newspapers about once a month)
1 c chopped onion sauted in 1 teaspoon butter
1 medium bag frozen broccoli (Coupon available from coupons.com)
2 cups cubed cooked chicken
1 package egg noodles, cooked and drained (No yolks egg noodle coupons available from their website)
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
combine all ingredient except 1/2 c. of cheese and onions in a greased 9x13 baking dish.
Top with remaining cheese and onions, bake at 350 for 30-45 minutes.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Santa Fe Soup- An awesome Frugal Recipe!
This recipe is courtesy of my good friend, Brooke (whom I've been friends with for over *half* our lives! Wow, does that make us sound old??
SANTA FE SOUP
2 lbs. ground turkey or beef
1 onion chopped
1 pkg. (1oz) ranch dressing mix (dry)
2 pkg. (1 1/4 oz.) taco seasoning mix
2 cups water
1 can (11 oz.) Ro*tel tomatoes/chiles, undrained
1 can (16 oz.) kidney beans, undrained
1 can (16 oz.) pinto beans, undrained
1 can (16 oz.) black beans, undrained
2 cans (16 oz. each) corn, undrained
Saute ground meat and onion, add remaining ingredients and simmer for 2 hours. Serve as is or garnish with and or all of these: cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips.
Possible Printable Coupons/Deals:
Ro*tel Tomatoes- Their website frequently has printable coupons
99 Cents Only frequently has canned beans for .59 or .99/can, which is many times a better price than most markets (unless you have a coupon, of course!)
Currently- Shortcuts.com has coupons for Rotel and Taco seasoning!
Brooke is a loving mommy and wife living here in San Diego. In addition to raising 2 kiddos with her hubby, she is a stellar Thirty-One Consultant!
SANTA FE SOUP
2 lbs. ground turkey or beef
1 onion chopped
1 pkg. (1oz) ranch dressing mix (dry)
2 pkg. (1 1/4 oz.) taco seasoning mix
2 cups water
1 can (11 oz.) Ro*tel tomatoes/chiles, undrained
1 can (16 oz.) kidney beans, undrained
1 can (16 oz.) pinto beans, undrained
1 can (16 oz.) black beans, undrained
2 cans (16 oz. each) corn, undrained
Saute ground meat and onion, add remaining ingredients and simmer for 2 hours. Serve as is or garnish with and or all of these: cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips.
Possible Printable Coupons/Deals:
Ro*tel Tomatoes- Their website frequently has printable coupons
99 Cents Only frequently has canned beans for .59 or .99/can, which is many times a better price than most markets (unless you have a coupon, of course!)
Currently- Shortcuts.com has coupons for Rotel and Taco seasoning!
Brooke is a loving mommy and wife living here in San Diego. In addition to raising 2 kiddos with her hubby, she is a stellar Thirty-One Consultant!
Awesome new makeup!
Earlier in the week, I received Covergirl NatureLuxe Liquid Silk Foundation and NatureLuxe Gloss Balm as part of a new BzzAgent Campaign and WOWZA!
I received foundation in #310 (flax) and gloss balm in #240 (muscat). I have to be honest, the foundation goes on sooo smoothly and has a dewy, barely there appearance, while still providing excellent coverage. Made with cucumber water and a hint of jojoba and rose hip extracts. Visit the link above and the website can match your current foundation color to the NatureLuxe color. Covergirl is so sure that you will love this new foundation, they have a money back guarantee!
The gloss balm goes on like silk and isn't tacky like most lip glosses and smells like honey and cherries. It's fortified with mango and shea butter, and contains SPF 15. The best part is there are 16 different colors, so you are sure to find the one that you love!
I have some $2.00 off Covergirl NatureLuxe Liquid Silk Foundation coupons- If you would like one, please leave a comment with your email address. I will contact you for your mailing address!
As a bzzagent, I am sent products to use and share my opinion with others, as well as share products and coupons with others. I am not compensated financially. I give my honest opinions in my reviews. If you would like to learn more about being a bzzagent, or would like to check out what kinds of campaigns are currently available, please visit the bzzagent website. I love being a bzzagent, and who knows, you might love it too!
I received foundation in #310 (flax) and gloss balm in #240 (muscat). I have to be honest, the foundation goes on sooo smoothly and has a dewy, barely there appearance, while still providing excellent coverage. Made with cucumber water and a hint of jojoba and rose hip extracts. Visit the link above and the website can match your current foundation color to the NatureLuxe color. Covergirl is so sure that you will love this new foundation, they have a money back guarantee!
The gloss balm goes on like silk and isn't tacky like most lip glosses and smells like honey and cherries. It's fortified with mango and shea butter, and contains SPF 15. The best part is there are 16 different colors, so you are sure to find the one that you love!
I have some $2.00 off Covergirl NatureLuxe Liquid Silk Foundation coupons- If you would like one, please leave a comment with your email address. I will contact you for your mailing address!
As a bzzagent, I am sent products to use and share my opinion with others, as well as share products and coupons with others. I am not compensated financially. I give my honest opinions in my reviews. If you would like to learn more about being a bzzagent, or would like to check out what kinds of campaigns are currently available, please visit the bzzagent website. I love being a bzzagent, and who knows, you might love it too!
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Yummy Frugal Recipes!
I've asked family, friends and readers to send me recipes that are family favorites. I'll be posting recipes one or two at a time, with coupon match ups for some of the ingredients.
My sister, Michelle, sent me this recipe for baked spaghetti:
Here are printable coupons for some of the ingredients:
Laura's Lean Beef
Muir Glen canned Tomatoes
Campbell's Soup
Butter (on coupons.com, use zip code 92116)
Pasta (Dreamfield's)
My sister, Michelle, sent me this recipe for baked spaghetti:
Here are printable coupons for some of the ingredients:
Laura's Lean Beef
Muir Glen canned Tomatoes
Campbell's Soup
Butter (on coupons.com, use zip code 92116)
Pasta (Dreamfield's)
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Savings journey- part two
Last night, Mr Cacoupondiva and I were discussing...savings, and he brought up in my last entry I didn't mention that while we were savings, we paid off debt and in 2008 he took a job with a pay raise.
We paid off my student loan ($12k in total) in 2009. We paid as much as we could afford in addition to the minimum payment due each month. We used some of our tax refund in 2009 to pay off the final balance.
We have also paid off all of our credit card debt. At this point, the only revolving debt that we have is my car payment, and with some careful planning, we'll have it paid off my this time next year.
It's all about baby steps!
We paid off my student loan ($12k in total) in 2009. We paid as much as we could afford in addition to the minimum payment due each month. We used some of our tax refund in 2009 to pay off the final balance.
We have also paid off all of our credit card debt. At this point, the only revolving debt that we have is my car payment, and with some careful planning, we'll have it paid off my this time next year.
It's all about baby steps!
Monday, April 11, 2011
Our savings journey
I try not to go into specifics about our financial situation on this blog, however, I have had several friends (and readers) ask me to share our savings journey. I hope it inspires you to save and live frugally, while at the same time living richly!
One of my original savings goals when I formally started my savings journey* five years ago was to have $10,000 in our savings account for emergencies.
*I say formally, because prior to setting this goal, while I had been frugal most of my life (always buying clothing on sale or clearance, comparison shopping for large purchases), I didn't have a coupon wallet, do rebates, obtain freebies, or enroll in points programs or birthday clubs. I had two grocery club cards and that's about it.
In 2006, as we were planning our wedding, the fiancé (now Mr. Cacoupondiva) and I decided to save $10,000 to have a cushion in case of emergencies (that's a nice little emergency fund for two people in their twenties!). I had $934.00 in my savings account, so we had a long road ahead of us. With a budget drawn up, I started couponing and using frugal living strategies that I had read about online on various forums and websites. We matched sales with coupons, requested freebies online, ate out less, and really watched our bottom line.
By the end of 2007, we had gotten married and our savings account swelled to $8000 (thanks in no small part to all of our wonderful family and friends who gave us cash as wedding gifts). We were just $2k away from our goal. But I started thinking about what to do after the goal had been achieved... Do I give up at $10K? NO! Do I continue to save for a next big milestone? YES!
In February of 2008, we hit our goal (Thank Uncle Sam for the nice Tax Refund!!), and I took 1/2 of the amount in savings and opened a Money Market account. Our Credit Union was offering a nice APR, and I figured we weren't going to spend the money right away, so I plopped $5000 in a money market account and let it accumulate some interest.
We discussed our goals, and decided that our next goal would be to plump up both accounts (savings and Money market) up to $10k EACH! That's pretty lofty a goal, but I knew that we could do it. We continued to put away $200-$400/month, as well as any gift money, tax refunds, rebates, insurance dividends, whatever extra money crossed our palms.
Late in 2010, Mr. Cacoupondiva was laid off :( With his severance package, we were able to hit our goal for our money market account, as well as pay a few bills in advance (rent, phone, life and disability insurance). I was able to re-work the budget, and we saved his Unemployment benefits and lived off my paycheck alone, and by January of 2011, we had achieved our goal in full!
2010 was the year of "The Free" and after the lay off, "The Free" became even more important. We used the groupons we had, restaurant.com gift certificates, and other gift cards we had on had for date nights, I worked mypoints to obtain more gift cards to lower our OOP at CVS, Walgreens, and other places we shopped regularly. We skipped nights out with friends when it was too costly, and frequently had friends over for dinner and a movie or games.
I've hosted several houseparty.com parties as well. Those are always a source of great entertainment, the goodies are supplied and there are always freebies for the guests to take home!
Since our goal of $10k in each of our accounts has been achieved, we've saving for milestones in $5k increments. It's easier to achieve goals if you break them down. It wasn't easy to save $10k, it wasn't easy to save $20k. I'd like to save a million dollars, but that seems daunting. By breaking a goal down into bite sized pieces, sometimes going without a brand new car with huge monthly payments, a flat screen TV, or a new Coach purse seems easier. When we want those "things", I look at the screen capture of our savings account and Money market account balances that i have saved on our desktop and remind myself that buying those "things" won't grow our net worth. "Things" won't help us save for a house or a newer (but not brand new) car for Mr. Cacoupondiva. Our current TV works well, his car still runs, and we'll be able to start looking for a house in the next few years.
We're still living frugally. We're still savings $200-$400/month.
My top frugalista tips are:
I've had a few people ask me how free samples helped us out? I order free samples online for several reasons:
1- Often times it is a new product. By trying a free sample, I am saving money by not buying the product before I try it. Most samples come with a coupon as well. So if we like it, I'll buy it when it is on sale (and use my coupon!)
2- We used to travel a lot more (family camping trips, Disneyland trips, weekends away) and sample sizes are great for a travel toiletry kit. Travel size toiletries can be expensive! Now I use them as I get them, after I re-stock our travel toiletry kits (we still go camping once or so a year with the fam).
3- In the past I have used some of the nicer freebies in gift baskets, especially if they are higher end samples or if I know the gift recipient specifically likes a product.
We're still saving. We will continue to save. I encourage everyone to save money- for a nest egg, for a home, for a car, for no reason at all, other than you want to protect yourself in case of a rainy day!
One of my original savings goals when I formally started my savings journey* five years ago was to have $10,000 in our savings account for emergencies.
*I say formally, because prior to setting this goal, while I had been frugal most of my life (always buying clothing on sale or clearance, comparison shopping for large purchases), I didn't have a coupon wallet, do rebates, obtain freebies, or enroll in points programs or birthday clubs. I had two grocery club cards and that's about it.
In 2006, as we were planning our wedding, the fiancé (now Mr. Cacoupondiva) and I decided to save $10,000 to have a cushion in case of emergencies (that's a nice little emergency fund for two people in their twenties!). I had $934.00 in my savings account, so we had a long road ahead of us. With a budget drawn up, I started couponing and using frugal living strategies that I had read about online on various forums and websites. We matched sales with coupons, requested freebies online, ate out less, and really watched our bottom line.
By the end of 2007, we had gotten married and our savings account swelled to $8000 (thanks in no small part to all of our wonderful family and friends who gave us cash as wedding gifts). We were just $2k away from our goal. But I started thinking about what to do after the goal had been achieved... Do I give up at $10K? NO! Do I continue to save for a next big milestone? YES!
In February of 2008, we hit our goal (Thank Uncle Sam for the nice Tax Refund!!), and I took 1/2 of the amount in savings and opened a Money Market account. Our Credit Union was offering a nice APR, and I figured we weren't going to spend the money right away, so I plopped $5000 in a money market account and let it accumulate some interest.
We discussed our goals, and decided that our next goal would be to plump up both accounts (savings and Money market) up to $10k EACH! That's pretty lofty a goal, but I knew that we could do it. We continued to put away $200-$400/month, as well as any gift money, tax refunds, rebates, insurance dividends, whatever extra money crossed our palms.
Late in 2010, Mr. Cacoupondiva was laid off :( With his severance package, we were able to hit our goal for our money market account, as well as pay a few bills in advance (rent, phone, life and disability insurance). I was able to re-work the budget, and we saved his Unemployment benefits and lived off my paycheck alone, and by January of 2011, we had achieved our goal in full!
2010 was the year of "The Free" and after the lay off, "The Free" became even more important. We used the groupons we had, restaurant.com gift certificates, and other gift cards we had on had for date nights, I worked mypoints to obtain more gift cards to lower our OOP at CVS, Walgreens, and other places we shopped regularly. We skipped nights out with friends when it was too costly, and frequently had friends over for dinner and a movie or games.
I've hosted several houseparty.com parties as well. Those are always a source of great entertainment, the goodies are supplied and there are always freebies for the guests to take home!
Since our goal of $10k in each of our accounts has been achieved, we've saving for milestones in $5k increments. It's easier to achieve goals if you break them down. It wasn't easy to save $10k, it wasn't easy to save $20k. I'd like to save a million dollars, but that seems daunting. By breaking a goal down into bite sized pieces, sometimes going without a brand new car with huge monthly payments, a flat screen TV, or a new Coach purse seems easier. When we want those "things", I look at the screen capture of our savings account and Money market account balances that i have saved on our desktop and remind myself that buying those "things" won't grow our net worth. "Things" won't help us save for a house or a newer (but not brand new) car for Mr. Cacoupondiva. Our current TV works well, his car still runs, and we'll be able to start looking for a house in the next few years.
We're still living frugally. We're still savings $200-$400/month.
My top frugalista tips are:
- Use coupons. Combine them with sales. Not just on groceries. JCP has coupons all the time! I never pay retail prices for anything!
- Buy mark down meat- Freeze it. It isn't rotten when you buy it, it is a few days away from it's pull date.
- Go meatless one or more days a week. Meat is expensive! Other sources of protein are cheaper.
- Buy markdown bakery items (bread, croissants).
- Cook from scratch. It's cheaper and better for you.
- Buy items in bulk when they are less costly than the smaller quantity (Not everything at Costco is a good deal!!).
- Menu Plan. If this is too daunting, keep a list on your fridge of meals that you can make with the food in your house. After you have cooked a meal, cross it off the list.
- Eat what is in your cupboard! A full cupboard is swell, but if you don't eat the food in it, you are wasting money.
- Freebies! Keep your eyes open for samples, clubs that offer freebies (birthday clubs, store loyalty clubs), free community events, etc.. Take advantage of FREE!
- If you want/need to buy something, wait a week. It may go on sale, you may find it cheaper at another store, or you may decide that you don't "need" the item after all.
- It pays to shop around.
I've had a few people ask me how free samples helped us out? I order free samples online for several reasons:
1- Often times it is a new product. By trying a free sample, I am saving money by not buying the product before I try it. Most samples come with a coupon as well. So if we like it, I'll buy it when it is on sale (and use my coupon!)
2- We used to travel a lot more (family camping trips, Disneyland trips, weekends away) and sample sizes are great for a travel toiletry kit. Travel size toiletries can be expensive! Now I use them as I get them, after I re-stock our travel toiletry kits (we still go camping once or so a year with the fam).
3- In the past I have used some of the nicer freebies in gift baskets, especially if they are higher end samples or if I know the gift recipient specifically likes a product.
We're still saving. We will continue to save. I encourage everyone to save money- for a nest egg, for a home, for a car, for no reason at all, other than you want to protect yourself in case of a rainy day!
Saturday, April 9, 2011
What I didn't know about...(freebies)
Going to the hospital to have a baby...
If you have to use a breast pump (which I did) take the hoses, the flanges, the milk collection bottles home with you. They are disposed of, since they can't be autoclaved. Most hoses can be used on other types of machines, so your pump at home doesn't have to be the exact model.
Take the formula gift packs the hospital offer you- Even if you don't plan on formula feeding. It's good to have formula in case of an emergency (If you are in an accident, or if you can't produce enough milk), and if you don't end up using it, you can donate it to a food bank or a homeless shelter.
Basically- Anything the hospital offers you- take it. Even if you don't think you'll need it, take it. You can donate it or pass it along later if you don't use it.
Other Kiddo Stuff:
Sign up for Formula offers- Again, even if you don't plan on using it- you never know. Sometimes it takes a while for your milk to come in. Enfamil has Family Beginnings, Similac has Strong Moms, Gerber has a great program, All Stages, where you can receive coupons for formula and as your child gets older, coupons for other age appropriate foods.
Pampers and Huggies have programs where you enter codes from inside diaper and wipe packages. You can turn the points in for free diapers, coupons, and toys. It's quick and easy. If you follow me on twitter, I re-tweet and tweet point codes as they become available (promo codes are released frequently). When you sign up for these programs, often times they will mail you coupons and other offers/deals.
If you have to use a breast pump (which I did) take the hoses, the flanges, the milk collection bottles home with you. They are disposed of, since they can't be autoclaved. Most hoses can be used on other types of machines, so your pump at home doesn't have to be the exact model.
Take the formula gift packs the hospital offer you- Even if you don't plan on formula feeding. It's good to have formula in case of an emergency (If you are in an accident, or if you can't produce enough milk), and if you don't end up using it, you can donate it to a food bank or a homeless shelter.
Basically- Anything the hospital offers you- take it. Even if you don't think you'll need it, take it. You can donate it or pass it along later if you don't use it.
Other Kiddo Stuff:
Sign up for Formula offers- Again, even if you don't plan on using it- you never know. Sometimes it takes a while for your milk to come in. Enfamil has Family Beginnings, Similac has Strong Moms, Gerber has a great program, All Stages, where you can receive coupons for formula and as your child gets older, coupons for other age appropriate foods.
Pampers and Huggies have programs where you enter codes from inside diaper and wipe packages. You can turn the points in for free diapers, coupons, and toys. It's quick and easy. If you follow me on twitter, I re-tweet and tweet point codes as they become available (promo codes are released frequently). When you sign up for these programs, often times they will mail you coupons and other offers/deals.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Saving Money beyond coupons- Shopping for Insurance to save big $$.
This is one of the least favorite ways to save money among American consumers, however, if it is done, you can save hundreds of dollars per year. What onerous task am I speaking of?
Before you jump head first into insurance shopping, contact your current carrier and ask them for a comprehensive policy review. Ask them to review your policies with you, make sure you are receiving all the discounts that you are eligible for.
Did you know that Farmer’s Insurance offers discounts for teachers and other various professions? Ask if your carrier offers any professional/vocational discounts.
Ask questions about coverage if you have questions. Don’t be afraid to remove or add coverage if you feel that it is warranted. Raising deductibles for Comprehensive and Collision coverages will save you money on your premium. Raising your homeowners/renters/condo unit owners’ policy deductible will also lower your premium. In some cases, raising your deductibles from $250 to $1000 can lower your premium as much as 20% per year!
Once you have spoken with your current carrier and had a review, if you still feel like you could save money with another carrier, have a print out of your policy in front of you and start the rate shopping.
In order to see the savings, you should request an apples to apples quote. Obtain quotes that are identical to what you currently have, or if you have received a quote for policy changes (such as increased deductibles).
You will need to gather the following:
There are companies, such as netquotes.com, that allow you to shop several auto insurance companies at once.
If you or a family member have honorably served in the military (any branch), you might want to check out USAA.com for quotes. We have our auto and renters insurance with USAA and we save $300/year over what I was paying with State Farm!
Other companies such as Wawanesa, Geico, 21st Century offer low rates because they have low overhead- no local agents or walk in offices on every corner.
If you have AAA or towing coverage through your cell phone carrier, consider dropping the towing coverage that your auto insurance carrier offers. There is no reason to pay for the same coverage twice!
If you decide to stay with your current carrier, and you have a local agent, be aware that they sometimes can offer other services and perks beyond sending you your insurance ID cards one or two times per year. If you are planning on traveling, drop by your agent’s office and see if they have any atlases or maps. (State Farm Agents Frequently have very nice, large atlases in their offices for policyholders, you just have to call ahead and ask.)
Did you know that February is Earthquake Awareness Month? Your agent may offer freebies related to this event, such as new water heater straps. Other times during the year, agents may offer new dryer vent kits (faulty dryer vents are huge fire liability) or other freebies related to safety “holidays”, such as child safety kits that include a fingerprinting kit for Child Safety Month.
Most agents offer the “usual” freebies: Wall and pocket calendars, pens, memo pads, and magnets. Don’t be afraid to ask.
Remember to talk to your insurance representative before making any changes. They are professionals, trained in risk assessment; they aren’t just out to “get your money”. They have seen what happens when clients don’t have enough coverage and a claim occurs. You really aren’t saving any money if you are underinsured, a claim occurs, and you are stuck paying hundreds of thousands of dollars out of pocket.
Links to Insurance carriers:
Netquotes.com
Wawanesa.com
Geico.com
Statefarm.com
Allstate.com
Farmers.com
USAA.com
21st.com (21st Century Insurance)
(The carriers above may not be admitted to conduct business in every state, please check their websites to see if coverage is available in your state.)
And finally, here is a very good article about tips for shopping for auto insurance. Some of the coverages that it discusses may not be available in every state.
Shopping for insurance.
Before you jump head first into insurance shopping, contact your current carrier and ask them for a comprehensive policy review. Ask them to review your policies with you, make sure you are receiving all the discounts that you are eligible for.
Did you know that Farmer’s Insurance offers discounts for teachers and other various professions? Ask if your carrier offers any professional/vocational discounts.
Ask questions about coverage if you have questions. Don’t be afraid to remove or add coverage if you feel that it is warranted. Raising deductibles for Comprehensive and Collision coverages will save you money on your premium. Raising your homeowners/renters/condo unit owners’ policy deductible will also lower your premium. In some cases, raising your deductibles from $250 to $1000 can lower your premium as much as 20% per year!
Once you have spoken with your current carrier and had a review, if you still feel like you could save money with another carrier, have a print out of your policy in front of you and start the rate shopping.
In order to see the savings, you should request an apples to apples quote. Obtain quotes that are identical to what you currently have, or if you have received a quote for policy changes (such as increased deductibles).
You will need to gather the following:
- A copy of your current auto insurance policy, or a copy of the quote with the changes to coverage you want to make from your current carrier.
- The year, make and model of all of the vehicles.
- The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Found on most insurance paperwork, like your insurance ID cards. Also on the car in the drivers side door jamb or in the front drivers side dash.
- Your homeowners, renters or Condo unitowners insurance policy.
- You will need to know basic info about your dwelling (Year built, square feet).
- Any other insurance policies you want quoted and basic information about the item(s)/dwellings that will be covered. (Examples: Boat, RV, mototcycle, rental homes, jewelry, collectibles, business insurance, life insurance, health insurance, long term care insurance, etc.)
There are companies, such as netquotes.com, that allow you to shop several auto insurance companies at once.
If you or a family member have honorably served in the military (any branch), you might want to check out USAA.com for quotes. We have our auto and renters insurance with USAA and we save $300/year over what I was paying with State Farm!
Other companies such as Wawanesa, Geico, 21st Century offer low rates because they have low overhead- no local agents or walk in offices on every corner.
If you have AAA or towing coverage through your cell phone carrier, consider dropping the towing coverage that your auto insurance carrier offers. There is no reason to pay for the same coverage twice!
If you decide to stay with your current carrier, and you have a local agent, be aware that they sometimes can offer other services and perks beyond sending you your insurance ID cards one or two times per year. If you are planning on traveling, drop by your agent’s office and see if they have any atlases or maps. (State Farm Agents Frequently have very nice, large atlases in their offices for policyholders, you just have to call ahead and ask.)
Did you know that February is Earthquake Awareness Month? Your agent may offer freebies related to this event, such as new water heater straps. Other times during the year, agents may offer new dryer vent kits (faulty dryer vents are huge fire liability) or other freebies related to safety “holidays”, such as child safety kits that include a fingerprinting kit for Child Safety Month.
Most agents offer the “usual” freebies: Wall and pocket calendars, pens, memo pads, and magnets. Don’t be afraid to ask.
Remember to talk to your insurance representative before making any changes. They are professionals, trained in risk assessment; they aren’t just out to “get your money”. They have seen what happens when clients don’t have enough coverage and a claim occurs. You really aren’t saving any money if you are underinsured, a claim occurs, and you are stuck paying hundreds of thousands of dollars out of pocket.
Links to Insurance carriers:
Netquotes.com
Wawanesa.com
Geico.com
Statefarm.com
Allstate.com
Farmers.com
USAA.com
21st.com (21st Century Insurance)
(The carriers above may not be admitted to conduct business in every state, please check their websites to see if coverage is available in your state.)
And finally, here is a very good article about tips for shopping for auto insurance. Some of the coverages that it discusses may not be available in every state.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
It's a new month!!
That means new printable and/or e-coupons at:
coupons.com
cellfire.com
shortcuts.com
allyou.com
And if you have a Vons/Safeway card or a Ralphs/Kroger card, there are also new coupons you can load onto your savings card directly from their website.
If you haven't already joined the Proctor & Gamble Everyday Savers Community, there are opportunities to have P&G free samples sent to your home and load e-coupons onto your clubcard(s).
coupons.com
cellfire.com
shortcuts.com
allyou.com
And if you have a Vons/Safeway card or a Ralphs/Kroger card, there are also new coupons you can load onto your savings card directly from their website.
If you haven't already joined the Proctor & Gamble Everyday Savers Community, there are opportunities to have P&G free samples sent to your home and load e-coupons onto your clubcard(s).
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