Frugal Living Tip #45 - On-line Coupon Codes

On-line Coupon Codes

I mentioned in my post about prepaid phone cards that by purchasing them from an on-line site that I get them for less than the actual value. I also discussed the pros and cons to on-line shopping in the previous post.

If you have ever made a purchase on-line you have probably seen a box when you are entering info at check-out asking for a promo or discount code. It only takes a few minutes to look for the code and if you find one it can mean free shipping, an upgrade to a faster shipping option, or a discount on your total purchase. You can go to a few sites that provide a database for these codes such as retailmenot.com or couponcabin.com. The other place to look is an Internet search engine. (This is a great way to try to get more Swagbucks!). You can just enter into the search engine "promo code", "coupon code", or "check out code" and the name of the retailer you are shopping with.

Do you try to look for an on-line code when you are shopping on-line? Do you have other sites that you like to search for check out codes to save on on-line purchases?

Frugal Living Tip #27 - Social Media

Social Media

I am going to assume that if you are computer savvy enough to have stumbled on this blog post, then you have heard of social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Even if you don't have accounts with them, you have heard of them.

I first discovered Facebook about 6 years ago. I hate to admit it, but I am in my late 30's now. It was pretty happening for me to be on Facebook and not be a college student or a recent grad at the time. I am not going to go off on a tangent and talk about all of the changes that have happened since then, but companies have really taken to Facebook to promote their products. It is not uncommon for there to be some sort of giveaway, or coupon available if you go and "like" their page.

I recently won a $10 Target gift card from "liking", commenting, and sharing a post from ILikeToSave.com's Facebook page. I have also claimed a lot of free samples or coupons for a free product by "liking" a company on Facebook. I got coupons over the summer for free small McCafe beverages by becoming a follower of Richmond McDonald's on Twitter.

I find some of my best deals by "liking" local businesses on Facebook. I can find discounts if I say a certain phrase at check-out, make my purchase at a certain time, or even wear a certain color.

It can get a little bit more complicated when a company asks for permission to view certain information from your Facebook account. I would encourage you to take the moment to make sure you aren't giving away more info than you would feel comfortable sharing with a company on their site. Do you really want them to have access to all 765 of your closest "friends"?

Do you use Facebook or Twitter on a regular basis? Do you have local businesses or companies that you like on Facebook? Do you sign-up for free samples or coupons using Facebook?

 

Frugal Living Tip #26 - Contacting Manufacturers

Contacting Manufacturers

Is there a product that you love, but you can't find coupons for it? What do you do? Do you only buy it on special occasions? Do you ration it out and make sure you use e.v.e.r.y single drop? Do you put it on your wish list for Christmas and birthdays? Have you ever thought to contact the manufacturer?

Contacting the manufacturer is really easy thanks to the Internet. You can easily find manufacturers' websites from either their packaging or from doing a quick google search. There is usually a contact us button that allows you to share compliments or complaints about their product. Leaving either will generally result in a response from the company and sometimes coupons or samples of their product.

It is possible that you will get a "thank you for your interest in our product" form letter. But, don't be discouraged. By filling out the general information portion on the contact us form you may go into their database. This may lead to you getting special insider offers, or special coupons, or even something for your birthday. LUNA has sent me this same birthday present for the last 2 years!

My Birthday Present from Luna

Have you ever contacted a manufacturer? What types of responses have you received?

Frugal Living Tip #25 - Finding Your Own Coupons

Finding Your Own Coupons

I have mentioned in a previous post about finding deals through blogs, deal sites, and in another post about subscribing to The Grocery Game. But, what if you need to buy a certain item and you want to see if there is a coupon available? Do you have to look through all of your inserts and hope that you will stumble across a coupon for what you are looking for?

The answer is no, you can search a coupon database. There are lots of sites that have coupon databases available. You will find them on lots of blogs and on deal sites. I personally use the one on Hot Coupon World's site. It is one of the first ones I used and the one I have become most familiar with.

The way the databases work are really easy. You just enter a search term - the more generic sometimes the better - and it will tell you if a coupon is available, where to find it in an insert, magazine, or the link to a printable site, the value of the coupon, and the expiration date.

You can also use the database to find your own match-ups. For example, I do the majority of my weekly shopping at Libbie Market. Because they are a small independent grocery store, there isn't a blogger or deal site covering their deals. I just look at their store flyer on-line and look for any coupons that coincide with what is on sale.

Do you look for coupons in a coupon database? Which sites do you use?

 

Frugal Living Tip #24 - Shopping the Kroger Mega Sale

Shopping the Kroger Mega Sale

My Shopping List

I mentioned in my last post that I subscribe to The Grocery Game and get a weekly list for Kroger. The biggest reason why I do that is because of the Mega Sales that Kroger offers throughout the year. It is during the Mega Sales that I can stock-up on a lot of my kitchen staples at a fraction of the shelf price.

There are several factors that play in to being successful with saving money during the Kroger Mega Sales. My biggest tip is organization. If you go in there with just an ad and no game plan it is going to be a frustrating and expensive trip. (This can also be true for any grocery shopping trip!)

Here are some ways that I get organized and stay organized before and during my shopping trip:

1. I select and print my list of deals from the TGG website.
2. I also check out a great Kroger blog, Iheartkroger.com, she does a great job of filling you in on another deals like Catalina's that are also going on.
3. I pull out my coupon inserts, print any coupons necessary, and cut everything out.
4. I figure out how many items I can buy with the coupons I have available.
5. I make my list (see the picture) - it is usually hand written and broken down into groups of 10 (or however many items I need to buy to get the discount).
6. I paper clip my coupons to the list and put them all in an envelope, and hit the store.
7. When I get to the store I know how many groups of 10 I am planning to buy, so I bring in that many reusable shopping bags.
8. When I am in the store I fill each bag individually with 10 items. When that bag has 10, I start a new bag. This keeps me from having to constantly count the items in my cart and separates any deals that may not be part of the sale.
9. I always have a few low cost items that we use written on the list to serve as fillers to get me to 10 items in case something is out of stock or they don't have the full quantity that I want.
10. I double count each bag, my list, and my coupons before I head to the check-out.

I don't normally pull out my coupons while I am shopping. I normally only refer to my list, and then double check everything before I check-out. I do carry an ad with me so that I can verify items if they aren't clearly marked.

I honestly will spend about 2&1/2 hours between printing off the deals, gathering and clipping coupons, making my list, and shopping. If this is your first time trying this method it may take you longer.

How do you organize yourself for special sales like these? Please feel free to share any tips or tricks that you have when shopping.

 

Frugal Living Tip #23 - The Grocery Game

The Grocery Game

I am going to start off with my disclaimer- I am in no way being paid or receiving any compensation for this post.

With that said there may be many of you who are familiar The Grocery Game (TGG). I am copying a description of what they provide from their site.

The Grocery Game, launched in 2000, is the oldest and largest grocery savings website in the U.S. We provide members with weekly online, all-in-one lists (called Teri's Lists) of tens of thousands of grocery deals at over 150 local grocery and drug stores, coast to coast.

Teri's Lists track more important information than ANY site out there, matching sales with manufacturers' coupons, online printable coupons, coupons found in newspaper inserts and manufacturer coupons that can be sent to store loyalty cards. We are also the only site to track almost impossible to find unadvertised sales as well as sales trends.

The great thing about TGG is that they already have the deals figured out for you. You can choose how you want to view your list, items can be broken down the percentage of saving, or by the color codes based on items that are free, stock-up prices, or just buy what you need prices. I also like that you can remove items you don't shop for like baby or pet items. It really is a matter of just browsing the list, checking off what I want, and then the list tells me where to find the coupons. It gives me links to printable ones and to ones that I need to add to my store card. I already file my weekly inserts so I just have to grab the file, find the insert, and clip what I need.

When there is a promotion that you need to buy certain items, such as Buy 10 save $5, it tells me that it is part of that sale so that I get the right number. It also keeps me aware of the requirements for the coupon. If the coupon is a save $1 off 2, TGG tells me to buy 2 items.

The one downfall is that the site is not great at posting or sharing other promotions that manufacturers may have, such as Catalina deals when you buy certain products.

There is a fee for subscribing to TGG - it is $10 for the first store and $5 for each additional every 8 weeks. Personally, I tried every store in my area during the free trial period, then decided to only keep Kroger. I figure that it has easily allowed me to save more than an additional $10 every 8 weeks.

I have found that TGG can really help people that are first learning how to coupon because it makes it easy to see what is a good deal and where to find the coupons. If you haven't tried it out before, look into subscribing for a 4 week free trial. (Just make sure to make a note of when it ends so you don't get charged if you don't want to keep it, or all of the stores you signed up for.). If you would like to help me get some "free weeks" leave a comment with you e-mail address and I will give you mine for a referral credit. Don't worry all comments left here go to me to approve before posting, so it won't be made public. :)

Have any of you tried or currently use TGG? How do yo feel it compares to other free sites such as blogs and deal sites?

Frugal Living Tip #22 - Discovering the Deals

Discovering The Deals

So, you may have bought a few Sunday papers by now and glanced at the weekly ads, but you haven't figured out how to get the big savings. Here is the good news - there are lots of people who already do that and you can find the information on-line for free!

There are lots of free resources to find sales. It really just involves you performing a Google search. If you find a site that you like, bookmark it or become a "follower" or "subscriber". Some words that I would suggest for your search are "coupon", "match-up", "sale", the name of the specific store you are planning to shop at, and the time frame of the store's ad. Most ads either run Sunday-Saturday or Wednesday-Tuesday.

I have a few blogs that I like to check out. When I was still shopping at Martin's I would look at For The Mommas, she is in Pennsylvania so she shops at Martin's sister store, Giant. Another great site that you can check out is Money Saving Mom - she has a section that she gets contributors from all over the country to submit their local store deals. Tiffany is a blogger in Richmond who posts match-ups for Martin's and Kroger at Young and Frugal in Virginia!. If you just want a heads up on the best grocery deals in Richmond check out the weekly post that Alison, of Richmond Bargains, post every Wednesday to RVA deals on the RVA news site.

There is also the option of joining (for free) couponing sites such as Hot Coupon World, We Use Coupons, or A Full Cup. They have forums that are broken down by store and people will discuss deals that they found, help you figure out a game plan, and post previews of the weekly store ads.

The great thing about any of these resources is they tell you what is on sale and what coupons to use in order to get the best price. When I first started couponing more seriously a few years ago I appreciated learning from the forums and bloggers what was a good price on an item and the sales cycles.

There is a little bit of lingo that you may want to learn so you can understand what they are talking about. I am leaving you with this link to a page from Hot Coupon World - Abbreviations, Acronyms, and Coupon Terms.

Do you have a favorite blog or deal site that you like to check out? Please feel free to share a link!

 

Frugal Living Tip #18 - Understanding Store Policies

Understanding Store Policies

Not knowing the store policies can cost you extra money. It can be things like a limit in how many days following the purchase you have to return an item, their coupon policy, or what items are included in a sale.

One thing I learned as a child shopping with my mom is always ask if an item can be returned. But, even if it can be returned it is important to know if there are any exceptions in when or where an item can be returned. There can be different time frames on different items. Some stores are starting to print on their receipts how long the receipt is valid for returns and that is making it easier for them and us. Purchases that include electronics or video games usually have a short window of opportunity and generally have to be in the original unopened package. I recently saw a sign in a store that clearance items with a certain percentage off or higher had to be returned within 3 days. It is also important to make sure that if you are buying an item from a store with multiple locations that you can return it to a different location.

Not knowing that there is a limit to how many coupons a store accepts, will allow to double, or will combine with other offers can also cause your savings to diminish. It is also a huge time and frustration saver to know whether or not they will accept printable coupons and if their is a limit on the amount of the coupon. I have not found a store in the Richmond area that will accept a coupon printed from my computer that has the word free in it. That means wording such as "buy 1 get 1 free" or just a free item up to a certain dollar amount.

The other thing I have had happen to me is that I have a coupon, or see advertised a sale and select a few things to purchase, only to get to the register and have a higher total than anticipated. It is usually then that I discover the item is not part of the sale or covered by the coupon. It could be because the item is already on sale and the coupon is for regularly priced merchandise only. It could be that the item is one of the gazillion exclusions that I thought I read, but somehow overlooked in the fine print at the bottom of the coupon. It could also just be that it had been put in the wrong place by someone.

My best advice is to actually go to the store website and look for their coupon policy, if possible print it and take it with you. I have discovered that cashiers do not always understand coupons. Having the policy with you can help you out. Remember that if you think you are using the coupons correctly and the cashier refuses to accept it you can always ask to talk with a manager or finish your transaction and then take the items in question over to a customer service desk.

Please feel free to share any tips or personal stories!

 

Frugal Living Tip #17 - Understanding Types of Coupons

Understanding Types of Coupons

You may have realized that next to the expiration date on most coupons is the phrase "manufacturer coupon". This of course means that the coupon was released by the company that makes that particular product.

The other thing you may notice on manufacturer coupons is the phrase "Do Not Double". This is really only a concern if you shop at a store that doubles manufacturer coupons.

You can load coupons to your store loyalty cards. I know that I have received e-mails from both Kroger and Martin's with special coupons for our household. Make sure you have registred your card with each store to get these offers. These coupons have been for both store brand and brand name items. The Kroger site allows you to add lots of manufacturer coupons to your card. These coupons will not double like some manufacturer ones will in my area. You also cannot use these with a manufacturer coupon unless you are buying more than the electronic coupon covers.

You may have also noticed that there are a few coupons that say "store coupon" and then have the store name and logo on the coupon. Target store coupons say "Target Coupon". In case you are wondering where you can find the store coupons. Target coupons are occasionally in the Sunday paper, but they always have them available on their site. Walgreens has their store coupons at the front of the store in the monthly coupon booklets. CVS has a machine that prints coupons at the front of the store when you scan your CVS card.

What you may not realize is that you can "stack" manufacturer coupons and store coupons. Target, Walgreens, and CVS are the stores that I have been able to do this. This can be a big savings!

Please feel free to add any information I may have missed or contact me with any questions.

 

Frugal Living Tip #15 - Buy Generic

Buy Generic -Store Brands

As a pharmacist I am always encouraging my patients to buy the generic equivalent of what they needed. This is true of over the counter medications and prescription drugs. There were always a few exceptions, and I won't go into those, but generally speaking store brand ibuprofen is a huge cost savings compared to brand name Advil.

This is true of lots of items in the grocery store. I haven't found coupons in years for a good deal on canned beans or tomato sauce for taco or chili nights. I have learned to wait until I see a good sale or an in-store deal. The store brands will follow the sales cycles that I mentioned a few post back.

Although I have been satisfied with the majority of my store brand purchases, the big one that I haven't been happy with is paper products, like toilet paper, paper towels, and tissues.

How about you, do you buy store brands? Are there some products that you will only buy the brand name?

Frugal Living Tip #10 - Understanding Sales Cycles

Sales Cycles

You may already be familiar with the concept of a sale cycle. It essentially means that there is a week or two out of each quarter for the store that an item is going to be at it's absolute lowest price. There are always exceptions to every rule, and in this case you may see highly competitive items like sodas and cereal hit this rock bottom price more than once a quarter.

If you use coupons this is a way to get great savings and sometimes free items. If you don't use coupons that is ok. This concept can be applied to non-grocery items and also relates to frugal living tip #7. Sales cycles are not only based on quarterly sales in the store, they are also based on seasonal demands. Think about it, fresh produce is always at it's lowest price during the months that it is harvested.

I wrote this post back in November 2010 that breaks down what months things tend to go on sale. I hope it helps you.

Feel free to ask any questions.

Frugal Living Tip #2 - Get A Sunday Paper

Get a Sunday Paper

If you want to save money with coupons you need to consider buying a Sunday paper.  I understand that you may not want to eat highly processed meals or sugary snacks and that is what a lot of people associate with Sunday paper coupons  The Sunday paper is full of coupons for healthy staples items like dairy products, whole grain bread, frozen vegetables, rice, and pasta.  There are also coupons for items like deodorant, shampoo, body wash, feminine products, diapers, wipes, an pet food.  The majority of manufacturer coupons come in the Sunday paper.  Yes, you can get coupons from printable sources such as coupons.com, but to get a large collection of coupons the Sunday paper is a great source.  It also allows you to get as many coupons as you want without having to change computers to get multiple coupons.  I realize that purchasing multiple Sunday papers may not be in your budget.  Here are some ideas to help you get a paper for less and possibly obtain multiple copies.

• Get a Sunday only subscription (that way the coupons come to you)
• Ask a neighbor or family member for their coupon inserts
• Check the recycling bins in the library
• Check the bins at the local recycling drop off (I honestly haven't done this, but I know people do)
• See if you can coupon swap with others (perhaps baby coupons for pet food coupons)
• Look for stores selling the paper for less than the newsstand price.  In Richmond Walgreens periodically sells the Sunday paper for $1.25 each (it is usually $2!)
• Redeem rewards you earn at stores towards your paper purchases - such as Walgreens Register Rewards or CVS ExtraBucks
• If you routinely buy your groceries at a store that offers a discount on fuel (such as Kroger or MARTIN'S) the extra money you spend on newspapers can help you hit the next fuel discount.

These are just some of my ideas. I would love to hear any tips that any of you have on how to get the Sunday paper for a reduced cost.

Frugal Living Tip #1 - Get Organized

Get Organized

It is difficult to save money or time if you are not organized.  We all have our extremes in how organized or unorganized our lives are.  If you are like me you may make wonderful strides in organizing some areas of your life, but fail miserably in other areas.  I have realized over the years that not knowing that I already have something ends up costing me more money (and time and frustration!) when I can't find it or remember that I already bought it.  

If you are determined to make couponing work for you this year getting organized and finding the coupon organization system that works for you is the key to being successful.  If you can't find your coupons then you can't use them and if you have to sort through piles of unorganized inserts you will be less likely to clip the coupon you just read about on a deal blog.  If you would like more info on organizing your coupons here is a link to a post I wrote about a year and a half ago about different methods and how I organize my coupons.

~ Ann

MARTIN’S Top Deals for the Week of July 29th

Click here to view an on-line version of this week’s ad. Click here for information about MARTIN’S coupon policy. The ad and the coupon policy are for the Richmond, VA area. There is the possibility of some variances in other areas.

Here are what I consider to be the top deals this week at MARTIN’S. I verify the coupons that I mention with what I receive in my local paper, the Richmond Times-Dispatch (RTD). Coupons are regional so you may not have the exact same coupon or the same face value. Remember what I consider to be a good deal and what you consider to be a good deal may differ. Please feel free to leave me a comment below or send me a tweet @AnnsCouponWorld with any deals that you find.

Meat:

• GIANT Brand Fresh 73% Lean Ground Beef (3-lb  roll) – $5.07
• GIANT Brand Fresh Whole Frying Chicken Drumsticks or Thighs – $0.99/lb
• Ball Park Beef Franks – Buy One at $4.99 and Get One Free
• Buy 2 and use $1/2 from the 7/22 Moments to Save insert
• $1.99 each after sale and coupon
• Steak-umm Sandwich Steaks – Buy One Get One Free
• Mama Lucia Italian Meatballs – Buy One Get One Free
• Hebrew National Beef Franks – Buy 2 (at 2/$7) and get a free 2L of Dr.Pepper
• Smithfield Bacon – $3.50
• Use $1/1 from the 6/10 SmartSource insert (expires Tuesday 7/31)
• $2.50 after sale and coupon

Produce:

****The Salad Deal is back for the summer! - Buy 2 Kraft Dressings (14-16oz) and any 2 Dole Salad Blends (5-12oz) {excludes classic iceberg, shreds, or classic coleslaws} in a single transaction with your BONUSCARD from 5/20-9/8/12 and get $2 off instantly****

• Dole Special Blend Salad or Complete Kit – Buy One Get One Free ($3.69 at my store)
• You can combine this with the salad deal Kraft dressings are 2/$5 this week
• $6.69 for two bags of salad and two bottles of salad dressing
• Fresh Green Peppers – $0.99/lb
• Large Hot House Cucumbers – Buy One Get One Free
• Carrots (2lb bag) – Buy One Get One Free
• Dole Classic Salad or Red Shredded Cabbage – Buy One Get One Free
• Ripe Watermelon or Cantaloupe Chunks – Buy One Get One Free

Dairy/Refrigerated:

• Heluva Good! Sour Cream (16oz) – $1.67
• Use $0.50/1 printable
• $0.67 after sale and coupon
• Check out the GIANT Brand Cheese as part of the buy 5 and save $0.20/gallon summer promotion

Grocery:

• Pepsi 12 pack or 6 Pack – 4/$11 (Must Buy 4)
• Acadia Spring Water (35 pack) – $3.99
• Thomas’ English Muffins – 50% off
• Folgers Ground Coffee – 3/$9 (Must Buy 3)
• Kool-Aid Pre-Sweetened Drink Mix or Country Time – Buy One Get One Free
• Blue Diamond Almonds – Buy One at $4.55 and Get One Free
• Use $0.75/2 from the 7/22 SmartSource insert
• $1.78 each after sale and coupon
• Ken’s Marinade (16oz)– Buy One Get One Free

Here are a few highlights from the buy 6 – remember that if you buy 6 items and get the 20 gallon fill-up that is $1.00 off each item!

• Kellogg’s Cereal (Frosted Flakes, Froot Loops, Apple Jacks, Krave, or Corn Pops) – $1.99
• Buy 3 and use $1/3 from the 6/24 or 7/22 RedPlum insert
• Kellogg’s Fiber Plus Bars – $2.50
• Use $0.75/1 from the 6/17 RedPlum insert
• Keebler Sandwich Crackers – $2.50
• Buy 2 and use $0.55/2 from the 7/29 RedPlum insert
• Keebler Fudge Shoppe Cookies – $2.50
• Buy 2 and use $0.55/2 from the 7/29 RedPlum insert
• Keebler Pop-Tarts (12 pack) – $2.50
• Buy 3 and use $1/3 from the 6/24 or 7/22 RedPlum insert

Frozen Foods:

• Select GIANT Brand Frozen Vegetables – $1

Household:

• Edge Shaving Gel – $1.99
• Use $0.55/1 from the 7/15 SmartSource insert
• $0.99 after sale and coupon
• Skintimate Shave Gel – $1.99
• Use $0.55/1 from the 7/22 SmartSource insert
• $0.99 after sale and coupon
• Check out the GIANT Brand Sandwich or Snack Bags (50ct) at $1 each and are part of the buy 5 earn $0.20/gallon promotion
• Buy 5 = $5
• Earn $4 in gas with a maximum 20 gallon fill-up
• $0.20 each after sale and fuel discount

I am now sharing my weekly match-up posts on Money Saving Mom and Common Sense With Money. Check out their sites for other grocery store deals, drug store deals, and discount stores.

Happy Shopping!

~Ann

 

MARTIN’ Top Deals for the Week of July 22nd

Click here to view an on-line version of this week’s ad. Click here for information about MARTIN’S coupon policy. The ad and the coupon policy are for the Richmond, VA area. There is the possibility of some variances in other areas.

Here are what I consider to be the top deals this week at MARTIN’S. I verify the coupons that I mention with what I receive in my local paper, the Richmond Times-Dispatch (RTD). Coupons are regional so you may not have the exact same coupon or the same face value. Remember what I consider to be a good deal and what you consider to be a good deal may differ. Please feel free to leave me a comment below or send me a tweet @AnnsCouponWorld with any deals that you find.

Meat:

• GIANT Brand USDA Choice Fresh Top Round London Broil – 50% Off
• GIANT Brand Fresh 90% Lean Ground Beef Sirloin (Value Pack)– $3.49/lb
• GIANT Brand Fresh Split Chicken Breast – Buy One Get One Free
• GIANT Brand Sliced Bacon (12-16oz) – Buy One Get One Free
• Nathan’s Beef Franks (14oz) – Buy One Get One Free
• Jones Golden Brown Sausage Links or Patties (Frozen 7oz) – Buy One at $2.79 Get One Free
  • Buy 2 and use $1/2 printable
  • $0.90 each after sale and coupon

Produce:

****The Salad Deal is back for the summer! - Buy 2 Kraft Dressings (14-16oz) and any 2 Dole Salad Blends (5-12oz) {excludes classic iceberg, shreds, or classic coleslaws} in a single transaction with your BONUSCARD from 5/20-9/8/12 and get $2 off instantly****

• Sweet Driscoll’s Strawberries (16oz) – $1.99
• Ripe Large Mangoes – $1
• Fresh Green Peppers – $0.99
• Dole Special Blend Salad or Complete Kit – $2.50

Here are a few highlights from the buy 4 – remember that if you buy 4 items and get the 20 gallon fill-up that is $1.50 off each item!

• Dole Premium Baby Blend Salads (5oz) – $3.50
• Fresh Gourmet Salad Toppings – $1.67
• Zeigler’s Lemonade or Tea (64oz) – $1.69
• Foodies (5oz) – $2.50
• Marie’s Salad Dressing – $2.99
  • $1.25/2 printable or $0.65/1 printable
• Mini Sweet Peppers (10oz) – $2.99
• Fresh Spinach (9oz) – $2.99
• Fresh Cocktail Cherry Tomatoes (10.5oz) – $2.50
• Matchstick Carrots – $1.79

Refrigerated/Dairy:

• Yoplait Yogurt (4-6oz) (excludes Greek yogurt) – $0.50
• Buy 6 and use $0.40/6 from the 7/8 SmartSource insert
• Buy 8 and use $0.50/8 from the 7/8 SmartSource insert
• Buy 6 and use $0.40/6 printable
• Buy 8 and use $0.60/8 printable
• As low as $0.37 each after sale and coupon
• Coffee-mate Flavored Creamer (16oz) – $1.67
  • Buy 2 and use $0.75/2 printable
  • Buy 1 and use $0.55/1 printable
  • As low as $0.67 each after sale and coupon

Grocery:

• Buy 4 Select General Mills Cereal (14.5oz or larger) in a single transaction with your BONUSCARDand get $4 off instantly plus a coupon for up to $4.50 off a gallon of milk to use on your next shopping visit. 
• Look for coupons in the following inserts and visit these printable sites:
• 7/15 SmartSource insert
• 7/8  SmartSource insert
• 6/24 SmartSource insert
• pillsbury.com
• coupons.com

• Buy any combination of 5 participating Kraft Foods products in a single transaction with your BONUSCARD and save $5 on fresh beef, pork, poultry, or seafood
  • Kraft Velveeta Cheesy Skillets – $2
  • Kraft Sizzling Salads Dinner Kit – $2
  • Kraft Singles Individually Wrapped Cheese Slices – $2.50
  • A.1. Steak Sauce (10oz) – $2.99
  • A.1. Marinade (16oz) – $1.99
  • Garland Jack’s BBQ Sauce (18oz) – $1.67
    • Use $1/2 from the 6/10 SmartSource insert
    • $1.17 each after sale and coupon

• Coca-Cola 2 Liter – 4/$4 (Must Buy 4)
• Deer Park Spring Water 24 Pack – 3/$11 (Must Buy 3)
• Arnold Italian Bread – 50% off
• GIANT Brand Canned Vegetables – $0.45 each
• GIANT Brand Hamburger & Hot Dog Rolls – $1
• Sara Lee Soft & Smooth 100% Wheat Bread – 50% off
• Schmidt Old Tyme Split Wheat Bread – 50% off
• Sara Lee Butter Bread (20oz) – 50% off

Here are a few highlights from the buy 7 – remember that if you buy 7 items and get the 20 gallon fill-up that is $0.86 off each item!

• Pepsi 20 Pack – $5.99
  • Buy 2 and use $2/2 from the 7/22 Moments to Save insert
• Lay’s Kettle Chips – $3
  • Buy 2 and use $1/2 from the 7/22 Moments to Save insert
• Lay’s Sunchips – $3
  • Buy 2 and use $1/2 from the 7/22 Moments to Save insert
• Quaker Chewy Granola Bars –$2
  • Buy 2 and use $0.75/2 from the 7/22 Moments to Save insert
• Pepsi Next 2 Liter – $0.99
  • Use $0.55/1 from the 7/22 Moments to Save insert (says Do Not Double)
    • $0.42 Moneymaker after coupon and fuel discount!!!

 

Frozen Foods:

• Buy any 5 Birds Eye Chef’s Favorites at 5/$10 with you BONUSCARD and get $2 off instantly
• Use $0.50/1 printable (print 2) or use $1/3 Birds Eye Steamfresh from the August 2012 issue of AllYou Magazine
• $1.10 each after sale and coupon
• Turkey Hill Ice Cream (48oz) – $2.50

Household:

• CareOne Vitamins – Buy One Get One Free
• Stayfree Maxi Pads – $2
• Use $2/1 from the 7/22 SmartSource insert
• Free after sale and coupon
• This is a great donation item for homeless shelters!
• Resolve Laundry Stain Remover – $2
• Use $0.50/1 printable (must register)
• $1 after sale and coupon

Here are a few highlights from the buy 3 – remember that if you buy 3 items and get the 20 gallon fill-up that is a $2 off each item!

• Crest Toothpaste –$2.50
• Use $0.75/1 from the 7/1 P&G brandSAVER
• $0.50 moneymaker after sale, coupon, and fuel discount
• CoverGirl Eye Cosmetics – $1 off
• Use $1/1 CoverGirl product from the 7/1 P&G brandSAVER
• Pantene Shampoo or Conditioner – $3.50
• Use $1/2 fromt the 7/1 P&G brandSAVER
• Buy 2 and use $3/2 from the 6/24 SmartSource insert
• Free after sale, coupon, and fuel discount

I am now sharing my weekly match-up posts on Money Saving Mom and Common Sense With Money. Check out their sites for other grocery store deals, drug store deals, and discount stores.

Happy Shopping!

~Ann

MARTIN’S Top Deals for the Week of July 15th

Click here to view an on-line version of this week’s ad. Click here for information about MARTIN’S coupon policy. The ad and the coupon policy are for the Richmond, VA area. There is the possibility of some variances in other areas.

Here are what I consider to be the top deals this week at MARTIN’S. I verify the coupons that I mention with what I receive in my local paper, the Richmond Times-Dispatch (RTD). Coupons are regional so you may not have the exact same coupon or the same face value. Remember what I consider to be a good deal and what you consider to be a good deal may differ. Please feel free to leave me a comment below or send me a tweet @AnnsCouponWorld with any deals that you find.

I looked over this week’s ad and really felt like the absolute best deals for this week are the fuelperks! deals – there are several items that are moneymakers or super inexpensive after you buy the items in that category and then get the maximum 20 gallons of gas. (Don’t forget to take a gas can with you to the gas station to make sure you get your entire 20 gallons.)

Here are a few highlights from the buy 5 – remember that if you buy 5 items and get the 20 gallon fill-up that is a $1.20 off each item!

• Hershey’s Cadbury Chocolate Bars – Buy 2 and Get One Free (I saw them priced 3/$4 according to the MARTIN’S site) = $0.89 each when you buy 3
• Hershey’s XL Bars - Buy 2 and Get One Free (I saw them priced 3/$4 according to the MARTIN’S site) = $0.89 each when you buy 3
• Buy 15 candy bars = $13.35
• Earn $18 in gas
• Final Price = $4.65 moneymaker (Save the candy bars for Halloween and you will be the cool house that gave away the big candy bars instead of the fun size)
• Hershey’s King Size or Theater Boxes – $1.25
• Buy 5 = $6.25
• Earn $6 in gas
• Final Price = $0.04 each after sale and fuel discount
• Ice Breaker or Breathsaver 3 Hour Mints – $1.67
• Buy 5 = $8.35
• Earn $6 in gas
• Final Price = $0.47 each after sale and fuel discount
• Jolly Rancher Candies – $1.50
• Use $1/2 from the 6/17 SmartSource insert
• $1 each after sale and coupon
• Buy 10 = $15
• Redeem 5 $1/2 coupons = (-$5)
• Earn $12 in gas
• Final Price = $2 money maker after sale, coupons, and fuel discount

Here are a few highlights from the buy 7 – remember that if you buy 5 items and get the 20 gallon fill-up that is a $0.86 off each item!

• Nabisco Go-Paks – $1
• Buy 7 =$7
• Earn $6 in gas
• Final Price = $0.14 each after sale and fuel discount
• Nabisco Barnum Animal Crackers (2.13oz) – $1.50
• Buy 7 = $10.50
• Earn $6 in gas
• Final Price = $0.64 each after sale and fuel discount

Here are a few highlights from the buy 4 – remember that if you buy 5 items and get the 20 gallon fill-up that is a $1.50 off each item!

• Beech-Nut Fruit Nibblers – $2
• Use  $1/1 printable 
• $1 each after sale and coupon
• Buy 4 = $8
• Redeem (4) $1/2 coupons (will need multiple computers)
• Earn $6 in gas
• Final Price = $2 moneymaker after sale, coupons, and fuel discount
• Snapple Tea (64oz) = $2
• Buy 4= $8
• Earn $6 in gas
• Final Price = $0.50 each after sale and fuel discount

Here are a few additional deals because we can’t live off of candy, cookies, Snapple, and baby snacks -

Meat:

• Perdue Fresh Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast – Buy One Get One Free
• Oscar Mayer Beef Franks or Premium Meat Wieners (14-16oz)– Buy One Get One Free
• Fresh Sockeye Salmon (Wild Caught) – $9.99/lb
• Steak-umm Sliced Steaks (21oz) – Buy One Get One Free
• Ball Park Meat or Bun Length Franks (16oz) – Buy One Get One Free

Don’t Forget Hand Rolled Sushi is 20% off on Wednesdays!

Produce:

****The Salad Deal is back for the summer! - Buy 2 Kraft Dressings (14-16oz) and any 2 Dole Salad Blends (5-12oz) {excludes classic iceberg, shreds, or classic coleslaws} in a single transaction with your BONUSCARD from 5/20-9/8/12 and get $2 off instantly.

• Northwest Cherries – $1.99/lb
• Ripe Grape Tomatoes – Buy One at $3.99 and Get One Free

Dairy:

• GIANT Brand Shredded Cheese or Chunk Cheese (6-8oz) – $1.99

Grocery:

• Pepsi, Coca-Cola, or Canada Dry 6 packs – 5/$11 (Must Buy 5)
• Acadia Drinking Water (24 pack) – $1.99 with in-ad coupon
• Coca-Cola 20 Pack – 2/$10 (Must Buy 2)
• Buy 2 and use $1/2 from the 7/15 SmartSource insert
• $9 after sale and coupon
• Utz Potato Chips (10oz) – Buy One Get One Free
• Martin’s Chips (10-11oz) – Buy One Get One Free

Buy $7 Worth of Participating Old El Paso Products and get a bag of GIANT Brand Shredded Cheese (up to a $3 value) Free

• Old El Paso Taco Shells – $1.50
• Old El Paso Salsa – $2
• Old El Paso Refried Beans – $1
• Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Mix – $0.75

Get $4.50 off a gallon of milk via a check-out coupon when you buy 4 participating items

• General Mills Cereal – $2.50
• Use $1/2 or $0.50/1 Chex from the 7/15 SmartSource insert
• Use $0.50/1 box of Cheerios from the 7/8 SmartSource insert
• As low as $1.50 after sale and coupon 
• Nature Valley Granola Bars – $2.50
• Buy 2 and use the  $0.50/2 from the 6/24 SmartSource insert or $0.50/2 printable
• $2 each after sale and coupon
• General Mills Fiber One Bars – $2.50
• Use $0.50/1 Fiber One Chewy Bars from the 7/15 SmartSource insert or
• Use $0.50/1 Fiber One 90 Calorie Bars from the 7/15 SmartSource insert
• $1.50 after sale and coupon
• General Mills Treat Bars – $2.50
• Use $0.50/1 from the 6/24 SmartSource insert
• $1.50 after sale and coupon
• Yoplait Go-Gurt Yogurt – $2.29
• Buy 2 and use $0.75/2 from the 6/10 SmartSource insert or the 7/8 SmartSource insert
• $1.79 each after sale and coupon
• Pillsbury Toaster Strudel – $2
• Chex Mix Select, Bugles, or Gardetto’s – $2.19
• Buy 2 and use $0.50/2 from the 6/3 SmartSource insert
• $1.69 after sale and coupon
• Pillsbury Dinner Rills – $2

Frozen Foods:

• Good Humor Ice Cream Novelties – 3/$6 (Must Buy 3)

Household:

• Buy 4 Brawny Paper Towels or Quilted Northern at $5.99 each or Dixie Family Packs at $3.99 each and get $5 off instantly (that is $1.25 off each!)
• Buy (4) Brawny Paper Towels = $23.96
• Use (4) $1/1 Brawny coupons from the 6/24 RedPlum insert = (-$4)
• Save $5 instantly
• Final Price = $14.96 = $3.74 each after sale and coupons
• Arm & Hammer Laundry Detergent – Buy One Get One Free
• Buy 2 and use $0.75/2 from the 7/15 SmartSource insert
• Schick Quattro, Slim Twin, Xtreme3 or Slim Twin Men’s or Women’s Disposable Razors – Buy One Get One Free
• Use $3/2 from the 7/15 SmartSource insert
• Use $1/1 from the 6/24 SmartSource insert or 7/15 SmartSource insert
• Nature’s Bounty Vitamins – Buy One Get One Free
• SoftSoap Liquid Hand Soap (7.5oz) – $1
• Buy 2 and use $0.50/2 printable
• $0.50 each after sale and coupon

I am now sharing my weekly match-up posts on Money Saving Mom and Common Sense With Money. Check out their sites for other grocery store deals, drug store deals, and discount stores.

Happy Shopping!

~Ann

MARTIN’S Top Deals for the Week of July 8th

Click here to view an on-line version of this week’s ad. Click here for information about MARTIN’S coupon policy. The ad and the coupon policy are for the Richmond, VA area. There is the possibility of some variances in other areas.

Here are what I consider to be the top deals this week at MARTIN’S. I verify the coupons that I mention with what I receive in my local paper, the Richmond Times-Dispatch (RTD). Coupons are regional so you may not have the exact same coupon or the same face value. Remember what I consider to be a good deal and what you consider to be a good deal may differ. Please feel free to leave me a comment below or send me a tweet @AnnsCouponWorld with any deals that you find.

Meat:

• GIANT Brand Fresh 80% Lean Ground Beef Value Packs – $1.99/lb
• GIANT Brand Fresh Chicken Drumsticks, Thighs, or Whole Chickens – $0.99/lb
• Nathan’s Beef Franks (14oz) – Buy One at $5.99 and Get One Free
  • $3 each after sale and coupon
• Johnsonville Sausages (12-14oz) – $3.33
  • Buy 1 Johnsonville Breakfast Sausage Links or Patties and use $0.55/1 from the 6/10 SmartSource insert
  • Buy 1 Johnsonville Pork or Chicken Sausage and use the $1/1 from the 6/17 SmartSource insert
  • $2.33 after sale and coupon

Produce:

****The Salad Deal is back for the summer! - Buy 2 Kraft Dressings (14-16oz) and any 2 Dole Salad Blends (5-12oz) {excludes classic iceberg, shreds, or classic coleslaws} in a single transaction with your BONUSCARD from 5/20-9/8/12 and get $2 off instantly.

• Driscoll’s Strawberries (16oz) – $1.99
  • Use $0.50/1 printable
  • $0.99 after sale and coupon
• Driscoll’s Raspberries (6oz) – $1.99
  • Use $0.50/1 printable
  • $0.99 after sale and coupon
• Dole Special Blend Salad or Complete Kit – Buy One at $3.69 and Get One Free
  • $1.85 each after sale and coupon
• Corn on the Cob – $0.40

Dairy/Refrigerated:

• Sargento Shredded Cheese – 4/$10 (Must Buy 4)
• International Delight Flavored Coffee Creamer (16oz) – $1.67
  • Use $0.55/1 from the 6/10 RedPlum insert (states do not double)
  • $1.12 after sale and coupon
• Dannon Activia (4 pack), Coolision, Danimals (6 pack) – $2
  • Buy 8 and save $0.30/gallon = $0.75 off each item with a 20 gallon maximum fill-up
  • $1.25 each after sale and fuel discount
• Dannon Light & Fit Yogurt (4 pack), Dan-o-nino, Crush Cups (6 ct) – $1.89
  • Buy 8 and save $0.30/gallon = $0.75 off each item with a 20 gallon maximum fill-up
  • $1.14 after sale and coupon

Grocery;

• Canada Dry Ginger Ale, A&W Root Beer, 7UP, or Sunkist 12-pack – 5/$11 (Must Buy 5)
• Pepsi 2 Liter – 4/$4 (Must Buy 4)
• Kraft Barbecue Sauce – $1
• Ken’s Dressing (24oz) – Buy One at $4.25 and Get One Free
  • $2.13 each after sale
• Acadia Spring Water 35 pack – $3.99
• Thomas’ English Muffins – 50% off
• Bumble Bee Chunk Light Tuna (5oz) – $0.89
  • Buy 2 and use $1/2 printable from RecycleBank
  • $0.39 each after sale and coupon
• Clif Bars – $0.88
• Kind Bars – $1.25
• McCormick Grill Mates Seasoning – Buy One at $2.69 and Get One Free
  • $1.35 each after sale
• GIANT Brand Canned Fruit (14.5-15.25oz) – $0.89
• Garland Jack BBQ Sauce (18oz) – $1.67
  • Buy 2 and use $1/2 from the 6/10 SmartSource insert
  • $1.17 each after sale and coupon
• Lance Crackers – $2.50
  • Use $0.55/1 printable
  • $1.50 after sale and coupon
• GIANT Brand Canned Tomatoes (14.5oz) – $0.69
  • Buy 8 and save $0.30/gallon = $0.75 off each item with a 20 gallon maximum fill-up
  • $0.06 moneymaker after sale and fuel discount
    • If you don’t use or like canned tomatoes this is a great food bank item because it can be used in so many dishes. 
• Snapple Tea (64oz) – $2
  • Buy 8 and save $0.30/gallon = $0.75 off each item with a 20 gallon maximum fill-up
  • $1.25 after sale and fuel discount
• Deer Park Sparkling Water (1L) – $0.88
  • Buy 4 and use $1/4 from the 6/3 RedPlum insert
  • $0.63 after sale and coupon
    • Buy 8 and save $0.30/gallon = $0.75 off each item with a 20 gallon maximum fill-up
    • $0.12 moneymaker after sale, coupon, and fuel discount
• Old El Paso Taco Shells – $2
  • Buy 8 and save $0.30/gallon = $0.75 off each item with a 20 gallon maximum fill-up
  • $1.25 after sale and coupon
• Mars King Size Bars – $1.25
  • Buy 5 and save $0.30/gallon = $1.20 off each item with a 20 gallon maximum fill-up
  • $0.05 after sale and coupon

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Get $5 off instantly when you buy any 5 participating Kashi items (remember that is $1 off each item)

If you have the Kashi coupon booklets that were floating around in April the coupons are still valid and will go great with this promotion.

• Kashi Cereal – $3
  • Use $1/1 printable from Recyclebank
• Kashi Granola Bars – $3
• Kashi Frozen Dinners – $2.99
• Kashi Frozen Pizza – $4.50
• Kashi Frozen Waffles – $2.50
• Kashi Soft Baked Cookies – $2.50
• Kashi TLC Crackers – $2.50

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Buy 2 Mott’s Apple Juice (64oz) at $2.50 each at my store and get a Kellogg’s Eggo Frozen Pancakes Free (a $2.25 value)!

• Buy 2 Mott’s for Tots Apple Juice = $5
• Redeem two $1/1 printables
• Earn Free Eggo Frozen Pancake = $0
• Final Price = $3 for two juices and a box of frozen waffles (a 59% savings!)

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Frozen Foods:

• Buy $12 worth of participating Edy’s Ice Cream and get $3 off instantly
• Buy $12 worth of participating Haagen –Dazs Ice Cream or Bars, Skinny Cow Novelties, or Edy’s Fruit Bars and get $3 off instantly
• GIANT Brand Frozen Waffles – $1.67
  • Buy 5 and save $0.30/gallon = $1.20 off each item with a 20 gallon maximum fill-up
  • $0.47 each after sale and fuel discount

Household:

• Pure Silk Shave Gel (8oz) – $1.50
  • Use $0.80/1 from the 7/8 RedPlum insert
  • $0.50 after sale and coupon
• GIANT Brand Party Cups (16oz, 20ct) – $1
• Hefty Easy Grip Cups (18oz, 30ct) – $2
  • Buy 2 and use $1/2 from the 5/13 SmartSource insert
  • $1.50 after sale and coupon
    • Buy 8 and save $0.30/gallon = $0.75 off each item with a 20 gallon maximum fill-up
    • $0.75 each after sale, coupon, and fuel discount

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Buy $10 worth of participating items below and get $3 off instantly

• Softsoap Bodywash or Bar Soap – $3.99
• Irish Spring Body Wash – $3.99
• Colgate Toothpaste or Toothbrush – $3.33
  • Use $1/1 toothpaste or $1/1 toothbrush from the 7/8 SmartSource insert (no more than 4 like coupons per transaction)
• Speed Stick or Lady Speed Stick – $2
  • Use $1/1 from the 7/8 SmartSource insert from the 7/8 SmartSource insert (no more than 4 like coupons per transaction)
• Irish Spring Bar Soap (8ct) – $4.49
• Softsoap Liquid or Foaming Hand Soap Pump – $2.50
  • Buy 2 and use $0.50/2 printable
• Softsoap Hand Soap Refill – $3.50

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I am now sharing my weekly match-up posts on Money Saving Mom and Common Sense With Money. Check out their sites for other grocery store deals, drug store deals, and discount stores.

Happy Shopping!

~Ann