Store Coupons

Store coupons can provide added savings when you shop.  Next, I am going to share how you can boost your grocery coupon savings by using store coupons, what they are, how to get them and how to use them.

A store coupon differs from a manufacturer coupon in that it can only be used at the store issuing the coupon.  Store coupons will have a bar code that is different from that of a manufacturer coupon and it can only be scanned at the registers at that particular store.

There are several types of store coupons.  Some coupons may offer a percentage discount on your purchase or item (for example 10% off your order or 50% off a particular product).  Others may offer “cents off” an item: for example $0.75 off one box of cereal.  There are also coupons that offer free items when you buy another.

You can get store coupons from several sources.

  • The first source is your store’s weekly sales circular.  Usually you will need to clip this coupon and hand it at the register to get the discount.
  • You can also find them offered on the store’s website.  You will have to print these coupons at home, bring them with you when you go shopping, and present them at during your checkout.
  • The store itself is also a great source for coupons.  Keep your eyes open for different booklets, tear pads with coupons, as well as coupons that are attached to the product itself.  Some of these coupons may be manufacturer coupons and some may be store ones.
  • Your store may also mail coupons directly to your home.  This is usually the case when a store is trying to get you to come in and visit their store.  Don’t throw out any mailings you get thinking they are ‘junk mail’ as they may very well include valuable coupon savings.

There are many stores that offer exclusive in-store coupons.  Some of the nationwide ones include: Target, CVS, Walgreen’s, Rite Aid, and Meijer.  Also grocery stores like Safeway, Hannaford, and Food Lion.  The best way to find out if your local grocery stores offer’s store coupons is by visiting the store’s website and looking for their coupon center.  Also, keep your eyes open to any coupons that may show up in the weekly sales circulars.  As you shop, be curious and look for booklets and tear pads that include coupons.

The best thing about store coupons is, that in general, you can use them in combination (or stack them) with manufacturer coupons.  That provides twice the savings over a manufacturer coupon, alone.  Become familiar with your store’s coupon policy to find out if such stacking is allowed at your store.  Most of the national chains I mentioned above allow for coupon stacking, and that makes them great stores to lots of groceries for very little.