Welcome to Ask the Couponing Pros, our recurring column featuring Heather and Joanie from The Krazy Coupon Lady. Have a question for the ladies? Post them with the hashtag #aycouponquestions and they might get featured here!
QUESTION: Finding savings might be a breeze, but keeping them in order isn’t always so easy. What’s your go-to strategy for organizing coupons to prevent a stack of un-usable deals?
ANSWER: “I’m sorry, you’re not able to use that coupon. It’s expired.” Has a cashier ever said this to you? One moment you’re excited because you’re about to score a really great deal. Within a second, the chance to save big has just been stripped from you because the coupon you wanted to use is expired. We’ve been there.
We’d like to share a few ways to organize your coupons so that you can focus on expiration dates and use them before they expire. We can tell you firsthand that it doesn’t take long to acquire a lot of coupons. If you’re not organized, these valuable savings can easily become a chaotic mess and unfortunately, there isn’t a store anywhere that will accept an expired coupon.
Plus: The Ultimate Couponing Guide »
Here are three of our favorite methods to organize coupons in a way that keeps them current and avoids letting them expire.
SIMPLE STRATEGIES TO AVOID HAVING EXPIRED COUPONS
1. The Classic Coupon
Whether you’re wondering how to organize Sunday paper inserts or printable coupons, our first recommendation is using the standard coupon binder. Use a 2-3″ binder full of clear, see-through sleeves for coupon storage. Inserting clipped coupons into these clear holders makes it very easy to check expiration dates. We insert the most current coupons towards the front of each section and as we add new coupons, we scan those in the back of the compartment for dates. If we see any that are about to expire, we take a dry-erase marker and circle that coupon so we know we need to use it soon or pull it out. Binders are a proven way to stay organized and can help you avoid having a stack of expired coupons.
2. The Trusted File Box Method
Another quick and popular way to organize coupons is by using a file box. An accordion-style folder or box offers slots that can easily be labeled. We enjoy how fast and convenient it is to place printed coupons or even an entire newspaper insert into one of these slots. Placing entire inserts is a great way to save time because you don’t have to cut each individual coupon out. We always arrange the most current inserts in the front so we know to check for expiring coupons in the back. For example, when we received the insert from SS 7/27, we marked the front page with “7/27.” Then we put the insert into the slot marked “Smart Source.” Once we notice an older insert, like one dated 5/23, we take it out and review the dates. If any or all of its coupons have expired, we simply remove it from the file box.
Plus: 19 Genius Ideas to Keep Your Coupon Collection Organized »
3. The High-Tech Screenshot
Have you used mobile coupons like those found on Target’s Cartwheel app? These types of online savings are found on company websites and have an image of a barcode. We love them! All we do is find the online coupon we’re looking for and take a screenshot of it on our phones. When we’re at checkout, all we have to do is find the image of the coupon and show it to the cashier. He or she scans the barcode and savings are applied. It saves time for everyone because you don’t have to fight a spotty Wi-Fi signal. Then, just delete the screenshot when you’re done. There’s no need to even think about when the coupon expires. It’s paperless at its best.
Whatever method you decide to use, remember it has to work for you. You may even combine organizational tactics. Once you have a system in place, it should be easy to track coupons and avoid expired ones.
Share with us your organization style—we welcome your feedback!
— Heather and Joanie, The Krazy Coupon Lady
You Might Also Like:
Label Your Coupons for Better Shopping Trips »
Strategically Store Nearly-Expired Coupons in Sight »
Essential Additions for Your Coupon Binder »
Photo credit: Miodrag Gajic/Getty Images
