For the first time in 17 years, the number of coupons redeemed in the United States has seen an uptick. This is big news considering that couponing last reached a peak in 1992 and had declined every year since. But now, out of economic necessity, we're again returning to couponing.
A recent analysis Clark saw by a financial writer revealed that coupon users get a return on their time that's roughly equal to about $100/hour
tax free. Who out there wouldn't like a $100/hour tax-free job? Of course, couponing is not 40 hours a week. But the message here is that avid couponers can save substantial money.
If you like the sound of that return on investment, the simplest tip Clark can give you is buy three copies of your Sunday newspaper every week. There are big savings to be had in all those glossy coupon inserts.
In Clark's TV work, he interviewed
Coupon Mom and she shared a tip that he'd never thought about. Very often, a manufacturer's coupon will show a picture of an expensive item, but the coupon will also apply to cheaper items of the same brand. That coupon could wind up getting you something for free!
So get organized -- you'll need to be patient and have a tolerance for tedium -- and just keep remembering $100/hour back to you and the IRS doesn't get any of it!!
