Organizing Coupons

Let’s Get Organized

There are four basic ways to organize your coupons.  Choose the one that best fits your organization habits, as well as your time management.  I am listing them in my favorite order.

1.       Keep your Inserts Whole (No Sunday Clipping)

This method saves a lot as time as far as clipping coupons.  Let’s face it; by the time some coupons expire there are several we haven’t used.  That’s ok.  Don’t use a coupon just because you have it.  Use it because it’s a great deal.   Because of this you might not want to spend your time clipping every coupon in the paper.

Get a file box with separate files.  Inside each file put manila folders in it for the inserts.  So, if there are four weeks in the month, put four manila folders inside the file.  You will have twelve files, each with folders inside to hold the inserts of each week in the month.  So, I label each file Jan-Dec.  Then so I can reuse the manila folders each year I label the folders 1-4(or 5).  The first set of Sunday paper inserts go into the folder that says one, and so on from there.  When you file away your inserts mark the date big on the front of the insert so you don’t have to waste time finding the tiny print on the spine.

You are probably wondering how you will ever find your coupons if you use this method.  Simple.  You can use the coupon database as you make your grocery list to type in the items and cut them as you go.  This way you only cut what you are shopping for that day.  Also, if you follow a store’s weekly match up prices, the coupon long with where it is located will show up underneath the item.    This method saves a lot of time for those of you looking for a quick way.  The only downside to this method is when you are shopping and there is a product on surprise clearance, you won’t have your coupons with you.  But if you don’t mind missing a few deals and saving more time, this method is for you.

2.       Portable File Box

This method is almost exactly like the first except you use a portable file case.  It looks like a smaller version of a briefcase, so you can actually take all your coupons with you!  When using this method, you still keep the inserts whole and only clip as you go.  However, just to make sure you never miss a great deal in the store you can carry your case with you at all times.  This usually works best is you have a smart phone or some type of tablet so you can search exactly where the coupon is located using the coupon database.  Remember, we use the coupon database because it lets us know where a coupon can be found in the insert and how much it is for.

3.       Check File

For this organization method you will need a small-medium accordion file with separated pockets.  Leave the first pocket empty because as you shop you will find the coupons you need and place them here.  Label the rest of the tabs with YOUR most popular items.  Ex. Baby, Toiletries, Frozen, etc.  Even though it might not take that much time to organize your coupons using this method, it will take longer making your grocery list or just using it in the store.  Also, if you have a bigger family and buy more than one paper, your folder will eventually become too small.

4.       Three Ring Binder

This is the most popular filing method among couponers.  With saying that, it is also the most time consuming.  For those of you looking to save time and money, this is not for you.  Go with #1.  If you have time to put into cutting, organizing, cleaning out when expired, then this is a good option.  A plus is that you will always have the coupons with you in the store so if there is ever an unadvertised deal, you will be prepared.

You will need a three ring binder (one that zips) with dividers and baseball card holders.  Label the dividers to your liking.  Place your coupons (with multiples together) in the card holders so you can see each coupon.  That’s it!  You have all your coupons in one place and you are ready to shop.  I still recommend planning your list and coupons before you get to the store, just to save on store time.  But having your binder with you can help on last minute decision purchases.