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Organizing Coupons: The File Method

Ever get frustrated with all the time and effort it takes to clip and organize coupons, especially ones you never end up using?

Let me introduce you to the File Method of organizing.

Simply pull your inserts from the newspaper each week and mark the date on the front.  Then file into an accordion file by date.

You’ll spend your time prepping for shopping trips and not clipping coupons you’ll never use.

Tips:

  • A 26 file folder will hold your coupons long enough for them to all expire.
    • any less and you may discard a few valid coupons
    • any more and you’ll be holding a bunch of expired ones
  • Use labels on tabs to mark dates
  • Have multiple copies of the paper?
    • combine like inserts before filing

You’ll need to use an online service that matches coupons to sale items and offers a printable list. This list will tell you the date the coupons came out.  Simply pull the coupons from the accordion file according to date and clip the ones you need when they match up!

Qpon Qutie offered this at one time and then our server crashed. I’m working furiously to build a new program for you!

What about printable coupons?

Well, that’s where it get’s sticky.  There are fantastic coupons from sites like coupons.com and Facebook but these are single random coupons.  Good for deals- Bad for organizing.

Options: You can keep a specific location in the accordion file for these or a separate smaller file.  You’ll organize these by product and not by date.

Pros and Cons:

Pro- No bulky coupon binder to carry around

Con- Only the coupons you prepped are available while shopping

Pro- Easy to use system for a busy working mom or newbie

Con- Mulitiple organizers are needed for printed and newspaper coupons

Pro- Avoid clipping coupons you won’t use

Con- Shopping prep can be time consuming

Not the method for you?  Check out the Binder Method