How to Organize Paper Coupons

Being organized is key to getting the most out of couponing.

Here are some reasons why being organized is helpful when using paper (hard-copy or printed) coupons:

Coupons generally have a limited life and will expire
Easy access to coupons is key when taking advantage of store specials with a short time frame
It’s frustrating when a coupon is needed and its nowhere to be found

Following are considerations when storing, sorting, filing and managing paper coupons.

Storing Paper Coupons

When organizing coupons the first thing to consider is the type of storage or organizer that best suits your needs.

The method used to store coupons is really a personal preference and has a lot to do with the amount of effort that can be spent on couponing.

The more time and effort spent gathering coupons means that there may be a lot of coupons to organize, and as a result, a larger size organizer may be needed such as a large binder with clear pocket inserts.

Or perhaps coupons are just clipped from weekly newspapers.

Then a small organizer may be sufficient such as an accordion-type wallet-size organizer which may be found online or in the stationery section of office supply retailers.

This type of organizer may also be advertised in the coupon section of the newspaper. They are generally made of soft plastic, quilted fabric, or nylon, and include dividers with tabs that are used to categorize items.

Sorting and Filing Paper Coupons

If there are multiple coupons for the same item that have different expiration dates, it’s helpful to sort them so that the coupons that will expire first are in the front of the coupon organizer.

When there are coupons to file in the organizer that don’t quite fall under any of the categories named on the tab inserts, a rule of thumb is to file that type of coupon in the category that first comes to mind when you see it.

Then hopefully when you go to retrieve that coupon, you’ll go right for it.

Managing Paper Coupons

It’s important to regularly go through filed coupons to make note of coupons expiring in the near future so they can be used as soon as possible.

Removing expired coupons from the organizer on a regular basis (unless you shop at a store that takes expired coupons) is very helpful and may save you from embarrasment when at the checkstand.

It can be so embarrassing to be at the checkstand, give the cashier coupons and then he or she notices that certain coupons have expired.

More Tips on Couponing:
Types of Coupons
Where to Find Coupons
Tips When Using Coupons

Check out the Most Popular Recipes on Coupon Clipping Cook Each Year.