Is coupon clipping worth your time?
Coupon clipping a waste of time -- and money -- for some
When you were a kid, you probably saw your mom diligently clipping coupons at the kitchen table for that week's grocery trip. In 2011, though, is coupon clipping worth your time? A story on Today says it can be, but only if you make a certain salary, buy things you actually need and don't waste driving time going to a far-away store to reap the coupons' benefits.
With group buying sites and deals advertised heavily in-store -- hello, big yellow sign advertising that bread is two loaves for $5 -- it's a wonder anyone still actually cuts out coupons. Many supermarket chains have taken the physical process to their web sites, allowing customers to link up coupons to their loyalty or rewards cards, as explained in this KansasCity.com story. The article points out, though, that you'll still spend roughly the same amount of time online as you would at that kitchen table clipping from the circular.
But, really, why bother clipping coupons when you can find the same discounts once you get to the store? Many of us scan the aisles until we find the best deal for whatever item we need, like two loaves of bread for $5 deal (unless you're a brand slave, of course). A Yahoo! Your Money piece says it's just as budget-savvy to pick up an ad circular at the store, which can serve as a guide for your shopping. This means no more time spent clipping beforehand.
Ultimately, is coupon clipping worth your time? How do you find and use store discounts?
"Ever wonder if coupon clipping is worth your time? While it can save extra dollars and cents, it can also cost you time and effort. Some say we should just wait for sales and buy in bulk and we can forego coupon clipping altogether..."
