Which is better: digital or paper coupons? With everyone (or so it seems) owning a smartphone, digital coupons have become increasingly popular. It makes sense. With the flick of a finger, you can search for and add manufacturer’s coupons to your shoppers card — anytime, anywhere. While they offer convenience and are environmentally-friendly, digital coupons are typically exempt from double or triple coupon promotions. In other words, you can’t double that 50-cents digital coupon to $1. And, you can only access and redeem one coupon of a particular kind. Yes, you can stack store coupons on top of digital coupons, but, in my opinion, the savings are limited.
For most committed couponers, paper coupons are still the preferred method. Not only can they be doubled or tripled (up to $1) at most stores offering such savings, you can use more than one at checkout. At certain stores, you can even use several of the same coupon on just as many qualifying products. (To avoid any confusion or embarrassment, get a copy of your store’s coupon policy before shopping. It’s usually available at the customer service desk.) Plus, you can stack store coupons on top of manufacturer’s paper coupons. In the end, the savings can be more bountiful with paper coupons.
Paper coupons may take more effort than digital, but they pay off at checkout with increased savings. Remember, you can’t stack paper coupons on top of digital coupons for the same item, if they’re both manufacturer’s coupons. On the flip side, you can stack store coupons on top of manufacturer’s digital coupons.
In any case, just don’t forget to use your coupons, as many consumers claim their biggest challenge is simply remembering to redeem them. That’s the only plus side of digital coupons because most shoppers are never without their smartphone. Whereas, with paper coupons, you need to remember to bring them along in your wallet or purse. If you prefer paper coupons (like me), start a coupon file and keep it in your car.
Whatever your coupon preference may be, you can find a great source of manufacturer’s coupons right here on Living On The Cheap. At the start of the month, there are always lots of new coupons to be found.
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