Are you new to this coupon thing? Are you interested in giving it a try, but don’t know where to start? You’re in the right place!

Couponing 101 will provide you with the basics to get you started. Becoming a couponer is something that generally doesn’t happen overnight, but the more you do it, the easier it becomes. Alright, let’s get started then, shall we?

The first thing you need to do, obviously, is to get some coupons. Some people think the only place you can get coupons is in the Sunday paper. Wrong. I can think of about 25 other places you can find coupons. I’m not kidding!

Let me share a few of the main places I find coupons:

1. On the product (known as Peelie’s).

Be sure you remember it’s on there, and bring it to the cashier’s attention, as the cashier may miss it. Or just peel it off and hand it to the cashier when you’re ready.

2.  Near the product (look for the coupon dispensors).

Usually these coupons are right next to the product, so grab one or two and you’re all set!

3.  Inside the product’s packaging.

Before you discard of the product’s cardboard (or other) packaging, take a second to look inside of it. You may be pleasantly surprised to find some hidden coupons!

4. The internet.

Check out Coupons.com, Target Coupons, Valpak, Redplum, and SmartSource. These are only a few of the sites I use. There are many, many more you can use if you just do a quick internet search.

5. In the mail.

Take a minute to really read the mail that arrives in your mailbox. One insert I received a few weeks ago, looked like junk mail, but after taking a quick glance through it, I found a $5 off $50 purchase coupon at a local grocery store that I frequent. Score!

6. On your phone.

I get numerous texts each day from my favorite stores with coupon codes. Most of my favorite texts come from JCPenney, Starbucks, and Redbox.  I signed up for mobile coupon and sales alerts either on their website, or by responding to a text promo I saw in the store. It just takes a second to get signed up, and it’s totally worth it!

7. In the stores.

When you walk into a store, grab the weekly circular ad. You may also find coupon inserts or booklets right next the the circulars. Keep your eyes open!  Keep in mind that Walgreens, Target, and CVS have their own store coupons, and will accept manufacturer coupons in addition to their store coupons.  Cha Ching! Double coupons!

8. Manufacturer websites.

Do you have a favorite drink or snack? Go to the manufacturer’s website and sign up for their email newsletters and/or coupons. Pretty soon you will be receiving them on a regular basis, for the things you will actually use and buy. And be sure to see if they have a Facebook page. If they do, LIKE it, and you will receive updates and even more discounts!

9. Credit card statements.

Now, I am not here to encourage anyone to get a credit card, however, if you have one, check your statements! I have received gift certificates, and coupons for free items along with the statement.

10. Savingstar.com

Sign up for a FREE account with savingstar.com and you can upload free e~coupons to your Albertsons and CVS cards. (Be sure to sign up at Albertsons and CVS prior to doing this.) Then you can select the coupons you would like uploaded to your Albertsons and CVS cards, and then just shop as normal. You can also use paper coupons on the same items, so it’s like using double coupons! Check it out at Savingstar for more info.