Did you know there is a right and wrong way to use coupons?

I thought I’d tackle some questions head on and clear the air a bit when it comes to Coupon Ethics.

This is not meant to call anyone out, it’s just easier if I answer these directly and it helps out all of our readers.

1. It’s so frustrating to hear about a great deal on here, only to not be able to take advantage of it b/c the store has been picked clean by the time I get there. I end up feeling like it’s a race to get the deal.

I actually believe this problem stems from the rise of couponers and stores that are poorly stocking their shelves.

Stores could really take advantage of this couponing craze right now. If each store would properly stock their shelves not only would we be running in for our good deals but likely buying other items as well.

I do agree, I also feel like it’s a race for the deal. In fact, I’ve missed several deals lately simply because they were out long before I got there.

There is no way to control what one person takes or doesn’t take. However, I do think we need to put some pressure on our stores to actually stock their products. If you keep experiencing this at a particular store, I want to encourage you to call or e-mail the corporate offices and let them know.

2. I just saw on another forum where one Couponer said she has already gotten 67 free packs of toddler wipes and plans to get at least that many more before the Q expires.

This is certainly not stockpiling, this is hoarding. And, more than likely, this is another reason why point #1 is happening.

Stockpiling is a way for couponers to cash in on those great deals and keep some ‘in the bank’ so to speak  until the next deal comes along. It’s not so we can run miniature grocery stores out of our own living rooms.

Obviously, this is a judgment call that each individual has to make. Many of us buy items to donate to local food banks and churches and that’s fine,  just keep in mind that there are other people looking for those deals too.

3. Personally, I think if the store is willing to take the coupon, then why not use it? There have been plenty of times when a coupon didn’t scan b/c I didn’t have the correct item to match it to, but in this case, the coupon went through, so I used it.

This area gets confused a lot. The problem is when a coupon says that it is for a specific item and that item is not bought, then the store does not get reimbursed for that item (regardless of it scanned or not).

This is a big one for couponers because it feels like it’s the fault of the store for taking the coupon in the first place.  The bottom line is if the coupon cannot be reimbursed, then we are stealing from the store.  And, if the store loses money then they change their policies and that ultimately effects all of us.

Using a coupon for anything other than what is specifically listed on the coupon itself is considered fraud and is illegal. Even if it goes through, we have to abide by the ‘coupon rules’ and use it only for what it’s intended for.

4. I would like some clarification on the “satisfaction guaranteed or your money back” offers that are occasionally available. It feels wrong to me to send in for a “satisfaction guaranteed” refund if I like the product.

I do NOT think it’s ok to submit a rebate for a ’satisfaction guaranteed’ item if you are truly satisfied. That is a debated issue amongst couponers however, I do feel it’s dishonest to ask for your money back when you loved the product.

Another question I get is, “what does dissatisfied mean?” It actually could mean a lot of things like price, package and then overall product. That’s a judgment call.

The bottom line, I do not believe submitting a ’satisfaction guaranteed rebate’ is ok if you are completely satisfied with product.

On the flip side, there are ‘try me free’ and ‘mail in rebates’ that are perfectly fine to use and you can use these with coupons and sales! I do mention those all the time.

Please know I do not take my job lightly, I research deals every single day and I do my best to be sure I am bringing you honest, legitimate deals that will save you money.