Financial Drama Part: I

As many of you know, I am a coupon fanatic. Saving money is not only a GREAT way to relieve some of the financial drama, but in my opinion, it's a lot of fun! Call me crazy... and that's ok... but the idea of getting something for way below its retail price is definitely an emotional high! This is the beginning of my Financial Drama Relief series.

Part I: Retailers
This category mainly refers to your Big Box chain stores such as Wal-Mart or Target and most popular retail department stores. The savings strategies at this stores are usually pretty simple and straightforward, so will start there.

• Always do your research before you shop! Keep tabs on which stores are offering sales, and do your best to purchase the items you desire or need when they are at their lowest price.
• In addition to sales, most retailers offer e-Clubs where you can sign up through their website to receive newsletters which are often accompanied with special coupons. Take advantage of these, and sign up! My best piece of advice is to register for a free email account where you can send all of your special savings to avoid crazy amounts of traffic in your primary inbox.
• Check your local Sunday paper for additional coupons included in the sale ads.
• After most holidays, retailers place their remaining holiday inventory on clearance. Use this opportunity to stock up for next year!
• PRICE MATCH! Some retailers, such as Target, will price match an item if it is currently on sale at another store. They do require that you bring in the ad (no online or internet prices), but it's a great way to consolidate shopping trips and watch the savings tally go up on your receipt!

Resources for Retail Savings: Before you head to the mall or surf the web for clothing, electronics, toys, or gifts, take a few moments to check out these websites which over unique opportunities to save money!

• http://www.retailmenot.com/ This website offers a searchable database of online coupon codes and printable coupons for a ton of major retailers. In addition, other users often give reviews about the codes and/or coupons with their own success rates or comments.
• http://www.ebates.com/ Based off the name, you may instantly think... REBATE! And you would be correct. Ebates is a site dedicated to offering cash back on purchases made online through various retailers. How does it work? You create a FREE account and simply shop through the ebates sight. Each retailer offers different percentages for their cash back programs, and every 3 months, you will receive your choice of a mailed check, Paypal transaction, or even a donation to your favorite charity.