Last night when I went to Publix a couple of the managers showed me a packet of fraudulent coupons that have circulated through the Greater Birmingham area stores recently. I’m inclined to believe that most strategic shoppers wouldn’t knowingly commit coupon fraud, but may need some educating about what is above board and what isn’t.

Therefore, I’m headed back over to Publix this morning for more info. I will also post a list of reputable couponing sites with links to help ya’ll have a central location for printables. If we are not diligent with our couponing we will start to see more signs like the one in the photo.

Until I get the post up these are a few reminders…..

• never copy or scan a coupon
• never use a coupon printed from a PDF format
• always ask your manager when you walk in the store if you have a question about a coupon
• Pampers, Huggies and other diaper companies don’t offer free diapers on printable coupons
• don’t use the knowledge of a coupon code to purchase an item that is not listed on the coupon

You know the old saying “you catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar”. Well, here is how it plays out in the coupon world.

Give a heads up

While I’ve had more than one manager say  “go ahead take them all”, it is always nice to let your local grocer know if you have ordered fifty cereal coupons and plan to stock up on the next BOGO sale. This gives them a chance to increase their supply if they choose.

Don’t take the last one

Not only do we want to keep our grocer in mind, but also our fellow centsible shoppers. If there are only one or two of an item left, take them. If there are twenty leave one or two for me please.

Don’t use expired coupons

There are a few stores that take expires coupons, most don’t. Avoid the temptation to cheat by trying to sneak one by the cashier. Instead consider giving them to our servicemen in the military. Commissaries take coupons that are up to six months expired. Go here for more info.

Don’t copy coupons….fraud!

Using a scanner or copier to duplicate coupons is fraud. Most printable coupons sites allow two prints from each computer/IP address. For more information about acquiring coupons go here.

Take copies of the coupon policies with you to the store

Policies change from store to store. It is always a good idea to have a corporate policy on hand. The best way to print a policy is to go to the store’s web site and download the document if it is available.

Be Friendly

Most cashiers are politely curious about centsible shoppers, but a few treat you like you are robbing the store. Be prepared and be kind. In most cases they just need to be educated on the corporate policy.  Pull out the policy for education. Speak to the manager if necessary to clarify any confusion. Report unprofessional behavior. It reflects negatively on the corporation as a whole.

Be Honest

I think I’ve covered this, but just in case anyone missed my point, I’ll say it again. The deals are plentiful, there is no need to break the rules.

Be Generous

This is my favorite part. It doesn’t take long to build a great stock pile. In most cases only 12-14 weeks. Remember to give non perishable food, household and beauty supplies to local churches and food banks. Also, think of people in your life that might benefit by your generosity. It might be a neighbor that would appreciate a meal, an employee that is struggling to put food on the table or a family member that has just lost a job.