How To Set Up a Coupon Binder

The best advice I have for saving the most money when couponing is to be organized. When you have a system set up for accessing your coupons, ads and match ups you will use more coupons, thus saving you MORE money. Getting organized isn't as hard as you think, it's as simple as setting up a Coupon Binder.

There is not a set of instructions that you have to follow when creating your coupon binder. The goal is to have all of your money saving tools in one place so that you can easily access them on a daily basis. It is easy to get started, I have created a video that you can watch to get an idea of the materials I used for mine.

Materials Needed:

• 3 Ringing Binder (like a Trapper Keeper - I prefer the kind that zips shut to keep everything in place) Try and keep your eye out for a clearance binder!
• 4" x 6" photo holders, or the baseball card holders (found at Walmart, Staples etc.)
• Divider Tabs
• Calculator, Pen, Notebook, extra envelopes
• Optional - Scissors

Setting up your binder: I have the 3 ring binder that zips shut and has a separate compartment for ads and a third zipper pouch where I keep my weekly coupon match ups/shopping scenarios that are separated by store. I have chosen the 4" x 6" photo holders for my coupons and if I come across coupons larger than this size, I simply fold them in half (product facing out).

I have chosen to separate my coupons in alphabetical order (just by first letter A, B, C, etc.). When I alphabetize, it is by brand K for Kleenex, P for Puffs etc. If I have a coupon for Kellogg's but you can purchase Raisin Bran, Special K or Crispix - I will put the coupon under K for Kellogg's. Other ways to separate your coupons include dividing by food groups or common categories (cereals, vegetables, sauces, meats, etc).

Other items I include are a notebook for jotting down prices and keeping my grocery lists, a pen/pencil to make notes and cross off items as I purchase them, a calculator for when my brain hurts and I can't do simple math (LOL) and sometimes I carry scissors when I haven't clipped my Sunday coupons promptly.

Your binder can be set up for simple couponing, drugstore shopping or advanced couponing, whatever fits your needs, your interest level or your family needs. Once you have your initial coupon binder set up, you are ready to head out to the stores and test it out. Don't be afraid to "tweak" your binder and make adjustments/additions where needed.

You are on your way to saving even more money on your grocery and drugstore shopping with your NEW coupon binder. Does it really save money? Take a look at your receipts and you will have your proof!

What's your coupon binder look like? Send a picture and I will post it!