In 1973 when I discovered the world of coupons and refunds, nothing was automated. Coupons were added up by the cashier, and I was handed the cash. I was amazed, when stores could deduct the coupons via the register. What a time saver.

Today, Single Check Rebates have become such time savers. Stores that we are all familiar with: Rite Aid, Walgreen and Eckerds have initiated these programs. For example for the month of May, Rite has $910 in various refunds and rebates. These range from toothpaste, tissues, and cleaning products to small appliances and other assorted merchandise sold in the store.

The concept is simple, sign up online (even I can and have done so), enter all register receipts for the month and at the end of May hit the submit button and believe it or no, your refund check is in the mail. I have gotten upwards of $40 on an occasion. No computer access, no problem, you can submit all your receipts by mail and receive the same benefits.

All the rebates are listed online or in a booklet distributed as you enter the store. Get those cash savings started, and let me know how well you’re doing.

Coupon shopping is a big money saver especially in today’s economy. I remember once shopping in Rochester, NY where the store actually had a ‘no coupon line’. That’s how much coupon shopping meant to those upstate New Yorkers. So, it’s not unusual to find a fist full of coupons at the checkout.

But for some, coupons can be embarrassing. Somehow saving 50% or more on my groceries, and the thought of not using coupons would never enter my mind. But for some coupon use can be embarrassing. I do a couple of things that may aid the shy shopping. I hope these work for you. They are desired to hasten checkout, to aid the cashier, and customers waiting in line.

First, I have all the coupons ready, and make sure they exactly match my purchase. Next, I take a quick look at the person in back of me on line, if I have coupons for some of their products, I share. That always makes a happy shopper, and eases the annoyance my batch of coupons might present. And last, I help pack my groceries to reduce the wait for those in back of me. A little courtesy goes a long way.

So put on a big smile, stack up those coupons and head for the supermarket and savings.

I love store sales. I always try my best to take advantage of the sale items for the products I use most often. Generally for a non-perishable product, I buy those in quantity. What I really hate, is that after I plan my shopping, pair up my coupon and head for the store, I find the store is out of the advertised special. Of course, they are always nice, and offer a rain check. The problem with rain checks is that I sometimes forget I have it, or the corresponding coupon expires before the stock is replenished.

Still, rain checks have value. It’s almost a hedge against rising prices. Recently, Turkey Hill Ice Cream was on sale for $1.99 (Limit 2). My flavor, Mint Chocolate Chip was all sold out so I headed for the courtesy desk for a rain check. The best price for the same item is now 2/$5 so I’m a little ahead of the game with my rain check.

Be sure to always ask for a rain check on out-of-stock items. Depending on the store, some rain checks are good for up to a year. In order to best utilize my rain checks, I keep them at the end of my coupon file, and go through them when making out my shopping list. That way I’m less likely to forget about them.

Finding useful and unique gifts for a new baby or bride can be a challenge. I have the perfect gift for both occasions. And it will be at a great savings for you. This tip was passed onto me from one of my subscribers to (http://refundlebundle.com) and I’d like to pass it along to you.

For the baby shower I start with a large basket. Next, I accumulate all different baby product coupons. As I see needed items on sale, I buy them and start to fill the basket. Items would include baby wipes, shampoo, diapers, baby wash, and powder. With the basket full, I wrap it with cellophane and tie a large bow in blue or pink. The final touch is a coupon saver filled with baby coupons to get the new mother started.

The Bridal Shower is slightly different. I purchase a large bucket and fill it with various household products. Some important items would be detergent, fabric softener, glass cleaner, paper towels, kitchen cleaners and cleansers; all purchased with a coupon and on sale. I wrap this similarly and top it with a large bow. The coupons are a must for the new bride. It’s never too early to save money.

These have been among the most well received items I’ve ever given, and are much appreciated by these young families.