One way major way I save on shopping is couponing. In the digital world it is much easier to have access to digital coupons versus paper coupons. Certain stores are also very strict on coupons and sometimes if you visit websites to print out coupons they may or may not accept them. Always check your store coupon policy before shopping. Most stores will have an app you can download and you can access the digital coupons.

I will post a video below of a couple stores I like to shop at and use their digital app. If you sign up as a member at the store you like to shop at, you can also get coupons in the mail for monthly savings. Sometimes you can stack your in the mail paper coupon with your digital coupons. You can also choose to get your coupons from the store sent to your email. You get your promo codes. If you do a lot of online shopping, sign up for their discounts and use your favorite internet browser and search for the store name and then add promo code. For example, if I were to shop CVS Pharmacy, I would open up google search and type into the search bar "CVS pharmacy+promo code". 

I will demonstrate one store I shop at with digital coupons and this is for Dollar General:

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Everyone likes to save money where they can, especially for the bigger families, single families or anyone that wants to have a little extra money every month. I have always lived on a budget from the time I became a first time mom. Shopping for clothes, groceries and paying bills can amount to more money going out then coming in. I will highlight a basic list on how to start saving and how to start the process for saving money when shopping. 

1.) Budget, Budget, Budget. To know what you have each month, sit down and take a look at each bill you have coming in. You have basic bills such as utilities: electric, gas. You have your mortgage/rent, phone bill, car and health insurance. Credit cards, loans. Sometimes even medical bills.  Then you have to take a look at what you spend each month on groceries, gas, clothing, eating out.  When you can add up all of the bills you have for each month, write it down it helps to give a visual at the amount each month. Then tally up how much you make after every pay check and see what you have coming out.  

So take what you make after taxes (not gross), and minus what your bills are. This will give you a bigger picture of what you are spending. A lot of times I have been guilty of this, I have more money going out then coming in. One big thing that can happen if you do not pay attention, certain companies will raise your rates if you do not pay attention to the bill if it is being auto deducted monthly. 

2.) Do not be afraid to switch to a new plan at the beginning of the year for your internet or phone. I found through my phone company I can get discount on my plan if I call and discuss what I am currently paying and will ask if they have any specials going. My internet company will raise my rates and the beginning of the year I will call and renew under a cheaper plan with a one year contract. I also receive a discount through my job, so check with your employer and see if you can get a discount on your phone or internet. 

3). Clearance and a new year. If you want to save money on clothing, the beginning of the year and with each season, a lot of stores want to get rid of their stock. For example, when spring starts up, stores will start stocking spring and summer clothing and items. The winter items will be priced on discount or for very cheap, this is the time to stock up. I always check out clothing stores when a new season begins and buy up the discounted items for my children. During the holidays there is also discounts and savings. 

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