This is part of the series on Coupon 101 to get you started. Read the entire “Coupon 101 – Common Hurdles to Couponing” series.
I’ve some friends who refuse to use coupons, because they’ve heard horror stories on how some stores refused to take coupons, and treat those who use coupons quite rudely. With cases of coupon fraud, There are many valid reasons for stores and cashiers to be hesitant to take coupons. There are people who abuses the couponing system, and give couponers a bad name.
However, stores are recognizing the value of coupons, and are increasingly becoming more coupon friendly. To make yours and fellow couponer’s life easier, please follow these coupon use etiquette 
1. Never copy internet coupons. Each of those coupon (often grocery coupons) contain a unique bar code. Only print internet coupons from respected internet sites, directly from your computer.
2. Some stores post their official coupon policy online. Read and print those, and bring it with you to the store. If you still encounter problems with the cashier, here’s what you can do:
- Stay calm, and ask to speak with a manager. Talk with the manager about the problem, and show the manager the coupon policy you brought with you
- Call customer service. If the store is Target, call the customer service in the store (you could even use the red Target phones to do it), and while you’re in the store, the customer service people will ask to speak to the staff directly. I did this, and receive an apology from the Target manager right away, who promised to re-train the entire staff. After that, you know the store should be “cleared”!
3. When the coupon says “one per customer”, please honor that, and don’t try and use more than one of those coupons during the valid period for the coupon. Those buy 1 get 1 free coupons from Borders, Rite Aid $5 off $25, coupons, are some examples. More than likely, there’ll be another similar coupon out after the existing one expired.
4. Remember the golden rule. Be courteous, smile, and thank your cashier after the transaction. I like to say “Thank You for being patient with the coupons, I really appreciate it”. Many times the cashier, who don’t often receive compliments during their hectic day, would also appreciate a nice comment like that. Some cashier even shaked my hand earnestly, and congratulated me on “having did good today”. That makes everyone happy.
5. Organize your coupons ahead of time. This saves time, both when you’re at the store, and during check out.
Do you have good or bad experience with using coupons? Leave a comment!
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