Coupon Queen: Rules to maximize your coupon power

Do you have a favorite store that you shop at every week? Whether you have been shopping there for years or you are a newcomer, if you want to maximize your savings with minimal effort, you need to have the right information. Here are a few helpful tips that will make your money go farther when shopping at your favorite store. Know the coupon policy Does your store accept printable coupons? Does it have a limit on the number of coupons allowed each day? Does your store match other store's prices? Knowing what your store will and will not allow will not only save you money but will also save you time at the register. Be familiar with the store's policy and review it from time to time as they can change. I've found that some stores' coupon policies are so expansive that even store employees struggle with knowing the ins and outs. Having a printed policy and having it nearby when you shop can save you a hassle. To find your store's coupon policy, check out its website or ask customer service. Locate the clearance Most stores have a clearance section filled with all types of goodies from marked down household supplies to canned tomatoes. As soon as I get into the store I regularly head to this section first to see what bargains I can snag. If your store allows coupons to be used along with the markdown, you'll save even more. Know when the sales ad starts While many store's ads start on Sundays, some start in the middle of the week. Knowing something as simple as when the new ad starts will help you prepare your shopping list. Often you can view the new circular online days before the ad even starts. Knowing what is on sale the following week will help decide if you should buy something now or to wait a day or two. Sign up for the loyalty program Even if you aren't someone who uses coupons often, be sure to sign up for your store's loyalty program. By joining, some stores will give you special discounts and allow you to earn points on your purchases that can be used later on things such as fuel or merchandise discounts. Find out if your store offers any other discount savings plan such as Facebook offers, text alerts, or email newsletters. Know the markdown days Most stores mark down fresh meat and bakery items on specific days of the week. If you can find out the day and time of when this occurs, then you'll be able to get the best selection. As with any marked-down product, be sure to use the item within a day or two or freeze it. This week's deal Here's a great deal that you can snag at CVS.Doritos or Lays Chips (9.75 to 11.5 oz) - $2 each.Rachel Krych is passionate about helping others spend less and save more. In addition to her weekly column, she has a blog, Couponing With Rachel, which earns her compensation from Google for ads it places there, and from entertainment marketers whose promotional codes she touts. She doesn't write about entertainment in her column. Email her at couponingwithrachel@hotmail.com.