COUPON QUEEN: How phones can save you money

When my husband and I were dating, I'd borrow my dad's cell phone almost every night. Back then, calls after 7 p.m. were free and unlimited. I could call my long-distance boyfriend and chat for hours. Back then, it was the only way we could talk without getting in trouble for running up the home phone bill. Fast forward to today, and my smartphone practically lives in my hand. It's my camera, calendar, GPS and even my coupon holder. While it can definitely be an extra expense, I've learned that my phone more than pays for itself with all the ways it helps me save money. Coupons galore Thanks to my smartphone, I rarely pay full price anymore. You have access to hundreds of coupons for various stores and restaurants right at your fingertips. Download the store app or pull up your email to find the coupons. I recently used a digital coupon for a free milkshake at McDonald's after my son's orthodontist appointment, and a Target coupon for a baby shower present. I also clipped a few grocery deals later that evening, all from my phone. Paying your bills on time If you're like me and sometimes forget what day it is, set bill reminders on your phone. Most creditors will send you a text or email alert before a payment is due, or you can add your own notifications in your calendar app. Staying organized this way has saved me more than a few late fees (and a bit of stress, too). Working out If you have a gym membership you aren't using, cut out that monthly bill and reach for your smartphone. There are many helpful apps that can help you stay on track with your fitness goals. You can try the app Map My Walk as a pedometer, or Couch to 5K to get you running. Price check Before heading to the checkout, I take a quick peek online to make sure I'm getting the best deal. Stores like Target and Walmart will often match their own online prices. I once saved $20 on a game controller by showing the cashier the online price on my phone. Earn while you shop I'm a big fan of cash-back and rebate apps like Ibotta and Fetch. A few quick scans or clicks, and I'm earning rewards on purchases I'd make anyway. I use my Ibotta savings every few months to treat myself to a little splurge. It feels like free money. Cut the clutter Instead of printing out tickets, coupons or boarding passes, I store everything digitally in my phone's wallet app. Not only does this save paper (and a bit of printer ink), but it also means I'm never scrambling to find that "one important paper" before heading out the door. Smartphones may come with a price tag, but they've easily become one of my favorite ways to save money. With just a few apps and a little creativity, that small gadget can help you stretch your budget. This week's deal Here is a deal to grab this week at Dollar GeneralThree-day sale, Nov. 6-82 liters Sunkist®, 7UP or RC cola — 5/$5 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 rachelkrych@gmail.com.