Coupon Queen: Amazon Prime perks to max its value

If you're paying for Amazon Prime each month, make sure you're getting your money's worth. Amazon Prime is a subscription service that offers fast shipping, grocery delivery, streaming and more for $14.99 per month or $139 annually. Even better, eligible government assistance recipients (like SNAP or Medicaid) can get Prime for just $6.99 per month, making it far more budget-friendly. Here are some of my favorite Amazon Prime perks: Fast and free shipping You get free same-day, 1-day, and 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime, which can easily pay for the membership over time, especially if you're someone who orders regularly. Even better, you can earn Amazon credits by choosing "No-Rush" shipping when you don't need items right away. Be first in line Prime members can get new releases like books, movies, music and video games, delivered to their door on release day. To grab this, select "Release-Date Delivery" at checkout. Plus, Amazon's preorder price guarantee ensures you'll always pay the lowest price offered before release. Cuts entertainment costs Streaming through Amazon Prime Video is one of the most valuable perks. Between TV shows, movies and exclusives, it can easily replace (or reduce) other streaming subscriptions, saving you hundreds each year. Amazon's streaming selection has soared in recent years, including hit shows like "The Summer I Turned Pretty." Play music anywhere Amazon Music is included at no extra cost. You'll get access to more than 100 million songs, play lists and podcasts, all ad-free. If you want more, you can upgrade to Amazon Music Unlimited for $10.99 per month. Hidden perks Many Amazon Prime members miss out on these extras, such as free video games and in-game content with Prime gaming, early access to Lightning Deals and exclusive Prime-only pricing, free shipping on deals from Woot, and a free eBook every month through First Reads (a nearly $48 yearly value) Save on life's big moments Expecting a baby? Create an Amazon registry, and you'll receive a free welcome box valued at about $35. It is filled with baby essentials, including wipes, diapers, accessories, and coupons. Plus, when you complete your registry, Prime members get an additional 15 percent off eligible items up to $300. Are you planning a wedding? Prime members can enjoy free shipping on select registry items. Plus, once your registry reaches $500 in purchases, you'll unlock a one-time 20 percent discount to finish buying what's left (up to $300 in savings). Store unlimited photos There's no need to pay for extra cloud storage. Prime Members get unlimited, full-resolution online photo storage and 5GB of free video storage. Need additional storage? You can purchase it for just $1.99 per month. Game day is covered Prime members can stream NFL Thursday Night Football games directly, no cable required. Amazon Prime isn't just about fast shipping. There are many savings opportunities. But like any subscription, the value is only there if you use it. Take a few minutes this week to explore your benefits. You might find you're leaving money and convenience on the table. This week's deal Here's a deal that you can grab at CVS.General Mills cereal — $1.99Use the $1 off 2 coupon — found on the CVS app or website= $1.49 each when you buy two. 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