Some of our wealthiest clients are not the ones with the biggest salaries but the ones who know how to shop and save wisely. I’m all about saving money wherever and whenever possible.
I’m sure many of you are familiar with using manufacturer coupons. But did you know you can stack a store coupon with a manufacturer coupon and get double savings? Watch for sales and use the coupons when the item is on sale for additional savings. If it's an item you will always use, you can start a stockpile. Just be sure to use it before the expiration date.
If cutting coupons and coordinating sales isn’t for you there are many easier ways to save money. I have many apps like Shopkick, Ibotta, SavingStar, Checkout51 and Receipt Hog. All can be found on the App Store.
SavingStar is like using coupons but without the need to cut and organize them. You choose the items you will be purchasing, link your store card and the savings is added into your account for you to redeem. It’s just that simple!
Shopkick is the app that rewards you for shopping in-store and online. Earn kicks, then redeem for a wide selection of free gift cards. You can earn kicks when you walk into partner stores, scan select products, or make purchases. You can also earn kicks when you visit online partners from Shopkick, view select offers, or make online purchases. In no time you will be able to get a free gift card!
Ibotta is also an app and you receive money back on the items you buy. Just purchase the item, scan the bar code and take a picture of your receipt. You would be surprised how quickly you will have enough to cash out. Checkout 51 is very similar and works the same way.
Receipt Hog is one my favorites. You simply take a picture of your receipt and receive coins or spins to earn coins. After a certain amount you cash in for items or money. What an easy way to turn your everyday shopping receipts into cash!
Lastly, SurveyMini is a fun, easy way to share your opinion and get great rewards from the places you visit. Take short surveys on your phone after visiting participating restaurants, stores, and attractions. You'll receive rewards like free food, discounts, and points toward gift cards in exchange for your feedback.
EBATES is an online shopping site and you earn cash back on purchases you make at over 2000 stores. It even applies any applicable coupons the retailers are offering. You can earn money for referring friends also. Every quarter you receive a check from your earnings.
Whether you are looking to stretch your budget, save for a special event or just want to be a savvy shopper, use some or all of these suggestions and they will soon become habit and a fun challenge to see how much you can earn or save.
Written by: Susan MacArthur
Susan has been the Office Manager at Sterling Financial Group for over 2 years. She leads the office in the management of operations and client relations at Sterling. Susan, herself, is a savvy shopper and saver. She lives in Baldwinsville with her husband and their three daughters.