Saving money, especially when you are on a tight budget, requires creativity, smart shopping, and a little elbow grease. While clipping coupons and shopping at dollar stores will help you stretch your dollar, there are other ways to save money.

Couponing, for example, is a great way to save. But before you get started, it’s important to understand the differences between coupons and deals. Coupons are special offers issued by manufacturers, retailers, and restaurants.

These coupons provide savings in the form of money off or a percentage discount.  Companies often target shoppers with coupons, so you only pay a fraction of the price you would have had to pay otherwise.

A deal is a discount provided by someone other than a manufacturer or retailer, such as Groupon or LivingSocial to encourage shoppers to buy more.  Both are essential to a good couponing strategy.

Couponing isn’t for everyone, but you might be surprised how effective it can be. For many people, couponing is not just a way to save money, it's a hobby.   For others, it's a lot more than that.  It can be a way to not only  prepare for the unexpected, but help deal with it when it comes.  If you lose your job, become disabled, or experience some other major financial hardship, the savings from couponing can help you pay your bills as you look for a new job.  In cases like this, couponing can be a lifeline. 

So there's no need to feel guilty about saving money with coupons and deals. In fact, if you use them the right way, they can actually be a game changer in your overall financial well being.  And while it may seem overwhelming at first, with a little practice, you can learn how to do it right.  At Legal Looting,the only thing we enjoy more than seeing you save money, is helping you save money.