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Open Mic 1/24/13

January 24, 2013 by 126 Comments

Open Mic is a post every Thursday that is a mini-version of a discussion board. You can leave a comment with whatever coupon, money-saving or debt reduction tips or questions you have and other readers chime in and answer.

When you leave a comment on this post, you’ll be able to choose whether you’d like to be emailed follow-up comments or not. Getting comments via email is a great way to stay connected without having to visit the site a bazillion times (although I don’t mind if you come a bazillion times).

As always, I look forward to hearing the voice of the Pocket Your Dollars community. Read through the Open Mic archives here.

Your turn: Leave a comment with your money-saving, coupon or debt reduction question, thought or suggestion.

Two tips: 1) If you are reading this via email or an RSS feed, click on the title “Open Mic” to come back to the site and leave a comment and 2) If you are concerned about your privacy, just reference yourself by your initials and know that I will not >share your email address with anyone else.

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About Carrie Rocha

I am passionate about helping people live within their means so they can get out and stay out of debt. I live in Minneapolis, MN with my husband and two little girls.

  • kris t.

    Good morning everyone!

    Carrie – thank you for all the time and effort you put into running this site that we can access free. I'm so thankful for you and everyone else here at PYD who truly makes it possible for my money to go so much further.

    Have a great weekend everyone, and stay warm.

  • amy

    Where is the best place to get K-cups?

    • JoAnna

      I do not have a Keurig but many of my friends do and they often purchase K cups at Bed Bath and Beyond with their available coupons ($5 or 20% off), Kohls with a 30% off coupon when you can earl Kohl's Cash and Costco.

    • Mary

      I was just looking on Amazon last night and comparing prices. The prices ranged anywhere from 68 cents per cup to 45 cents. I just wanted to get a feel as to what a "buy" price was. Kohls and BBB are great suggestions. We just bought a Keurig last week and made sure to buy one of the reusable cups but want the k-cups on hand for when we have guests.

    • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Carrie Rocha

      Don't forget that you can typically use a K-Cup twice. Brew a cup of coffee, then remove the k-cup and cover the holes with your fingers and shake it up to loosen the grounds, then put it back in (be sure to place the holes exactly in the right spot), then brew again.

  • kandy

    Is there a day when its free to get in at science musume of mn. i thought i read that on this page.I have 8 kids and cant afford to take them no where now adays

    • Carol M

      Is it something you would do more than once a year? I think it's only like $99 for a family membership.

      • Beth

        Not sure if your family would qualify for this, but I was just sharing this with a family the other day and thought someone could benefit from it!!

        The Science Museum has a great program for families that uses any of the following programs: TANF, MFIP, WIC, General Assistance, Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare, Supplemental Security Income, Social Security Disability Benefits, Food Stamps, Section 8, or Free/Reduced Price School Meals.

        Admission is then only $3/person or $5 w/Omni Theater ticket.

        A family season pass with this program is only $49.50 as well.

    • Kim

      They have a discount ticket program called Great Tix. My family used this when we were eligible and were able to enjoy time out at an affordable price.

      To qualify: You must be at least 18 and enrolled in one or more of the following: TANF, MFIP, WIC, General Assistance, Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare, Supplemental Security Income, Social Security Disability Benefits, Food Stamps, Section 8, or Free/Reduced Price School Meals. Please share with us proof of enrollment.

      https://www.smm.org/tickets/discounts

  • Susan

    Any suggestions for best credit card to apply for when trying to rebuild a credit rating. Will be paying in full every month but need to establish an on-time payment history. Also, are most here still pleased with their experience with Credit Karma?

    • AJ

      I don't know about credit cards, since I am trying to avoid using mine and pay down some debt. But I really do like having Credit Karma, and I also use Credit Sesame. They each only use 1 of the 3 credit reporting Bureaus so using both gives you a better idea of what your credit score is actually like.

  • kandy

    Andd thank you for this page i am new to computers and trying to learn without getting fustraded. and this is the easiest that i have found it makes it easy to do your shopping list and get the best deals i just hve to get a printer now and lean how to work that…

  • kandy

    and is there a way to print out coupons from the smart source from on here or do i have to buy the sunday newspaper

    • Carol M

      Smartsource.com does have printable coupons but they are not the same as the paper. There is no way of printing every exact coupon that will be in the insert.

      • http://bdbsak@msn.com Deb

        Kandy, I often buy the early edition of the Star Trib in Saturday. It's 1.00 instead of the cover price of 1.75 for Sunday edition. The only problem is that the early paper sometimes doesn't have all the inserts (I look before I buy). Keep checking PYD also for deals on subscriptions to the paper.

  • Therese S.

    I second Kris's comments. THANK YOU CARRIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • Sherry

    I agree! Words cannot express my gratitude. The best thing I can do is to pay it forward by providing people with your "business card" so they can utilize this resource and/or making regular donations from my stock to those in need.

  • Angie

    Rainbow Shopping List Question!!- Can you use double the amount of coupons for 2 different products? Example: **NEW** Jell-O Refrigerated Snacks (2 ct.) $1.50 (Must Buy 2+) (cutback through 4/7)

    $1/2 Jell-O Refrigerated Snacks from 1/13 Smart Source insert (exp 2/10)

    Final price: $0.50 each after doubled coupon

    Can I buy 5 of these and then

    **NEW** Jell-O Refrigerated Pudding or Temptations (4 ct.) $2.00 (Must Buy 2+) (cutback through 4/7)

    $1/2 Jell-O Refrigerated Snacks from 1/13 Smart Source insert (exp 2/10)

    Final price: $1.00 each after doubled coupon

    5 of these, even though its the same coupon, but different product??? TIA!! :D

  • Melissa

    Has anyone had any problems with using Walgreen's Register Rewards at Rainbow? Two weeks ago I tried to use a $1 RR and the cashier wouldn't take it. However, last week at the same Rainbow my husband was able to use the $1 RR. He usually has better luck than I do. But the cashier he had went through all the coupons and rearranged the order so that the smaller amounts were first instead of the $1 coupons. Bummer.

    • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Carrie Rocha

      Melissa – Here is what Rainbow's official coupon policy says, "Roundy’s will accept competitor Catalina coupons provided the coupon states “Manufacturer
      Coupon” and does not state “Redeemable Only At (Competitor Name Here).” If the Register Reward says "Redeemable Only At Walgreens" then it is not accepted by Rainbow. Here's a link to the policy: http://images.gsngrocers.com/StaticContent/Upload…

  • Sally

    I hope I'm feeling better by Saturday for unlimited at Rainbow. I've had a cold all week. It is alot of work to get ready but well worth the time. I now have to drive to Shoreview since Forest Lake closed. Bummer.

    • kimm

      Sally – me too. Sad the FL store closed…it was so convenient when they had a good sale or a 'limited sale' (ie cheese for .99 limit 2….I'd stop daily to get a couple). One good thing is that I've found the Shoreview store to be better stocked.

      • Mikey

        And the staff are so nice and friendly! Welcome to our area.

    • ella

      Get well soon Sally! Bummer about your local Rainbow closing. My nearest Rainbow is far enuf away that I have to decide whether it's worth the trip, plan ahead and try to do other errands along the way.

  • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Carrie Rocha

    Well, thank you Kris. That is very kind. I'm humbled and honored to see the tremendous community that gathers here. Running this site is the most fun I've ever had and I love it. There is so much more I want to do here, but sometimes my dreams are bigger than my capacity – but, this year I am getting a professional accountability partner, so hopefully I can make better progress on some of the things I long to do around here.

    • Betsy

      This is so timely because I was just thinking of emailing you Carrie to let you know my abundance of gratitude as well! It's funny because I have been teaching some women in my life how to coupon (and of course, how to use your site) and I've felt a bit frustrated with all the time I have put into this to learn how to do this well and the thanks I've gotten for pouring all that into these women has been, well, meager. So I know that even though you make money from this site I know you don't have to do what you do and I am eternally grateful. I went to CVS yesterday and bought over $100 worth of items at an $11 profit! This system is life changing, thank you so so much from the bottom of my heart!

  • http://Pocketyourdollars.com Mandy

    Do you have to have a rainbow card to double your coupons or is it to get gas rewards?

    • kimm

      I don't think it's necessary for doubling, but some promotions require the card.

  • Jennifer

    If a person applies for the Roundy's card on Saturday can a person use it that day?

    • Heather

      I have used the card right when I got it at the checkout.

    • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Carrie Rocha

      Yes.

      • Jennifer

        Thank you

      • mark

        Does anyone know the number of transactions you can do on Rainbow's Unlimited Double Coupon Days ? Is it just one ? I was wondering if one Rainbow location has its shalves cleared on certain sale items, can you go to a different Rainbow location and use your Roundys card a second time and still get unlimited double coupons as long as you still reach you $25 minimum ? Thanks !

  • Laura

    I am wondering if anyone can suggest a reliable and budget-friendly person who is talented at wallpaper removal and/or indoor painting for our south metro home? Wish I could do this myself (not great at DIY projects…) but some things are just better off left to the professionals!

    • kimm

      I purchased a wall paper steamer and removed the wallpaper from 7-8 rooms in my house. It was the BEST investment I've ever made :) I think the steamer was about $50 at Menards — I stripped the first room using a spray bottle and a scraper – then I went to Menards and bought the steamer for the remaining (live and learn). The steamer saved me hours and hours of time. Wall paper removal isn't as hard as it is time consuming.

  • kimm

    I'm looking for suggestions on home owners and car insurance companies. I just got my renewals (Ameriprise) and my home owners went up A LOT. I got a quote from Liberty Mutual (which is significantly less than my current renewal), but I found something on the internet that ID's the 10 worst insurance co's….Liberty was one of them… :( I'm pretty sure this topic has been discussed in open mike before, but searching on the website didn't bring up the results). I want a reasonable rate, but I also don't want to be denied a legit claim as some of these insurance co's are notorious for!

    • Mary

      If either you or your spouse (if you have one) is military, I would try USAA.

      • Lori

        You can try Webb Ins out of Buffalo. Everything was done by fax/e-mail so you don't have to be in the area. They broker with 40 insurance companiies and will tell you who has the best rates for your situation. (drivers/cars etc). We found it much easier than giving all our detail to multiple agents to try to find the right one for us. Their number is 763-355-9500.

        • Mandi

          I second Lori on going with a broker. I agree with LuAnn, too, about putting homeowners and auto insurance together with one agency. I saved over $400 a year doing these two things.

    • LuAnn

      Kimm

      You may want to consider having the homeowners and car insurance with one company instead of two. We live in a state where there are alot of T-storms, and its not unheard of to have a tree

      be hit by lightening and land on top of a car parked in the driveway. If that would happen to you, who would pay? The homeowners cimpany or the auto company? You might find yourself in alot of heartache if that happens. COmpanies are known to fight about issues like this.

      My husband used to sell insurance a long time ago; he saw this happen with some of his customers . He doesn't sell insurance anymore, but I can say that both of us learned alot. I am quite sure the situation would be the same just like years ago. Some companies

      will give you a reduction in the rate if you have two or more policies with them. But, like

      everything else, you need to ASK. We have Farmer's BTW, and we are very happy with them.

    • Beth

      We had USAA and they continued to raise our rates each year so my husband started shopping around and found that Travelers had the BEST rates & they have not raised our rates from year to year!! We've been shopping around now, but nothing has been all that great for us to make the switch of all of our policies.

      • Broker

        As the screen name implies I am a broker who sells insurance for multiple companies. Here is some advice. All the companies mentioned are great. But results will vary. There is no one "go to company" right now. All companies have changed rates,underwriting and guidelines for new and exisiting clients. Because of huge losses industry wide in the last few years. Premium rates will depend on a few simple things, who you are(age,marital status,driving history,claims history) what you are driving,where you are driving(where you live) and your credit score. Yes I said credit score. If that varies from one term to another your rate can change. Coverage is usually the lowest factor in premium. For example raising your deductible or liability limit may only change your policy a few dollars. The previous rating factors are what influence your policy more. These policys should not be treated and shopped for like a deal on hamburger. They protect your biggest investments your home and auto. Other factors to look at: some companies give longevity discounts or look at your current history with a company. Do you shop and change every year. Companies can see that and you might not get preferred pricing since you may not stick around anyways. Everyone talks discounts but if the premium is way high to begin with who cares how many discounts you get. Home and auto pkgs do yield discounts but many carriers offer a homeowners discount on their auto policy even if it is not with them. The "total" pkg numbers have to add up. If you can pay in full or have monthly taken out of a bank account that saves money. But look at more then just the price of the premium. Some companies have "free value added coverages" added in that you can't compare just by pricing. Other companies you have to purchase these as extra's. Instead of looking at the premium only. Look at the agent. Will they be there for a claim or do you have a company where you call a 1-800 number and report it. The agent does not get involved. Many potential claims conflicts can be resolved if a agent gets involved they are also on the forefront of changes coming that directly affect you. Buying online is trendy for youths but buyer beware you get what you pay for. Their interest lies with the company they work for not with you. They may offer you the lowest liability coverage out there just to get you to the lower premium. There are alot of variables to premium prices but this is one area where quality of content really does count for alot. Good Luck.

      • Mary

        Interesting. USAA hasn't raised our rates in years!

    • Heather

      A few years ago I searched around and found Allstate to be the lowest for me. My experience is that your relationship with your agent is one of the things that makes getting through accidents and claims the most bearable. My agent is Max Pizano (763) 420-four five zero eight. Have had nothing but positive experiences throught him and his brother.

  • Shelly

    I'm curious if anyone out there has the Sleep Science 10" Memory Foam Mattress from Costco? In their sale starting next week, it's being offered for $499 (free shipping and handling). I know mattress likes and dislikes are extremely subjective, but would be glad for any reviews.

    Our bed is a platform bed from This End Up. If you're familiar with that former store, it tells you the age of our mattress!

  • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com/2012/05/star-tribune-26-for-26-weeks-of-sunday-delivery-25-to-spend Dennis

    There is a very good article about Carrie and her new book in last Sunday’s Star and Trib – business section i think. Also, Carrie had an excellent appearance on WCCO news yesterday morning! I am getting her book – her ideas really strike a chord and make sense!!

    • Kris R

      My husband pointed out the article to me and said he would even read Carrie's book. He doesn't like to read so he's really impressed with Carrie's concepts. I mentioned that I've used her PYD website the last year which has helped us save over$3,500 in groceries in 2012. I love it when I see other shoppers with printouts from her site.

  • AP

    Does anyone know where I can find cheap workout pull-up bars and resistance bands for P90X?

  • scat

    deb — you may want to buy your Saturday Strib elsewhere. It should only be 50 cents.

    • JoAnna

      Early Sunday Star Trib used to be $0.75 on Saturdays now it is $1.00.

    • Shelly

      Thanks, JoAnna – I was feeling kind of crazy! I thought it had been $1 for awhile now when I've picked it up at various stores.

  • Bri

    Amazon subscribe and save has been the cheapest I can find (.35/cup)….also Sams Club and Costco have good prices. The downside to this though is that they are usually all the same flavor.

    • Marie

      at Walgreeens, I've found those 4 packs of reusable k-cup pods for $9.99! these are awesome! while I used to average around $0.70 per k-cup, now Im down to around in the $0.35-0.40 range

      • Susan

        I just got a variety pack as a groupon deal. 35 cups for $20. It's a good chance to try different coffee without buying a whole box. Make sure you go online and register at kerig and they will send you a coupon for a free box.

  • Val

    Got such a great deal on the Stayfree at my Cub today. Purchased 6 packages. This is how it broke down.

    Cub Sale: Buy 2 get 1 free – I bought 6 so I got 2 free. Then I used 2 BOGO free coupons from SS a few weeks back. So I bought two packages (paid 6.98) and got 4 packages FREE!!!

  • scat

    Kimm – I haven't checked the "worst " list in a long time, but can pretty much predict what companies will be on it. There are basically two different kinds of insurance companies. The first is made of "Mutuals". They only write insurance and have no stockholders, just members (the policyholders.) The second kind is a stock company which has stockholders and invests in other kinds of businesses as well as insurance. The stock companies are generally more highly rated in terms of claims handling. There are also companies that primarily write coverage for high risk people, ie: those who have a bad driving record.

    No matter what kind of insurance company you choose, you should be comparing rates between companies at least every couple of years. The rates can vary widely depending on the experience of the company in the last year.

    You can save a lot of money by searching the internet. If you feel you want to have an agent, there are independent agents who sell insurance for many different companies– generally stock companies. Then there are agents who work just for one company — generally a mutual.

    I have had insurance purchased via the internet for several years and even though there is no agent, there is always someone you can call if you have a claim or need to change something on your policy. They have well trained people to guide you through the process. In fact, I have had better service without an agent than I ever did with an agent. I spent many years working in the industry and know my around the insurance world, but never have had occasion to be disappointed with the way my insurance company handled things. Unfortunately, my car has been banged into several times in the last few years so I have had occasion to deal with my insuror. In fact, I just picked up my car from the repair shop today as a result of a parking lot attack on my car.

  • Crystal

    My agent told me just about every company was probably going up for homeowners because of storms this past year. I am pricing out options right now. I looked at discounts my husband and I get through our employers and requested quotes from 5-6 different agents/companies and compared them. I also suggest combining your policies for the lowest rate. We have had Safeco for the past two years through an independent agency but the quotes I got this week are pointing towards AAA.

    • kimm

      Thanks everyone for the information. My homeowners and car insurance (4 vehicles) are with the same company (I've always taken that approach). I have been with Ameriprise for almost 11 years, I don't have a specific agent, but I have been incredibly satisfied with their organization. I've had a couple of claims in the last 11 years (one quite significant due to a storm) and they were amazingly professional and generous in handling my claims. They went above and beyond, in my opinion. I've accepted the climbing rates due to the way they've handled my claims, 'everyone is raising rates due to widespread weather related damage' etc. I was with my previous insurance company starting with my first car. I kept that same insurance company for almost 25 years. I had an agent. Sadly, we had to sue our 'good neighbor' to get them to pay for a roof damaged during a hail storm. When I called my agent's office to cancel ALL of my policies with them (home, boat, multiple vehicles) they didn't even bother to thank me for all the years I was with them, nor did they say they were sorry to lose my business. (I felt so stupid for staying with them all those years. I really bought into the 'we'll stand behind you' message insurance co's like to promote.) So, I feel like I'm generally a good customer who doesn't move just to save a buck. On the other hand, I think we've all experienced those companies that continue to push out rate increases just because they can (how many of us call our cable co's when we see a new customer package is a better deal than the new higher rate they just assigned to a long term customer?!) I understand the importance of having my most valuable assets protected. With that said, however, the quote I received from Liberty (between house and cars) is over $1000/yr cheaper…. that is a lot of money! However, if I make the switch and I have to file a decent size claim that they deny, then I'm going to wish I would have spent that $1000 with my existing insurance company. Quite the dilemma for me :(

      • scat

        My advice — keep looking and comparing prices. Chances are you will find a company that will both fit your needs and charge an affordable price. Chances are there are companies that have not had as much bad experience as your current carrier.

  • Marie

    I used a (and quite successfully) liquid fabric softener to remove wallpaper! and it made my room smell AWESOME to boot! All you need to do is score the wallpaper first (you can buy these tools for relatively cheap), then put the liquid softener in a spray bottle and spray it on. Walk away and let it sit for a couple hours, come back and start scraping! This worked like magic!!!

    • Sue

      We did the same thing with the fabric softner a couple of weeks ago. I went to the dollar store for the fabric softner. Mix 1/2 fabric softner to 1/2 hot water. Make the water as hot as you can get it. I agree with Marie, it works like magic!

  • scat

    Just want to pass along a tip. Just heard on the news that the latest computer attack involves people getting into your computer and looking through your camera to see what's going on in your house, or where ever you may be. Just a little creepy. Easy solution — put a piece of masking tape over your camera when you aren't using it.

  • Merry

    I purchased the Pioneer Press deal from Groupon—52 weeks of the Sunday paper for $20. Checked the mail and I received a bill from PP for $20—???? Anyone else? I will contact PP customer service tomorrow. Frustrating!!

    • Shelly

      Hi Merry – we also did a Pioneer Press deal. Ours was through Living Social – was yours Groupon?

      Anyway, we also got a bill, and they were very nice when I called. It was because Living Social hadn't paid for quite awhile; but by the time I called, our acct was already all clear and he said just disregard the bill. I think they were a little frustrated with Living Social!

      • scat

        I had gotten my deal at the grocery store a couple years ago. It ran out and then they charged me a lot more for another 3 months, so I let it drop. I hadn't gotten around to calling about what deals they might offer when I got a call from them. They offered me 3 months for wed-sun print plus email daily for $13. I asked what they could do for a longer period and they offered me the same deal for a total of $13 for SIX months. I suppose I should have asked if they could do a year for $13 but that might have been just a little greedy. Anyway, it seems they like to dicker with us on the phone

        • kimm

          I'm pretty sure they would have offered you a year for $13…They've given me that deal before (Wed-Fri & Sun). Not sure about the e-version.

        • scat

          Ireally like the e version. It's fast and you aren't using up a lot of paper.

  • Carol M

    Anyone know where the South Beach Diet bars are located in Wal-Mart? Have some coupons to use for them but couldn't find them yesterday.

  • Kristina

    We are wanting to get our son a full sized bed. Where is a good place to shop in the south metro? We would like a quality mattress but have no idea what a good price would be. Thanks!

    • JoAnna

      I always suggest The Original Mattress Factory. We have a queen and our kiddo a twin for 4 1/2 yrs. Great price and superb quality along with being made in the USA.

  • betty

    Well said thank you very much!!

  • Cassie

    I know it is definitely more than one, but not sure if it is the standard amount (which I think is 7?) I brought a friend for her first time and it was before the CS opened, so she was not able to apply for a card. I asked the cashier if she could use mine and it allowed unlimited doubling on each of our transactions. HTH!

  • sarah

    If you home school then you can get an educators discount and your annual family membership drops down to $60. I'm not sure what they require as proof though.

  • Emily

    Hey I just got home from Lifeway Christian Store (Woodbury location) and they are having an awesome storewide clearance sale. They still have some good Christmas Items for 90% off and lots of tables of other items on clearance….then in addition you get an extra 25% off clearance items. To add to my savings I had a coupon that was printed from the register (a prior visit) for an extra 15% off my purchase. So, I got $105.00 worth of stuff for $23.00! Of course I got another coupon printed from the register for 20% off my next visit.

    My favorite find: a metal tree Christmas card holder with Bible verse plaque

    Original price 29.99, I paid $1.90!!!!

    • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Laura Wales

      Awesome, Emily! I was at Lifeway in Maple Grove last Saturday for Carrie's book signing and there was a TON of stuff on clearance there, too. I didn't buy anything as I didn't have time but there was a wide selection.

  • Sara

    Question about setting up a second printer. How does this work? We have multiple computers that are networked to one printer right now. If I set -up another printer won’t it still be reading the same IP address? Any tips??

    • kimm

      Not exactly sure how this works, but I know at work we have a ton of printers. I set one as the default. If I want to print to a different printer, I select it from a list. I would think it would work similarly in your home environment.

      • Sara

        Correct Kimm, but how does that work for printing coupons from multiple printers.

        • jo

          I believe multiple printers also means multiple computers for multiple IP addresses. I have three computers at home and can print three sets of coupons (x2) on 1 printer-then also have a computer at work to print to print a set of coupons as well. Each with a unique IP address.

  • Tasha

    so did anyone notice the ad in the newspaper for rainbow foods no limit dbl daze states that "only 5 paper manufactures coupons will be accepted on 5 of the same BRAND product per household per day" and the roundys coupon policy from website says "Limit of 5 of the same coupon per household per day"does anyone know what one we should go off of cause i called one store and they said newspaper ad was right and called another store and they said website policy is right which one is correct anyone know or ran into this prob. HELP please!!

  • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Laura Wales

    Kandy – Others have mentioned the various discounts available. On occasion the Science Museum will also have special events where a certain number of kids get in free with one adult paid admission. I don't see any of those right now, but we try to highlight those wherever we can in the local deals posts.

  • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Laura Wales

    Angie – No, the limit is 5 of the same *coupon* per day, even if you're using it for different products.

    • Cassie

      Laura – Do you know the rule about internet printables vs. sunday ad coupons?

      Example:

      Can I use 5 internet printables for the Village Hearth bread for $0.55/1

      AND

      Can I use 5 Sunday ad coupons for the Village Hearth bread for $0.55/1

      I am not sure where this would fall in the rules, they are different coupons but for the same product with the same value. TIA!

      • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Carrie Rocha

        Cassie – No, it is 5 coupons for the same type of item. Not "5 identical coupons per item".

  • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Laura Wales

    Melissa – That doesn't seem right to me that the cashier rearranged the order of your coupons. You have two options for next time (in case this happens again):

    1) Only give the cashier the 5 coupons that you want doubled. Once those are doubled, give him/her the rest of your coupons.

    2) Bring your receipt to customer service and explain that you wanted the higher-value coupons to double first. They should give you the difference.

  • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Laura Wales

    Kris – It makes my day to see others with printable PYD lists while I'm out shopping. :)

  • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Laura Wales

    Mark and Cassie – In the past they've stated a limit of 1 transaction per person, but I don't see that limit stated in this week's ad. Hmmm.

    • Cassie

      Laura – That is the way I thought it was too; But it definitely worked for my friend when she used my card after I already went through and had everything double. I didn't know if maybe they changed something or what happened?

  • kimm

    Broker, I am looking for a long-term solution with a reputable company for an affordable price. Leave your email if you think you can help me. Thanks!

  • Cassie

    I'm pretty sure you need a Roundy's card to double coupons, but things could have change recently.

  • amy

    Do you have any credit cards, loans, mortgage currently? If so, work on paying those off and you will have a payment history. Avoid credit cards!! Do you have atleast a 3-6 month emergency fund in some type of savings account? If not, you will use the credit card to pay for your "emeregncy" and then you will not be paying off the card monthly. Cash is best. Start an emergency fund and use a cash based system. When you have cash, there is no need for a credit scores.

    • scat

      Actually, you do need a credit history for many reasons — applying for a job, obtaining insurance, buying a house. Anyone living solely by cash is going to be very limited and will need to keep extraordinary records of all cash income and outgo in case of a tax audit. Living "cash-only" is a big red flag to the IRS.

  • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Carrie Rocha

    Just one transaction per person per day on an Unlimited Doubles Day

  • Darrick

    I second the steamer. We did a bathroom without one and it was a pain. When it came time to do the bedroom I broke down and bought a $40 handheld one from Target. So much easier! You do still have to score the wallpaper or tear off the top layer but that's not too hard. If you have a few free hours you may as well try it.

  • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Carrie Rocha

    Dennis – Thanks for your enthusiasm, it's contagious! I'm a pretty down to earth person and I'm glad it comes across!

    After you read the book I'd appreciate hearing feedback good, bad or otherwise as it will help me improve as a communicator. I'd also greatly appreciate it if you'd leave a review on Amazon after you read it; even if you don't purchase it there you should be able to leave a review.

  • Jennifer

    So what does that mean? 5 coupons of one particular item? I agree it is confusing.

  • Rene S

    My sister's family has Liberty Mutual homeowner's insurance, and they recently had a house fire (contained to one room). I can see why they are rated lower–she has had a terrible time with them. They don't want to replace anything in her house, and to top it off, her agent doesn't answer his phone.

  • Jon

    Ha ha ha…and I have some swampland in Florida for sale.

    • scat

      Jon — I don't really think it was a hoax. The purpose for doing it is to check what is in the house and when people are home or not home. And of course, there is the everyday creep just looking for a cheap thrill.

      Sorry, no takers for your swampland here.

  • Terri

    If I brought someone with me, could I do 2 transactions?

  • sarah

    What would the point of bringing another person with you be? The rules for coupon usage on the rainbow website clearly states "Limit of 5 of the same coupon per household per day" So unless you are looking to circumvent those rules, it would not help to do two transactions.

  • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Carrie

    Any ideas on how I can sell a brand new, unopened iPod touch 5th gen (latest model)? One of this site's vendors gave it to me for Christmas and I don't want it. I've put it on Craigslist and eBay, but it hasn't sold. It retails for $399, but Amazon has this color on sale for $379. I want $300 for it (which is a steal compared to other ones on the market). Any other ideas? Any one here want to buy it?

    • AsUntoTheLord

      If it was me, I'd just keep putting it out there on Craigslist. Getting a good price for stuff that is worth it sometimes takes a few months of exposure. I'm not sure how you worded the ad, but sometimes I'm more apt to buy something if I think it is legit because there is a good story of why someone is selling it, especially electronics. You might also post it on your FB page (with pictures) since you probably get more exposure there than this thread…but maybe you did that already. :-)

      Anyother way to sell that stuff is to make a little flier and post it around, some people still don't trust or have access to buying stuff online or through Craigslist.

      Haha! Hey you could do a giveaway with it! ;-) Just kidding…I bet free stuff like that is a nice perk though! I have a friend who has a giveaway blog so she's always getting stuff in and sometimes stuff she doesn't want. I get to score some nice blessings that way too when I visit her.

      • Cassie

        I just sold an IPod that I received as a gift as well. I went through ebay, only because I think people feel it is more legit because they are protected with the ebay buyer protection, etc. if something goes wrong. I ended up getting about 80% of the retail price (before ebay and paypal fees). Good luck, there are people out there that want a deal…I would keep listing it until it sells for what you want. :)

    • Shelly

      Hi Carrie

      Those are getting so much harder to sell because the main target consumer group for years has overwhelmingly turned to iPhones and no longer use their iPods. My 17 year old son hasn't used an iPod in 2 years, and he's part of "the norm" now.

      However, have you pursued your Brazilian connections? We have sent some barely used electronics back with our daughter when she comes from Bolivia, and they often sell for more there than they do here. It's especially great when they're in the box and like new or are new. I was so surprised at the price she got me for the phone I had prior to my iPhone. Just an idea. Hope you can sell it! Love to see you get that extra money. You do so much for so many people….

  • Jen

    Anyone have good or bad experience with extending your car's warranty? Our Chrysler Town & Country van's warranty is almost up and with living in the harsh Minnesota weather I'm wondering if it is "worth it" to pay for an extension on the warranty?

    • carrie

      If you plan to keep it for awhile, then possibly. Do your research to find out exactly what it covers or doesn't cover. Do some more research on how Chrysler cars tend to do as they age, cost of ownership, etc. I loved having it on my last car when the warranty expired… but that was a nice warranty that was transferred over to me from the first/previous car owner and it only cost me a $100 transfer fee…

  • Stephanie

    So quick question — I LOVE the Finish detergent for my dishwasher and a few weeks ago there was a great coupon for $2.15 off. Anyone know the best place to redeem this? I want to get the best deal possible afterall. Thanks!!

    • carrie

      I buy it at CostCo when they have a coupon for it… there's a new on starting Jan 31. $3.25 off a large container. Not sure if it's a better deal than what you'd get with your coupon? Here's a link to the coupon book http://costcocouponbook.com/2013/01/costco-coupon…

  • kris t.

    Interesting – I bought the early Sunday today (saturday) at the CVS in Eagan and it said .50 on the bottom right corner of the front page. I even asked the checkout guy to doublecheck the price.

    So mine was .50 and there were 4 coupon inserts.

  • JoAnna

    Must depend on location–my hubby bought the Early Sunday at Kwik Trip in Chaska and it was $1.00 (all 4 inserts including a Purina one page insert with Target coupons).

  • carrie

    Places like TJMaxx have them sometimes…

  • T

    Are there free newspapers in twin cities with coupon inserts besides twin cities values with SS insert delivered on Saturdays? I keep reading about others getting coupons in free papers ahead of time. A lot of them seem to be in DC area.

  • Betsy

    I believe you have to have multiple COMPUTERS to print multiples coupons, the number of printers you have is irrelevant. :)

  • Betsy

    5 coupons of one item in one day. You, for example, can not buy 10 tubs of ice cream with ten coupons, you would only be able to use five of those coupons. The reason for this is that they can not anticipate how many people will take 50 off the shelves and they want everyone to be able to benefit from and enjoy double coupon days. It feels a bit unfair, especially if you clip from multiple sources, but it's no fun to have worked so hard only to get there an hour after the store opens only to find cleared out shelves. Spreading the wealth makes for happy couponers everywhere! :)

  • Betsy

    CVS, hands down. I can almost always get them for $1- $1.50 each when matched with their sale and Extra Care Bucks. I LOVE CVS!

  • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Laura Wales

    Sarah – Others have mentioned bringing someone else with you to split up the list to save time.

  • Amber Boyce-Fisk

    How much memory is it? That sounds like a steal!

    • JoAnna

      64 gb

  • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Carrie Rocha

    I listed it on eBay now so I may be committed to selling it there.

  • http://www.pocketyourdollars.com Carrie Rocha

    PS – It IS a steal!

  • Stephanie

    I wouldn't recommend buying a warranty extension usually those only cover the drive train and you really need to read the fine print on what your buying usually there are a lot of rules you need to follow. Like only bringing the vehicle into a shop to have your oil changed or any type of work done under the hood, can't do anything yourself.

  • mary

    also, keep an eye out on craigslist – i thought I saw an ad for P90X items at some point

  • mary

    Thank you so much for this tip, Emily! I went today with my mom and they still had a large selection of Christmas cards, at 90% plus off! I got 4 boxes ranging from .30-.96 each!! Ha – I think I need to go back :) Also a 2013 planner that was marked at 9.99, got it for .74! my favorite purchase ever! Thanks for sharing!!

  • Jeffery

    It does happen, here a report that ran on NBC's Today Show:
    http://video.today.msnbc.msn.com/today/50572646#5…