Have you decided that you want to start using coupons, but you have absolutely no idea where to start? Are you using a coupon organization system that you feel so-so about and want some other ideas? Look no further than the Filing System paired with a purse sized Accordion File.
When I first started using coupons on a regular basis three years ago I tried the binder system and quickly found that it is not for me. I like to go in with my list/coupons, get what I need, and get out of the store. If I miss a deal because I am not lugging around a heavy coupon binder….well, I miss a deal. After all these years I have realized that missing a deal is not the end of the world because I probably didn’t need it anyway. If it wasn’t on my list chances are that it is not truly a *need.*
I keep my coupons in a filing cabinet. They are safely tucked away. Each week I get my coupon inserts and put them in a file folder in the filing cabinet. I have the newest coupons in the front and the oldest coupons in the back. Every few weeks I go through the old inserts and purge expired coupons which frees up more room in the filing cabinet.
I used to take apart each insert, staple like coupons together, and cut every coupon. I do not do that anymore though. After a bout of laziness I became so far behind that there was no catching up. I learned that I spend about the same amount of time clipping what I need each week as I did cutting each coupon. As an added benefit, I annoy my husband a million times less without the whacking sound of the stapler.
That’s great for coupon inserts, but what about ALL the other coupons? Good question! Let me open the top drawer of my filing cabinet.
The top drawer of my filing cabinet holds 13 folders for coupons based on expiration date. I have a folder for each month of the year as well as one for coupons that do not expire. When I come home from a shopping trip with extra coupon (ones I did not use or tear pad coupons) I file them according to when they expire. I found it was much easier to keep track of coupons this way since every coupon database out there lists coupon expiration dates.
After the monthly folders I have a plethora of other folders that include: Rebates, Local, Rainchecks, Parade, Publix Booklets, All You, Store Cards, and CVS/Walgreens/RA, Mystery shopping
It has taken me three years to develop this system. Coupon organization preferences are so very unique that some people love their binders while other people love their filing cabinets. Of course, there are some coupons I carry at all times. For those few precious coupons I use an accordion file that tucks perfectly into my regular sized purse.
What you are about to see is a little embarrassing. 😛 My everyday coupon holder is old and could be replaced. But I am a true couponer. I am going to use this thing until it falls apart!! I have tried many different accordion holders before and none compare to this one from Publix. My mother-in-law was so impressed by it (when it was new of course) that she bought one too!
Yes, it is held together with a rubber band and has a sticker of Malificient from a visit to the pediatrician. But by golly, it works!
Inside I have the following categories: Possible Deals, CVS, Wags, Rite Aid, Target, Walmart, Kroger, Publix, Everyday Carry, Diapers/Wipes, Other Baby, and FREE!
My favorite category is FREES, of course! I keep all my coupons tucked away safely in my coupon organizer.
Coupon organization is a personal thing. Experiment and find what works for you!
We would love to hear how you stay organized. Leave a comment with your current method.
Leandrea is a married mom of two girls, ages 13 and 12, living in Atlanta, GA. She is passionate about helping people save money one coupon at a time. Read more
I can’t make myself use a binder either. My method is pretty similar to yours but instead of a file cabinet, I have a large accordian file that I use to file my inserts by date. Coupons I think or know I will use I carry with me in a small coupon organizer just like yours! I also have an envelope for each store and a seperate smaller organizer for the health food store/allergy friendly groceries.
I’m a binder gal and do well with it! But I think your method looks great too!