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Discount Coupon Books

While many consumers can acquire abundant coupon savings through newspaper ads and mailings, some people are willing to pay money to save money. Discount books, such as Entertainment '96, contain 2-for-1 or up to 50% off coupons for numerous restaurants, fast food chains, theaters, sporting events, hotels, airlines, and other retail establishments. The books theoretically can save you hundreds of dollars over the course of a year.

Coupon books are typically designed, developed and sold by commercial marketing companies. The companies encourage businesses in the area to participate by offering the opportunity to advertise and attract new customers. Companies may market the books through schools or other nonprofit groups, who receive a portion of the profits in exchange.

Coupon books can be true money savers, but their value depends on how you use them. The following tips can help with your purchasing decision:

• If you are unsure about the coupon promoter, call the BBB for a report on the company.
• Calculate the actual cost of the book, including shipping and handling fees, and determine how many coupons you would have to use to recoup the cost.
• Consider your own habits and lifestyle. Does the book offer products and services you plan to buy anyway or are interested in trying? Or will it persuade you to spend money on an item you would not typically purchase?
• Consider the type of discounts offered. Remember that 2-for-1 deals are not necessarily the equivalent of a 50% discount. If the coupon book contains mostly 2-for-1 savings, take account of whether you would actually need or want two products or meals.
• Use coupons at your earliest possible convenience. Participating merchants may go out of business before the coupon expires. Others may choose to withdraw from the program.
• Read the fine print. Some coupons may restrict the days or hours when they may be used or the locations where they are accepted. In addition, some coupons may not be applied in combination with other discounts, such as daily specials.
• Exchange coupons with friends or other families. Their discards may add to your savings.

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