Tips for clipping coupons online
Consumers need to be cautious when using online. A tried and true way to save money in a tough economy is clipping coupons. Because of the Internet, however, a savvy consumer no longer has to wield a pair of scissors in order to reap rewards.
The popularity of online coupons is on the rise and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) has advice for consumers on how to identify a deal while avoiding deceptive offers.
The number of American adults using online coupons rose by 39 percent to 36 million between 2005 and 2008, according to a survey conducted by Simmons/ Experian Research and Coupons, Inc. The survey also found that online users account for nearly one-quarter of the total 148 million consumers who use coupons.
"We're all looking for ways to save money and redeeming online coupons is growing in popularity as a result," said Steve Cox, BBB spokesperson. "Some coupons, however, are not as great a deal as they may appear and consumers should use caution when clicking on coupons online."
The BBB is offering some helpful advice on redeeming online coupons:
• Check to see if the coupon is being offered directly by the store or by a third-party, such as a partner or affiliate. If it is via a third party, they might ask for additional info or require that the consumer sign up for additional services to redeem the coupon. If so, BBB recommends using extreme caution before divulging any personal information. Consumers can check out the company at www.bbb.org.
• Coupon clickers should be wary of pop-up ad coupon offers that require you to immediately click to redeem. Clicking on the ad may automatically sign the consumer up for services they were not interested in receiving, causing them to be billed monthly.
• Carefully read the terms and conditions for the use of a coupon, check for the expiration date, limitations of use and whether it is an online coupon good for only online purchases.
•. Contact the store where you wish to use the coupon directly to find out whether the coupon is being honored or not.
• Be cautious if the coupon requires that the consumer call the company to redeem the value of the coupon, and/or has any requirement to give personal information.
• Don't fall for phony coupons via e-mail. Many fake coupons have been making the rounds via email, and just because it may come from a friend or family member, don't assume the coupon is legitimate.
For more information visit www.bbb.org.
