Finding Deals on a Teacher's Salary

As teachers we all know that living on a teacher's salary can be hard. That's why I'm constantly looking for deals, discounts, sales and coupons. Aside from saving money, I've always gotten sort of a rush when I save money when shopping. As back to school time rolls around, teachers begin digging into our own pockets to get the supplies we need sometimes. It can really burn a hole in your wallet! So I decided to post about some ways you can begin saving while you're out there preparing for your return to school this fall.

Do you guys remember the show about crazy couponers who can by an entire stockpile of groceries for like pennies? I loved watching Extreme Couponing and always wanted to be one of those crazy people who could pull it off. I've never been as good as that, but I am always willing to dig a little deeper to get a good deal. You have to keep in mind that sometimes you have to take a little bit of time to find some good deals, but I promise, it'll be worth it! Here are a few tips to help you start saving.

Tip #1: Follow an account that hunts the latest deals. 

My first dip into couponing was finding the blog Coupon Pro Blog. I LOVE THIS BLOG! They always have the latest freebies on just about everything you can think of: food, coupons, gift cards, clothes, pictures, samples, movies, giveaways and even flights (They just posted about a deal from Southwest that's running until July 21st so if you need a flight go look it up now!). I follow them on instagram (follow here) since that is the only form of social medial I have. Anytime I'm looking at my feed and I see a deal that I like, I click their link in the bio and go straight there. This week alone, I've scored free $10 on Amazon since I'm a prime user and signed up for audible for 3 months, $9 to use at the concession stand at the movies, plus a free download of the Jason Bourne movie. All while sitting on my couch looking at my phone! This sight also lets you sign up for text alerts so you NEVER miss out on a deal or freebie. I know there are many other sites like this so if this one doesn't work for you, all you have to do is a quick Google search to find one you like.

Tip #2: Subscribe to Email Lists

My inbox is always full of emails from different places I've subscribe to. I don't use them all always, but if I ever need a coupon or need to find a sales that's the easiest way to go. I subscribe to stores and restaurants that I like or visit often. For example, my favorite burger place, Fuddruckers, sends coupons to email subscribers about once a week and you even get a coupon on your birthday for a free meal! It's the best to celebrate your birthday and score a freebie. Other example of places I'm subscribed to are Target, Walmart, Children's Place, JC Penny, Michael's, Bath and Body Works, ELF, Sephora, Payless Show Source, HEB, Souper Salads, Dollar General, Staples, and Office Max just to name a few. So go find a store or restaurant you like or visit frequently and sign up for their email list.

Tip #3: Apps

I have several apps that I use that help me find deals or score coupons. The first app I even downloaded was Retail Me Not. This app lets you search for stores or restaurants and will provide you will in-store or online coupons you can use. If you register for an account, you can even favorite stores or restaurants so that you can find the savings right away. If I'm ever out shopping, I've search for the store to see if there's anything I can use before I get in line to pay. So easy plus the app is free!

I live in a small town where there are only two grocery stores to buy from: Walmart and HEB (It's a Texas thing). I have apps for both. Walmart I like because of the Savings Catcher feature. All you do, after creating an account, click on Savings Catcher in the app, scan the QR code at the bottom of your receipt and it will upload your receipt. Then in a few days they will scan stores in your surrounding area for a cheaper price. If they find a better deal, they give you money back. You can let the money accumulate and once you want to use it, you can get check it out in the form of a gift car. I love this because it takes the work out if it for you.

 

On the HEB app, I can search for digital coupons before I head out to grocery shop and apply them to purchase in store or even online. I like this app because I can make my grocery list right in the app. If I have the barcode of the item I want to add on my list, I can just scan it, and it'll add it right in my list. Plus I can even refill medicines just by scanning the barcode and pick up when I'm done grocery shopping.

Other apps that I have on my phone are Michael's, Hobby Lobby, Dollar General, Cartwheel (for Target) for things that I don't find in the Target Dollar Spot, and Starbucks. Michael's and Starbucks have rewards programs for customers so you can earn more stuff while you purchase.

Tip# 4: Teacher Discounts

Places like Michael's, Staples, and Office Max have teacher discounts or rewards programs. Many of these places will let you use your teacher discount ON TOP of coupons so you're saving even more! And if you're ever in doubt if a place gives discounts for teachers, just ask! The worst they can say is no, and sometimes if you're lucky, you will find a manager who will give you a discount anyway. 

Another place to find discounts is through your teacher organization. I am a member of ATPE and one of the benefits is our discounts. Member are able to get savings on pet insurance, car rentals, online shopping, different types of insurances, Costco membership, automotive services, credit cards, theme park admissions, flowers, hotel accommodations, office supplies, prescriptions, real estate/mortgage services, and even vacations and cruises. Contact your teacher organization rep to find about teacher discounts you organization may offer.

I hope you've been able to find something that can help you on your hunt for savings during back-to-school time. And if you know anymore money saving tips or suggests, feel free to add a comment!