Couponing 101: Overage

This is my receipt from my Publix shopping trip this week.  I spent $4.41 ($0.18 before tax) and saved $106.47.   This purchase included 2 packs of pull ups, a pack of diapers and two Sunday newspapers.

I was talking with a friend of mine earlier this week who is interested in learning how to use coupons.  I shared with her that I spent $0.18 this week at Publix.  She asked how?  I shared:  with overage.

"Overage" means the value of the coupon(s) you are using are worth more than the item cost.  Some stores adjust the value of the coupon down and just give you the item free, others (like Publix) apply that extra to the rest of your purchase.  Why?  Because they are reimbursed the full value of the coupon so they choose to give that money to you.  (Wal-Mart will even give you cash back!)

I've decided to keep a running list here on my blog of all the current items at Publix that will give you overage (I'm not going to post any other stores on a regular basis unless there are enough people that want me to).  My definition of overage includes calculating sales tax.  For example, if an item is $0.99 and you have a $1/1 coupon, yes that item is "free."  However, you are actually paying $1.07 for that item because of 8% sales tax.  So, in reality, it's not "free."  It's $0.08.  While it's great that you got a freebie, it won't help pay for the rest of your purchases.

If anyone comes across a coupon(s) that gives overage please let me know!!