What's a Catalina?

Catalina Coupons are coupons that print out of the Catalina machine at participating stores. (We see them at Kroger,Target, and Walgreens.)These machine are just like the one pictured above and are usually located next to the register. Pay attention to see whether the catalinas say "Manufacturer" Coupon or "store" coupon. Just because it has a Kroger or Target logo does NOT mean you have to use it at those stores! As long as the catalina says "manufacturer coupon" you can you use it at ANY store!

Catalinas usually provide 3 different types of print outs. 1 - a product coupon

 2 - information about a catalina deal
 
3 - $ off your next order/purchase. (at Walgreens it is called a Register Reward)

Catalina Deals are deals that require a certain dollar amount or quantity of products to be purchased. Once you have met the qualifications, a catalina will print for a certain amount off your next purchase. Usually this purchase can be made for anything in the store, however, some promotions require they be used toward a specific brand or product.

What if a Catalina Does Not Print?
You need to either call or email Catalina Marketing. They have a great customer service department and can see your receipt once you give them the information on it. If you, in fact, have meet the requirements, they will mail you the catalina.
Catalina Marketing contact information is as follows:
Phone: 1-888-8COUPON or 1-888-826-8766

Email: ncsc@catalinamarketing.com

When should I buy coupons?

Guest Post by Emily @ Cuttin' Corners:

"Have you ever read about an incredible upcoming deal only to be severely disappointed when you realize that coupon is not in your binder? Or perhaps you've just started couponing and your stash is not quite as large as you'd like. Utilizing a clipping service is a great way to resolve this issue. In the event that there are moneymaking scenarios, freebies, or products that are at their rock-bottom prices and I do not have an adequate amount of coupons, I turn to a clipping service."

Keep in mind the following pointers when using clipping services.

• Begin reading about upcoming sales as early as possible. The earlier you can order, the more likely you are to get in on the deal.
• If you are using eBay, sort your search results for the "Buy It Now" items. This cuts down on bidding time and ensure that your coupons get in the mail in a decent amount of time.
• There are lots of great coupons available on eBay; however, be aware that some people's prices are way too high (see next bullet).
• Consider how much you are saving. Aim to pay about 10% of the coupons value. For example, if I need a $4/1 coupon, I expect to pay about $0.40 (sometimes less).
• NEVER buy Internet printable coupons. You don't have a way of knowing if these are photocopied.
• Read for important information such as expiration dates and whether or not the coupon allows doubling.
• Order a reasonable amount to hold you over but don't go crazy. Recognize the difference between greed and need.

Clipping Services

eBay

The Q Hunter

The Coupon Master

The Coupon Clippers 

Coupons &Things by Dede

WeClipUSave

Emily is a proud wife and stay-at-home mommy who has been couponing for nearly five years. She is the creator of Cuttin' Corners and loves to share her passion for saving money while teaching coupon workshops in the evenings.