Free Coffee for a Year- an Experiment

I decided in December of last year that I'd like to try a new experiment when it comes to free stuff.  I decided to try to get free coffee for the entire year, whether through samples, coupons, or rebates.  So far, I've contacted 8'Oclock Coffee and got two bags of coffee free.  Since I'm the only one who drinks coffee here, I still have a bag and a half left. (Learn How to Contact Companies for Coupons) I also got some samples from a recent hotel stay.

Just today, I was able to sign up early for a Starbucks BzzAgent campaign.  I'm anticipating either a free bag of coffee outright, or a coupon for a free bag.  So, at the start of March, total money spent on coffee the entire year: $0.  I would guess, before having the Starbucks coffee, that I have enough coffee to last at least until April.


Another key to saving money on coffee which I do nearly every time I make a pot, I add some dried, ground dandelion root.  Since I have issues with kidneys/liver, the dandelion root really helps.  Adding a little to the coffee grounds helps to get rid of dark circles around the eyes and relieve menstrual cramps.  I know I sure have felt a difference.  I picked the dandelion root and roasted it myself, so I spent no money on it.

Do your taxes for FREE!

Do your taxes FREE this year with Free Tax USA.  It's quick, it's easy, and best of all, it's free for your Federal return. 

Free Preparation
Free IRS e-file
Free Printing
Free Customer Support

State tax prep costs $9.95.  That's the cheapest you'll find on the internet!  Check out Free Tax USA and leave a comment to tell me what you think.

Free Coupons

Last week I started another round of contacting companies for coupons. So far I haven't had much luck. My strategy is simple: I'm not too brand-specific, so I'll ask different brands for the same product. For example, I just asked Gold Medal brand for flour. If the company does not send a coupon, I ask a different company. Gold Medal did replied to my query saying they do not send out free coupons. So I asked Pillsbury, hoping to have better luck. I aim for 5 coupons a week, but I usually end up only asking for 3. This time I received coupons for Jif Peanut Butter ($0.35 off) and Cottonelle Toilet Paper ($1 off). I say I haven't had much luck because I seem to remember not too long ago companies giving out two and three free product coupons at a time. Must be a sign of the week economy, I figure. Wish me better luck this week! Of coarse, I'll be reporting my results.

Save Money on Food

It's easy to save money on food if you know how. It becomes second nature. And it's fun!

Saving money on groceries may be as simple as matching up sales and coupons. I do this all the time and routinely come home with free items. Especially if you have a store in your area that has a double coupon day, it may be worth going on that day. Remember, though, if you end up spending more than you planned in order to reach the minimum purchase requirement to get the coupons doubled (or tripled) it may not be worth it. If you spend $10 more than you planned in order to get $5 more in coupons, you're still not coming out ahead.

Planning ahead is essential in order to save money on food. Make a budget for your food. Make a grocery list. Organize your coupons.

This post is an introduction to the wonderful world of grocery shopping. More tips and tricks will follow.