The phrase “If something seems too good to be true, it probably is” doesn’t always apply to an Extreme Couponer.
Coupons make it easy for the everyday couponer to get something for nothing. If you take your couponing to the extreme level you can stock every nook and cranny of your home with things you have gotten for free. To most that would seem too good to be true. But if you are in it to win it then you know Shopping for Free really is true and it can be done. However even the most experienced couponer will occasionally come across a coupon that will leave them asking “Is this coupon too good to be true?”.
How can you tell the difference between a real and a fake coupon?
The first thing to look at is the source. Where did the coupon come from? If you printed it yourself directly from a reputable site like Coupons.com, Redplum or Smartsource then you have nothing to worry about. All the coupons they offer are legit. If you are obtaining the coupon from a non-sourced site like a trading group, Instagram, Ebay or website that doesn’t post a direct link to the coupon you will want to be leery and ask yourself if the coupon itself seems to good to be true.
If you are looking at a printable coupon with an exceptionally high value then chances are it is counterfeit. Look at this Axe $10.00/1 printable coupon for example;
photo credit/ source
$10.00 off a product that doesn’t even have a shelf value that high should set off some red flags. This coupon is a Fake! Anytime you encounter a coupon that has a value higher than the shelf price of the product you should be leary of the coupon.
photo credit/ source
Free product coupons are also frequently counterfeited in the coupon underground. If you obtain a coupon for a free product that didn’t come directly from the source be leary.
Here is what to look for;
Does the coupon look reproduced/ photocopied. Often times you will be able to get your hands on FREE Coke coupons. The real coupons from Coca Cola will be printed on quality paper and likely have a holithrogram printed on them. If you see a free product coupon from a large company such as Coca Cola or P&G that is printed on white copy paper, chances are you are looking at a counterfeit coupon.
For a list of counterfeit coupons that are currently in the coupon community head over to the Coupon Information Center.
Be aware that this list contains some valid coupons that have been photocopied. If you have the real deal don’t be alarmed. Just read the descriptions and they will tell you if the coupon was never created or if it was reproduced. The original coupons will still be valid, the reproductions are not.
For more coupon tips be sure to check out: How to Shop for Free; Shopping Secrets for Smart Women who Love to get Something for Nothing!
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