QOTW: What are the "rules" to couponing? 4/2/12

People start out couponing breaking all the rules, some of which are:

• Taking newspaper inserts out of papers: whether it is taking inserts out of Newspaper stands, or out of your neighbors papers, it is not “taking” it is “stealing”!
• Trying to use two manufacturer’s coupons on one product. Even if they are for different amounts, you can never do this!
• Trying to use a manufacturer’s coupon on the wrong product. We call this “Pulling a J’aime” and is highly unethical, maybe even illegal…
• Trying to use store coupons at stores that don’t accept competitor coupons.
• One of the first rules a couponer learns is that photocopying ANY coupon is illegal and is punishable by fines and imprisonment.
• Using coupons correctly helps ensure future coupon acceptance, so we always want be honest in our couponing!
• Bar Code Decoding. It constitutes coupon fraud and is ILLEGAL. Decoders are shoppers who sneak legitimate coupons past their cashiers when using them for products for which the coupon is obviously not intended. Bar code decoders try to circumvent the computerized cash registers by decoding 12 digit UPC barcodes, usually using a high value coupon on a smaller or inexpensive product from the same brand but which is NOT listed on the coupon, thus getting it for free or with overage.Bar code decoding is completely dishonest and constitutes stealing from the store since the store must provide proof of the correct purchases to the manufacturer to get reimbursed
• Don't hold up the line if your going to make 10 transactions.
• Don't clear a shelf. Leave some for me ;)
• Make friends with your cashier, be kind, and use your manners.
• Don't take peelies off products your not purchasing