IP - Internet Printable Coupons

MoneySavingMadness posted this amazing article. READ and PRINT

Do you have trouble redeeming internet printed coupons?  It seems that some stores are just not educated on the validity of these types of coupons or have a fear that they won't get their money. 

The fact is, companies are switching to internet printed coupons more and more.  While stores do not have to accept internet coupons, they are certainly missing out on sales by refusing them.  I personally avoid stores that don't take internet coupons!

Here are a few facts about internet coupons:

• Internet coupons do not have to be printed in color unless "color coupons only" is stated on the coupon. 
• Most internet printed "bricks" or "smartsource" style coupons have a unique16 digit dot scan bar code (coupons.com) under the expiration date or 10 digit pin numbers (smartsource.com).  No two coupons can have the same 10 or 16-digit number--if they do, they should be considered copies.
• Bricks technology can locate people who fraudulently copy coupons and use them repeatedly to cheat the system.  In bigger cases of fraud, abusers can be prosecuted.  NEVER COPY INTERNET COUPONS!  Not only is it fraud, it causes stores to lose money and quit taking internet coupons.
• You can verify your internet printed coupons at HERE to make sure they are legitimate coupons.
• Never trade your printed coupons with unknown persons.  They could copy the coupon and YOU can be held responsible!

If you have trouble with stores that are concerned with your coupons being copied, try to educate them on how to detect copies by looking at the 10 or 16 digit codes.  If you have stores that won't accept intenet printed coupons at all, you might want to try printing THIS RETAILER LETTER and presenting it to a store manager.  You can also use the tips found HERE.

I have never had trouble redeeming internet coupons in black and white.  I do occassionally have a grouchy cashier that asks if they are copied and I then go into my spiel about how to detect coupon fraud.  It works great and they get a better knowledge of internet coupons for the next shopper.