Happy Friday: Couponing Millionaire
Sent from a reader who has asked to remain anonymous:
I’ve debated whether or not to send you this picture as it may be controversial to your site, but worth a discussion. I’m a couponing millionaire!!! Something that I’m proud of because I come from a working class family, worked my way through college and married one amazing man, a person with value and work ethic that grew up poor and worked himself through college as well. This picture shows you a statement of the value of our savings and investments, $1.8 million – placed upon a stack of my coupons. (The statement is a screen shot from mint.com).
We earned our money through conservative saving principles, hard work and some lucrative stock options. We’ve never forgotten our values along the way. This money is our future, the future of our kids and charitable causes that we deem worthy. I follow your site religiously and believe that every dollar I save is money towards my philanthropic goal. I’m proud to say my kids don’t know we have money, and instead know that we shop off the clearance rack with coupons in hand.
Please share my story and my hope that your readers would all continue their frugal lifestyle no matter what their situation is; it’s a lesson in life and a hope for our future.
HAPPY FRIDAY! 😀
Do you have a funny, “Hip”, or unique photo to share?! Email us at happyfriday@hip2save(dot)com. Every Friday, I will post one photo, submitted by you and/or another Hip2Save reader, that gives us a glimpse into your frugal lifestyle or simply makes us smile. If your photo is published on Hip2Save, we’ll email you a $10 Amazon e-card!
** Check out all the previous Happy Friday pictures here.
I find this incredibly inspirational. I really enjoy hearing about others who live below or at least within their means- it helps keep me on track. This is just wonderful- AND this person donated their $10 to a stranger. Just great all around.
We all come from different walks of life. I feel inspired when I hear about all the different stories from people on this site. The Happy Friday posts are my favorite!
I think that this is amazing! Very inspiring for sure!! Thank you for sharing!!!
I LOVE that your kids don’t know! I think too many children grow up without understanding the value of money. I’ve also heard that spoiling your children financially can lead to marriage strife when they get married and have to lower their standard of living to survive as a young couple. I truly believe it!
I believe it too.
When I was growing up, my parents were very frugal, but also had considerable savings. We had a nice house, but they were conservative with just about everything else. They did not buy us cars and we had to pay our own insurance. A friend once commented to me, “I know your family has a lot more money than mine, but you grew up like me because they won’t give you any of it.” I thought this statement was kind of hilarious, and I took it as a compliment. I never thought my parents were withholding anything from me, even though I did encounter the occasional person who thought that because my parents had money that I should have an allowance, not have to work, etc. The result is that I’m just as frugal as they were, and it’s likely that my kids won’t ever know that we are much better off than what it looks like to others.
I love this, too! I blog about Living Simply in Order to Give and find it such a great motivation for living below our means. Please thank her for sharing!!
AMAZING!! This person should be proud of what they have accomplished and what sites like yours allow average people to do if they are willing to work hard for it!
There’s a lot of research to show that millionaires’ spouses need to be frugal and financially savvy in order to maintain that status or to get there!
My son knows mama is a coupon freak!! He knows that money is not something that we can take for granted and we need to save any way that we can. He is only five but he knows when I say no it is not because I do not want to get him something but it is too much money… and maybe it will go on sale or I will have a coupon and get it another time. One time, I told him I had to go to the bank he said “Why? Do you have a coupon for the bank?” Lol. And about a month ago he told me I want to be an architect when I grow up. They make lots of money. But don’t worry mom I am going to use coupons so I can save it.” 🙂
Love your son’s comment at the end! Priceless!!
Love that!
awwwwww so cute 🙂
Love love love that!
Anonymous here (I sent this to Collin). I love this. Thanks for sharing Maha. I think one of my toddler’s first words was “coupon”!
No thank you. I simply wanted to make people smile… but your story is a true inspiration. I really feel that no matter how much money one has… or doesn’t have… you have to make the best of it. I am so thankful to this site and people like you who truly know the meaning of saving. It is not just the savings to brag about, but the real differences that we all are making in our lives for our families (and our budgets). Again, thanks so much! Keep the savings up! God bless you and your family 🙂
Thank you so much to the person who wrote this story. Very inspirational!
Love it! Great Friday moment!
I would love to learn more about stocks options.
I agree… They seem so uncertain and scary to me! I just don’t understand them I guess
THAT could only be controversial if someone is jealous! 🙂 I’m so happy for anyone who succeeds. CONGRATULATIONS are in order! I’m glad to know there are people out there like you who still see the value of a dollar. Thank you for submitting your story and picture!!
i’m completely jealous:) but still very happy and proud of them too:)
I absolutely agree! No controversy that I can see.
Thank you, Anonymous, for taking the time to share your inspiring story with us. I think it’s fabulous that you and your hubby have lived below your means and set financial goals to build wealth so that you can share with others.
I also see great wisdom in training your kids to live frugally. The sacrifices that you’ve made have surely saved them from a lot of heartache in the future, and their contentment is so much more valuable than material things.
Thanks again for sharing, & best wishes to you and your family!
It’s not controversial necessarily, but even if I saved every penny we earned, with two college degrees, it would take us 20 years to even have a million dollars. We both went into respectable but not lucrative fields – i.e teaching and now SAHM. SO…I guess some people would think you still have to have lots of money to even save that kind of money. It doesn’t happen with a 40k income.
I love this!! Thanks for the inspiration! 🙂
great story! Thank You
This is the first time I have seen a string of comments on this site that are all positive! Thank you for sharing very very inspiring!
And the fact that you know the value of a dollar is one of the reasons you and your family have made the millionair club~ Congrats!!!
Can someone tell me a little about Mint.com….What a great story…
Mint is simply a site that compiles all of your checking accounts, credit cards, home loans, etc to give you a concise view of where you are spending your money, what you owe, etc. It’s a very useful tool, and highly recommended by Susie Orman as well as Clarke Howard, who are leaders int he financial adise field. I am a regular user, and love it.
It’s currently owned by Quicken, so it’s reputable as well. 🙂 I’ve been using it for over a year now.
Over at Mint you just link your bank account and all your spending is transferred using charts for better spending view.
As long as your bank is on the list, which ours sadly isn’t yet, so I stick to my Quicken software which I love (but I keep checking to see if Mint updates in hope).
Mint is a fantastic website that organizes all your assets and debts. You can budget, see spending trends, know your approximate net worth on any given day, and easily access tax information for preparing your return. We HIGHLY recommend it. And, it is free!
Marcie, Ella & Erin , Thank you so much for the information….:)
Way to go, anonymous! What a great story.
Great post for many reasons. Gives those of us who aren’t there yet something to shoot for! Also nice that your children aren’t aware of your situation and that you are teaching them to save where they can. Good Job!
Love it! My husband and I are both similar in the fact that we have worked our way to where we are. We’ve had 3 kids while going through medical school. I hope to do the same once he’s done and we no longer HAVE to shop with coupons – I love the lifestyle that it has allowed us during a few tight years.
Please do not take this in an offensive fashion but I do have to say that I disagree with this. ( that does not mean that I am judging you as a person) I truly think couponing is a good thing for low income families. But if you have the money, then why not pay full price? With the economy supposedly still downhill, we should pay full price to try and boost it. The value of a dollar is however something to be never forgotten so I am very glad to read that you have taught your kids to not spend for the sake of spending. I understand that nearly all of you will disagree with me but I think that if you have the means to pay full price then do so. Theres no reason to “cheat” the manufacturer (sp)
Couponing isn’t just for low income families. There is no unwritten rule that says if you make more than a certain amount of money, you are obligated to pay full price. Good for her & her husband.
Samantha, I understand, I was just saying my opinion. I know the majority disagrees.
I started to read this thinking you were joking! It took her being a wise and smart shopper to get to where they are now. SO why would they have to be punished by saying they should have to pay full price. I bet she has done without things to get to where she is now. Just my two cents!
I know Mallory wasn’t meaning to be offensive, but this is EXACTLY what I was thinking when I read her post.
I respectfully disagree. Cheating would be breaking the rules given by the manufacturer, such as using fake coupons, outdated coupons, or coupons for the wrong products. Coupons are a way for manufacturers to advertise, entice, and acquire customers. They have research on “full price” customers and “coupon customers”, and base their prices on those statistics. Coupons are another way to advertise, just like commercials and billboards, except with coupons the manufacture gets real money back on their advertisement. Proctor & Gamble would not be sending out coupons if their research did not prove it was a money maker. Thus, coupons are not for any particular economic class, but rather, for a financially conservative person that wants to ensure their money goes further and that they are personally responsible and prepared for the “rainy days” of life.
Well said, Mandy
I don’t think it’s fair to call couponing “cheating” the manufacturer. Coupons are put out by manufacturers so people use them. They put them out there so people will buy their products instead of competitor products. To say people shouldn’t use coupons because they have money is like telling people with money to only shop at Byerly’s and not to shop at Target because they can afford it. It’s not like manufacturers put out coupons so low income families can afford them. They’re not trying to “help” people and therefor put out coupons. Those companies that make everyday products that people have to buy I bet are the ones doing better in this economy. Why not save your dollars and put them somewhere that will really benefit from extra money being spent in- the ones that are hurting in this economy (car sales, housing, etc.).
Well said Laura! If a company doesn’t want you to use a coupon, then they shouldn’t create it–it is by no means “cheating” anything to use the coupon they made for you to use. And whoa, couponing is not just for poor people. If you are wealthy, you can’t expect to stay that way by being frivolous, and overpaying when you don’t have to could be considered as such. If she has the means and the know-how, then by all means, go for it! I wouldn’t give up my deal hunting if my bank account was stacked with a few more zeroes, that’s for sure. Very inspiring story! I need to join Mint now….
Totally agree!! How is using coupons cheating? I thought that manufacturer’s put them out to entice us to buy.
This is exactly true, the manufactures print coupons to help sell their items and persuade you to buy that brand. I too, have worked extremely hard to have a comfortable life. In my opinion a penny saved is a penny earned. Words to live by. Who would or should pay full price if you put the effort forth to find a deal?….. Have we learned nothing from using coupons??
I use coupons, but also look for other ways to save. Today I got 6 Hormel Turkey Bacons in the mark down section at Tom Thumb for $1 each!!! No coupons necessary. But I use coupons every chance I get. They are there, why not use them?!!!
I didn’t realize using a coupon was cheating the manufacturer. After all, the manufacturer is the one who releases the coupons. From what was written, it appears that through couponing, living a frugal lifestyle and good, smart investments, they have a worth of 1.8 million. You can be worth 1.8 million and only have a few hundred in the bank.
This country is full of folks who do not carefully spend their hard earned dollars, buying frivolously anything they so choose. The fact is that there are only a handful of people who have figured out how to save money, spend carefully and invest wisely. I hope this is a good example to everyone how we all can achieve financial stability and happiness.
I did not know another word to use which is why cheat is like this, “Cheat”. Again, I am stating my opinion, I am not attempting to be rude to put down anyone.
If anyone is “cheating” anyone, it’s the manufacturers cheating the consumers by charging the ridiculous prices they do for products that don’t cost that much (to produce, etc) and a majority of which we don’t really “need”–but we buy it anyway. ; )
“like”
heather you are so right on. the mark ups on household and grocery items are nauseating
Yes!! You nailed it.
I completely disagree with you. First of all, you aren’t cheating the manufacturer. They put out coupons so you will try their product and hopefully like it. I have tried many products that I continue to buy even when I don’t have a coupon because they are quality products. My husband makes a great salary and most of our friends think I am crazy to use coupons. I save about $120 per month from coupons. That money goes directly into savings for our children’s educaton. A penny saved is a penny earned no matter how much money you have coming in. I think the mindset of I make enough money so I can pay full price is why people end up getting into debt. You should respect your money no matter how much or how little you have coming in.
I don’t feel it’s cheating the manufacturer. They don’t put the deals out there for charitable reasons. In fact, they would probably jump up-and-down with glee if they knew an affluent family was exposed to their product. We all do develop preferences over time and marketers know this. They know that usually people will settle into those preferences and use their disposable income (even in the absence of a coupon) to get what they prefer.
As you mentioned, we would disagree with you. Couponing is not just for low income families – it is a smart thing to do. Not couponing and paying full price just to do it would be spending just for the sake of spending, which you mentioned above is bad. Couponing is not cheating. I don’t respond to judge you, but since this is a negative comment I wanted to stand up for the successful person who shared this Happy Friday post for Collin to share with us… she knew someone would find something negative and so she wanted to be anonymous. I am so glad that most of the comments on this post are positive. 🙂 I think it’s a perfect Happy Friday story!
First of all, Mallor, I respect you for respectfully puttin out your opinion, especially since it is definately different than most people reading the blog. Here is my rebuttal to your post:
Couponing is a lot of hard work. And whether or not you choose to spend your time to save money is a personal decision. If this reader bought things at full price, she would just be adding to companies profit. I lbelieve the charities and her kids will benefit more from this money than a companies bottom line.
Excellent points, Sarah!
Economics are complicated, and I’m not at all an expert, but I do know that requiring those who have money to pay full price for items is not going to solve any economic problems.
I think that the attitude that having money somehow precludes people from opportunities to save it doesn’t even begin to make any sense.
believe me, manufacturers wouldn’t put out coupons unless they were earning a profit. they’re not food stamps they are a way of advertising their product to get people to buy it.
I really think I expressed myself with the wrong words. I dont mean that its cheating a company. I think its more…of boosting thier compant when you pay full price. I dont mean that you cheat them in money when you dont. I just mean that it boosts the products company when you do. I do applogize that I offended so many people. That truly was not my intention.
As you so clearly state that you are simply voicing your opinion, I get that and now we are responding. No need to tell us you “understand,” and are “just saying.” Now it’s our turn to respond. I don’t understand your thinking. Please explain your thoughts more clearly, maybe we are all just misunderstanding where you are coming from. Personally I believe that every step you take, small or large, helps get you to your goal. In this case, because they have been so conscientious with their finances, they have reached a tremendous goal of theirs. Every coupon they used, got them one step closer to their goal. Now having what they have, they are continuing to instill these majorly important values to their children by showing them how to be good stewards with their money. I do not see how you can find flaw with that. Please feel free to enlighten us all. Back up your statement so we can understand you more clearly.
Taliaruth, I explained my opinoin to the best of my abilities. I see no other way to explain further nor do i feel I should.
So if a wealthy person uses a coupon and it’s cheating because they have the money to pay for it….isn’t it cheating for a billion dollar company charge me $4.00 for a bottle of shampoo that cost them $.40 to make?? Even with my $1.00 coupon I’m still paying $3.00 for that shampoo…earning the company $2.60 in profit per bottle. Thats just when I have a coupon!! When I use a coupon and fall in love with a product and continue to buy it with or without coupon is that cheating? Then I go and tell my friends/family about the awesome product I tried…and on it goes. They just earned my lifelong business, possibly my friends & families business, & $2.60 in profit. So you are wrong they make money and we save money.
Mallory- you are so wrong, as evidenced by all the comments to your post! If I were you I would just remove it, along with this long string of comments. You must be a hater.
I am not a hater…but you are being offensive where I am not.
I am not looking for any negativity but I feel Mallory (along with everyone else making comments) should be able to express her opinion whether it is agreed with it or not.
Meant to say agreed with or not.
I totally agree with you Rachel…Hip2save is such a place of positive energy and frugal attitude, unfortunately sometimes people forget not to judge others…
I agree , she is just letting her opinion be known and she did not say it in a hateful way. Thats her opinion and she also admitted that she used the wrong word when she said”cheat”. Don’t you want to know what others opinions are??
She can’t be wrong when it’s her opinion. This probably wasn’t the best place to voice it, seeing as many people on here have strong opinions about the subject, but she chose to in a fairly respectful way (didn’t need to say that people with money are cheating the company if they use coupons), but they are still opinion. You have the right to put your opinion on here, why shouldn’t she have the right to put hers? I don’t agree with it, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t any more valid of an opinion than mine.
Ditto Rachel & Laura. I don’t agree with Mallory’s opinion, but she has the right to share it. Mandi was tactless, & this string is very interesting.
Dumbest comment ever!
When I first started couponing, I too felt like Mallory however I feel much differently now. My husband owns a successful business & I don’t HAVE to coupon. At first I wondered if I should try it for fear of being looked down on by those that do need to coupon. Then I realized that no matter what your income, wastefulness is not an attractive quality and paying full price when there is a way of saving is very wasteful. I have also realized that my children need to learn how to stretch their dollars as far as possible because they will not always live at the income level we do. They will probably be college students working part-time or a young married person saving for a starter home and will need to know how to live frugally. I hope that by living frugally, even though I don’t have to, I can provide them with the tools to do that.
*Like*
I agree with you entirely, Mallory. I currently have two jobs and am in school and I think that people who struggle financially are more apt to use coupons because that is how they can afford food that is of proper health and nutrition for their families. I come from a family where we never went without (food-wise) and this is how I can do that for my family. A person that it that financially stable doesn’t need to coupon to save all of their money for their future. Just shop intelligently. I believe that using coupons is an option for anyone, however I feel that this post , as inspiring as it may be to some, was very offensive. It seemed as though she was bragging about having all of this wealth, in whatever forms it may be, and that she coupons for the fun of it, for sport. Just to have the status of a millionaire. I coupon for a need. This post was somewhat disappointing.
And to those of you that read this response and gasp in disgust, all I have to say is this is my opinion in response to the post, and just like “everyone” is entitled to use coupons, everyone is entitled to their own opinion. This is not meant to offend or personally attack others.
I also want to add that I think what she did was wonderful! However there were different ways of putting her story out there that weren’t as offensive to some.
Caleb – It does seem that you an Mallory seem to think that you are better able to determine how these folks ‘should’ spend their hard earned money than they are. You read a success story – pretty much what we’re all trying to accomplish by using whatever shopping strategies work for us at this time on our lives – and decided that
1) the folks “doesn’t need to coupon to save all of their money for their future” (who said “all”?) and
2) “however I feel that this post , as inspiring as it may be to some, was very offensive. It seemed as though she was bragging about having all of this wealth, in whatever forms it may be, and that she coupons for the fun of it, for sport. Just to have the status of a millionaire” . Bragging? Sport? Did you read the same post we did? I believe I caught something about future of their kids and charitable causes they believe in.
They earned their money, they kept their money, they grew their money, and they give their money. And you found it offensive. I don’t.
I don’t know anyway else to do it. We’ve done it the same way.
To all who are couponing and watching every dollar – it pays off. You are honoring your families and the life energy you expend to earn your paychecks. Keep up the good work!
PS – Mallory and Caleb – I recommend that you read “The Millionaire Next Door”.
I am not trying to argue, just state how I felt about the article. I believe that what she and her husband did was wonderful, I said that. It just “rubbed me the wrong way” , when it basically started out as ” I’m a couponing millionaire!!!” That, more specifically is was I found to be offensive.
I don’t think earning their money, keeping their money, growing their money, or giving their money is offensive. I never said that. In the first sentence it states, ” I’ve debated whether or not to send you this picture as it may be controversial to your site”, I didn’t want this to be about personal attacks or offense to others. I was just stating how I felt because I found it somewhat controversial.
I believe that we all have the right to our own views and opinions. I appreciate Margaret’s comment; Especially, “To all who are couponing and watching every dollar – it pays off. You are honoring your families and the life energy you expend to earn your paychecks. Keep up the good work!”
I second the recommendation about The Millionaire Next Door–great resource.
One thing to remember, Caleb, is the part of Anonymous’ story that explains that both she and her husband grew up poor. There was a likely a time when she really needed to coupon in order to be able to put food on the table, just like you. She’s been where you are, and she seemed to want to share her story as an inspiration to others. What value there is in learning from others who have successfully reached their goals!
Caleb – Statistics actually show that the majority of coupons are used by the top 20% of income earner’s in America. It doesn’t how high (or low) your income is. Everyone works hard for it and they deserve to keep as much of it as possible.
Mallory, so what is your definition of full price,,if a company decides to charge say 1000 for a loaf of bread, should she pay it because she can, or whatever you feel is reasonable..no way to decide. your comment disturbs me.
I am no longer going to continue to read the comments on my post. When I began writing my post I started out explaing that I was not judging or being negative or rude. The majority of you turned it into a very attacking and hurtful post. I wont read anymore. Nor will I apologize anymore.
Mallory, I’m sorry you are not reading this post any more. I did not agree with you, I think anyone who wants to should be able to coupon. That being said, it’s shameful the way you were treated for stating your opinion. There are respectful ways of disagreeing and then there is name calling. While a lot of the replies were respectful, some were down right rude. So I’m saying, even though I don’t agree with your original comment, I’m very sorry you have been treated like this.
I’m sorry Mallory that you received hurtful comments. I think that your principle of the wealthy paying more, “their fair share,” is a principle that I also believe but I just think there are other ways that they can do this. Why give that extra bit of money to companies looking to make profit? Why not share it with folks who have lower income and are looking to just pay their bills? It’s just a thought.
Mallory – You are being crucified on here!! Geez, people, come on! Mallory has the freedom to express her opinion! Just because yours is different from hers doesn’t mean her comment was “dumb” or “needs to be removed.” You can disagree without being so cruel… you all should feel ashamed….
Mallory,
Couponing is part of the habits that define most millionaires. In other words, it’s one of the reasons people become millionaires. It’s a successful habit of successful people.
I encourage everyone to go read the book called “The millionaire next door.” It will destroy all myths Americans have about rich people. For example, a millionaire is more likely to coupon, or repair something instead of replacing it.
I realize Mallory is not longer reading the comments. . . The reason I coupon is to be a good steward of the money which has been blessed to our family by our Heavenly Father. Just as we strive to be good stewards of the earth, taking good care of how we spend our money is also important. Because we coupon, we are able to give. Because we give, we are able to be a blessing to others. This all out of thanksgiving for what God has done for us. . .
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Troll_%28Internet%29
was the “trolling” for mkw or Mallory? I hope for mkw
i agree, mkw. we should all be good stewards of the money the Lord has blessed us with. no matter the income.
Oh, some of these comments are too funny! Two things come to mind for me after reading some of them:
1. To each their own. We all have an opinion that we are entitled to and should respect others just as we would like them to respect us.
2. And pick your battles. There are more important things in the world to argue about than this. 🙂
I’m kind of stunned to hear you say this. There are no income requirements to print a coupon — and you should not insinuate that we’re cheaters if we can afford to buy something at full price and choose not to. Coupons are not distributed by companies so that low income families can afford their products. They are distributed to increase their sales. They want everyone with access to their coupon to consider purchasing their product. It’s no different than when an item goes on sale — they’re adding an INCENTIVE to their product — more people will splurge because they know they are saving money… it’s just that this extra savings takes a little bit more time and effort.
Also, please consider this — if I save money on my purchases because I coupon, I am probably likely to splurge on an occasion or so, or I may have enough savings that I can put toward bigger ticket items. So guess what, several more companies will see their sales increase because I have more of my money to spread around.
And even if they/we don’t splurge, who CARES if any of us saves our money? Aren’t we all wise to save money where we can? Especially considering how crappy Social Security will be by the time we retire?
Wealthy… poor… middle class. We all have the right to take advantage of the opportunities presented to us. No one should be obligated to spend their money according to your guilt trips. That’s what you did. This person is not responsible for the economy and should not be guilted by the likes of you as though she is doing anything to contribute to the downfall of our stupid, idiotic government.
my only comment is i guarantee you the people that are “poor” , low income, and on foodstamps ARE NOT using coupons, why because they are eating FREE from foodstamps. Why worry about the price?? Im just sayin’
I know for a fact that this isn’t true in every case. My father is on dialysis and limited as to how many hours he can work, and my parents needed to get government assistance. My mother is extremely frugal with the allotment they are given, watches sales, coupons, and tithes their food stamp money, buying as many whole foods as she can to make homemade meals. She believes in being a good steward of what resources she has whether it’s earned income or assistance. I know they are not the only ones in this situation.
While it’s true that the majority of the poor are uneducated /under-educated there are some who are circumstantially poor- students, single moms, the disabled and elderly…. And we should not lump them all into one category. Ashley’s family is a prime example. But, yeah, the current govt assistance programs encourage abuse/ dependance upon the system. And there’s nothin that chaps your ass more than watching those folks buy steaks and brand name everything! Lol!
People on food stamps don’t get unlimited amount of food stamps each month. It’s not like they can stock their pantry with endless amount of food. Based on what they get in food stamps.
Sure some might abuse the system (and somehow get assistance but don’t need it), but I bet if we look to see what the average person would get (assume different by location), the average person wouldn’t be thinking, with that amount, I’ll be eating like a king.
Sure some might not be using coupons, but it isn’t because they are getting way more money in food stamps and have tons of money left over at the end of the month.
I guarantee that I, a”poor” low-income foodstamp user, indeed DO use coupons, generic brands, watch for sales, shop at Aldi, etc. to stretch every penny to provide healthy food for my family during our (hopefully temporary) time of need as we struggle to get back on our feet after enduring circumstances out of our control. [Foodstamps also encourages participants to use coupons, sales, etc. as well.]
As others pointed out, foodstamps provisions are limited and based on income and household size, and we in no way have a surplus of anything. I highly doubt I am the only one on foodstamps utilizing Hip2Save, coupons, etc. Sadly, all too many people are prejudiced against everyone on assistance as a whole – which is often demonstrated to us in checkout lines by both cashiers (generally the younger, inexperienced-in-life ones) and fellow customers. Do we eat steak? You bet we do – when it’s on sale, couponed, or dollars-off at Aldi. We also make our own detergent, don’t have cable, use un-paper towels, etc. in an effort to make every penny go further whether it’s from assistance or not. I hope more people will open their minds about people getting assistance.
Malory’s logic is why the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. You don’t “give up” when you hit a certain financial mark. Truly intelligent people will always look for ways to save money with coupons, sales, discounts, comparison shopping, repurposing, etc. It is being responsible time and time again with the decisions you make that gets you to millionare status… and then KEEPS you there! The get rich *slowly* method works and is the only way us regular folks have a chance of getting there. Coupons stimulate the economy by encouraging people to shop. Not shopping / doing without is what slows it.
I don’t even understand why someone would consider this “Happy Friday” post controversial, and I’m betting neither did Collin, or she wouldn’t have posted it as such. Let us not forget that happiness is a state of mind, not a state of finances. And I dunno about the rest of you, but I’ll donate my “extra” money to charity before I donate it to wealthy corporations!
Coupons are not “cheating” the manufacturers. The manufacturers are the ones issuing the coupons and WANT you to use them. It is a marketing tool for them to get you to buy their products. The manufacturers have marketing budgets that cover the costs of coupons. I used to be a marketing manager for a food company and trust me, I never said “I hope no one redeems these coupons”. Everyone should use coupons!
Anonymous here (I sent this to Collin) This is a very interesting thread. Mallory, both “spending” and “investing” boosts the economy. That is why the long term capital gains tax rate is 15% (and the reason why many think millionaires don’t pay their fair share – although this capital gains tax rate is applicable to anyone who invests, whereas ordinary income tax rates are progressive, i.e. the more you make the higher % you pay in taxes). Government wants people to invest because it is a boost to the economy, otherwise there would not be a tax benefit. And I agree with many that stated that manufacturers issue coupons for marketing purposes. As far as low income families, trying to make ends meet. That is why philanthropy interests me. I believe I can do a better job helping those in need than some faceless government program. Individuals are the ones to make the most difference – we can see the exact needs in our communities, whereas a government bureaucrat is too far removed for specific needs.
A Millionaire story on the television got me into couponing 7-8 years ago. They were talking about having Millions and still couponing and buying stuff in thrift store. That is when I came to my sense and started using coupons. I am way far from million and think that I will be never there, but I am pleased that we have everything we want 🙂
Thanks so much for sharing, what an inspiration! I hope a few of those who are living above their means and going into debt to impress others get inspired by you.
Too often, we tend to think the wealthy enjoy overpaying just to flaunt the fact that they can. Your story reminds us not to judge a group of people by the actions of a few. Yours is my favorite Happy Friday post yet!
That’s just awesome! 🙂
Don’t be ashamed to share what your money saving and smarts have done for you! What an inspiration! Great job!
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!! What a rock star story! You are such an inspiration anonymous. Thank you for sharing! Way to change your family tree!!!!
Great lesson to learn to live below our income. I don’t know how we would have made it if we spent my husband’s six figure income because 4 yrs. ago it was cut in half. I always said I don’t care how much money we have, I’ll never pay more than $1 for a box of cereal!
LOL! If I won the lottery tomorrow, I would cringe at the thought of spending the $4 shelf price for a box of cereal.
That’s awesome Kay! I sooooo agreee!
I wish I could find cereal for $1! It’s so expensive here, even with coupons.
The author got where she is because of hard work. I applaud her and her continued efforts to save. I believe the more we earn or save the more we are able to give away.
I’ve read nasty comments on other blogs when some of them posted about Kourtney Kardashian and her flaunting her new hobby of couponing on her TV show. While I agree I think she did it just to boost TV ratings, people were saying such ridiculous comments about how if you have money why would you coupon etc. – I didn’t understand! If I had 1.7 million saved I would still coupon as well. I think for many of us, it has become more than a hobby/way to save money, but more of a way of life as well as a skill. Why not utilize a skill so your family can benefit even more, regardless of the size of your bank account? I don’t understand some people’s hostility, but I think this is a great post.
I love your story! Truly inspirational. I hope you never lose site of your goals to impress others with your spending and your children respect each hard-earned dollar they make as well. Wow!
I’m a coupon millionaire too! I live in a 10,000 square foot house and when we built it, I shopped everything. Hubby and I had 3 estimates for dry wall, masons, electricians, you name it! Everything was done on a budget. I drive a 14 year old mini van and I will soon be getting a new car ONLY because my van is no longer dependable. My teens get mad when they can’t have a Droid or the newest technology (who cares!). They are not in rags by any means, my daughter was elected “best dressed” in her class, but that’s only due to my shopping bargains ($1 and $2 tops from TJMaxx!). Money can be gone in the blink of an eye. It is never wise to act or behave as if you have it.
Nancy – that is great. Thanks for sharing 🙂
It is great. But I’m thinking that if anyone knows you live in a 10,000 square foot house, they are not so naive as to believe you are not wealthy, LOL.
I wholeheartedly believe you should enjoy it and drive whatever car you can afford and makes you feel safe.
Congratulations! I started couponing 2 years ago, so we are at the beginning of our journey, but plan to be right there with you as soon as we can!
I think it is very sad commentary on our times that the writer of the letter was afraid that her post would be controversial. Why would it be controversial? Because people these days who work hard, invest and save wisely and become wealthy are attacked as the enemy. They are the evil 1%. Basic Marxism 101. They are told they should feel guilty that they have money. Never mind that they earned every penny. Never mind that they are paying a lot in taxes. Never mind that they are generous with what they have. It is never enough to satisfy those who covet other people’s money and who believe they have a right to it. Who believe that the wealth of others should be redistributed. I applaud the writer for her conservative principles that enabled her to become a millionaire, her generosity as she blesses others through her charitable giving, and her inspirational lifestyle that sets a wonderful example, not only to her children but to those of us reading her letter to Collin. She is rich in many more ways than with money.
100% Agree with every single word of your post! It’s time we celebrate and appreciate those people that work hard, pay their taxes, and make our great country what it is. I’m definitely not in the “1%” , but I hope I will be one day. I don’t look at someone who is successful as greedy or lucky, I look at them as someone who is smart, hard working and to be admired.
My thoughts exactly! You are so right.
Agree! And I love your attitude Mandy B!
Love this!!!!! I’m tired of the “public” saying I should pay more taxes because I have worked my entire life to make money!!! Why even work hard if you are going to be punished????
I am guessing, but doubt that the writer is in the 1%. I may be wrong, but I got the idea that her 1.8 is in investments and savings. I bet her husband earns a decent income, but not enough to make them wealthy without their discipline.
I am thinking they are in the 99% with a great strategy and execution.
except if we’re discussing the 1%, she is not one of them. The 1% are the mega rich, and no most of them do not pay their fair share, they pay less in taxes than most middle class citizens. While she has a good nest egg, she is not in the 1%. The 1% would like all of the others to think they pay their fair share, more than it in fact, but it is not the case, a small amount of research will make that crystal clear. Just because there is a percentage tax rate, doesn’t mean that’s what they pay, have you heard of deductions? They can find a way to deduct nearly every penny of income, and the loopholes are endless. I do think it is a great thing that she has managed to save that money, it is a wonderful story of hard work, and dedication. With that said, the idea that we can all be billionaires one day like the 1% is an absolute fabrication of the truth. Most of the money in this country comes from luck, trust funds, or cheating the system. The 1% is not what makes our country great, it’s all the other people who work hard everyday, and care for their families, even when the money doesn’t come easy. So in short I disagree fully with the previous statement, glorifying the 1% is no way to go through life. It’s why we are where we are today as a country. Btw for those that want to argue my point, I have first hand knowledge of the tax loopholes, I work with them everyday at the Internal Revenue Service. To be clear, I am happy for her, and think it really is great her and her husband worked so hard to get where they are. And the only controversy here is the ignorance of people who don’t understand how this country works.
Thank you for sharing your first-hand knowledge.
I simply do not think too often about the one percenters. After all, they are one percent. The rest of us must carry on with real life. And in my experience, real life has been very fulfilling and I’ve not had to worry about money too much. I’ve had all of what I needed and a lot of what I wanted.
What I do think about is the high number of long-term unemployed in our country. I’ve discussed this at work and other people have brought it up before me. It’s truly a front-and-center issue. Just because one wants a job in this country does not necessarily mean it’s a given. Many jobs do not pay a living wage and overqualified workers are not chosen for these jobs, anyway.
Try being 50 years old and being laid off from a professional position held for 2 decades or more. Sure, there is a nest egg, but these folks never intended to start spending it almost 2 decades before they wanted to retire.
I know several people in this situation. Some have been “lucky” enough to get a $12 hour job in a manufacturing plant after making almost six figures at a desk. Others are taking contract work states away from their families. Others are being forced to make tough decisions such as how much of their 401K’s to spend well before it’s time to do so.
To G-woman.
As Melissa said .. Basic MARXISM 101
I think you should first read up on Marxism, then re-read my comment. Marx’s theory, was that Capitalism exploits the working class, and that the working class has to create a revolution to overthrow the Capitalists. That’s a very shortened version of course. I did not speak against Capitalism in my comment, Capitalism in theory is a great idea, but without regulations in place, it is not a viable way to sustain a country. When Capitalism was first introduced in this country everyone was given an opportunity to live a comfortable life if they worked for it. The middle class was very well off, compared to today. The middle class is quickly becoming a thing of the past, as the wage and wealth gap continues to grow. This was not caused by Capitalism but by deregulating, and it isn’t something that happened overnight, it started decades ago. However, over the years it has only gotten worse, because the wealthiest in this country have been able to tilt the scale in their favor, and that was done with money. It is not Marxist to believe that taxes should be paid, a law btw that is part of our Capitalist society. It is, though, ignorant to throw out accusations of Marxism whenever someone speaks of inequality. Is it Marxist to think women deserve the same rights, or African Americans, or gays and lesbians? As long as the people with the money lobby only for themselves and not for the good of the country that gave them what they have, they will be vilified and rightly so.
This is inspirational. I am showing it to my husband. Great job!!
Good for her – but hopefully she isn’t a shelf-clearer so the rest of us “poorer” folk can at least some free toothpaste. LOL.
That’s hillarious! Me too! lol
LOL 🙂
🙂
Anonymous here (I sent this to Collin). I love your comment. FYI – I don’t pay for toothpaste and I don’t clear the shelf! Thanks for making me laugh.
This story is so inspirational — congrats and thanks for sharing it. There is such a thing as the American Dream and I think we can all achieve it with hard work and perserverance. We immigrated to this country when I was 4 and I still remember how difficult life was for our family. We came over with no money, no English language skills. I remember my dad making our dining room table out of wooden crates. My parents taught my siblings and I the value of a dollar early on. I have been clipping coupons since I knew how to use scissors lol! My parents did quite well through working hard and saving despite many obstacles, and were eventually able to send us to private school (for high school) and college. I have 3 and 4 year old toddlers who have these words in their vocab: on sale, coupons, too expensive, good deal, Groupon, BOGO :). They also get excited to bring me my coupons from my printer. I love it. My kids also have no idea about our status (nor do many people around us, like the other preschool parents) because we don’t flaunt it. Have you guys ever read The Millionaire Next Door? Most millionaires are those you would least expect (because they are modest and frugal). I don’t think I will ever stop clipping coupons, using promo codes or buying things on sale. It’s part of the reason why we are where we are today. It’s always been a part of my life, and no I don’t take advantage of the system nor am I a stockpiler ;).
stockpiling isn’t necessarily a bad thing, you know. i use mine to help out friends and family so they can go “shopping” in my “store” when they are going through a rough time. 🙂
I meant one of those shelf-clearing stockpilers that you see on the Extreme Couponing shows ;). Love that you help out your friends/family with your “store” 🙂
Anonymous here (I sent this to Collin). MamaJ, your story is inspirational. You and I are both so lucky to have been raised by parents that taught us the benefits to hard work. My goal is to instill that work ethic into my kiddos.
XO
I don’t find this controversial. I know plenty of affluent people who use coupons. I think the ones I know would resent others thinking they buy things without regard to price.
I will have to qualify my remarks however by pointing out that of course, the lower your income, the more difficult it is to achieve these results. Yes, we can all save money and should. However, think of all the people you know who work really hard and have an income ceiling, such as teachers. Many of my children’s teachers have been absolutely priceless educators and human beings–overwhelming assets to our community. However, outside giving them little gifts and supporting them with classroom supply donations, I can’t raise their salaries. Most of them make under $50,000 per year and have their own children. Again, they CAN save money at this income level, but most of their income will go toward living expenses, with or without coupons. These folks do not have the capabilities to invest enough to have a similar return. Ditto for firemen, police officers, etc. I do make sure I vote in pensions and raises and such when possible. There are tons of college-educated folks out there toiling for $10-$15 per hour.
As for children knowing finances–my children have a rough estimation of our financial standing. We live in a neighborhood where one person could be very wealthy and the next-door neighbor have an average income. Naturally kids will ask for certain items they see all their friends receiving. I like to make it clear that everyone has to make choices based largely on finances and priorities. Many items are not excessively priced; they are just not attainable by every segment of the population.
And I don’t really see the harm in children (of a certain age) knowing approximately how their parents are doing. Usually, if you know what someone does for a living, it’s not difficult at all to estimate their net worth, even if they hide it well. At that point, it becomes more and more about hiding details and facts from children (especially astute ones).
We have had varied income over the years and at no point did our children expect us to spend windfalls on them just because they were aware of them. In fact, it has been a source of pride to us when we receive a bonus, etc and can buy them a small treat. We share with them why they were able to get an unexpected treat and how the bonus was related to good work performance.
I think some clarification is in order with this article. She/he did NOT make millions solely by using coupons. Yes, they may use coupons, but most likely they have a high salary, came into an inheritance and/or have invested wisely. Maybe a combination…..but, please let’s be realistic here.
I was generally trying to say the same thing with my very long-winded post above yours.
I have worked in the financial, retirement and investment fields and you are spot on. I have known folks with decent middle-class incomes who invested and saved from day one on the job and did not have nearly $2 million. It takes 20 years at $50,000 a year to even EARN $1 million.
The story changes dramatically when one is in a high-earning field. Coupons are great for all, but there are very significant class distinctions out there that we all have to just live with and decide what type of life is best for us.
However, I would think people who understand math, economics, etc would not believe that coupons would lead to this level of net worth.
She invested, she said so above. It doesn’t take tons of money though it does take financial acumen.
Yes, she did say she invested. Just to shed some light on the actual numbers–
At 8 percent return (historical for stock market but many experts expect this number to be lower in coming years)
It takes $5466.09 per month investment to get to one million dollars (in 10 years). Double that for 2 million.
Now, to me $5466.09 per month equals $65593.08. That’s more than many families earn annually.
Amen Barb!!!!
Exactly- this woman and her husband have $5500 a month to invest?? Well I would have an incredible nest egg too if that were the case…That they are living frugally and couponing is great but they have money because they have very good paying jobs and the ability to invest LARGE sums every month.
Anonymous here (I sent this to Collin). Belle, you are exactly right and I want to be clear. We did not make millions off of coupons! Coupons are a part of our frugal lifestyle but instead help us maintain what we’ve worked so hard to attain. We have aggressively saved and invested for the last 15 years. Our income was average when we started saving and as our income increased, we increased savings. It has been fun to watch our investments grow. But you have to be willing to ride the roller-coaster and watch investment decrease in value as well. We are now a one-income family earning six figures. The point is, whether you make $30K or $200K; it’s good to get in the habit of automatically saving something (whether it’s $50/month or $5000/month). Not only do you learn to live without the amount you automatically save, if you are diligent, you’ll have a nice nest egg in the future.
I love this! My hubby is in law school right now and this is our goal. Right now we are living in a cheap apartment and I’m able to be a SAHM while he is in school full time and working as a TA because of how frugal we have learned to be.
Also, I am living proof that what you are teaching your kids works. My mom was very much like you are and we always shopped sales, used coupons and bought things at garage sales. I always thought we didn’t have much money until I started my family and my parents started spoiling us a little more (especially with the first grand baby from their only child). Now they are both retired and they know that they have more than enough money to live comfortably for the rest of their lives. I truly aspire to be like them.
My hubby and I have talked about it and we have decided that no matter what situation we find ourselves in after he finishes law school we will continue to live frugally and have a modest home and modest cars and continue to teach our children the value of money and working hard for what you want.
I grew up exactly the same way as you – we NEVER bought something if it wasn’t on sale, but now I know my parents have more than enough to retire comfortably. The greatest part about this is now that I’m adult I know I won’t have to use part of my income to support my parents. Sadly, I have friends who are barely in their 30s, just getting started on their savings really, and they have to loan or give money to their parents because their parents never saved. I am so glad that I went without the nicest things as a kid if this is a result. For some reason there are those who think they are denying their children things if they don’t spend money on them when in reality it is very much the opposite!
Anonymous here (I sent this to Collin). Erica, there is no doubt in my mind that you and your hubby are going to be successful. You’re both on the same page as far as your financial goals – that right there is the biggest obstacle for many marriages. And it sounds like you have some awesome parents. Best of luck for your future.
This is terrific! Thanks for posting it!
I think the important point here is that being conscious of the money you spend and the value of a dollar gives us all more freedom in how we live our lives. Everyone has to find a balance that he or she is comfortable with. For some people that means having extra savings in the bank, for others that means they can go on vacation more often or spend a little extra here or there. The important thing is to realize what you personally value and what your priorities are in terms of your life goals! Thanks to Collin for helping us all have these freedoms!
wow i love this. before i started couponing few months ago I wondered if I’ll be able to save so much money that ill have more to buy or spend on more important things. our bank account is nowhere close to that but you know what its actually weird that we have more on our bank account now than before when we were paying full price on everything, considering our income is lesser now. I’m doing a giftcard challenge right now free $55 that came from points sites and i haven’t spent a penny from my own pocket and I still have money on the giftcard and stockpile of items that would last about 4 months for us. Seeing this I’m even more excited to use coupons. This is an amazing post.
Congratulations on such am amazing accomplishment. At this point I can only dream of becoming a balance sheet millionaire and I’m sure that by the time we get there you will be decamillionaires. Thank you for showing us that the true way to wealth is frugal living. I wish you the best.
This is so great. I think there are more of us than people realize. We are at about 1.5. We have always lived within our means and saved and invested from the beginning of our marriage almost 24 years ago. My husband has a good job and I was able to quit working when we had kids 19 years ago, even though I am an attorney. It was so much more important for me to be home with my kids.
We are from middle class homes too. My husband was the first in his family to go to college. My dad went, but my mom didn’t.
I love couponing and saving money. It is not out of necessity but fun for me. But it will allow my husband to retire earlier.
I am sure many will be inspired by the woman who wrote this today. It is definitely possible. Start early and stick with it.
Sounds like you are a Dr Stanley fan too. I am unfortunately not as frugal as DH, but I’m working on it.
I think most people with money live frugally – look at that cheap bastard Warren Buffett! 😀
I heard once the difference between being rich and being wealthy – being rich is having money in your lifetime, being wealthy is having money for generations. I also think about George Clooney’s line from The Descendants “Give your kids enough money to do something, don’t give them enough to do nothing”.
I saved this from a couple years ago, a very good read. It only takes couple minutes to read and was an eye opener for me when I first started this wonderful journey of coupon shopping.
https://www.coupongal.net/2010/03/did-that-really-just-happen
Thanks for that link. I loved the breakdown of coupon use by income level. I’ve had friends ask (innocently) if I use WIC, suggest a government subsidized mortgage product, and offer to buy me something after I complained about the price, all because they thought (based on my frugality and coupon usage) that we were struggling financially. We’ve had a six-figure income for the past 7 years, including the last 3 that I’ve taken off to be a SAHM, and consistently live on less than half of it. It’s amazing the assumptions people. Now I just try to take it as a compliment, though I do feel very sorry for those people who think couponing is only for the rich, when it’s really quite the opposite. They are missing out on a lot of extra “income”!
I was going to post a similar link – https://commissarydeals.com/tag/avid-couponers/
So as a 6 figure, dual-degree 31 yr old married Dave Ramsey fan -I fit the stereotypical couponer to a T! I know that my 2 years of couponing under my belt is now officially part of my frugal lifestyle that will be a part of me forever. Its part of living smart and taking control of your life – living healthier, wiser, smarter and WINNING at life – not just making my way through life. Sure I could pay full price for items and services, but then my student loans/mortgage/etc. would hang around longer, and getting to that place of financial security and PEACE – along with being able to give like no one else – are my main goals I want to achieve sooner than later! Couponing is just one of many tools that helps us achieve our financial goals and I congratulate everyone that utilizes them to better their financial situation!
Oh – to anyone out there doubting their abilities to win with money – pick up any of Dave Ramsey’s Books – Financial Peace, The Total Money Makeover, or better yet sign up for his Financial Peace University. They will change your thought process and your life!
Dear Anonymous: Your story is my goal in living frugally. I wish to attain what you have and I have always told myself I would continue couponing no matter how successful I became. Thanks for sharing this and do not be ashamed of what you’ve been able to do for yourself and your family!
Such a amazing story!! THanks for sharing!! Great job 🙂
One of the best and most inspirational books l’ve ever read is “The Millionaire Next Door”. The writer of this post could have been one of the profiles in the book. Proof that hard work, a commitment to living within (or below) one’s means, and respecting the value of a dollar is the key to a life of financial security. Well done and well deserved!
Anonymous here (I sent this to Collin) . Me too. I read this book several years ago and have lived these principles diligently. I would highly recommend this book.
LOVE THIS BOOK!