Coupon codes and rebates

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Bargain Hunting

Most of us are happy to save a few bucks whenever we shop, but for others, bargain hunting is a sport requiring great skill and constant vigilance. Online shopping online has opened up a new world for the obsessive deal hunter and the ordinary shopper alike. There's a huge assortment of Web sites devoted to helping you find the lowest prices and best offers from online retailers. In this guide you'll find our favorites.

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Comparison Shopping

In the past, comparing prices between different retailers would have entailed calling them up or ... read more »

Coupon codes and rebates

Many retailers offer coupon codes, which are similar to the paper coupons used at brick-and-mortar stores. To use these online coupons, you usually type the code (a combination of letters and/or numbers) into a designated "redeem coupon" box during the checkout phase of your purchase. Discounts vary, but common deals include 10 percent off, $10 off of purchases over $50, or free shipping.

Dulcinea's Insight

Many of these coupon code Web sites are run by an individual, so they're unlikely to have an all-inclusive list of available deals and bargains. It's always a good idea to check with more than one coupon code Web site to find the best deal.

A few online coupon codes are for one-time use only, designed to be used by a specific individual. Many, however, can be used multiple times, and these are the codes that are often shared on Web sites and message boards.

One-time-use coupons codes can often be found for sale on auction sites and classified sites for a little less than the coupon is worth.

Dulcinea's Picks

For coupon codes ...

CouponChief lists the hottest current bargains, such as blowout sales and deeply discounted merchandise on various Web sites. Its coupons are arranged in categories to fit almost every shopper's need, including clothing, electronics, jewelry, and sporting goods. Search by store to find coupon codes and promotional deals.

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DealCatcher provides the option of "Instant Deal Alerts." Sign up for the service to receive an e-mail whenever a deal arises related to a certain brand or product. The Web site also offers a twice-weekly newsletter that includes a round-up of the latest and best coupons.

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NaughtyCodes collects coupons that are sent to only select customers. Some stores, for example, send "secret" e-mail coupons to only their newsletter subscribers or credit card holders. NaughtyCodes compiles these coupons, along with the more widely publicized ones, and makes them available to everyone.

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For rebates ...

Rebate Place includes a list of hot rebates on mostly electronics and tech gadgets. You can search for rebates on such items as computer software, digital cameras, and telephones. The Web site also includes links to many printable rebate forms.

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Refund Cents lists current available rebates, as well as coupon codes and other promotional offers. The Web site rounds up and consolidates the deals, then explains in detail the steps necessary to get the bargain, such as combining a coupon offer with a rebate and a sale. A three-month online membership costs $4.00.

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