7 Ways Your Receipts Can Save You Money
By: Carrie Smith
Did you know that those pesky pieces of paper in the bottom or your purse, or shoved into your wallet, can actually save you money? It’s true. A receipt is a versatile tool for lots of different money-saving opportunities, even more than your average coupon.
Don’t let your next receipt get lost or become a crumpled mess. Treat it with the respect it deserves and it will repay you. Here are seven ways to keep more money in your pocket by saving your receipts.
Missed Discounts
I recently purchased some home supplies from a local Bed Bath & Beyond store, but forgot to bring the 20 percent off coupon. I knew that this particular company accepts expired coupons so I figured that maybe they would honor the discount coupon if I showed proof of my purchase.
So I brought my receipt into the store with the 20 percent off coupon and received store credit for the difference. Who knew? An extra trip to the store was well worth it in this case, as we all know purchasing from Bed Bath & Beyond isn’t cheap. It doesn’t hurt to ask, so don’t be afraid to show your receipt in order to get credit for a missed discount.
Customer Surveys
Don’t let your mind wander when an employee is spelling out the details of a survey or giveaway on a receipt. Pay close attention, as you could receive free food and additional savings on future purchases.
Many retailers offer links or QR codes to surveys if you share your experience as a customer, and in return you’ll receive large discounts and freebies. And don’t forget to enter any giveaways or raffles as these could result in cash prizes, gift cards, and other goodies.
Tax Deductions
As a freelancer, I know the value of receipts related to business expenses and costs for supplies or equipment. Every receipt I save for business-related expenses is a dollar I don’t have to pay taxes as a self-employed individual. Everything — from travel to your home office to meals — is tax deductible when you work from home.
Did you know that even moving expenses can be taken as a credit on your tax return? This applies whether you work for someone else or are self-employed. Last fall, my husband and I made a cross-country move from Texas to Colorado, and I kept every receipt along the way. At the end of the process, we’d spent a total of $2,800 and some change. Now we get a credit on our return for the entire amount, reducing our taxable income!
Store all of your receipts in a safe place every month and then record any tax-related expenses so you’re not scrambling a few days before the tax deadline. Consult this list from the IRS to view all the eligible tax deductions.
Local Coupons
You know the extra images and text on the back of receipts? Don’t overlook them, as many of them contain coupons and special offers for local stores. Take a few seconds to review them for potential discounts and savings. Be sure to grab the coupon off your last pizza box. I usually find $2- to $4-off coupons on delivery boxes.
Head over to CentSai.com to finish read this story and to read other stories about personal finance.
