ORGANIZE YOUR PROOFS

Be sure to identify each UPC and proof of purchase so you'll know what you have. Don't trust your memory! As you cut off each proof, cut enough of the packaging to save identifying information, or write on the back of the proof the name and size of the product.

As you save your proofs of purchase, you have to organize them just as you do your coupons and refund forms. When your proofs of purchase are neatly filed, all you have to do to claim a refund is go to your file and pull whatever qualifiers are needed. As a new refunder, the key is to start simply, and grow into a bigger filing system later.

To start, you will need an average size cardboard box, and 10 file folders or manilla envelopes. Label your file folders or manilla envelopes with the following category headings:

paper/plastic
candy/snacks
beverages
medicines
cleaning/detergents
beauty/hair
baking/cereal
canned/jar goods
baby or pet
miscellaneous


Place your file folders or manilla envelopes with these headings in your cardboard box. Put the cardboard box somewhere in or near your kitchen, in a broom closet or under the kitchen sink.

As you take proofs of purchase off packaging, place them in the correct file folder. For example, when you finish a box of Cheerios, rip off the box bottom with the UPC. Drop it into the file folder marked "Baking/Cereal". When you use a can of soup, slit off the label with an Exacto knife before tossing out the can. Put the label into the file folder marked "Canned/Jar Goods". When you open a box of Tylenol, flatten the carton and place it in the "Medicine" folder.

This is easy. It just takes a moment. The rewards are cash, free coupons, and free gifts. It gives me a real sense of beating the system when I have all the proofs of purchase ready to go as soon as a refund comes out.