Blunders to learn from

So, I've made a few mistakes while learning how to coupon. In order to help you not make the same mistakes, I present to you a list of blunders I've made. (This list will probably grow over time, sadly.)

• When using Rite-Aid rebates, always make sure you're buying during the right dates. (Unlike Walgreens, Rite-Aid doesn't do all of their rebates over the entire month.)
• When doing rebates, make sure you check and double check to make sure you have the right product, size, quantity, etc.
• Count the number of coupons you hand the cashier. Then count the beeps as he/she scans them to make sure they all got scanned.
• Before you leave the store (I usually do this in the car), compare your shopping list with your receipt and make sure that the price matches what you expected.
• When buying "Try Me Free" products (you buy it, then send the receipt in to the manufacturer to get a rebate for the purchase cost), make sure the tag on the item has the right date. (I just found out my latest shampoo rebate had to be purchased between 1/1/08 and 7/31/08. I bought it on 3/23/09. Seriously... why was that even still on the shelf?!)
• When buying multiple "Try Me Free" products, make sure each is on a separate receipt; each rebate requires you mail them the original receipt.

Most of all, if you make a silly blunder, laugh it off. See if you can return the product, or somehow fix the problem. Also, don't worry too much, because chances are, you won't make the same mistake again!