How to squeeze a nickel

Here's hoping you find new ideas among these staff and reader tips

This article is the archived version of a report that appeared in June 2009 Consumer Reports magazine.

Shopping

• Stores often match competitors' coupons or advertised specials. When you shop at your favorite stores, carry other stores' coupons and flyers and ask for the same deal.
• When I shop online, I always check Google for a coupon for the site before I check out. Just yesterday I saved $15 and got free shipping on shoes.
• Many businesses give affiliation or age discounts, so always ask. Even my vet gives a senior discount.
• Try to negotiate everything, not just cars. It's as simple as saying to a sales clerk (managers are better), "Is there something you can do about the price?" This is especially effective if you can find a minor defect in the item or if you're buying several items.
• When we need office furniture, like bookcases, we buy it used.
• Take stock before you shop. I have three bottles of Windex under the sink because I didn't look before I bought.