I discovered a method that makes my coupon file even more user-friendly. The coupon file is all about fast, easy filing and fast, easy retrieval, but I hadn’t realized that there was a level on which I resisted getting coupons because I had to pull the folders out in order to read the dark letters that were scrawled on the dark files down in the middle of the folder. Often, my eyes had to work through several groups of scribbled-through numbers in order to identify the date.

This new method is much easier on the eyes and on the fingers, since all I have to do is flip lightly through the folders and note the dates that are printed in clearly-contrasting ink in a neat row on the binders.

I’m not suggesting that you go out and buy a labeler just so that you can more easily organize your coupons, but this is a good idea if you already have one or if you’ve been thinking about getting one for other household uses. If you’re looking for a bargain on one, here are three suggestions:

1. Keep your eye on the Screaming Deals Online forum. Great deals on various label makers have been popping up fairly frequenly these days.
2. Go to the ShopLocal and see if label makers are on sale at any stores near you.
3. Go to PriceGrabber.com and search for label makers to find some of the cheapest prices on the Internet. Then come back to PYP’s front page and see if you can find an additional coupon code from the drop-down menu.

Couponing is all about streamlining the process as much as possible. I’ve been surprised at how much this little change has improved my coupon storage and retrieval, and I bet it’ll do the same for you.