We’ve all been thrilled since Walmart’s coupon policy was updated to state they would allow overage. A few cents here and a few cents there quickly adds up to a dollar. But are you sure you’re getting overage? Many of you may not be, due to three letters :
A couple of weeks ago I made it over to Walmart and used the $1/1 Bic stationery coupon to buy the $.97 pack of pens. In Texas, we are charged tax on the subtotal after all coupons. So I did in fact get $.03 overage to be applied to my bananas. But in Arkansas and many other states, tax is charged on the subtotal before any coupons. Just over 8% tax on the $.97 pens would bring the total to $1.05. After the $1 coupon, you’d still pay $.05 for your free pens.
Tax laws vary by state, but it’s important to know what they are in your state and city to know how they affect your coupons and purchases. Either way you’re still getting the product itself for free, but you need to consider whether it’s worth a trip out of your way for overage. Are you going to use the product yourself? Are you going to Walmart, or driving right by it anyway? Could you pick up the product at another store and still get it for free? Is an extra 30 minute trip to Walmart worth a few cents in overage? With a little bit of forethought, you can work smarter and not harder as you save time and money with your shopping.
Speak Your Mind