This little gem is something my father taught me.  My Dad was a thrift maniac.  That may be because he lived through the depression and it may be just who he was, but he taught me a few things!

Companies love to hear from customers.  Many times, the only time they do is when the customer is complaining.  The company will usually send out a note of concern, along with a coupon or two to appease the customer.  Even if you only have a little beef with the company, it may be worth it to shoot them off some mail.  Email is fine, but handwritten letters are like gold! 

Now, here is the secret. Companies are quite used to having people complain. What they love, however, is receiving compliments. Is there a product you swear by? Is there a product your parents used, and so do you? Pick up that pen and paper and tell them about it. Trust me, they have a special drawer of "Free coupons" just for you!

They love hearing that they are making money. They love hearing that you are going to continue to buy their product, so it's in their best interest to open up their wallet just a little. Again, email can work, but handwritten letters are best. Not only can you get a nice little free coupon out of it, but your letter may be on their next big campaign!

If you REALLY want to expand on that, write to them and tell them you are going to give them some link love!  Many companies do not have affiliate programs, but they do have those free coupons, and all it would take is a few moments to add a link or say a few words about their product!

Try these suggestions out, and let me know if you don't get some coupons for your trouble!