Retail Receipts Are More Than Just An Itemized Bill Of Sale

Next time you leave the store, take a glance in the trash can on your way out. Likely it’s filled with receipts carelessly tossed by shoppers who figured their bill of sale isn’t worth the paper it’s printed on.

However, the receipt is much more than an itemized list of your total purchase; it’s a versatile, invaluable tool that offers more savings opportunities than your average coupon.

Don’t let your next receipt become a crumpled mess at the bottom of your purse or the floor of your car. Instead, treat it with the respect it deserves and use it in one or more of the following ways to help you save money.

1. Price Adjustments

There’s nothing worse than purchasing something and finding it on sale a couple weeks later. Thankfully, most retailers have a price adjustment policy that provides credit in the amount of the discount if your purchase goes on sale within a specified time frame. Monitor deal sites for sales and discounts once you’ve made your purchase, and return to the store immediately when you see a price drop.

2. Customer Surveys

Your eyes may glaze a bit when the cashier explains a customer survey opportunity, but pay attention. These automated surveys take less than five minutes to complete and result in great savings opportunities and free products. I took two surveys last weekend and now have $20 of free money to spend at my favorite stores.

3. Local Coupons

Some receipts have coupons and special offers printed on the front or back side of the printout. Before cramming the proof of purchase in your bag, be sure to review it for potential discounts. Most offers are for local products and services.

4. Catching Errors

Cashiers are busy people, hurriedly checking out lots of people while feigning interest in your day. They’re bound to make a mistake — whether it’s scanning something twice or failing to notice your stack of coupons — and the receipt is the only proof to show you were overcharged. Similarly, you make mistakes, too; Make sure you review your receipts after every trip to the store

5. Itemized Deductions

If you work from home or are otherwise self-employed, receipts are your ticket to important deductions come tax time. Create a file in which you can immediately place all business-related receipts — like dining, supplies and mileage — so you’re not scrambling a few days before April 15 to find what you need.

If your aware of more great uses for receipts leave your comments.