Great online deals and free stuff

I’ve always been a frugal person, cutting coupons and searching for freebies to save a dollar or two.  Unfortunately, today’s economy has stretched finances to the maximum.  Here are some popular websites designed for bargain hunters:

* Commonsensewithmoney.com:  Subscribe to receive emails for information about daily deals, coupons and free stuff.  A recent email featured a free kindle book, a fairy garden set for $23 from Target and printable coupons for Popsicles and M&Ms.

* Allyou.com: Sweepstakes drawings, coupons and free sample deals can be found on this site, which is operated by All You magazine. I subscribe to the free sample daily deals and have received free toothpaste, shampoo and tea bags in the mail.  You must follow the instructions exactly to claim the free sample. Some freebies require that you “Like” the product on Facebook.

* Coupons.com: Print money-saving coupons on items from cereals to paper products to health items. You can also add coupons to a Giant Eagle Advantage Card, which saves on printing costs. This site contains coupon codes that list discounts on purchases at retail outlets.

* RedPlum.com and SmartSource.com: These sites provide the same coupons found in Sunday newspapers. Add your ZIP Code to receive local offers.

* Groupon.com: Sign up for daily Pittsburgh deals that offer discounts for restaurants, concerts and services such as teeth whitening. A recent one-day deal featured half off on admission for two to the Senator John Heinz History Center, a $15 savings. Quantities are limited so act fast. Be sure to read the fine print.

* Savings.com: Staff members recommend the best deals and coupon codes. For example, Lands’ End advertised 40 percent off regular prices, while Sears.com promoted $5 off a $50 purchase. The site lists readers’ comments on good and bad deals.

There are plenty of other websites offering discounts. Just type “coupons” in your web browser’s search engine and get ready to save.