Each store has a coupon policy and I realized when a reader asked that there is no sure answer. And what's really horrible is that each cashier can be different, some not even knowing the coupon policy. So, it does pay to brush up on the policy of each store. Yeah, boring. I usually just "test" it out. I do remember how annoying it was buying the "free" toothpaste. It turned out that I couldn't get two coupons doubled for the same item in the same transaction. So, then just make it two transactions. I've noticed that when I tell them two transactions, a lot of times they just go ahead and will do it in one. Not always.
Of course, you will probably have more items than one tube of toothpaste.
Many of the couponing sites have all the different store policies listed. If at all possible, try to print out or study the policies for the stores that you go to. I wasted ink printing out the policy for Rite Aid, and of course, they have never given me an ounce of trouble. Ralphs on the other hand has been different each time, depending on the cashier. I have had to file complaints with Ralphs corporate a couple of times. So far everything has been fine since my last complaint. Plus, I've learned to get over any embarrassment over doing these things.
I haven't memorized all store policies, I'm kind of a wait until the horse gets out kind of person. I'm not saying that's good at all, since who wants to have a fiasco over toothpaste.
I've listed a few of the stores in the area, but also know that not all of the stores list their policy on their website. If that was the case then I just shared a link to a blog where someone had actually written to the store to get the policy. I tried to get the most updated as possible. Take a look at it, print it if you want, or just save it in your notepad to study later. I'd say most of the stores have similar coupon policies, so usually once you get to know one you know most of them. Some will have a few minor differences. You will eventually know more than the cashiers too.
I suggest going to the websites of the stores that you frequent and consider signing up since sometimes extra deals are offered online. At many of the sites you can put the coupons right onto your store card. If you don't think subscribing is getting you better deals then you can always unsubscribe.
