Coupon Fraud

Let's look at the ugly side of couponing for a moment, coupon FRAUD. TLC's show Extreme Couponing has recently been under some fire for allowing coupon fraud. Remember kids, not everything you see on T.V is real or LEGAL! HERE is a great link explaining just one of the show's contestants using coupons fraudulently. There are several different ways to commit coupon fraud. I'm going to go over a few of these and how to avoid it.

What is coupon fraud? Here are some Examples:

• Using coupons on the wrong size of products. For Example: You have a $1 off coupon for Crest toothpaste that excludes trial sizes and you use that coupon for the $0.97 trial size tube. THIS IS FRAUD!
• Using coupons after their expiration date. Note unless your store policy accepts this. Many military bases allow expired coupons.
• Using coupons for the wrong product. For example you have a $0.50 coupon for Diet Pepsi and you use it on Pepsi Max.. THIS IS FRAUD! 
• Photo Copy coupons. You can not copy coupons. Many websites limit printable coupons to (2) per customer. If you photocopy coupons..THIS IS FRAUD! 
• If you PURCHASE coupons. Most all coupons say "Void if reproduced, sold or transferred" Now while you will not get in trouble for handing out coupons to your friends you can get in trouble if you SELL them! THIS IS FRAUD! 
• Decoding bar codes. This is a BIG one! At least one of the ladies on TLC's Extreme Couponing is in some hot water for this one! For Example using a high value coupon such as $7 off Crest White Strips for Tide. THIS IS FRAUD! 

So what's the penalty for coupon fraud?


Penalties for those convicted of coupon fraud related crimes vary by each case and the number of laws violated.

As of this date,
Longest prison sentence: 17 years
Highest financial penalty: $5 million
Prison sentences of three to five years are not uncommon. Financial penalties generally vary, but have often been in excess of $200,000.

 It's not worth saving $0.50! Don't commit coupon fraud. At The Cozy Coupon I will never intentionally post an ill legit deal. If I for some reason post something that isn't valid please let me know and I will correct it.

Happy Shopping!