Let’s be real here: you’re eyeing that Sunday-only newspaper subscription wondering if those coupon inserts are still worth the monthly commitment, right? With everything going digital these days and grocery prices through the roof, it’s time for some straight talk about whether Sunday newspaper coupons are still pulling their weight in your savings game.

The Current State of Sunday Coupon Inserts

Here’s what’s happening in coupon land right now. Sunday newspapers typically include SmartSource and Save inserts (formerly RetailMeNot Everyday and RedPlum) almost every week, featuring brands like Covergirl, AirWick, Lysol, Huggies, Maybelline, Garnier, and many more. But here’s the kicker: SmartSource coupon inserts haven’t been seen since March 2025, and as of June 2025, it looks like these coupons are gone for good. That’s a major shake-up!

The good news? P&G coupon inserts appear to be back for 2025 after ending distribution in 2023. So you’re still getting decent variety, just not as much as the golden days of couponing.

What You’ll Actually Find These Days

Don’t expect the coupon bonanza of years past. Sunday newspaper coupons still account for about one-third of total coupons redeemed, with values usually ranging from $0.25 to $2 off a product. You’ll typically see:

• Personal care items (shampoo, deodorant, razors)

• Household cleaners and paper products
• Food items (though fewer high-value grocery coupons)

• Baby products and health items

The Real Cost Breakdown

Let’s crunch some numbers because that’s what savvy shoppers do! Sunday newspaper prices vary wildly by location, ranging from $1.25 at Dollar Tree to $4-5 at regular retailers. In places like New York and Ohio, papers can cost $5, with some stores refusing to carry them due to high prices.

If you’re paying $4 for a paper and only find 3-4 usable coupons worth $1 each, you’re breaking even at best. But here’s where strategy comes in: multiply your savings by buying multiple papers when there are high-value inserts. Buying multiple copies of the Sunday newspaper gets you multiples of each coupon, which is where the real savings kick in.

Smart Shopping Strategy

Check the Sunday coupon preview sites every Saturday to see what’s coming. If it’s a light week with mostly $0.25 coupons you won’t use, skip it. But when you spot multiple $1+ coupons for products you actually buy, grab 2-3 papers.

The Frustrating Reality: Missing Inserts

Here’s something that’ll make your blood boil: people are stealing coupon inserts from newspapers at stores. This is happening everywhere, from Dollar Tree to grocery stores, with some newspapers getting so fed up that companies like P&G stopped putting certain high-value coupons in inserts.

Pro tip: Always check papers before buying them at stores. Look through the entire paper to make sure all inserts are there.

Alternatives That Actually Work

If newspaper hunting feels like too much hassle, you’ve got options:

Dollar Tree Route

Dollar Tree stores sell Sunday newspapers for $1.25, but you need to get there early and check that coupon inserts are included. Just remember to be courteous and only grab 1-2 papers so other shoppers can save too.

Subscription Services

Companies like Sunday Coupon Inserts will mail you just the inserts without the newspaper bulk. They ship weekly subscriptions on Wednesdays before the coupons are published in newspapers, giving you a head start on planning your shopping trips. At $1.50 per insert for subscribers, this can be cheaper than buying multiple papers, especially if you only want specific coupons. The timing works well since most coupons have several weeks before expiring.

Free Sources

Ask neighbors for their unwanted inserts, check with local libraries on Monday mornings, or look for free community newspapers that sometimes carry previous week’s coupon inserts. Gas stations and convenience stores might let you have unsold papers too.

The Bottom Line: When It’s Worth It

Sunday newspaper coupons are still worth buying IF:

• You actually use household and personal care products regularly

• You’re willing to buy multiples when high-value inserts appear
• You can find papers for $2 or less

• You check preview sites to avoid wasting money on weak weeks

Skip the newspaper game if you primarily shop at stores like Aldi that don’t accept manufacturer coupons, or if you’re finding most coupons are for products you don’t use.

The coupon landscape has definitely changed, but for families spending $100+ weekly on groceries and household items, those Sunday inserts can still shave $10-20 off your bill when used strategically. Just don’t expect the extreme couponing glory days – those ship has sailed!

Always read terms and conditions on coupons and check your store’s coupon policy before shopping.