Are you a loyal shopper? Do you shop based on the deals or the familiarity? Some of us get mad when the store we shop at regularly makes changes; others don’t care where they shop as long as they get a deal, and some have cards in their wallet or on their key chains for every loyalty program in their area. Nowadays with all of the options for shopping, merchants spend a lot of time and money getting you in the door, and possibly even more learning how to keep you coming back. 
Let’s look at some of the programs that keep more coins in your pocket to make sure you are not missing out.
Walgreens:
The loyalty program here is called Register Rewards. Each week in their Weekly Ad they specify qualifying items. When you hit the check-out, your Register Reward coupon prints out and you will be able to redeem on your next transaction or visit. These coupons expire fairly quickly, so be sure to use them soon.
Using Register Rewards, combined with coupons is one of the best ways to get items for FREE too!
CVS:
The rewards program at CVS, called Extra Care Bucks, is also a really good one. You not only get instant savings when you buy select items, you can also earn additional bucks equal to 2 per cent of your purchases, earn them when you buy prescriptions and find even more savings when you visit popular social media sites. These reward bucks print out on you receipt for qualifying items or accumulate to be redeemed at the coupon center at CVS.com. Like with Walgreens, make sure you pay attention to expiration dates so you don’t waste your Extra Care Bucks. Unlike Walgreens, the CVS Extra Care card limits the number of deals you can get — but also gives you more coupons.
When you head into any CVS store, be sure to scan your card at the “Magic Coupon Machine” — pretty everyday they will shoot out new coupons for you! These are CVS coupons, which means that they can be combined with Manufacturer coupons.
Rite Aid:
This customer reward program, + UP, includes wellness benefits. As a member you get discounts and special prices along with access to a pharmacist. A weekly circular lists the member-only benefits. Your register receipts will display member-only price reductions and offers. You will also get email notifications. It is easy to enroll at www.riteaid.com and print a temporary card. Set up should include a $5 coupon on your next $25 purchase. Of course, you will also be able read all the policies concerning this reward program at the site as well.
Target: 
If you love Target, make sure you are taking advantage of their REDcard — I use their debit card. Once you are approved for this debit card, you will save 5 percent on all your purchases. When you check out with the REDcard the money gets drawn from you checking account, just like writing a check. You can only use the REDcard at Target, but if you do a lot of shopping there, the discount makes it so worth your while. Next time you are in Target — ask about it!
Best Buy:
Get in the Reward Zone with this program. For every dollar you spend you receive 1 point. 250 points equals a $5 reward certificate. They come by email and you can use them at a store or online. Not bad if you spend a lot here.
Big Lots:
The Buzz Club Program offers a way to earn discounts good for 20%. When you shop have the cashier scan your Buzz Club card. After 10 qualifying purchases of $20 or more within a 12-month period, you get a 20 % discount on a future purchase. Good idea to plan this out so you get the 20% off on a bigger purchase. Check out the rules at BUZZ CLUB.
Staying Hooked up
Many stores give you the option to receive emails and texts so you know when they are offering their best deal. If you have favorite stores, make sure you know what sort of system they use so you always know about their sales. You might be missing out on discounts at places you go to regularly.
Do you have a favorite loyalty program? Tell us about it!
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