Bending the Coupon Rules: Is It Right?

There is a lot of debate in the couponing world about whether or not it's okay to break coupon rules.  Most coupons do have fine print, stating limits, size restrictions, or other guidelines.  Store policies have specific rules as well.

However, it can be possible for coupons to scan successfully for products that aren't quite what the manufacturer had intended.  For example, most coupons cannot be used for a trial or travel sized version of the product listed.  If you find that a coupon is scanning for a trial version of a product when it shouldn't, what should you do?

Similarly, perhaps you come across a store cashier that is ignorant of a 4 like coupon per day limit on a coupon you plan on using.  You know that you have 8 of this coupon; should you take advantage of this situation?

It is Thrifty Chick's opinion that all coupon rules should be followed during every shopping trip.  It is one thing to not be aware of certain restrictions yourself and find yourself accidentally breaking the rules.  It is another to exploit situations just because you can.  It may be tempting to bend couponing rules; especially when you are technically adhering to policy.  But this is a matter of ethical behavior and thought.  When people take advantages of cracks in the system, it can affect the couponing world as a whole.  Stores may change their coupon policies to stricter versions or perhaps stop accepting coupons altogether. 

I am not judging or scolding anyone that chooses to break couponing rules.  There is too much drama on the internet regarding this debate.  I simply ask you to think about your actions, just like anything in life.  Evaluate every situation as it comes about and make the decision that is right for you.