Use them or lose money, there is no way around the loyalty program concept.   What really matters is maximizing the benefits. Two ways to enhance your savings – when ever possible stick with one program for every category type i.e. food, office supplies, hotels, air travel and give them your email address (set up a seperate account for deals if necessary) so you receive up to the minute offers.

Here are the no fee programs the Frugal Diva likes best and why.

Staples – They give you $2 for every used printer cartridges and a percentage of purchases in a rebate check.  Watch for emails with weekly savings and coupons. Back to school is an excellent time to stock on supplies for the office.

Ralphs – Their points system allows you to get back a small rebate for Shell gasoline. They will email you items that garner bonus points and just by clicking you can make your way to savings. The coupons are loaded into your loyalty card and automatically deducted at checkout. No cutting and no forgetting.

DSW- Buy your way to the next pair of shoes. Plus a $5 coupon for your birthday and offers all year long for double points, free tote bags, and discounts.

Chicos – After an initial purchase amount, members receive an automatic 5% off and a coupon every month plus a birthday bonus, invitations to private sales, and special discounts.

Let me know what you think are great programs and I will add them to the post.