Are You a Savvy Shopper?
  1. Do you use coupons when shopping?

    Definitely, I am able to save a lot of money using coupons
    I use coupons sometimes
    I never use coupons
  2. Have you determined which grocery stores have the best prices?

    Yes, I comparison shop and I know where to get the best deals
    Sometimes I catch the best sales but I don't always get to look for them
    I don't really know, I just shop at the most convenient store
  3. Have you determined which grocery stores have the best prices?

    I have researched and found many discount stores to save money
    I know a few stores but I know I need to locate some more
    No I buy most of my items at regular department stores and boutiques
  4. Have you set budget limits for spending?

    I have a monthly budget which I adhere to very closely
    I have a monthly budget but I don’t always stick to it
    I don’t have a budget
  5. Do you comparison shop?

    Before I buy a particular item I always compare at least three different store prices
    When I have time I comparison shop but I don’t always get a chance to
    If I want to purchase something I buy it without shopping around
  6. Do you find creative ways to find low-cost or free entertainment?

    I’m always looking for free or cheap events to save money
    I don’t look for them regularly but if I learn of free or cheap events I will take advantage of them
    No, when I go out it always cost a lot of money
  7. Have you taken advantage of the various student discounts available through DePaul preferred vendors?

    Yes, I get discounts on my cell phone, when I travel, etc.
    Sometimes I utilize a discount but not on a regular basis
    I didn’t know DePaul had preferred vendors
  8. Do you take advantage of the student discounts at nearby restaurants?

    When I eat out, I try to make it a point to eat at restaurants where I can save money
    Sometimes
    What student discounts?
  9. Have you established a needs vs. wants list to control your spending?

    Yes, I prioritize my needs and then buy my wants as I can afford them
    Well, I have a list but sometimes I buy the wants even when I shouldn’t
    No, I don’t have a needs vs. wants list
  10. Do you buy items on credit that you really don’t have money for?

    Never, if I can’t afford it I don’t buy it
    Occasionally I will charge an item that I can’t pay for when the bill comes
    Yes, I use my credit cards to buy the things I want despite not having the money

20 - 15 You are a savvy shopper! This smart financial habit is allowing you to save money that can be used to reach other financial goals. Review any questions you answered B or C to and make necessary changes to further improve your situation. Review the Shop Smarter section for helpful money-saving strategies.

14 - 7 You are practicing some good spending habits while falling short on others. Attend the Get the Most Out Of Your Money workshop and/or review the Shop Smarter section for additional suggestions.

6 - 0 You are probably spending much more money than you have to. You need to make immediate changes in your spending habits. Attend the Get the Most Out Of Your Money workshop or set up an appointment with the Financial Fitness Program for individualized attention.