PITTSBURGH --

Normally, we bring you stories about how you can save money by clipping coupons, but now we have advice on making sure coupons don't end up costing you money. Target 11 Consumer Reporter Robin Taylor talked with the Better Business Bureau about this.

Shopping with coupons has almost become a competitive sport, with extreme couponers getting piles of groceries for little or no cash. But that’s not easy. For the rest of us, coupons can be a money saver, but only if they're used wisely.

PHONY COUPONS

The Better Business Bureau says the first thing you need to do is to make sure you have an actual coupon, because phony coupons are starting to show up in people’s email. If there's an offer that asks for your financial information, stay away.

ORGANIZE

Once you know you have legitimate coupons, the next step is to organize them in a file system that can easily be carried into the store.

BUY WHAT YOU NEED

Make a shopping list and buy only the products that you need. Just because you have a coupon doesn't mean you have to use it. It's tempting to overspend with coupons and end up with things you don't need.

KNOW COUPON POLICIES

Also, know your store's coupon polices and coupon requirements.

PRICE MATCHING

Find out if they will match a competitor's price, which could save you money because you won't have to drive all over town to get the best deal.

COMPARISON SHOP

Finally, keep a record of things you buy often, that way you comparison shop, and stock up when your favorite items are on sale.

Some of the best extreme couponers donate what they can't use to charity. If you find yourself with a year's supply of something you're not going to use, consider making a donation to the food bank.