Q: Are you ever treated like a scam artist, or like you are trying to pull a fast one when you use coupons? I am treated that way often at the stores I frequent, which is surprising after learning ...

After last week's column on why people might choose not to use coupons, I received these e-mails from readers: "I had a horrifying experience at my local supermarket last week and found myself crying ...

You finish filling your cart with the week's groceries, head to the checkout lane and place your items on the conveyor belt. The cashier announces the total, and you hand over a nice stack of coupons.