FREE Today

How to Pick a Winning Freebie

At FreeToday, we enjoy a steady stream of freebies and have also noticed a few patterns when they don't show up. We thought we'd take a few minutes to pass along our wisdom on how to pick a winning freebie.

Smaller start-up companies will often offer freebies to generate interest but are then overwhelmed by the response and run out of freebies. We still post those freebies - as long as they are legitimate companies - because oftentimes, they do follow through. But brand name stores are more  reliable. Walmart is one of the best, and their samples always arrive quickly. 

You may occasionally see a freebie on the net that we haven't posted. This is usually because the company is not only unknown, but has no corporate mailing address listed on the site. This helps protect our FreeToday audience from fraudulent companies. Avoid giving your information to any site that doesn't have proper contact information. Many times, they will promise a freebie to get information and then sell it to a third party.

Facebook has been booming with freebie offers lately and so far, the follow-through is very good. Facebook offers are most frequently via coupons. Coupons are great because you don't have to wait four to eight weeks to get your freebie - and don't we all love instant gratification? The free offers via mail have also performed very well, probably because Facebook offers tend to be from solid, well-recognized companies.

Have you seen the growing list of Facebook deals? If you want to pick a winning freebie, you can start with this list:

 Free Two-Pack of Chocolate Chip Cookies at QuickChek

BOGO Free Skittles Coupon When You Become a Facebook Fan

BOGO Free Starburst Coupon When You Become a Fan on Facebook

Get a Free Entree w/ Purchase When You Become a Facebook Fan of Ruby Tuesday

Free Sample of Nescafé When You Become a Facebook Fan

Free Breakfast Panini from Corner Bakery Cafe

Free Crispy Shrimp Taco w/ Purchase When You Become a Facebook Fan of Del Taco

--Renee

Image courtesy of  PlaystationLifestyle.net

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Motivating Munchkins With Freebie Rewards

Everyone loves freebies -  including kids!  Why not use that to everyone's advantage? Freebies are a great way to reward your kids for doing well in school, helping out around the house or even just a way to say "I love you."  It's easy on your wallet, and kids feel special getting their own freebie. 

FOR GIRLS:

A special treat for girls is our weekly free gift with purchase offers. These are excellent motivators because they usually have five to seven items included, plus a pretty bag to put them in. Choose makeup-centered freebies like the free Seven-Piece  Estee Lauder gift  with purchase at Boscov's that includes mascara, lipstick, eyshadow and two different makeup bags. Currently, there's also a  free Harajuku Lovers Alarm Clock when you purchase a Harajuku Gift Set at Sephora - it would make a nice motivator for a really impressive accomplishment like straight A's on the report card.

Shampoo samples are also fun treat and we currently have a wide selection including a  free sample of Fekkai shampoo and conditioner from Walmart, a  free sample of Aveeno Nourish+ shampoo and conditioner from Aveeno and a  free sample of L'Oréal EverStrong Hydrating Shampoo from L'Oréal Paris.

Another great freebie currently  for girls is the free heart charm from Centura Health when you sign up to receive free information on managing your health.

FOR BOYS:

Boys will enjoy the fun Build and Grow Clinics at Lowe's where they can make their own toys and other fun projects for free on the weekends. There's an upcoming project on Saturday, March 13 to build a free tabletop basketball hoop. There are also weekend projects at Home Depot.

Another great reward for boys is a free game of bowling when you buy a Tony's Pizza at Walmart. (Pizza and bowling are good motivators for dads too.)

FOR EVERYONE:

Hallmark is currently offering a free kid's card. Choose from a variety of kid-friendly messages ranging from congratulations for their accomplishments to simply telling them they are loved and appreciated. The cards feature fun graphics and many also have sound effects.

Take your young achiever out for a well-deserved treat at Steak 'n Shake, where you can get a free kids meal every weekend with each adult purchase of $8.00. In addition to this, we have weekly food freebies at restaurants of all kinds. Check in with FreeToday frequently to see the lastest restaurant freebie treats.

One of the best freebie rewards is the free DVD rental for kids with good grades at Blockbuster.  If your children (kindergarten through 12th grade) have a B average or better, bring their original report card signed by a parent or legal guardian (within 30 days of issuance) and they will receive a free DVD rental. If you have more than one genius in the family, they each will qualify for their very own DVD.

FOR BEST RESULTS:

When you are ordering free samples  it will take anywhere from four to 12 weeks for them to come in the mail, so stockpile ahead of time for immediate gratification once the reward has been earned. Don't offer a potential freebie as a reward, because supplies are always limited - it's best to wait until the freebie arrives.  

Always call ahead with any restaurant or business freebie to make sure your local store is participating. Nothing's worse than a brokenhearted munchkin denied a much-deserved reward.

Make sure to clearly define what must be done to earn the reward and always follow through once the goal has been met.  Clearly defined goals and rewards, and consistent follow-through are essential to keeping your child happy and motivated to achieve.

--Renee

Image courtesy of Kids 101

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Facebook: A Rising Star in Freebie Land

In our daily quest for freebies and free gift with purchase deals, occassionally we notice up-and-coming trends. One of the rising stars in Freebie Land is Facebook. When you're not tending imaginary farm animals or trying to find your high school sweetheart, you'll find that Facebook is also a hot bed for freebies! Many of your favorite brands, stores and restaurants now have a Facebook page, and oftentimes when you become a fan, you get a freebie reward and receive updates on special offers. We are seeing more and more Facebook-based freebies everyday - some move more quickly than others. Here is the current selection:

Free Sample of Zone Perfect Indulgence Bar: Supports the arts in your local schools, plus get a tasty free treat when you join the Zone Perfect fan page. They are giving $1.00 to VH1's Save the Music Foundation and sending a free sample of either chocolate peanut butter mousse or caramel toffee Zone Indulgence bars for the first 30,000 that join.

Free Crispy Shrimp Taco with Any Purchase at Del Taco: Sign up for the Del Taco fan club and then print off the coupon for a free Crispy Shrimp Taco with any purchase. This coupon can only be accessed once, so have your printer ready to go on your home computer.

Free 20-Count Box of Evolution Tea from Pilot Travel Centers: Get a full box of tea in your choice of flavors when you become a fan of Pilot Travel Centers. After you have joined, you can print off your coupon, valid until February 28 at participating locations.

Six Free Blizzards a Year from Dairy Queen: Dairy Queen wins the Fan Club Freebie Award hands down, sending you not one but SIX free Blizzards throughout the year when you become a fan. You will get the first one when you join, another one on your birthday and the other four when you least expect it - surprise Blizzard!

You will also find a host of freebie pages on Facebook - some legit and others not. You can wade through the chaos to find new freebies, or you can take a few quick minutes to check FreeToday and let us do it for you. We're shopping hard so you don't have to!

--Renee

Image courtesy of Facebook

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Current Health & Wellness Freebies

Among the fun freebies for free doughnuts and frozen yogurt, you will also find health care freebies. It's a great idea to keep an eye on the site for our ever-changing supply of samples to keep in your home medicine kit for unexpected needs. They're also very useful to try out new products. Our current selection includes the following:

Bodi Heat Heat Pad from Okamoto Industries: This is essential for a first aid kit. Simply open the pack and the natural mineral powder heating action will provide instant soothing relief for muscle strains and other injuries. Excellent for sufferers of arthritis, chronic pain or sports injuries. Unlike other heat pads which provide heat only in the area that's directly in contact with the pad, Bodi Heat pads extend heat beyond the area it's applied for extended relief that lasts up to 12 hours.

Free Sample of Prilosec OTC from Walmart: Although Prilosec needs to be taken BEFORE heartburn sets in, it's still a good thing to have on hand if you know you are going to have a day of spicy or greasy food ahead of you. Take a dose of Prilosec before the feasting begins and you won't have to worry about a tummy ache ruining your festivities. It's also handy if you have house guests with finicky stomachs.

Breath Right Strips: If you snore or have trouble breathing at night, this is a sample you should definitely send for. But even if it's not a problem you have, this is a good staple to have in the medicine cabinet for easier sleep when you have a bad cold, or for house guests who might need a little help. With a few Breathe Right Strips, Aunt Betsy's visits might be considerably more enjoyable.

In addition to these samples there are two very important health care options available at the Take Care Clinic at Walgreens. Whether you are unemployed, uninsured or just really thrifty, the Take Care Clinics provide a number of services periodically throughout the year for free or reduced prices. Currently they offer the following:

H1N1 Vacinations $18.00: Although this isn't a free service, it is a special offer and welcome relief for the cold and flu season. Protect yourself and family against this deadly virus for only $18.00 per immunization at participating Take Care Clinics - no insurance required.

Free Blood Glucose Testing until February 28, 2010: If your family has a history of diabetes or if you experience frequent urination, unusual thirst, extreme hunger, unusual weight loss or extreme fatigue and irritability after you eat, make sure to take advantage of this vital free service. If left untreated, diabetes can result in blindness, loss of limbs, damage to internal organs and eventually death. The sooner you are aware of the disease and start to treat it, the better your long-term health will be. Make an appointment soon at your nearby participating Take Care Clinic, this opportunity ends on February 28.

These are the health-related freebies we have on hand today. Make sure to drop by often and we'll help you keep that medicine cabinet and first aid kit stocked for next to nothing!

--Renee

Image courtesy of LeeMonster.blogspot.com

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Techno Freebies

Freebies come in all shapes and sizes. We have seen everything from free tests for diabetes  to free frequent flyer miles. Recently, we've noticed - among the free coffee and shampoo - another emerging trend:  the techno freebie.  Techno freebies are the new jewel of freebie-land.

Free Message Phone Number:  International Telcom provides free internet-based phone numbers that deliver all your voicemail and fax messages directly to your computer. Needless to sa this presents a number of possibilities. If you are dying to try a freebie but don't want to give out your phone number, get one from Telcom. Need a number to give unworthy romantic prospects? Annoying bill collectors? Give them your Telcom number and they will never reach you directly. Callers go straight to voice mail every time.

Free MP3 Downloads: The invention of the iPod and other such devices has turned the way we enjoy music upside down. Free MP3 downloads are like free ear candy. Walmart is one of the most consistent suppliers, offering new MP3 downloads weekly. Right now, they offer a free  Boyz II Men download of their single "Cupid." On the other end of the music spectrum there is a free Country Music Sampler from People Magazine, or a free classical music album "I  love the 80's (1880's)" at Amazon.com.

Free eReader for iPhone, Blackberry or PC/Mac at Barnes & Noble: The free eReader application gives users access to hundreds of eBooks on their Blackberry, iPhone, PC or Mac. Six titles are free with the download and there are hundreds of eBooks to choose from for purchase, plus four pages of free eBook downloads to choose from. Book? What's a book?

Free International Phone Calls: Overpriced international calls and calling cards with endless codes and pin numbers are a thing of the past.  Download the virtual calling card application from Pingo into your iPhone or Smart Phone, and get $5.00 of free international calls for trying out the service. This gives you a chance to see how it works and to preview the regular rates. Then if you like the service, get your first 6.5 hours of international calls for just a dollar.

Techno freebies are keeping us connected with the people we love, disconnected from the people we don't want to hear from, and well prepared for long lines and endless waiting with free eBooks and MP3 downloads. I think it's safe to say we've come a long way since free kittens.

--Renee

Image courtesy of Spacecollective.org

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e.l.f. - Making Frugal the New Fabulous

Did you know e.l.f. (eyes lips face) offers makeup for a dollar? Perhaps you're skeptical - how could something that only costs $1.00 be any good? On the other hand, it only costs $1.00 to try it so what have you got to lose? We have tried the products and have been very impressed. Not only did they have the same quality as the pricier store brands, but they threw a few free samples in our order to sweeten the deal. Here's are a few examples of the big ways you'll save when buying cosmetics at e.l.f. You'll pay only a buck for mascara at e.l.f. and save 87% over national brands. Even many of their accessories - like eyelash curlers - are only $1.00, and we found this gorgeous Kabuki Brush at a savings of 87% over national brands. How much would you expect to pay for a 12-piece professional makeup brush collection? Save 66% at e.l.f. where it costs only $12.00 - that's just a buck a brush!

One of the things e.l.f. is great for is free stuff with your purchase. How they can afford to do that when everything is only a dollar to start with is beyond us, but we're not complaining! Right now, there are three different freebies you can get with varying purchase amounts:

-With only a $10.00 purchase, you can get a fabulous 27-piece makeup collection in its own Valentine red organizer free when you use the promo code REDMINI at checkout. The collection includes face brush, lip brush, eye shadow applicator, eye shadow brush, nine eyeshadows, one cream eyeshadow, one bronzer, one blush, ten lip glosses, brow powder and an eye liner.

-With your $20.00 purchase, you can receive a free five-piece sample collection including Therapeutic Conditioning Balm, Earth & Water Mascara Duo, Brightening Eye Color, Super Glossy Lip Shine SPF 15 and Shimmering Facial Whip. To get this collection, use the promo code SAMPLE2010 at checkout.

-With a $30.00 purchase, you will automatically receive a free one-year magazine subscription. Currently the subscription is to Women's Health, but the magazine varies from month to month and has included Vogue, Working Mother and Shape - so if you don't like the current selection just wait a few weeks and check back in.

One of our favorite e.l.f. freebies is the free virtual makeover, where you can try new makeup looks and hairstyles by entering a photo of yourself into the interactive online program.

We're not the only ones who have discovered the fabulous beauty secrets of e.l.f. - they've even been featured on "Live with Regis and Kelly" and in magazines like Vogue, Haper's Bazaar, Glamour, and Allure, to name a few. Whether your shopping for a bargain or looking for a great free gift with purchase, e.l.f. is making frugal the new fabulous.

--Renee

Image courtesy of e.l.f.

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Exciting Developments at FreeToday

Notice anything different lately? FreeToday has tossed its hat in the freebie ring! We were having so much fun showing people where to find freebies, we decided to get in on the action. Recently, we have partnered with HealthQuest to promote their exciting product the MiniMate. What is a MiniMate? The MiniMate is a small appliance you put in your refrigerator that extends the life of your fresh produce with its unique activated oxygen technology. It eliminates germs, prevents molding, and keeps produce crisp and more flavorful. Think about the price of fresh produce - now think about how much wilted lettuce and molded fruit you threw out last year.

The first offer is for a free 30-day trial of the MiniMate, with a free vegetable peeler thrown in whether you decide to keep the Minimate or not. The only cost is a small $6.95 fee to covering shipping of the MiniMate. Then If you like it, you keep it at the end of your 30 days and your credit/debit card will be charged two payments of $14.97.

The response on that freebie offer has been enthusiastic so we decided to up the ante. Our second offer is the HealthQuest Home Mold testing kit ($39.95 value) for free  when you sign up for the 30-day free trial offer on the MiniMate. The mold testing kit is vital if you feel you have a mold infestation in your house and you have allergies or young children. For more information on how mold can affect your health, view the video on the site here.  The kit includes one petri dish and agar gel, and will give you visual results in less than 72 hours. A number is provided and the results are called in to evaluate whether the mold is toxic. If you desire a full toxicology report on the mold, that can be provided for $29.95.

Now you just have to decide between the free vegetable peeler or the free mold kit when you give the MiniMate a 30-day test drive!

This is our first adventure in promoting an exclusive freebie. What do you think? We love to hear any comments you have, and input on what kinds of freebies you might like to see us promote in the future. Keep your eyes on the site - there are sure to be more FreeToday offers in the future.

--Renee

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Disney Freebies

Recently, Disney has begun to see the freebie light. It started with their free birthday admission in 2009 offer, which was so successful they have updated it for 2010. This year, you can get a Free Ticket to Disney Theme Parks  when you volunteer a day in 2010 - which is a much better deal for those of us who stopped having birthdays once we hit 29. 

To help you plan your well-deserved getaway, you can send for the free Disney Vacation Planning DVD. The DVD gives you tours of the theme parks, water parks, and resort hotels at Walt Disney World in Florida and  Disneyland Resort in California.  In addition, you'll find tips on how to have fun on the cheap, a preview of special events and a pocket-sized planning guide.

There are also a number of free activities and resources available for kids this year, which is welcome relief in January when "cabin fever" starts setting in and it is too cold to play outside.

Disney.go.com: This website is full of fun interesting things for your kids to do, with free games based on your kids' favorite characters, free full-length TV episodes from the Disney channel and free music from Hannah Montana, the Jonas Brothers, High School Musical and more. The more they look, the more they will find to do. Signing up for the website is free, and gives them access to hours of fun.

Free Disney Character Digital Books :

Digital Books are not just a book download; they're online interactive books for readers of all levels. The books for youngest readers have a narrator that reads the books to the child, the next level has text highlighted along with the narrator to help kids learn how to read and the books for older children let them read at their own pace and are age appropriate. There are a number of books that can be purchased for viewing and seven free downloads. The free downloads include books from each age category so you can see what each version is like. Even if you don't go on to purchase additional books the free samples stay on your page and your child can read them again and again.

Make Free Cards, Calendars, Coloring Pages & Play Games w/ Disney Magic Artist:

This one is great for moms, kids, teachers or anyone who likes to make customized calenders and greeting cards.  There are a number of other fun things to do on this page as well include print out finger puppets, coloring pages to print and color and fun online games. This one is a keeper and there are no strings attached. Just a fun free online resource.

As you can see "the Mouse" has been busy, making sure that even in tough financial times munchkins can still get in on a little Disney Magic. We at FreeToday would just like to say - "Thanks Mickey!"

--Renee

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What to Do If Your Freebie Doesn't Come

Getting freebies is fun. Everyone loves to find a free sample of pet treats or a free tea sample  waiting for them in the mail. But what do you do when your freebie doesn't arrive as promised? Read below for handy guide on tracking down those missing freebies.

How Long Ago Did You Order?

We occasionally get comments from readers who are concerned because they haven't received their freebie after only a week or two. Go back to the original freebie site and review the time frame promised. Some freebies can take two to three months to arrive! (Most take four to six weeks.) Other freebies promise a much quicker delivery. If it hasn't been at least six weeks, wait just a little bit longer before you panic.

Check the Store Website for Any Updates

This is NOT the FreeToday page, but the page of the company who actually SENDS the freebie. Sometimes, if they have temporarily run out of freebies but will be sending out more soon, they will have a message letting their customers know.

Contact the Company

If it has been longer than six weeks and there are no messages on their site explaining the delay, go to the CONTACT US page on their site.  Many sites have an easy-to-use online form to send electronic communication, while others will have their phone number listed. When you contact:

BE POLITE. You will get better results with honey than vinegar. Don't assume that because there is a delay, the site is a scam. We check out websites very thoroughly before we post any deals. Assume that there is a misunderstanding and that with some communication the issue can be resolved. Simply explain that you had made a request, that the promised freebie has not arrived and could they please assist you.

REMEMBER YOU HAVEN'T PAID FOR ANYTHING: A freebie is not a right or a purchase. Whether or not a company chooses to give you something for free is their choice. It is delightful when they decide to share, but it's their right to decide not to do so.

HAVE COMPLETE INFORMATION: Before you contact the company, know the date or approximate date that the request was sent, know what product you were promised for free and be aware of the terms and limitations of the specific offer.

Top Freebie Performers:  We want to take a moment to give props to the companies that have performed well in the past. Walmart and Sam's Club  are two of the best sites for freebies. Not only do they have regular freebies, but they deliver within a couple of weeks without fail. Other companies that have shown themselves to be very efficient include Proctor & Gamble and Betty Crocker. These are some of the quickest to respond but almost all freebies do eventually come in the mail, even if it takes a while to get there.

--Renee

Photo courtesy of For the Love of the Dog Blog

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Weight Loss Freebies for 2010

If you made a New Year's resolution to lose weight, you need all the support you can get. You may be overwhelmed and not sure which program to pick. The good news is there are plenty of freebies to get you started. Many popular weight loss programs offer free online dieting tools and/or free trials of their program. There are also some freebie diet snacks that are fun motivators to keep you eating healthy, and fitness centers that will let you try their facilities out for free before making an obligation. Another place you should check out is the 60% off sale at Drugstore.com on all "resolution" items, including weight loss supplements.

We have been publishing so many weight loss freebies over the last two weeks, we decided to put them all in one handy place to make it easier to look them over and choose what works for you.

WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMS

Curves:  Get 30 days free when you join curves. Curves features a 30-minute personalized workout for busy women on the go.

Nutrisystem: Seven days of free food and free Jumpstart plan when you join Nutrisystem. Nutrisystem provides no-guess dieting with prepackaged meals delivered right to your door and a diet coach. Specialized meal plans available.

Atkins: Free start-up kit and three Atkins bars when you register for Atkins' free online eTools. Atkins is a low-carb meal plan with three different stages.

Weight Watchers:  Free registration and free seven-day trial of Weight Watcher Online eTools. Weight Watchers features weekly support meetings, online tools and reliable food plans based on solid nutritional data.

Slim-Fast: Free customized weight loss plan and online tools when you register at Slim-Fast.com. Slim-Fast is a low-calorie diet that uses shakes and bars as meal replacements.

FREE DIET SNACKS/HEALTHY FOODS

Free Sample of Mariani Dried Plums from Sam's Club: Increase your energy, get vital nutrients and enjoy the natural sweetness of this healthy snack sample.

Free Everlast Energy Bar from GNC:  Only 200 calories and packed with nutrients. Choose from Peanut Butter Chocolate Crunch, Dark Chocolate Nut or Oatmeal Raisin Walnut.

Free Low-Fat Fresco Taco at Taco Bell: Fast food that's healthy? Is such a thing possible? Get a coupon for a free Fresco Taco and see how it tastes.

Free Myoplex Bar or Shake with EAS Newsletter registration at Abbott Nutrition: Make sure you click the box requesting the free sample. Take time to explore the excellent online tools their site has to offer.

 FITNESS CENTER TRIALS

Free Seven-Day Guest Pass to Bally Fitness: Follow our link to find a location near you, then check it out for seven days.

Free Seven Day Trial Pass to LifeTime Fitness: Another great offer for a seven day trial membership.

We searched for freebies on willpower, patience and discipline, but couldn't find any. As soon as they're available, our readers will be the first to know! In the mean time, this is an awesome selection of freebies to get you started on the way to a better you in 2010. Enjoy the journey!

--Renee

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FreeToday Wants Your Input

CheapToday has recently added a comment feature. Why did we do that? Because not only do we love hearing from you, your feedback helps us to develop the site into your ideal spot for deals and freebies.  We do read each and every comment that comes across our virtual desk and although we may not reply directly to you, we DO consider each person's comment/suggestion/feedback. This feature gives you a way to let us know when a deal has expired or changed its price, the site or a deal has a technical problem, etc.

Based on the comments that we have received so far, there seems to be some aspects of FreeToday that need definition.  FreeToday is all about freebies. Every day I search numerous sites, checking each freebie for fraud and technical difficulty before I post. This saves you the time and aggravation of doing this on your own, plus you have one handy site to check instead of 15.  However, WE do not directly send those samples to you - what we do is provide you a link to the company or retailer. Leaving us a request to send you the sample will have disappointing results since we are not able to submit requests on your behalf. To redeem freebies, please follow our links to the host site and apply directly with whatever form is provided.

If you have problems with the host site, we DO want you to let us know because we always follow up those comments to see if they can be duplicated. If they can, then we expire or update our deal. HOWEVER, if you are having difficulty and want the problem resolved, you will need to contact the host site as well.

Many times, we are unable to duplicate errors reported by readers. If you are having technical problems (error messages) with a site, always do the following: first, clear the cache on your browser by choosing the "tools" option on your browser toolbar and then "options". Locate and remove all cookies.  Then reboot your computer and see if the error persists. If it does, then let both FreeToday and the host site know.

On the positive side of this new feature, reading the comments has given us new insight as to which kind of freebies our readers prefer. Also, please continue to use the "like" button at the top of each freebie to let us know which ones you really love. These two features used together help us see which freebies our FreeToday fans are nuts about so we can dig up more of the same!

So whether you love the Free Medium Coffee When You Sign up for Dunkin' Perks at Dunkin' Donuts  or prefer the Free Myoplex Bar or Shake w/ EAS Newsletter Registration at Abbott Nutrition, let us know and we'll keep dishing out the freebies you love most.

--Renee

Image courtesy of Carefirst.com

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Freebies and Phone/Cell Numbers: What You Should Know

We've had a number of concerns in our reader comments over free offer forms that request phone and cell phone numbers. I decided it would be a good idea to review some of the basics of this hot button issue in the freebie world.

READ THE FORM CAREFULLY: Many times, there will be a spot to enter your phone number but it's not mandatory information. You can usually sign up for a freebie without submitting your phone number. Anytime you fill out a request form for a freebie, make sure to read it carefully so you're well-informed. You have to wonder why a company would need your phone number to send you a free sample. Most of the time, they just give you the option, knowing that people won't take the time to read the fine print. That's how telemarketers run their business.

DON'T GIVE OUT YOUR CELL PHONE NUMBER: Cell phone numbers are precious to telemarketers - since they're unpublished numbers, the cheapest and fastest way for them to get your number is to trick you into unknowingly giving it to them. A new trend in free offers and coupons right now is to have the customer send a text message and then receive a coupon back on their cell phone. When you do this, not only do you PAY your cell phone provider for the text message, you open the flood gates for all those cell phone minutes used telling telemarketers you don't want their product or worse, paying for text messages you never wanted.  Many companies have started giving the option for customers to leave their cell phone numbers, but it is RARELY a mandatory requirement. A close read will usually reveal it's optional. If it is mandatory, perhaps you should reconsider how badly you want this freebie.

DON'T GIVE OUT YOUR HOME PHONE NUMBER: Although the direct financial consequences are not quite as dire as when you give out your cell phone number, it is still very annoying when your number gets out and the telemarketing calls start pouring in.

HOW CAN YOU GET AROUND IT? Here's the juicy part. You can get a free phone number that is a message-only number. In the event that a free offer form did require it, this phone number can be used without any worry of telemarketing backlash. It's not a cell phone number, but they won't know that! So in the unlikely event that your cell/phone information was required, you're covered and protected. This number also comes in handy for other reasons like prospective dates you hope to avoid, or if you lose phone service but still need to keep in touch.

--Renee

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Hot List of Holiday Freebies

Nothing puts the "Ho! Ho! Ho!" into the holidays better than a solid freebie. This week has turned up some fantastic free offers with plenty of Yuletide cheer. There's a little bit of everything, including calls from Santa and free coupons at Whataburger.

FREE PERSONALIZED HOLIDAY CALL FROM SANTA/SNOWMAN/NASCAR'S TONY STEWART: The first is a freebie for lucky readers who live near a Kroger store. Once you schedule your request, your favorite munchkin will get a personalized telephone call from your choice of holiday heroes.

FREE PERSONALIZED VIDEO WITH SANTA FROM DISNEY: This one is truly awesome. You can share the link with friends and family via email. Register at Disney Family.com, then download a picture off your computer, enter your child's name and it will generate a fun free video staring Santa. Want to see a sample? Click Here.

FREE PICTURE WITH SANTA DECEMBER 5 AND 6 AT WALMART PHOTO CENTER: It's not really Christmas until the kids have a picture with Santa. Sometimes the price they charge at the mall can be staggering but Walmart keeps the spirit of the season bright with free pics for the kids with the Big Red Guy himself.

SEND A FREE HOLIDAY CARD (U.S.P.S.) COMPLIMENTS OF GOOGLE: It's so much easier to send an email than mail a letter. Why is that? Google noticed it too, and decided to give everyone one free holiday card to send for free. It will be sent out in the regular mail - just fill out the quick online form and choose from one of six different card designs, including M-envelope in Snow, Rudolph, Mittens, Snowflakes, Do-it-Yourself Dreidel and Comic Snowflakes.

TWELVE FREE DAYS OF COUPONS FROM WHATABURGER: Nothing ushers in holiday cheer like an abundant supply of tasty free treats. Crisp hot fries, creamy cold shakes and juicy Whataburgers await during the Twelve Days of Whataburger. When you sign up, a  free coupon will be sent to you every other day until December 24. This is a holiday tradition you can really sink your teeth into.

--Renee

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Using Freebies to Stretch Your Christmas Gift Budget

Gift-giving can be a beautiful thing; going into debt from holiday spending is not. While I don't advocate giving free toothpaste samples as holiday gifts, freebies can be used to stretch your Christmas gift dollar further than you think. With a little creativity and advance planning, freebies and free gift with purchases can help soften the holiday blow on your budget. Here are a few ideas I plan on using this year:

FREE TRIAL MEMBERSHIP TO A FITNESS CENTER: If you know someone who has been thinking about getting back in shape and could use a little nudge, there are three different fitness centers that offer free trial memberships. Just print off the free membership certificate to Bally Fitness Center, Lifetime Fitness or 24-Hour Fitness Center and stuff it in a card or stocking. This makes a nice addition to a larger Christmas gift (think new workout clothes or athletic shoes) or by itself as a secret Santa treat, white elephant gift or stocking stuffer. 

FREE GIFT WITH PURCHASE: These goodies run constantly and change from week to week. You can often get a free gift with purchase that is worth more than the required spending amount, like the current offer at Ulta.com for two free hurricane style candle holders ($50 value) when you spend only $30 on fragrance. Use your purchase as two separate gifts, or to make one gift extra special. Some other juicy free gift with purchase deals running right now include the free gift with $10 purchase at Bath & Body Works, the free scarf with sweater purchase at Victoria's Secret, the free six-piece Glamour Goddess gift with $45 purchase or the Restorative Treats six-piece gift with $45 purchase at Borghese, the BOGO free on bath items at e.l.f. Cosmetics, the free Metallic Flower Clutch and eight samples with $25 purchase or the free Harajuku Lovers Alarm Clock with Harajuku Lovers Solid Coffret purchase at Sephora, the free Estée Lauder gift ($200 value) with $55 purchase at Saks Fifth Avenue and your choice of free gift with any purchase at Yves Rocher.  These are a few of the current free gifts with purchase. They change frequently, so be sure to check the FREE Today section weekly to keep up with the newest additions.

FREE PHOTOGRAPHY PACKAGE: You should check the expiration date on these, but printing off the coupon and including it in an early Christmas/Holiday card is a nice idea for family members, or as secret Santa and white elephant gifts. We have two of these running currently. The first is a fantastic deal that lasts until December 31 for a free session plus a free 10x13 wall portrait at Sears Portrait Studio. You'll save $44.97 with this impressive package. The second is a free set of 15 portrait gift tags with a new portrait session at Picture People. This package you'd definitely want to take advantage of early so it could be used in time for Christmas, plus the expiration date is December 26. But portrait gift tags are a fun and unique way to put your family's stamp on gift-giving this holiday season.

FREE VIRTUAL GIFTS: Virtual Christmas gifts are great for online friendships. Internet-based friendships are a part of the modern age...with many of these friendships, you don't have the person's postal address but you still want to send holiday cheer. Sending an eCard or holiday email with a link to a free service or download is a great way to spread Christmas spirit without having to spend extra money. You can also add links when your filling out your Christmas cards, so your friends and family get an extra bonus.

Barnes & Noble Free eReader: Do you have a friend that is attached to their iPhone or Blackberry constantly? Send them a link to the Barnes & Noble free eReader that they can download onto their device (it can also be downloaded to a PC or Mac). The eReader comes with six free books automatically, plus gives them access to hundreds of free books they can download on the Barnes & Noble site. They can also purchase many books at reduced prices.

25 Free iTunes Downloads on LSTN #7 at Urban Outfitters: Free music downloads are an excellent idea and this link gives you 25 different tracks featuring artists like the Vivian Girls, Darlings, No Age, the Dodos, the Very Best and more.

Free Virtual Makeover Tool at E.L.F.: This one is great for your female friends. With this online tool, they can download a picture of themselves and then try out new hairstyles and makeup styles. This freebie is a great way to save money and avoid a bad haircut!

--Renee

Image courtesy of Dean Morrissey Studio

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Free eBooks for Your iPhone/iPod Touch, Blackberry or PC/Mac at Barnes & Noble

When economic times get tough, the first thing that usually gets slashed from the budget is entertainment. To that we say : thank goodness for free book downloads! The first Barnes & Noble freebie we picked up on celebrated the 60th anniversary of romance imprint Harlequin with free PDF downloads. You can still download 16 different titles, with offerings from a wide variety of the Harlequin genres including the Nocturne series with mystical vampires and magic warriors, the Blaze series with hot steamy romances or the Romance series with traditional love stories that bring a smile-- just to name a few.

If romance isn't your thing, try the Barnes & Noble eReader. It's free to download and you can use it on your Blackberry, iPhone/iPod Touch or PC/Mac. The download comes with six free eBooks already installed and there are over 100 additional free eBooks to choose from on the Barnes & Noble site. Choose from titles like "Star Wars" and "The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes." I tried it out and loved it - it's both easy to read and user-friendly.  The Barnes & Noble eReader is a great way to explore new authors, too. Forking over cash for an author you haven't read before can be a game of Russian reading roulette but with free eBooks, you can sample the works of a variety of new literary talent and find the ones you like. There's also a wide selection of eBooks for $5.00 or less; they're not free but it's still a hot deal compared with the list prices for hardcover and paperback books. Now when you're stuck in line or waiting at the doctor's office, you can pull out your Blackberry or iPhone and have something to pass the time!

Another option for eBooks at Barnes & Noble is the Nook. The Nook is not free ($259; available for pre-order here) but once purchased, you can download all the free eBooks and you can sample any eBook for free before buying. It is similar to the Kindle but has wi-fi capabilities, a color touch control screen and extended memory capabilities. After the initial purchase price, you'll find yourself saving money, as eBooks cost much less than hard copies. It would make a great gift from Santa for the avid reader in your household and with all the free samples and free eBooks, it will pay for its self.

--Renee

Image courtesy of Barnes & Noble

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