Forget politics for a moment. Here is a subject about billions that impacts your family budget:

The use of coupons increases anytime the economy goes sour. In recent years, coupon use trended downward because of the upward economy, but last year the trend stopped and use leveled off. Just like struggling food pantries, it was a sign of a change to come in the economy. The use of coupons is expected to increase this year.

Regardless of whether coupon use is up or down in America, the use of them is always great. Americans use $3 billion — yes, billion — in coupons every year. The principal source for coupons is your hometown newspaper. The savings you get more than pays for your subscription to any newspaper.

It’s just something to think about when planning your family budget.