The only brands not covered by the coupon program are the company's cigarettes with very low tar and nicotine content.

Some budget items would be eliminated entirely, such as the $20,000-a-year coupon program to help the elderly poor buy fresh produce.

The coupon program, the tourist office says, varies in different regions.

Sears said it would advertise details of the coupon program starting Nov. 1.

Companies that help grocery manufacturers set up online coupon programs say they have seen similar responses from other clients.

On January 4, 2009 the coupon program reached its $1.34 billion ceiling and any further consumer requests were placed on a waiting list.

Companies using coupon programs often set up coupon printers in grocery stores.

The coupon program is intended to improve nutrition for needy families and to provide additional business for Connecticut farmers.

Microsoft had announced the coupon program in October, and said that about $1.5 billion in revenue would be deferred.

With the coupon program, users can receive, select and download coupons, making their purchases 10 times faster.