We all enjoy a bargain. When you purchase groceries, clothing, electronics, or homewares, it's wonderful to feel that you're saving dollars. One of the most effective ways to save money on shopping is to stack coupons on top of each other. But what is coupon stacking, and how do you stack them properly?
Here, we shall explain it all to you step by step in plain terms. This way, you can shop smart, save big, and get the best value for money.
· What is coupon stacking?
Coupon stacking refers to the process of applying multiple coupons to one product or purchase to receive a greater discount. For instance, you can apply a store coupon and a manufacturer's coupon to one item. It saves you more money—or even a great deal more!
Not all stores double-coupon, but most major stores will. So, before you go shopping, it's a good idea to call the store to find out if they double-coupon.
· Coupons You Can Use Together
To start coupon stacking, you must know about the types of coupons that exist:
1. Manufacturer Coupons
These are offered by the product manufacturer or product brand (e.g., Tide, Colgate, or Nestlé). You can locate these at:
1. Brand websites
2. Coupon apps like Coupons.com
3. Newspapers or pamphlets
4. Product packaging
2. Clip Coupons
These are offered by the store itself (such as Target, Walmart, or Walgreens). They are located at:
1. The store’s website or app
2. Weekly advertisements
3. Email newsletters or loyalty cards
3. Online Coupons
These are digital coupons you may put on your store loyalty card or use with an app. Most stores allow you to stack paper and digital coupons.
4. Discount Codes
For online purchases, promo codes can provide discounts, free shipping, or special offers. You can commonly apply these in addition to other discounts.
5. Cashback Offers
Applications such as Ibotta or Rakuten reward you in cash after you purchase an item. These are not coupons, but can be combined with coupons to save even more.
· How to Use Coupons Combined Step by Step
This is how to master using several coupons at once:
Step 1: Understand the Store’s Rules
Some allow you to stack several coupons at once, while others don't. Always check the rules of the coupon on the store's site or ask an employee at the store.
For example:
1. Target allows you to redeem one manufacturer coupon, one store coupon, and one Cartwheel (digital) discount on one product.
2. CVS permits doubling Extra Bucks rewards, manufacturer coupons, and store coupons.
3. Walmart only accepts one coupon per item.
Step 2: Gather Your Coupons
Find the best coupons on the things you have to buy. Use:
1. Manufacturer coupons from the newspaper or internet
2. Clip web store or app coupons.
3. Cashback apps like Ibotta, Fetch Rewards, or Rakuten
Step 3: Coordinate Coupons with Sale Items
The most effective way to utilize coupons is when the item is on sale. It will cost you the least amount of money.
Example:
If you buy a $5 shampoo that is discounted to $4, and you possess a $1 manufacturer's coupon and a $1 store coupon, you pay only $2 instead of $5!
Step 4: Use Cashback Apps
Once you have piled your coupons in-store or online, submit your receipt to cashback apps. Even when you spend just $2, as in this scenario, you could get $1 in cashback, putting your overall price at just $1!
Step 5: Stay Organized
1. Organize your coupons in a folder, envelope, or mobile phone program. Organize them by category, store, or expiration date. This prevents you from missing a deal.
2. Best Places to Use Coupons
3. Some of the popular places where coupons can be stacked are:
4. Target: Store coupon and manufacturer coupon, and Circle offer.
5. Walgreens: Store coupon and manufacturer coupons and rewards.
6. CVS: You can combine multiple options with Extra Bucks and e-coupons.
7. Kroger: Paper coupon, digital coupon, and fuel points.
8. Dollar General: Store coupons, digital coupons, and $5 off when you spend $25 (typically on Saturdays).
9. Online Shopping and Coupon Stacking
· Yes, you can even double coupons when you shop online! Here's how:
1. Utilize browser extensions such as Honey, Rakuten, or Capital One Shopping to locate coupon codes.
2. Use store-wide coupon codes and product-specific promotions.
3. Add that to cashback rewards and free shipping promo codes from your app or card.
E.g.
1. Let's say you are buying shoes online:
2. Apply a 20% discount coupon.
3. Use free delivery.
4. Use a credit card that rewards you with 5% cash back.
5. Upload receipt to Rakuten for additional 5% rebate.
6. You only added four categories of savings!
7. Common Errors to Avoid
8. Check the expiration date on coupons before using.
9. Most stores won't permit you to use two manufacturer's coupons at once.
Not reading the fine print: Certain coupons are for a specific size or brand of a product. Know the store rules: Always know what you can do before you try to stack. Last-Minute Tips to Stacking Coupons Successfully: Sign up for the email newsletters of your favourite stores. They often send special coupons. Check coupon blogs and deal websites. Buy on holidays, sales, or seasonal offers to avail of further discounts. Trade loyalty points for coupons. Keep your receipts! You'll need them for cashback apps. Conclusion: Coupon stacking is a great way to save money both online and at physical stores. Using a mix of manufacturer coupons, store coupons, promo codes, and cashback apps, you can save a good amount of money on the things you love. It requires some effort and time, though. The next time you are out shopping, remember: don't use one coupon. Use them all and save more!
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