How Do You Use Coupon Codes? A Step-by-Step Guide for Online Shopping

If you’ve found a discount coupon but do not know where to apply the code when you check-out or if you have entered the code and received a message that it’s not valid, don’t worry! Both situations happen often and there are ways to solve them.

You will find in this article the steps that you need to take when looking for discount coupon codes, how to use a coupon, and what to do if they are invalid.

How to Use a Coupon Code Online

How to redeem your coupon code online:

1. Start shopping and add items to your cart.

2. Once you are done, proceed to checkout.

3. Look for the box that says "Promo code", "Discount code", "Coupon code", and/or "Gift card/discount".

4. Then, enter your code accurately into the promo box.

Once you're done applying the code, confirm that your order total has dropped. Always look at your final total after applying your promo code.

What Is a Coupon Code?

A coupon code refers to letters and digits that trigger a discount at checkout. The discount may consist of a percentage off, a given amount off, free shipment, or a gift.

Companies usually have codes to thank first-time consumers, sell off surplus items and launch periodic special offers. Some of the codes are open to everyone, while others are limited to an email address, can be used only once, or are valid for specific products.

Coupon codes are not the same as printed coupons or automatic sale prices:

• Coupon codes are typed in at checkout.

• Printed or digital coupons are scanned or shown at a physical till.

• Automatic discounts apply on their own, with nothing to enter.

Where to Find Coupon Codes

Where you look decides how many codes you find, and how many of them work.

Start with the retailer itself:

• Newsletter sign-up. Many stores send a welcome code, usually for first orders only.

• Text alerts. Some brands send flash-sale codes by SMS.

• The site banner. Sitewide promotions are often announced at the top of the page.

• Social media and creator partnerships. Brands often share codes through community and partner channels. Bird & Be, for example, has published partner-brand deals for its audience on its own blog.

Then check coupon directories:

• Coupon websites gather codes from different shops in a single place.

• A lot of them have a “reveal” button that shows the code and redirects you to the shop. If you searched for something like Find Coupon Codes or RevealAndSave, that’s exactly what you need. 

Directory codes may not be up to date. Think of them as useful, but not reliable.

How to Enter a Coupon Code (Step by Step)

The new product can be found at any local retailer, but the purchase process often goes the same way.

On a Desktop

1. First you need to make a shopping cart.

2. Then locate the promo code box - it is usually present on the shopping cart page during checkout.

3. Copy and paste the code; copy-pasting will make it safer, as it eliminates mistakes from typos.

4. Then click Apply.

5. Finally check whether the discount appeared in the order summary as a separate item.

On a Phone or Tablet

The steps are the same, but the promo field is often hidden. Look for a small link such as "Add promo code" or a collapsed "Order summary" section. Tap to expand it.

At a Store

For in-store use, you generally have two options:

• Show a digital code or barcode on your phone at the till.

• Tell the cashier the code before payment. Some stores can only apply codes before the sale is finalized.

How to Coupon for Beginners

Mastering couponing is a matter of habits rather than complicated methods.

1. Always search for a code prior to making an online purchase. Go through the store’s website, your email and a coupon guide.

2. Understanding the fine print is important. Pay attention to the minimum amount of money that must be spent, brands not included, expiration dates, and the possibility of using the code on sale items.

3. Always use codes for purchases you were planning to make anyway. A discount on something you weren’t going to buy still means that you are spending money.

4. Make sure you compare the price you will be charged after applying the discount code. A discount code for an item bought at its normal price might cost you more than a sale price on the same item without applying any code.

5. Keep the list of coupon codes and expiration dates simple. Keeping notes on your phone is enough.

Why a Coupon Code Isn't Working

If the code is rejected, run through this checklist before giving up:

If none of these solve it, contact the retailer's customer support. They can often tell you why it was rejected.

Can You Combine Coupon Codes?

Usually not. Most stores allow one code per order. Some allow a code on top of an automatic sale price. Others block it.

The terms will state which applies. If they don't, test it at checkout. The order summary will show whether both discounts were accepted.

Safety Tips When Using Coupon Sites

• Never pay to receive a coupon code. Legitimate codes are free.

• Be careful with browser extensions. Read what data an extension can access before installing it.

• Verify the store. Make sure you're on the retailer's real website before entering payment details.

• Watch for "too good" deals. An unusually large discount on a popular product can be a scam.

Do Returns Affect Coupons?

It is possible for refunds to happen. There are many different types of policies but refunds are usually based on the price you have paid rather than the original price. There are some retailers who have different policies in terms of return of promotional purchases, therefore make sure that you go through the returns policy first before placing an order.

Final Thoughts

When you are aware of the promo section, it will take nearly 30 seconds to use a coupon code. The trick is to know how to find the code and make sure to read the terms and conditions so that the code does not fail.

In a more general way, start your search from the retailer’s site and then move on to coupon aggregator sites. Input the code before your payment is made and see what changes in the total amount.