Everything You Need to Know About Online Coupons in Fall 2025
We've all seen it while shopping online: that little promo code box that represents a small window of opportunity for extra savings. The satisfaction of watching your order total drop after applying a discount is universal. In today's economy, coupons, in all their forms, are the key to unlocking savings on nearly every purchase you make. This article is your ultimate guide to mastering the world of couponing. We'll show you how to find, understand, and maximize every type of coupon, from the traditional paper slips in the Sunday paper to the modern digital offers in your favorite store's app.
Top Promo Codes
AliExpress October 2025 Promo Code Discounts
Up to $100 offGet up to $100 off at AliExpress with the promo codes below:
- $2 off $10 with promo code "AEUS02"
- $4 off $20 with promo code "AEUS04"
- $6 off $30 with promo code "AEUS06"
- $8 off $40 with promo code "AEUS08"
- $10 off $50 with promo code "AEUS10"
- $12 off $60 with promo code "AEUS12"
- $20 off $100 with promo code "AEUS20"
- $26 off $130 with promo code "AEUS26"
- $32 off $160 with promo code "AEUS32"
- $56 off $280 with promo code "AEUS56"
- $64 off $320 with promo code "AEUS64"
- $80 off $400 with promo code "AEUS80"
- $100 off $500 with promo code "AEUS100"
American Airlines AAdvantage Loyalty Program Signup
Free to joinSign up for the AAdvantage loyalty program from American Airlines and start earning points towards valuable travel rewards. The benefits start as soon as you join and you'll earn miles on flights, hotels, car rentals, experiences, and even more. The more you earn, the better your status will be in the loyalty program, enabling you to receive access to exclusive promotions and special offers. You'll also be able to take advantage of perks like priority check-in, complimentary upgrades, free checked bags, and more. Note that some exclusions may apply and benefits will not be available on every flight.
Boscov's Sitewide Promo Code
Extra 10% offUse promo code "WELCOME10" to get an extra 10% off sitewide at Boscov's. Orders of $49 or more ships for free. This deal ends November 20th.
Etsy Promo Code
Extra 30% off $150Use promo code "BEST30" to get this discount on qualifying orders. This October 2025 deal lets you save on Etsy's range of customized apparel, decor, toys, and more. Shipping varies by item.
Expedia Bundle & Save Deals
Up to 33% offBook a hotel and flight package and save up to 33% on your getaway to select locations. If you join OneKey Rewards, you'll also earn up to 10x more OneKeyCash on your flight to move up the reward tiers even faster. Note that some exclusions may apply, including blackout dates, so keep that in mind when booking your trip.
Gap Sitewide Promo Code
40% offGet 40% off your next purchase at Gap with promo code "40%OFF". Shipping starts at $5, but Rewards members get free shipping with orders of $50 or more. (It's free to join, and free shipping applies to your cart total before any extra discounts.) This is a limited time offer at Gap.
Tool Savings at Home Depot
Up to 50% offChoose from offers including a free tool with purchase from select brands, up to 50% off online only tools, up to $400 off tool kits, and more. We've pictured the DeWalt Atomic 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Combo Kit for $169 ($80 off). Plus, most items will ship for free.
Kohl's Gold Star Clearance Deals
Up to 80% off + 20% off + $10 off $50Kohl's takes up to 80% off on items from across all categories, plus an extra 20% off most items via coupon code "GOSHOP20". Even better, stack coupon code "GET10" for an extra $10 off orders of $50 or more. You'll also get a free $10 in Kohl's Cash with every $50 spent. Free shipping applies at $49. Free in-store pickup may also be available.
Lowe's The Back Aisle Clearance Deals
Up to 70% offOver 700 items for the home and garden are discounted by up to 70% in this Back Aisle clearance section at Lowe's. It includes deals on big brands like DeWalt, Kobalt, Moen, and Scotts, and manymore. Choose in-store pickup to dodge the $5.99 shipping fee, or get free shipping with orders of $35 or more by signing up to MyLowe's Rewards. (It's free to join.)
Old Navy Clearance Deals
Up to 86% offShop the clearance section at Old Navy to score deep savings on over 2,100 styles. Prices are as marked. Shipping adds $7 but Rewards Members get free shipping on orders of $50 or more, and it's free to sign up.
Peacock TV Promo Code
50% offPromo code "PEA81UVRVNEJAP" will take 50% off your next purchase at Peacock TV. This deal is only available for a limited time.
StockX Deals
Up to 40% offGet up to 40% off select styles at StockX. You will get deals from top brands like Burberry, Jordan, Ugg, Birkenstock, and more. This deal is ongoing at StockX.
Uber Eats October 2025 Promo Code
$10 off $20+ first orderNew Uber Eats customers can apply promo code "affeats10us105" to save $10 on your first order of $20 or more throughout October 2025. Note that some exclusions may apply and this code has a limited number of uses, so don't wait too long to take advantage of it! The code is valid from October 1, 2025 through October 31, 2025.
Wayfair Way Day Doorbuster Deals
Up to 81% offWay Day is on at Wayfair and they have Doorbuster Deals up to 81% off. We found great prices on pre-lit christmas trees, sofas, kitchen utensils, robot vacuums, bedding, and more. Shipping is free and check back daily as more deals can be added. Way Day ends October 29, 2025.Wayfair members get 5% back in rewards and lots of other benefits. During Way Day, use promo code "MEMBER50" to get 50% off your first year of membership.
Coupon Terms You Need to Know
To become a savvy shopper, you first need to speak the language. This section will break down the essential terms and formats that form the foundation of any great savings strategy.
A Glossary of Couponing: Key Terms You Need to Know
- Promo Code vs. Digital Coupon: A promo code is a string of characters you manually enter at checkout. A digital coupon is an offer you "clip" to a store loyalty account that applies automatically at the register.
- Manufacturer Coupon vs. Store Coupon: This is the most critical concept. A manufacturer coupon is issued by the product's brand (e.g., Kraft, a Procter and Gamble) and can be used at any store. A store coupon is issued by the retailer (e.g., Target, Walgreens) and can only be used at that specific store.
- Stacking: This is the strategy of using multiple types of discounts (e.g., a manufacturer coupon plus a store coupon) in a single transaction.
- Rewards: These are discounts earned from a purchase to be used on a future purchase. Kohl's Cash and CVS ExtraBucks are prime examples.
- Rebate/Cash-Back: This is money you get back after a purchase, usually by scanning your receipt into an app like Ibotta.
- Catalina: These are the long, receipt-like coupons that print from a special machine at the register after you pay, often triggered by an item you just bought.
Understanding the Different Types of Coupons
Coupons come in many forms, and understanding the nuances can unlock even greater savings. While most often you'll see online coupon codes for discounts like a percentage off, a fixed dollar amount off, free shipping, or a bonus item, the world of coupons is much broader. Here's a breakdown of the key types you'll encounter.
1. Traditional Paper Coupons:
- Manufacturer Coupons: These are issued directly by the company that produces the product (e.g., Procter and Gamble, General Mills, Kraft). The coupon will often say "Manufacturer Coupon" in the fine print. These coupons are redeemable at any store that accepts them, as the manufacturer reimburses the retailer for the discount.
- Store Coupons: These are issued by the retailer itself (e.g., Target, Walgreens, Kroger). They are only valid at that specific store or chain. The store absorbs the cost of this discount as a way to attract your business. You can often identify them by the store's logo being prominently featured on the coupon.
2. Printable Coupons:
- These are manufacturer coupons you can print at home from websites like Coupons.com or directly from a brand's website.
3. Digital "Clip-to-Card" Coupons:
- These are the digital equivalent of paper coupons, most commonly found for groceries and drugstore items. Instead of clipping them with scissors, you "clip" them electronically by clicking a button in a store's app or on its website. The offer is then linked directly to your store loyalty account. When you scan your loyalty card or enter your phone number at checkout, the discount is applied automatically if you've purchased the qualifying item.
4. In-Store "Found" Coupons:
- Peelies: Sticker coupons found directly on a product's packaging.
- Blinkies: Coupons dispensed from a small machine on the shelf, often with a blinking light.
- Tear-Pads: Pads of coupons attached to a shelf or display that you can tear off.
How to Get Coupons and Promos
Some stores will list a code right on their website, which is very convenient, but it may not be the best discount available for your particular order. There are also many cases where coupon codes for a store exist but aren't listed on the store's website at all. This is where a little coupon research comes in handy. Here are a handful of ways to find coupons, both online and off.
Online and Digital Methods
- Do a general internet search. Usually, you'll just have to enter the store name and the term "coupons" in Google or your preferred search engine. This should bring up a wide variety of sources for finding coupons for that store.
- Search the model number. Perhaps you don't know what store you want to purchase from, but you know the item you want to buy. If you're set on a particular model of TV, for instance, you can search the model number on DealNews to see if any deals are listed for it. Using the model number is a quick way to pinpoint the exact item you're looking for.
- Sign up for the store's email list. Certain stores will send you a coupon right away if you sign up for their emails. Some of the coupons sent to email subscribers may be 1-time-use codes, which means the codes are generated to be unique to that subscriber and can only be used once. At other times, clicking through a link in the store's email is the only way to get the discount.
- Check all of the store's social media pages. Like or follow a store on social media outlets such as Facebook or Twitter, and you may get notified of a coupon. Even if you don't have an account on one of these sites, you may still be able to view the store's page to see a coupon listed exclusively there.
Traditional Print Sources
- Sunday Newspaper Inserts: While digital coupons have grown in popularity, the Sunday paper remains a valuable source for physical coupons. Look for inserts, which are glossy booklets filled with offers, typically from companies like Save and SmartSource. You don't always need a subscription; many dollar stores sell Sunday papers for a low price, giving you access to all the coupons for a minimal investment.
In-Store Discoveries
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Keep Your Eyes Peeled While You Shop: Some of the best coupons are found right in the grocery aisle. Be on the lookout for these common types:
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"Peelies": These are coupon stickers placed directly on a product's packaging. You simply peel it off and present it at checkout.
- "Blinkies": These are coupons dispensed from a small machine attached to the store shelf, often with a blinking red light to catch your attention.
- Tear-Pads: Just as they sound, these are pads of coupons, usually attached to a shelf or display, that you can tear off for immediate use.
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Directly From the Source
- Contact the Company: If you love a particular brand, let them know! Many companies are happy to send high-value coupons to loyal customers who reach out. Use the "Contact Us" page on the brand's website to send a polite message praising their product and ask if they have any coupons they could mail you.
- Check Your Mailbox: Don't be so quick to toss what looks like junk mail. Envelopes from local businesses, marketing mailers, and store catalogs are often filled with exclusive coupons and promotional codes that you won't find anywhere else.
How to Use Online Coupons in 2025
Once you locate a code to use, you can usually type it or copy and paste it into the coupon code box, and then click the button to apply it. This box can show up at various stages of checkout, depending on the store you're ordering from.
Some stores let you apply the code in the shopping cart before proceeding to checkout, while others may not let you apply it until you've reached a certain point in the checkout process. This may be after you enter your shipping and billing address, or even after you put in your credit card information. Just be careful not to accidentally place the order before you've entered the code.
A Deep Dive into Digital Coupons (vs. Promo Codes)
While both offer great savings, a "digital coupon" and a "promo code" function in fundamentally different ways. Understanding this distinction is key to navigating the modern savings landscape, especially at grocery and drug stores where digital coupons are most common.
The Core Difference: Automatic vs. Manual
- A Promo Code is a string of letters and numbers that you must manually type or paste into a specific box during the online checkout process. You actively apply the code to your cart.
- A Digital Coupon, often called a "clip-to-card" coupon, is an electronic offer that you "clip" and attach to a store's loyalty account. The redemption is automatic. Once clipped, the discount is triggered at the register as soon as the cashier scans the qualifying product and your loyalty card or app.
How to Find, Clip, and Redeem Digital Coupons: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process is designed to be seamless and paper-free. Here's how it typically works:
- Log In to Your Account: Visit your grocery store's website or open its mobile app and log in to your loyalty or rewards account.
- Find the Digital Coupon Section: Navigate to the section of the app or website labeled "Digital Coupons," "Weekly Savings," or something similar. Here you'll find a gallery of all available offers.
- "Clip" Your Desired Coupons: Browse the offers. When you see one you want, simply click the "Clip" or "Add to Card" button. This links the coupon to your account. There's no limit to how many you can clip, and it's wise to clip any offer you think you might use, just in case.
- Shop for the Items: Purchase the exact qualifying items in-store. Be sure to match the brand, size, and quantity specified in the coupon's details.
- Scan and Save: At the checkout, either scan the barcode from your store's mobile app or enter the phone number associated with your loyalty account. The system will automatically match the clipped coupons to the eligible items in your cart and deduct the savings from your total.
Troubleshooting Clipped Digital Coupons
For digital "clip-to-card" coupons, the issues can be different. If you clipped a coupon to your loyalty account but it didn't apply at the register, here are the most common reasons why:
- The "One Coupon Per Item" Rule: This is the most common restriction. You typically cannot stack a clipped digital manufacturer coupon with a paper manufacturer coupon on the very same item. The store's system is programmed to accept only one.
- Item Exclusions: Digital coupons, like promo codes, often have fine print. Many will not apply to items that are already heavily discounted, such as those on clearance, "manager's special," or final sale.
- Incorrect Product: Digital offers are often tied to a specific product's barcode (UPC). If the coupon is for a 12 oz. shampoo and you grabbed the 16 oz. bottle, it won't work. Double-check that the size, variety, and quantity in your cart exactly match the terms of the clipped offer.
Mobile App Integration: Your Coupon Hub
For most retailers, their mobile app is the central hub for your entire digital coupon ecosystem. You can use the app to browse and clip coupons on the go—even while you're walking through the store aisles. When you're ready to check out, you no longer need to carry a physical loyalty card. Just open the app, pull up your unique loyalty barcode, and have the cashier scan it. This single scan identifies you as a loyalty member and applies all the digital coupons you've clipped for that transaction.
Troubleshooting and Maximizing Your Savings
Was the Offer Code Successfully Applied?
Stores vary widely in how they handle promo codes. The best are upfront and clear, but if a discount hasn't been applied, there are a few things to look for. Be sure you're typing the code correctly (most are case-sensitive), confirm the item is eligible and not an exclusion, and check the expiration date.
Coupon Specificity: What Does the Discount Apply To?
Not all coupons are created equal. Pay close attention to the fine print to understand what items are eligible for the discount.
- Sitewide Coupons: These are the most flexible and valuable, applying to nearly everything a store sells.
- Category-Specific Coupons: These apply to a whole category of items, such as "20% off all shoes" or "$10 off any home goods purchase."
- Brand-Specific Coupons: These discounts are limited to products from a particular brand, like "Save $2 on any L'Oréal Paris product."
- Product-Specific Coupons: These are the most restrictive, applying only to one specific product, often down to the exact size or flavor (e.g., "50¢ off one 12 oz. box of Honey Nut Cheerios").
Common Offer Types and Formats
You will see discounts structured in various ways, encouraging different buying habits.
- BOGO (Buy-One-Get-One): This popular offer gives you a second item free when you purchase the first. A variation is BOGO 50% off, where the second item is half-price.
- Multi-Buy Offers: These provide a discount for purchasing multiple items, such as "2 for $5" or "Get $3 off when you buy two."
- Loyalty-Linked Coupons: Some offers are available exclusively to members of a store's rewards program. These often appear as personalized deals in your account based on your shopping history, rewarding you for your repeat business.
The Art of Stacking: A Step-by-Step Guide to Maximum Savings
"Stacking" is the secret weapon of savvy shoppers. It's the strategy of layering multiple types of discounts—sales, coupons, and rewards—in a single transaction to significantly lower your out-of-pocket cost. While it may sound complex, it's a skill anyone can learn. Here's how to master stacking, from the basic foundation to the pro-level finish.
Level 1: The Foundation (Sale Price + Manufacturer Coupon)
This is the starting point for all great deals and the most common type of stack. The goal is to never pay full price for an item and use a coupon on it.
How it works: You find an item on sale at the store and use a manufacturer coupon (either paper or digital) to reduce the price even further.
Example: A bottle of shampoo that normally costs $5.99 is on sale for $4.50. You have a $2.00 off manufacturer coupon. By combining the sale price with your coupon, your final price at the register is just $2.50.
Level 2: Adding a Store Coupon
This is where the savings really start to accelerate. Some of the most coupon-friendly retailers, like Target and Walgreens, will allow you to use both a manufacturer coupon and one of their own store-brand coupons on a single item.
How it works: You follow the steps from Level 1 but add a store-specific coupon to the stack. Remember the golden rule: one of each type per item (one manufacturer coupon + one store coupon).
Example: The same shampoo is on sale for $4.50. You have your $2.00 manufacturer coupon, and the store's weekly ad has a $1.00 store coupon for that same brand.
Sale Price: $4.50
Subtract $2.00 Manufacturer Coupon
Subtract $1.00 Store Coupon
Your new final price is now just $1.50.
Level 3: Incorporating Store Rewards
Many drugstores and department stores have rewards programs that give you "cash" to spend on future purchases (like Kohl's Cash, CVS ExtraBucks, or Walgreens Cash Rewards). These rewards are a crucial part of the stack because they lower what you actually have to pay.
How it works: After all your sale prices and coupons have been calculated, you can use your accumulated store rewards to pay for the remaining balance.
Example: You have the $1.50 shampoo and other items in your cart, and your post-coupon total is $18.75. You have $5 in CVS ExtraBucks that you earned from a previous shopping trip. You can apply those rewards to the transaction, bringing your final out-of-pocket cost down to $13.75.
Level 4: Getting Money Back with Rebate Apps
The savings don't have to end when you leave the store. Cash-back rebate apps are a modern couponer's best friend, allowing you to get money back on items you've already purchased.
How it works: After you've paid, you scan your receipt into a rebate app like Ibotta or Fetch Rewards. If you purchased eligible items, cash will be credited to your app account.
Example: The shampoo you ultimately paid $1.50 for has a $0.75 cash-back offer on Ibotta. You scan your receipt at home. This makes your final net cost for the shampoo an incredible $0.75.
Level 5 (Pro-Level): Paying with a Discounted Gift Card
This is the final move that guarantees you save an extra percentage on everything you buy.
How it works: Before you even go to the store, you purchase a gift card for that retailer from an online gift card marketplace. These sites sell gift cards for less than their face value (e.g., you might pay $46 for a $50 gift card, saving you 8%).
Example: You use your discounted gift card to pay the final $13.75 out-of-pocket cost from Level 3. Because you bought that gift card at an 8% discount, you've saved an additional $1.10 on the transaction, without any extra coupons.
What You Can and Can't Stack: While combining two percentage-off promo codes is rarely successful, you can often stack a free shipping promo code on top of another dollar-off or percentage-off code. It never hurts to experiment with available codes at any store that allows for stacking to find out if they're accepted together.
Managing Your Digital Coupon Ecosystem: Accounts and Preferences
To make the most of digital "clip-to-card" savings, you'll need to create and manage accounts with your favorite retailers. This process is straightforward and gives you access to personalized deals and a seamless checkout experience. Here's how to set up and maintain your digital coupon ecosystem.
Creating and Managing Your Accounts
- Download the Store's App and Sign Up: The easiest way to start is by downloading the mobile app for each store you frequent (e.g., Kroger, CVS, Target). Use the app to sign up for the store's free loyalty program.
- Link Your Phone Number: During setup, you'll be asked to link your phone number to the account. This is a crucial step, as it provides a backup method for accessing your account at checkout if you forget your phone or don't want to use the app.
- Consolidate Your Logins: To keep things simple, consider using the same email address and a secure, memorable password for all your store loyalty accounts. This makes it easier to manage multiple accounts without having to remember different login details for each one.
Setting Your Coupon Preferences
Many store apps learn from your shopping habits and allow you to set preferences to tailor the offers you receive.
- Choose Your Favorite Brands: Look for a feature that lets you select your favorite or most-purchased brands. Retailers use this information to send you more relevant, personalized coupons that you're more likely to use.
- Engage with Offers: The more you clip and redeem coupons, the more the store's system learns about the products you prefer. Over time, you may notice more high-value or specific offers appearing in your account based on your purchase history.
Strategies for Tracking and Organizing Clipped Coupons
Once you start clipping, it's easy to accumulate dozens of offers. The key is to stay organized so you don't miss out on savings.
- Clip Liberally, Review Strategically: A good habit is to clip any coupon you think you might use as soon as you see it. Digital coupons are free and don't "run out." Before you head to the store, use the app's filter or sorting feature to view only your "Clipped Coupons." This creates a handy digital shopping list of all your available deals.
- Check Expiration Dates: Unlike paper coupons that you might lose or forget about, digital coupons have their expiration dates clearly displayed right on the offer. Make it a habit to quickly scroll through your clipped offers once a week to see if any are expiring soon. This can help you plan your shopping trips and avoid missing a great deal.
The Trade-Off: Understanding Privacy and Security in Digital Couponing
The convenience and personalization of digital coupons are made possible by data. When you sign up for a store's loyalty program and clip offers, you're entering into a value exchange: you receive valuable discounts, and in return, the retailer gains insight into your shopping habits. Understanding this trade-off is key to being a smart, secure, and confident digital shopper.
What Data Is Collected?
Coupon platforms and store loyalty programs primarily collect two types of information:
- Personal Data: This is the information you provide when you sign up, such as your name, email address, and phone number.
- Transactional Data: This is the most valuable data for retailers. They track what you buy, how much you spend, which coupons you redeem, and the time and location of your purchases.
How Is This Data Used?
This data isn't just collected; it's used to enhance your shopping experience and the retailer's marketing efforts.
- Personalized Offers: The main benefit to you is receiving tailored discounts. If a store sees you consistently buy a certain brand of yogurt, its system is more likely to send you high-value coupons for that specific brand to encourage your continued loyalty.
- Targeted Advertising: Retailers use this data to understand consumer trends and create more effective advertising. They might also use it to show you relevant ads for products on social media or other websites.
A Guide to User Controls and Security
While you are sharing data, you are not without control. You can take several steps to manage your privacy and protect your accounts.
- Review Privacy Settings: When you sign up for a loyalty program, take a moment to look at the account's privacy settings. You can often choose your communication preferences here.
- Opt-Out of Marketing: Every promotional email from a retailer is required by law to have an "unsubscribe" link, usually in the footer. If you feel you're receiving too many emails, you can easily opt out while still keeping your loyalty account and its clipped coupons active.
- Practice Good Account Security: Treat your store loyalty accounts like any other online account. Use a strong, unique password to prevent unauthorized access. This is especially important if you have rewards points or "store cash" balances that could be used by someone else.
By being mindful of this data exchange, you can enjoy the significant savings from digital couponing while making informed choices about your personal information.
What Stores Have the Best Online Coupons and Promos in 2025?
Choosing the best stores for online coupons can be a somewhat subjective task. It really depends on what stores you like to shop at and whether you find their policies useful. We reviewed some of the top retailers to see what kind of savings they are offering this year.
- Abercrombie and Fitch: A go-to for modern apparel, AandF frequently offers promotions to make its clothing, accessories, and fragrances more accessible. This year, look for deals like 15% off your entire purchase when you sign up for the AandF newsletter, up to 25% off select styles, and major clearance events offering up to 60% off. They also have "long weekend" sales with storewide discounts.
- AliExpress: This massive online marketplace is known for its low prices, but coupons make the deals even better. New users are often greeted with a welcome coupon, such as $5 off their first order. Throughout 2025, you can find sitewide codes offering up to $20 off orders over $100, plus category-specific sales on electronics, home goods, and fashion.
- American Airlines: Travelers can save on flights and vacation packages by using American Airlines' promo codes. Common offers include percentage-based discounts on flights to specific regions, like 10% off travel to Europe or the Caribbean. AAdvantage members can also find exclusive deals and bonus mile offers.
- Boscov's: This department store offers a wide range of products from clothing and cosmetics to home goods. Shoppers in 2025 can find coupons for $10 off purchases of $50 or more, free shipping on orders over $49, and special promotions like 15% off during friends and family events.
- Etsy: A hub for unique handmade and vintage items, Etsy's discounts are often provided by individual sellers. However, Etsy itself sometimes releases site-wide coupons, such as 10% off for special occasions. Look for sellers offering their own promotions, like free shipping or 15% off when you buy multiple items from their shop.
- Expedia: For booking travel, Expedia is a key destination for discounts. In 2025, members can often save 10% or more on select hotels. You can also find coupon codes for package deals, such as $50 off a flight and hotel bundle, and last-minute deals on car rentals and activities.
- Gap: A classic for casual apparel, Gap is famous for its stackable deals and GapCash rewards. Expect to see frequent offers like 40% off sitewide, an extra 10% off for cardholders, and promotions on specific categories like jeans and tees.
- Home Depot: For home improvement projects, Home Depot provides various ways to save. Look for their "Special Buy of the Day" for deep discounts on tools and appliances. Common coupons include $10 off a $100 purchase, and you can get a $5 off coupon just by signing up for their text alerts.
- Kohl's: Kohl's is a haven for coupon stackers. It's famous for Kohl's Cash, which you earn on purchases to spend later. Cardholders frequently receive coupons for 15%, 20%, or even 30% off. You can often stack a percentage-off coupon with a dollar-off coupon (like $10 off $50) for maximum savings.
- Lowe's: Another top stop for home and garden needs, Lowe's offers daily deals and special promotions on everything from paint to patio furniture. In 2025, look for coupons like $15 off a $75 purchase, special financing offers, and discounts for military members and new homeowners.
- Old Navy: Known for affordable family fashion, Old Navy's deals make it even more budget-friendly. They offer Super Cash (similar to Kohl's Cash) and frequent sitewide sales, often between 30% and 50% off. Keep an eye out for their famous one-day deals, like $1 flip-flops or 50% off all jeans.
- Peacock: This streaming service is already affordable, but promo codes can lower the cost even more. New subscribers can often find deals like a full year of Peacock Premium for a reduced price or special introductory rates like $1.99 per month for the first few months.
- StockX: As a marketplace for sought-after sneakers, apparel, and collectibles, discounts on StockX are less common but highly valuable. They occasionally release promo codes for a small percentage off, free shipping, or a dollar amount off for first-time buyers or during special events.
- Uber Eats: A leader in food delivery, Uber Eats consistently provides promo codes for both new and existing users. New customers can often find significant discounts, such as $25 off their first order. Other common deals include BOGO offers from select restaurants, free delivery, and percentage-based discounts on your total order.
- Wayfair: This online retailer for home goods offers frequent sales and coupons. New customers can typically get a 10% off coupon for signing up for emails. Look for their major sale events like "Way Day" for discounts of up to 80% off on furniture, decor, and lighting.
Laying the Groundwork: Smart Strategies Before You Stack
Do the Math First
Once you've located coupon codes for a store or a few stores, you may discover that there are a variety of different codes available.
One of the biggest considerations is whether you'll be charged shipping. There's nothing like a hefty shipping charge to downgrade an otherwise great deal.
Unless you know you're getting free shipping, you'll want to figure out how much shipping will cost you and compare that to the discount another available code would provide, to see which is greater. Of course, coupons that give both a discount and free shipping are even better.
Generally speaking, a fixed discount is better for smaller orders and a percentage discount is best for larger orders.
If shipping isn't a factor, choosing a coupon code is simply a matter of figuring out which discount reduces your particular order the most. Generally speaking, smaller orders are more likely to benefit from a fixed discount, such as $5 off $25, than a percentage discount like 10% off, as the percentage amount on a small order can be minimal. As the order gets larger, it's more likely that a percentage discount will be the best option.
Spend More, Save More
Spending more on an order can have its advantages. When multiple coupons are available, you'll want to think about whether increasing your order total to meet a minimum for a larger discount might actually work out better for getting maximum value out of your order. Be careful, though, as this can easily lead to overspending. If you're bulking up your order, make sure you're adding items you need to your cart and not just throwing random products in to meet that higher minimum.
Meet Free Shipping Minimums
The same concept can apply to shipping charges. Stores often have ongoing free shipping offers that don't require a code, or they may have a coupon for it. If your order is close to a free shipping minimum, consider what shipping will cost and how much extra you'd have to spend to get it free. If shipping is $9.95 and you're $10 away from getting it free, adding another item would be worth it. If there's a larger difference in what the total will be, and you're not prepared to spend more, then you may have to bite the bullet and pay the shipping charges.
Granted, it isn't always easy to exactly meet a minimum or get very close to it at many stores, due to their pricing structures. And spending more might not be a favorable option if you really don't need additional items. But it's definitely something to consider if your order is hovering near the minimum for a better offer, and you want to get the most bang for your buck.
Beyond the Checkout: A Deep Dive into Rebate and Cash-Back Apps
The opportunity to save doesn't end once you've left the store. In fact, some of the most significant savings come from cash-back apps, which have become an essential tool for any modern shopper. These apps work by giving you money back on purchases you've already made. The process is simple: you buy an eligible product, snap a picture of your receipt using your smartphone, and the app credits your account with cash. Once you reach a certain threshold (typically $20), you can cash out via PayPal, direct deposit, or gift cards.
Here are the most essential apps to download to get started:
- Ibotta: This is perhaps the most well-known rebate app and is offer-based. Before you shop, you browse the app and add specific offers to your list for items you plan to buy (e.g., "$1.00 back on Brand X coffee"). After you shop, you scan your receipt to prove you purchased those specific items. Because it requires you to select offers beforehand, the payouts are often higher than other apps.
- Fetch Rewards: The key to Fetch is its simplicity. Unlike Ibotta, it is receipt-based and doesn't require you to select offers ahead of time. You simply scan any grocery, drugstore, or big-box store receipt, and the app automatically identifies participating brands and products, awarding you points. You earn bonus points for specific sponsored brands, but you get something back for almost every receipt you submit.
- Checkout 51: This app functions similarly to Ibotta, with a list of new offers that go live every Thursday. You add the offers you like, purchase the items at any store, and upload your receipt to claim your cash back. It's a great app to use as a supplement, as its offers often differ from what you'll find on Ibotta.
Pro Tip: Don't limit yourself to just one app! A single receipt can often be submitted to multiple rebate apps. For example, if you bought a brand of cereal that has an offer on Ibotta and is also a partner brand on Fetch, you can scan your receipt into both apps and get awarded in each one, effectively doubling your cash-back savings on that item.
Getting More Details on Digital Coupons and Promos
If you see a coupon listed on a store's website, check for a "details" link with fine print that can provide insight into what items are eligible for the discount and what items aren't.
These links can show up in a variety of places — on the homepage, on product pages, or in the cart after the code is applied. Review this information to verify if your purchase is eligible before going through the checkout process, and you can end up saving a lot of time. Alternatively, try Googling the coupon to find any restrictions.
As mentioned above, many coupons require a minimum purchase. The minimum only applies to the actual cost of the items in your order after any instant discounts, and does not include extra costs like tax or shipping, when applicable.
Ways to Maximize Coupon Savings
Stack Up the Online Store Coupons
While most stores only allow one coupon discount per order, others let you stack online codes, which means more than one coupon can be applied. These stores might display several coupon code boxes at checkout, or there may just be one box for applying each code individually. If there is only one box, and you still see that box available after applying a code, you might be able to add another one.
What's the catch? There may be heavy restrictions on the types of codes you can combine, and the store may not have more than one coupon available that applies to your order. Combining two percentage- or dollar-off coupons is less likely to work, but a free shipping code with one of those offers typically will. Regardless, it never hurts to experiment with available codes at any store that allows for stacking, to find out if they're accepted together.
The Digital Divide: Factors Often Overlooked
While the shift to digital coupons offers incredible convenience for many, it's important to recognize a significant downside: the "digital divide." This growing reliance on retailer apps and online loyalty accounts creates a barrier for customers who lack access to smartphones, reliable internet, or are less comfortable navigating digital technology. Groups such as some older adults, low-income households, and those living in rural areas with poor connectivity can be left behind, unable to access the same deep discounts available to their digitally-connected neighbors. This effectively creates a two-tiered pricing system where those who may need the savings most are often unable to get them, highlighting a key social and practical challenge as retailers move further away from the universal accessibility of traditional paper coupons.
When to Shop In-Store Instead
While shopping online can be convenient, it's not always the best choice when you're using coupons. Sometimes it makes more sense to shop in-store instead.
For instance, some offers are restricted to in-store only. This is usually an attempt to get customers into the physical store because then they'll be apt to spend more.
Shopping in-store could be worth it if the free shipping threshold is too high for your budget, or there's no code.
Another good time to shop in-store is when a retailer offers a bonus for doing so. This type of situation is especially prevalent around Black Friday, when retailers hope to get more consumers through the doors to spend more. Often these extras will be things like bonus coupons to help you save even more on your purchase.
However, sometimes bonuses are just in the form of coupons for free or discounted treats. "Barnes and Noble usually prints out a coupon with every purchase. [It's] often for a free cookie at the bakery or $1 off a drink at the bakery," notes Brittany Buchanan, Paid Placement Coordinator and Ops Shift Manager at DealNews.
Perhaps one of the biggest occasions to shop in-store over online is when a retailer accepts competitors' coupons or provides price matching. These offers can vary by store, item, and purchase amount, so it's always good to ask before deciding where to buy something.
Why Trust DealNews?
With more than 25 years of experience helping deal-seekers save money, DealNews is a trusted source for the lowest price available from reputable retailers. Every day, curators hand-pick the best deals on the internet so shoppers can have confidence in the offers we list and know they're saving as much as they can.
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