Instacart Promo Code: $20 Off in May 2025 + Cash Back

Let's be honest, the weekly grocery run can feel like a marathon. Battling for parking spots, navigating crowded aisles, and then the checkout line shuffle – it's enough to make anyone crave a simpler solution. Enter Instacart, the service that transformed "I need milk and eggs" into a few quick taps on your phone, bringing everything from your pantry staples to last-minute dinner ingredients right to your doorstep from a huge variety of local stores. It's a modern-day convenience that many of us have come to rely on, a true game-changer for busy schedules.

Instacart is always looking for new ways to make life even easier, like their recently unveiled Fizz app, designed to simplify group orders for snacks and drinks – perfect for office lunches or party planning. But here's the rub: while getting your groceries delivered while you're still in your pajamas is undeniably awesome, that convenience can sometimes come with a price tag that makes your bank account a little nervous.

That's where we, your friendly neighborhood deal finders at DealNews, step in! We believe you shouldn't have to choose between convenience and saving money. This guide is your treasure map to unlocking all the ways you can slash your Instacart bill, from nabbing those elusive promo codes for both new and existing users, to understanding how their membership works, and uncovering other clever tricks to keep more cash in your wallet. We're dedicated to helping you score the best deals on pretty much everything, and your Instacart orders are no exception!

Instacart Pet Month Deals

$5 off $45+

Shop your local PetSmart and Petco stores to save on the best foods for your furry friends. Additionally, you can save $10 on orders of $50 or more on select items at Petco. Some exclusions apply, and you'll incur fees related to delivery and service, so keep that in mind when getting ready to place your order.

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Instacart Delivery Fees Deals

$0 on $10+

Order from your favorite local spots and enjoy $0 delivery fees on orders of $10 or more. Note that other fees may apply, so be sure to check your order breakdown before you place it to ensure you're getting all the discounts you should.

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Instacart Promo Code

$10 off

Use Instacart promo code "CROUNDS1405E" to take $10 off your next eligible Instacart order in May 2025. Note that some exclusions may apply, so be sure you double check your order before placing it to ensure you're getting the discounts you should.

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Instacart Promo Code

10% off sitewide

Use Instacart promo code "JVEGA11398" to take 10% off sitewide with orders from eligible retailers. Note that some exclusions may apply for this May 2025 deal, so check your order carefully before placing it.

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Instacart Promo Code

$25 off

Use Instacart promo code "CEZIMORA17C" in May 2025 to get $25 off eligible orders and bag free delivery on top of that. Note that some exclusions may apply; be sure to thoroughly check your order breakdown before placing to ensure you're getting the complete discount.

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Instacart Promo Code

$10 off first $60+

New users can apply Instacart promo code "propel10may" to save $10 on orders of $60 or more throughout May 2025. It's a great way to stock up on weekly groceries or even to get supplies for things like your Memorial Day celebration delivered right to your door. Note that some exclusions will apply, including on things like alcohol, so be sure to double check your order before placing.

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Instacart Promo Code

$35 off first order

New users can apply Instacart promo code "I3F9A8B1FB" to your first order to save $35 and bag free delivery. Note that some exclusions may apply, including on things like alcohol, so be sure to check your order before you place it to ensure you're getting the discount you should.

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Instacart Promo Code

$10 off $35+ first order

New users can apply Instacart promo code "ELINDER261184" at checkout to receive $10 off your first order of $35 or more in May 2025. Note that some exclusions may apply, including on items like alcohol. Be sure to double check your order and make sure you're getting the discount before you place it.

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Instacart Promo Code

$10 off first order

New Instacart users ca apply promo code "PMEHTA14DA5" to save $10 on your first order. Note that exclusions may apply, including on things like alcohol, and a minimum purchase may be required. Be sure to double check your order before placing it to ensure you're getting the discount that you should.

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Instacart Promo Code

Free delivery on first 3 orders

New users can apply Instacart promo code "DELIVERYFREE30" to get $0 delivery on your first three orders. Note that some exclusions may apply, including on things like alcohol, so be sure to double check your order before placing. Some retailers may be excluded, so if you're having trouble getting it to work for one, give it a try with another.

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Instacart Promo Code

$15 off

Use Instacart promo code "WELCOME15" to take $15 off your order. Note that some exclusions may apply, including on things like alcohol and select retailers. Be sure to double check your order before you place it to ensure you're getting the discount.

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Instacart Promo Code

$20 off first 3 orders

Brand new Instacart customers can apply promo code "FOLLOW20SUMMER" at checkout to take $20 off your first three orders. Note that some exclusions apply, including on things like alcohol and select stores. Double check your order before placing to ensure that you're getting the discount.

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Instacart Promo Code

Up to $30 off sitewide

Customers can apply Instacart promo code "VT15C06" at checkout to save up to $30 off sitewide in May 2025. Note that some exclusions may apply, including on things like alcohol. Select retailers may not be eligible, so be sure to check your order before placing to ensure you're getting the discount.

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Instacart Promo Code

$10 off first order

New Instacart users can apply promo code "CE16712" at checkout to bag $10 off your first order and free delivery on top of that. Note that some exclusions may apply, including on things like alcohol, so be sure to double check your order before placing to ensure you're getting the discount.

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What Instacart Discounts Are Available Right Now?

Alright, let's cut to the chase – you're here for the savings, and you want to know what Instacart deals are cooking right now. The world of promo codes is a fast-moving one, with new offers popping up and old ones vanishing quicker than a free sample at Costco. The offers below give you a fantastic idea of the kinds of specific discounts Instacart frequently rolls out. Our team is always on the hunt for new deals, so you don't have to be!

Here's a look at the types of Instacart promotions you can often score:

New customer offers are usually the flashiest and most generous, designed to give you a fantastic first taste of Instacart's convenience without the full price. These often require a minimum spend per order to qualify, so always check the terms.

If you're already an Instacart regular, however, don't dismay. While direct "existing user" promo codes are less frequent, you can still stack up savings. Your go-to spots will be the "Deals" tab within each store on the Instacart app – this is where you'll find digital manufacturer coupons, store sales, and "Buy One, Get One" type offers. Linking your store loyalty cards is also a massive saver, as it ensures you get member-only pricing.

How Much Does Instacart Cost Normally?

So, you've got your eye on that convenient grocery delivery, but what's the damage to your wallet going to be on a typical order, even before you snag one of those sweet promo codes? Instacart's pricing isn't just the cost of your items; there are a few layers to it. Understanding these helps you see exactly where those promo codes and an Instacart Plus membership can really make a dent!

Here's a breakdown of the most common costs you'll encounter with an Instacart order:

Beyond these primary costs, a few other specific fees or charges might pop up on your bill depending on your order and location. These are generally less frequent but good to be aware of:

• Priority Fee: Optional extra charge if you select a faster, more specific delivery window (like within an hour).
• Heavy Item Fee: If the combined estimated weight of items like cases of beverages or large bags of pet food exceeds 50 pounds.
• Alcohol Service Fee: A separate fee applied if your order includes alcoholic beverages, due to handling and compliance.
• Long-Distance Fee: Less common, but this can be added if the delivery route is particularly long or involves tolls.
• Local Bag Fees/Bottle Deposits: Charges required by your local city or state regulations, same as you'd pay in person.

The main takeaways here are that your item costs can differ from in-store prices, and if you're not an Instacart Plus member, the delivery and service fees are standard. Crucially, remember that the service fee is not a tip – your shopper relies on and appreciates your gratuity for their effort in picking and delivering your order. Knowing all these components helps you see the full picture and appreciate just how much those promo codes and membership benefits can save you!

How to Redeem an Instacart Coupon Code

Okay, so you've hunted down a promising Instacart coupon code and you're ready to cash in on those savings. Good news! Instacart makes it pretty simple to apply your discount whether you're shopping on their website or through the mobile app. No complicated hoops to jump through here.

Here's a quick step-by-step guide to get that code working its magic:

• Shop to Your Heart's Content: First things first, fill your virtual cart with all the groceries and goodies you need.
• Proceed to Checkout: Once your list is complete, tap or click on your cart icon and proceed to the checkout screen.

• Look for the Promo Code Box: As you review your order details (delivery address, payment info, etc.), scroll down and keep an eye out for a field specifically for promo codes. It's often labeled something like: "Add Promo or Gift Card."

• Enter Your Code Carefully: This is where precision counts! Type or paste your Instacart coupon code exactly as it appears into the designated box. These codes can be case-sensitive, so double-check for any sneaky capital letters or numbers.

• Click "Redeem" or "Apply": Tap the button next to the promo code field, and if your code is valid and meets all the conditions, you should see your discount reflected in the order total. Voila! Savings achieved.

It's generally a smooth process. Instacart wants you to use these codes to encourage you to shop! Just make sure you apply the code before you finalize your payment to ensure the discount is registered. Sometimes, if you have credits already on your account, Instacart might automatically apply the best available discount, but it's always good practice to manually check and enter any new code you have.

How Does Instacart Work?

In a nutshell, Instacart is a platform that connects you with personal shoppers who shop at your local stores for you. You use the Instacart app or website to select a store, browse items, and add them to your virtual cart. Once you place your order, a shopper receives your list, goes to the store, picks your items (communicating with you about any out-of-stock items or potential replacements if you've allowed them), pays for the groceries (using an Instacart-provided payment card), and then delivers them to your specified address during your chosen delivery window. You can track the shopper's progress and communicate with them throughout the process.

What If Your Discount Code Doesn't Work?

Ugh, that frustrating moment when you hit "Apply" and... nothing. Or worse, an error message. Don't panic! There are a few common reasons why an Instacart discount code might not be working:

First, check the basics: Did you type it in correctly? Even a small typo can render a code useless. Double-check for case sensitivity and make sure there are no extra spaces. Next, read the fine print of the promo code. Many Instacart offers come with specific terms and conditions. Is there a minimum purchase requirement that you haven't met? Is the code only for new customers, and you're an existing user? Has the code expired? Promo codes often have a limited lifespan. Also, some codes might be store-specific or only apply to certain item categories, and they generally don't cover alcohol, taxes, tips, or fees.

If you've checked all these things and the code still isn't playing ball, it's possible the promotion has ended, or there's a temporary glitch. You can always try reaching out to Instacart customer support for clarification.

How Does Instacart Compare With Competitors?

Instacart operates in a competitive space with other grocery and retail delivery services. Each has its own strengths and pricing models. See how each one differs below:

Instacart often shines due to its sheer breadth of partner stores, giving you unparalleled choice from a single app. Shipt, being Target-owned, naturally has a strong integration there and is often praised for its customer service and shopper communication. Amazon Fresh is a no-brainer for existing Amazon Prime members who frequent Whole Foods or want access to Amazon's vast grocery inventory with quick delivery. And Walmart Plus is a compelling package if you're a loyal Walmart shopper, as it bundles grocery delivery (with items at in-store prices) with other valuable perks like fuel savings and free shipping on Walmart.com orders.

Other Competitors To Keep in Mind

When you're looking at other big names like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub, they might seem similar at first glance, as they all aim to bring delicious food right to your doorstep. However, they definitely have their own personalities.

You'll likely find DoorDash almost everywhere, as it currently serves the largest chunk of the market (around 67%), often meaning more restaurant choices for you. Uber Eats is another very popular option (covering about 23-25%), while Grubhub holds a smaller but still significant share (around 8%). Where they can really differ is in the costs. Delivery fees can swing quite a bit, sometimes under a dollar, other times upwards of $15, depending on the app, distance, and how busy they are. Then there are service fees – sometimes a percentage of your order (like DoorDash's typical 15% or Uber Eats' wider 10-30% range) or a flat charge (like Grubhub's $2.50 - $8 range), so it's always good to keep an eye on the total.

If you're a frequent orderer, all three try to sweeten the deal with monthly memberships hovering around $9.99 (think Uber One, DashPass, and Grubhub Plus). These usually get you $0 delivery fees, but the extra perks vary: Uber One often bundles in benefits for Uber rides and other discounts, DashPass focuses on lowering those service fees too, and Grubhub Plus keeps things simple, primarily focusing on that free delivery benefit. Students often get a nice break too, with Uber Eats and DoorDash offering cheaper plans (around $4.99/month or $48/year), while Grubhub stands out by offering its Plus membership completely free at hundreds of partner universities – definitely worth checking if you're eligible!

Can I Use More Than One Promo Code?

Generally, Instacart allows only one promo code per order. If you happen to have multiple codes or credits on your account (like a referral credit and a percentage-off code), the system will typically apply the one that gives you the largest discount automatically. Sometimes, a free delivery promotion might stack with another offer, but this varies, so always check the terms.

Any Limitations on Instacart Promo Codes?

Discounts usually apply to the subtotal of your eligible merchandise only. They typically exclude items like alcoholic beverages and prescriptions because of legal regulations. Furthermore, codes generally do not apply to taxes, tips for your shopper, or Instacart's various service, delivery, or specialty fees (like heavy item fees). Always read the fine print of a specific promotion for any exclusions.

How Long do Instacart Coupon Codes Usually Last?

The lifespan of an Instacart promo code can vary greatly. Some are for a very limited time (like a weekend or 24-hour flash sale), while others, especially new user offers, might be valid for a few weeks or even a couple of months. Seasonal promotions will align with those specific timeframes. The expiration date is almost always listed in the terms and conditions of the offer, so be sure to check it. If you add a code to your account, you can often see its expiration under the "Credits, promos, and gift cards" section.

Are There Discounts for Students, Military, or Seniors?

Unlike some services that have standing, widely advertised discount programs for specific groups like students, military personnel, or seniors, Instacart does not typically offer these as a standard, ongoing policy. However, they do occasionally run targeted promotions or partner with organizations that might cater to these groups (for example, they have offered discounted Instacart Plus memberships to EBT SNAP holders).

Can I Share My Instacart Plus Benefits?

Yes! One of the great perks of an Instacart Plus membership is the Family Account feature. This allows you to share your benefits, like $0 delivery fees and reduced service fees, with another member of your household. You can create shared shopping carts or shop privately, all while enjoying the membership perks.

What Payment Methods Does Instacart Accept?

Instacart is pretty flexible with payments. They generally accept all major credit and debit cards, Google Pay, Apple Pay, PayPal, Venmo, Klarna (for "buy now, pay later" options), EBT SNAP cards at participating retailers in select states, FSA/HSA cards for eligible health-related items, and gift cards. They typically don't accept cash or international payment methods not listed.

What If There's a Problem With My Order?

Mistakes can happen – a damaged item, a missing product, or the wrong thing entirely. Instacart has a process for this. If you have an issue with your order, you should report it promptly. You can usually report issues directly through the Instacart app or website. Go to your order history, select the relevant order, and look for an option like "Report an issue" or "Get Help."

Be specific, clearly describe the problem and, if possible, take photos (especially for damaged items). Instacart's policy, often touted as a "100% satisfaction guarantee," typically means they will offer a refund or credit to your account for qualifying issues like missing or damaged items, or significantly poor quality replacements. You generally have about a week from delivery to report problems. For late arrivals or unprofessional service, they might also offer a refund or credit for fees paid. Contacting their customer service via the app, website, or their support line is the way to go.

Other Ways to Save With Instacart in 2025

While promo codes are a fantastic way to slash your Instacart bill, they're not the only trick up the savvy shopper's sleeve! As we cruise through 2025, there are plenty of other built-in features and smart habits you can adopt to make sure you're getting the most bang for your buck every time you tap that "place order" button. Think of these as your ongoing strategies for keeping those grocery delivery costs down.

Here's your guide on additional ways to lower costs or rake in the rewards with Instacart:

Sign Up for Instacart Plus

We've touched on this, but it bears repeating for a reason. If you're ordering more than once or twice a month, the $99 annual (or $9.99 monthly) Instacart Plus fee can quickly pay for itself. You'll score $0 delivery fees on most orders over $10, enjoy reduced service fees, and get 5% credit back on eligible pickup orders. But the value doesn't stop there...

Free Peacock Premium With Instacart Plus

Talk about a delicious bonus! Annual Instacart Plus members often get a full year of Peacock Premium streaming included with their membership at no extra cost. This brings a huge library of movies, TV shows, and live sports right to your screen, adding significant entertainment value (currently a $79.99 annual value on its own) to your grocery savings. Activate this perk through your Instacart Plus account page.

Free NYT Cooking Subscription From Instacart Plus

Foodies, rejoice! Another fantastic bonus for annual Instacart Plus members is a complimentary one-year subscription to New York Times Cooking. This gives you access to thousands of trusted recipes, cooking guides, and tips (currently a $50 annual value). It's the perfect pairing for all those fresh ingredients you're getting delivered.

Credit Card Perks and Free Trial of Instacart Plus

Eligible Mastercard holders can often claim a trial of Instacart Plus, sometimes for up to two months. Similarly, select Chase credit cards occasionally offer statement credits or complimentary Instacart Plus memberships for a period. These offers can change, so check your card benefits, the Instacart promotions page, or the DealNews Instacart page for current opportunities.

Hunt for In-Store Prices

When browsing stores in the Instacart app, look for a label under the store's name that's labeled "In-store prices." This indicates that the item prices you see in the app are the same as what you'd find on the shelves, helping you avoid potential markups that some other stores might apply to their Instacart listings.

Link Your Store Loyalty Cards

Instacart partners with tons of major retailers like Kroger, Albertsons, Safeway, Food Lion, and Wegmans, allowing you to link your existing store loyalty cards directly in the app. This means you often get the same member-only sale prices and digital coupons you'd get if you were scanning your card in the physical store. Instacart even says users can save an average of $8-$12 per order this way; don't leave this money on the table.

Embrace the Deals Tab

Don't just search for items; explore! Most retailers on Instacart have a dedicated "Deals," "Coupons," or "Sales" tab. Here, you'll find store-specific promotions, manufacturer coupons you can "clip" digitally (like BOGO offers or dollar-off specific brands), and weekly specials. It's common to find "Up to 25% Off Select Items" in these sections, rotating through different products each week.

Consider Curbside Pickup

If you don't mind a quick trip to the store (and have a car), opting for curbside pickup instead of delivery can eliminate delivery fees entirely. And, Instacart Plus members get that sweet 5% credit back on eligible pickup orders. It's a nice middle ground for convenience and cost-saving.

$0 Delivery Fee on Next-Day Orders

If you're not in a mad rush, check for this specific delivery option. Instacart sometimes offers $0 delivery fees if you schedule your order (from eligible stores and meeting a minimum, often $10) for delivery the next day. Service fees usually still apply, and this option might exclude certain store types like convenience or dollar stores, but it's a great way to dodge that standard delivery charge.

What Else To Consider in 2025

Instacart undeniably offers incredible convenience, saving you time and the hassle of in-person grocery shopping. However, that convenience comes at a price, with potential item markups and various fees.

The good news? By being a smart shopper – diligently seeking out and applying promo codes (especially those you find on DealNews), leveraging an Instacart Plus membership if you're a frequent user, linking loyalty cards, and using the other savings strategies we've outlined – you can significantly reduce your costs.

DealNews has been helping our readers save money on everything under the sun for years, and when it comes to getting the best bang for your buck on services like Instacart, this year is no exception. We deliver hundreds of deals to savvy shoppers every single day, covering a massive range of products – from clothes and tech gadgets to vacations and, yes, even ways to save on your grocery delivery. All those years of experience go into making absolutely sure that every deal we publish is the best price you're likely to find, period. Our commitment is to you, the reader, regardless of any relationship we might have with a store.

Want to tap into that expertise directly? Consider signing up for the DealNews Select newsletter. It's your daily dose of the handpicked hottest deals delivered straight to your inbox every weekday. Plus, if there's something specific you're waiting to go on sale, you can set a deal alert for products you're interested in and get an instant notification when the price drops.

Related DealNews Blog Posts:

• College can be a big expense, so it pays to save wherever you can! Take advantage of student discounts by checking out our guide on this year's top student discounts and start saving today.
• Senior discounts can be a fantastic perk as you get older. Learn what senior discounts are available and how to easily track them down.