Instacart Coupons & Promo Codes for July 2025

Let's be honest, the thought of skipping the crowded aisles, the long checkout lines, and the heavy lifting of grocery bags sounds pretty dreamy, right? That's where Instacart steps in, the service that’s become a go-to for getting everything from your weekly groceries and household essentials to a last-minute bottle of wine or even pet supplies delivered right to your doorstep. Founded all the way back in 2012, this San Francisco-based company (officially Maplebear Inc.) connects you with personal shoppers via their user-friendly app or website. These shoppers then head to your favorite local stores – think big names like Aldi, Costco, Kroger, CVS, and many more – pick out your items, and bring them to you, often on the same day. With its iconic carrot logo and widespread availability across the U.S. and Canada, Instacart has truly changed the game for busy folks and anyone looking for a more convenient way to shop.

But beyond the sheer convenience, you’re probably wondering how it all works, what the real costs are, if that Instacart Plus membership is actually worth the yearly fee and how it compares to competitors like DoorDash and Postmates. Maybe you're curious about what exactly you can get delivered (spoiler: it’s a lot more than just milk and eggs!), or how to handle things if an order isn’t quite right. This guide is here to break down all those details, giving you the full scoop on everything Instacart, from understanding their fees and pricing policies to navigating their special features and even sharing some handy tips for when you're in a pinch.

And that brings us to the most important part, especially for savvy shoppers like you: saving money. While Instacart offers a fantastic service, those convenience and delivery fees can add up. That's where we at DealNews come into the picture. Our mission is to arm you with the knowledge and tools to shop smarter and keep more cash in your wallet. This page will be your dedicated resource for uncovering the latest Instacart promo codes, learning about current deals, and mastering the tricks to make every Instacart order a little more budget-friendly. So, let’s dive in and explore how you can enjoy the ease of Instacart without overspending.

This Year’s Pricing and Fees

So, you’re filling your virtual cart, dreaming of those groceries arriving at your door. But what’s the final tally going to look like? Instacart’s pricing isn't just the sum of your items; there are a few components that make up the total. Understanding these will help you see where an Instacart Plus membership or a savvy promo code can really make a difference.

Here’s a look at the common costs you might encounter with an Instacart order:

Beyond these more standard charges, there are a few other specific fees that might pop up on your bill depending on the specifics of your order and where you're located. These are generally less frequent but definitely good to keep in your back pocket as you're planning your shop.

• Priority Fee: If you need your items in a hurry, you can opt for a priority delivery window (sometimes as quick as an hour) for an extra charge, often starting around $2-$3. This isn't always an option and depends on how many shoppers are available.
• Heavy Item Fee: Ordering a lot of heavy stuff, like cases of soda, large bags of dog food, or multiple gallons of milk? If the estimated combined weight of specific heavy items tops 50 pounds, a heavy item fee (usually between $5 and $15) might be added. Instacart usually points out which items are tipping the scales.
• Alcohol Service Fee: If you're adding some beer, wine, or spirits to your cart, expect a separate alcohol service fee. This typically covers the additional steps involved in verifying age and ensuring compliant delivery, and it's often around 10% of the alcohol subtotal (though Instacart Plus members may pay less).
• Long-Distance Fee: This one's less common, but if the store you're ordering from is a significant drive away (think 30+ minutes or a route involving tolls), a long-distance service fee could apply.
• Convenience Fee: For those super-fast, late-night convenience orders (aiming for delivery in as little as 30 minutes), you might see this fee. Item prices and service fees for these types of orders can sometimes be higher too.
• Regulatory Fees: In some places, local laws mean you might see a "Regulatory response fee" on your receipt.
• Local Bag Fees and Bottle Deposits: Just like when you shop in person, any bag fees or bottle deposits required by your city, state, or even specific retailer rules will be passed on.

The main thing to remember is that beyond the cost of your items, there are standard fees for delivery and service if you’re not an Instacart Plus member, plus taxes and your shopper tip. Some of the other fees, like those for heavy items or priority delivery, depend on what and how you order. Being aware of these helps you make the best choices for your budget and avoid any surprises at checkout.

Instacart Plus Subscription Cost

If you find yourself ordering from Instacart pretty regularly, you’ll definitely want to check out Instacart Plus. This is their membership program, and it’s designed to save frequent users some serious cash on those fees. Think of it like a VIP pass for your grocery deliveries.

Here’s what Instacart Plus typically offers and how you can get it:

The core idea behind Instacart Plus is that if you're ordering more than just a couple of times a month, the savings on delivery fees and the reduction in service fees can quickly outweigh the membership cost. Plus, you get extra perks like a free Peacock subscription and membership to NYT Cooking that can add a lot of value if you'd use them anyway! Always check the latest terms for any promotional offer, as they can change.

Pricing in Previous Years

Instacart's subscription service has evolved a bit over time. You might remember it as Instacart Express before it got its current name. Keeping track of exact historical pricing can be tricky, but here’s a general idea of how it’s looked:

The main story here (really, the only story) is the rebranding in 2022 to Instacart Plus, which brought in more family-oriented features and a continued push to add value through partnerships. While the base price of $99/year or $9.99/month has stayed consistent since the start the value has definitely grown with the added perks and more frequent promotional offers through various partners.

Subscription Package Differences

When you look at all those different ways to get Instacart Plus – whether it’s paying the standard rate, snagging a deal through Costco, or getting a special rate as an EBT SNAP user – you might wonder if the Plus experience itself is different. For the most part, the core benefits of Instacart Plus remain the same: you're generally looking at $0 delivery fees on eligible orders (now $10+ for most retailers, $35+ for Costco, and $25+ for eligible restaurants), reduced service fees compared to non-members, and that 5% credit back on eligible pickup orders. You can also share your membership with a family member.

The main differences usually come down to how you get the membership and for how long, as well as the price you pay. For example, a promotional offer might give you a few free months to try it out, or a partner like Costco might offer a discounted annual rate. If you're an EBT SNAP user, you can access a significantly discounted monthly rate for a year.

The annual standard plan often comes bundled with those sweet perks like a year of Peacock Premium and New York Times Cooking, which might not always be part of shorter trial offers or some discounted partner plans. So, while the in-app shopping and delivery experience as a Plus member is consistent, the entry point, duration of any free/discounted period, the overall cost, and sometimes the extra entertainment bundles can vary based on the specific offer you redeem.

Ordering Without Instacart Plus

So, what if you're not ready to commit to an Instacart Plus membership, or you only plan on using the service occasionally? You can absolutely still use Instacart! You'll just be paying on a per-order basis for the convenience. This means you'll typically encounter a delivery fee for each order (starting around $3.99 for same-day orders over $10, but it can fluctuate based on demand, store, and how quickly you want your items). You’ll also pay the standard service fee, which starts around 5% of your order subtotal and helps cover Instacart's operational costs (remember, this isn't the tip for your shopper). You might also run into priority fees if you need extra-fast delivery, or heavy item fees if you're stocking up on bulky goods. Essentially, you're paying for each convenience ala carte, which can be perfectly fine if you're an infrequent user. But if those orders start adding up, you'll quickly see how the Instacart Plus membership could start saving you money.

With Instacart Plus

This is your straightforward, pay-as-you-go (monthly) or pay-for-the-year option. For $9.99 a month or a flat $99 for the year, you unlock all the core Instacart Plus benefits. We’re talking $0 delivery fees on most grocery and retail orders. You also get those reduced service fees on every order, which can really add up, and a 5% credit back on eligible pickup orders if you decide to swing by the store yourself. Plus, you can share these perks with another family member through a Family Account. And let's not forget those juicy extras often bundled with the annual plan, like a free year of Peacock Premium and New York Times Cooking. If you're a regular Instacart user, this plan is often the benchmark against which all other deals are measured.

Instacart Plus for EBT SNAP Holders

Instacart is committed to making grocery delivery accessible, and one great way they do this is by offering a discounted Instacart Plus membership to EBT SNAP participants. If you've placed an order using your EBT SNAP card on Instacart within the last six months, you're eligible for a significantly reduced rate of just $4.99 per month for your first year of Instacart Plus. That’s half the regular monthly price! You get all the same great benefits as a standard Instacart Plus member, then the plan auto-renews at the standard $9.99 monthly rate unless you cancel. It's a fantastic way to make a convenient service even more affordable.

What to Order on Instacart This Year

Gone are the days when Instacart was solely for your weekly fruit and veg shop. While it’s still a fantastic way to stock your fridge and pantry, the platform has blossomed into a much broader delivery service. Think of it as your on-demand connection to a huge variety of local retailers, bringing all sorts of goodies right to your door. Whether you're planning a feast, need a quick fix, or are tackling a home project, chances are Instacart can help you out.

So, what kind of things can you actually get delivered? Here’s a taste of the categories you can explore:

• Groceries (obviously): From fresh produce, meat, and dairy from your favorite supermarkets to pantry staples, frozen foods, and specialty items, your entire grocery list is covered.
• Restaurant Meals: Craving takeout but don't want to leave the house? Thanks to a partnership with Uber Eats, you can now order from a vast selection of local restaurants directly through the Instacart app.
• Convenience Store Finds: Need a late-night snack, a forgotten toiletry item, or a quick drink? Instacart delivers from convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Walgreens, sometimes in as little as 30 minutes.
• Alcohol: In many areas, Instacart offers alcohol delivery from liquor stores, grocery stores with alcohol sections, and even breweries. You can get beer, wine, and spirits delivered, provided you're of legal drinking age and can show valid ID upon delivery.
• Retail and Specialty Goods: This is where Instacart has really expanded. Need office supplies from Staples? Pet food and toys from Petco? Instacart partners with a surprisingly wide range of retailers, making it a one-stop-shop.
• Prescriptions: In select areas, Instacart offers prescription delivery from participating pharmacies like Costco and Wegmans. This can be a huge help, especially if getting out to the pharmacy is difficult.
• Flowers and Gifts: Need a last-minute bouquet or a small gift? You can often find fresh flowers from grocery store floral departments or even potted plants from places like Lowe's, all deliverable via Instacart.

The sheer variety is pretty impressive, making Instacart a powerful tool for tackling your to-do list without ever stepping out the door. It's not just about stocking your kitchen anymore; it’s about convenience across many aspects of your daily shopping needs. Imagine getting your week's groceries, a new office chair from Staples, and dinner from your favorite local Thai place all coordinated through one app – that's the kind of multi-tasking Instacart now enables. Always check what stores and categories are available in your specific zip code, as offerings can vary by location.

Most Popular Meals and Orders

So, what are people actually clicking "add to cart" on these days? Instacart's trend reports give us a fun peek into the country's collective shopping basket, and it’s clear that health, convenience, and a touch of culinary adventure are top of mind. For 2025, it seems we're all trying to get a bit healthier, a bit more experimental, and definitely more hydrated!

The "moderation movement" with alcohol is in full swing, with non-alcoholic cocktails, spirits, wines, and beers seeing a huge surge in popularity. We're talking a mind-blowing 666% growth for non-alcoholic cocktails and a 123% jump for non-alcoholic spirits in the past year alone! It's not necessarily about giving up booze entirely, but more about embracing alternatives and being mindful, maybe restricting a tipple to the weekends.

And to help with that, liver support supplements and electrolyte drink powders are also flying off the virtual shelves. Speaking of hydration, it's officially a craze: Electrolyte powders are up 36%, and trendy stainless-steel tumblers are the must-have accessory. Even coconut water is getting more love.

Protein is still king, with folks looking to pack more of it into their diets. Cottage cheese, the comeback kid of the dairy aisle, is up 8%, finding its way into everything from ice cream to viral flatbreads. Greek and Icelandic yogurts, protein drinks, and even meat jerky (especially grass-fed options) are also trending upwards. And don't sleep on sleep health! Magnesium supplements are up 19%, sleep masks by 56%, and sleep and sound machines saw a massive 134% increase. It seems we're all craving a good night's rest, perhaps fueled by viral trends like the 'Sleepy Girl Mocktail' (tart cherry juice and magnesium).

When it comes to actual meals and ingredients, there’s a definite lean towards variety and international flavors. People aren't just eating more produce; they're exploring more types of produce – think red dragonfruit (up 201%!), yellow passionfruit, mangosteen, microgreens, and even purple asparagus. The tinned fish trend is still swimming strong, with canned mackerel and sardines making a splash, partly thanks to their high-protein punch and nostalgic appeal. And the baking from scratch movement continues to rise, with bread flour and even 00 flour (for those homemade pizzas) seeing significant growth. It seems we're all becoming a bit more adventurous in our home kitchens, exploring global cuisines with items like milk tea, kimchi, and frozen Asian buns becoming everyday staples. It’s a delicious time to be an Instacart shopper!

How to Save the Most on Instacart

While Instacart is a fantastic time-saver, nobody wants to pay full price if they don't have to. The good news is, with a little know-how and a few savvy tricks, you can significantly cut down your Instacart bill. From membership perks to smart shopping strategies and those ever-elusive promo codes, we're about to uncover all the secrets to making Instacart work for your budget. Get ready to become an Instacart savings pro!

Sign Up for Instacart Plus

If you're ordering from Instacart more than just occasionally (say, a couple of times a month or more), then an Instacart Plus membership should be high on your list. For a yearly fee of $99 or a monthly charge of $9.99, you unlock some pretty significant benefits. The headline perk is $0 delivery fees on most grocery and retail orders of $10 or more (Costco orders need to hit $35, and eligible restaurant orders via their Uber Eats partnership have a $25 minimum).

Plus members also enjoy reduced service fees on every order, which can chip away at your total, and a sweet 5% credit back on eligible pickup orders. Many users report saving around $7-$8 per order just on fees with the membership. Do the math for your own ordering habits – it might pay for itself much quicker than you think!

Enjoy Extra Perks with Annual Instacart Plus

Beyond the fee savings (essentially two free months per year), an annual Instacart Plus membership often comes with some seriously valuable entertainment bonuses. Recently, this includes a complimentary year of Peacock Premium (a streaming service packed with movies, TV shows, and live sports, currently valued at $79.99 per year) and a one-year subscription to New York Times Cooking (giving you access to thousands of recipes and cooking guides, valued at $50 per year). If you'd subscribe to these services anyway, their value pretty much covers the cost of the Instacart Plus membership right there!

Look for Instacart Plus for EBT SNAP Holders

Instacart is committed to making its service accessible, and one great example is the discounted Instacart Plus membership for EBT SNAP participants. If you've used your EBT SNAP card for an Instacart order within the last six months, you can qualify for Instacart Plus at just $4.99 per month for your first year. That’s half the regular monthly price, and you still get all the standard Plus benefits like $0 delivery fees on qualifying orders and reduced service fees.

Get Instacart Plus Deals through Costco

If you're a Costco member, you've got another avenue for Instacart Plus savings. Costco members can often get a reduced annual Instacart Plus membership, typically for $79 instead of the usual $99. And if you're new to Instacart Plus, signing up via your Costco membership might also score you a couple of free months to try it out. You'll just need to link your Costco membership number in your Instacart account to see these offers.

Explore Credit Card Perks for Instacart

Before you pay for Instacart Plus, always check your credit card benefits! Instacart has a strong history of partnering with major credit card issuers like Chase and Mastercard. Depending on your card, you might find offers for complimentary Instacart Plus trial memberships (sometimes for several months or even a full year on premium cards) or statement credits on your Instacart purchases. For example, some Chase cards offer a free year of Instacart Plus and $100 in Instacart credit upon approval, while eligible Mastercards have offered two free months of Instacart Plus and $10 off your second order each month. These offers change, so dig into your card's current benefits or check the Instacart promotions page.

Take Advantage of Partner Offers

Keep an eye out for special promotions when Instacart teams up with other companies. For instance, they’ve run offers in the past where new members could get 50% off their first year of an annual Instacart Plus membership simply by subscribing with their PayPal account. These types of deals can pop up, so it's worth checking if any are active when you're considering a membership.

Hunt for Promo Codes and Coupons

This is classic DealNews territory! Instacart regularly releases promo codes that can offer anything from a dollar amount off your order (like $10 or $20 off) to free delivery, especially for new users. You can often find codes for your first order, or even your first few orders. Check the "Promos and Coupons" section on Instacart's site or app, and of course, keep this DealNews page bookmarked as we're always updating with the latest codes. Don't forget about referral codes either – if a friend refers you, you both usually get a credit!

Shop the Deals Tab and Personal Digital Flyer

Once you're in the Instacart app and have selected a store, make a beeline for that store's "Deals" or "Sales" tab. This is where you'll find digital manufacturer coupons you can "clip" with a tap, buy-one-get-one-free offers, and other store-specific discounts. Instacart has also introduced a "Personal Digital Flyer," which digitizes the traditional grocery circular, highlighting sales on items you frequently buy or might be interested in. Instacart even says some users save an average of $8-$12 per order this way!

Link Your Store Loyalty Cards

This is a big one! Instacart partners with tons of major retailers like Kroger, Albertsons, Safeway, Food Lion, Wegmans, and many more, allowing you to link your existing store loyalty cards directly in the app. Doing this means you'll often get the same member-only sale prices and digital coupons you'd benefit from if you were physically scanning your card in the store. It's an easy way to ensure you're not missing out on baseline savings.

Opt for Curbside Pickup

If you don't mind making a quick trip to the store (and have a car), choosing curbside pickup instead of delivery is a great way to save. You'll bypass delivery fees entirely. And if you're an Instacart Plus member, you'll also earn that 5% credit back on eligible pickup orders, adding to your savings.

Choose Slower or Next-Day Delivery Windows

If you’re not in a super rush for your items, playing around with delivery windows can unlock savings. Instacart sometimes offers $0 delivery fees if you schedule your order (from eligible stores, often meeting a $10 minimum) for delivery the next day. Service fees might still apply, and this might not be available for all store types, but it's a solid way to dodge the standard delivery charge. Some users have also noted a $2 discount for choosing a wider, 3-hour delivery window on certain orders.

Prioritize Stores with In-Store Pricing

Pay attention to the labeling under a store's name in the Instacart app. If you see "In-store prices," it means the prices for items listed in the app are the same as what you'd find on the store shelves. This helps you avoid potential markups that some other retailers might apply to their Instacart listings, ensuring you're getting a fairer price on the goods themselves.

Compare Item Prices Across Different Stores

If you have a specific item in mind, and it's available at multiple stores on Instacart, it can be worth a quick comparison. While Instacart doesn't have a built-in tool for this, if you know a couple of stores carry your favorite brand of coffee, for example, a quick switch between those store pages in the app might reveal a price difference that could save you a buck or two.

Check Out "Your Items on Sale"

Instacart uses its smarts to help you save. Look for a section often called "Your Items on Sale," which leverages AI to show you deals on products you've bought before or frequently browse. It’s a personalized way to catch discounts on your go-to items.

Utilize "Stock Up and Save" Promotions

Keep an eye out for "Stock Up and Save" deals. These promotions offer discounts when you buy multiple units of a particular item or reach a certain dollar threshold on specific brands. If it's a non-perishable item you use regularly, this can be a great way to save in the long run.

Take Advantage of New User Offers

If you're brand new to Instacart, they almost always have enticing offers to get you started. These often include free delivery on your first order, or even your first three orders, and sometimes a dollar-off discount on a minimum spend. These are designed to let you try the service with a lower barrier to entry.

By combining these strategies, you can transform from a casual Instacart user into a savvy, budget-conscious shopper who gets the best of both worlds: convenience and savings!

Need to Cancel an Order or Instacart Plus Subscription? Here's How

Plans change, and sometimes you need to adjust or cancel an order, or maybe you've decided the Instacart Plus membership isn't for you right now. The good news is that Instacart provides straightforward ways to manage both. Knowing how to do this can save you potential fees or unwanted charges.

Cancel an Order

Mistakes happen, or maybe you just realized you don't need that giant tub of ice cream after all (we've all been there). If you need to cancel an Instacart order, it's best to do it as soon as possible. You can generally cancel an order for a full refund without any fees before a shopper has started picking your items. However, if you try to cancel after shopping has begun or while your order is out for delivery, you might be charged a cancellation fee (Instacart's policy mentions this could be up to $15). Custom orders, like catering or deli platters, may have stricter cancellation windows, sometimes 24-48 hours in advance, depending on the retailer.

Here’s the general process to cancel an order:

1. Open the Instacart app or go to the website.
2. Navigate to "Orders" (app) or "Your Orders" (website).
3. Select the specific order you wish to cancel.
4. Look for a "Help" or "Need help with something?" option on the order page.
5. Choose "Cancel order."
6. You'll likely be asked for a reason for the cancellation. Select one and confirm.

If shopping has already started and you can't find an easy cancel option, you'll need to reach out to Instacart Customer Experience directly. You can usually do this by selecting "Get help" or "Contact Us" through the Help Center in the app or on the website. Remember, the sooner you act, the better your chances of avoiding any cancellation fees. If your order is unexpectedly canceled or rescheduled by Instacart (due to shopper availability, out-of-stock items, etc.), you can usually try placing it again with a different retailer or at a different time.

How to Cancel Your Instacart Plus Membership

If you've decided that Instacart Plus isn't the right fit for you anymore, or if your trial period is ending and you don't want to roll into a paid subscription, canceling is also pretty simple. You can continue to enjoy your Plus benefits until the end of your current billing period, even after you cancel. Instacart's policy generally states that you can get a refund for your membership fee if you cancel within the first five calendar days of your paid membership term, but only if you haven't placed any orders using your Plus benefits during that time.

Here’s how to cancel your Instacart Plus membership:

• Log in to your Instacart account on the app or website.
• Go to your account settings. This is usually found by tapping the Account icon (app) or selecting the three horizontal lines for the menu, and then "Your Instacart Plus Membership" (website). In the app, it might be under Settings > Your Instacart Plus Membership.
• Look for an option like "Manage your membership" or similar.
• Select "Cancel membership." Instacart might ask for your reason for leaving.
• Confirm your cancellation. You should receive an email confirming that your membership has been canceled or will not renew.

Instacart also often gives you the option to set a reminder three days before your membership renews, which is a handy feature if you're on the fence. If you change your mind after canceling (but before your benefits expire), you can usually go back to the same page and select "Renew membership." Always check your confirmation email and your account page to see when your benefits will officially end.

Instacart FAQs and Terms to Know

We've covered a lot about how Instacart works, from placing orders and understanding fees to saving money and managing your account. But sometimes, you just have those lingering questions or want to know where to find the nitty-gritty details. This section is designed to tackle some common queries and point you toward official Instacart resources for when you need more specific information.

It's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with Instacart's official policies, as they can change. For the most current and detailed information, you'll want to check out the Instacart Terms of Service (you can usually find a link at the bottom of their website). This document outlines everything from user responsibilities and payment authorizations to details about their arbitration agreement. If you have specific questions about how things work, like pricing in your area, how to use EBT SNAP, managing your Instacart Plus benefits, or reporting an issue with an order, the Help Center is your best friend. It’s packed with articles and guides on a huge range of topics. And for more immediate assistance, especially with active orders, you can contact their support team, often via live chat, phone (their senior and specialized support line is 1-844-981-3433, available daily from 8 am - 11 pm ET), or email.

Remember, Instacart is a platform that connects you with retailers and independent personal shoppers. While they strive for a smooth experience, understanding their terms and knowing how to use their support channels can make your shopping journey even better. Whether you're troubleshooting an order, curious about a specific fee, or just want to learn more about a new feature, these official resources are there to help.