How To Find and Use Coupon Codes

Have you ever received a flyer for 20% off at your favorite department store, only to accidentally throw it in the trash? Well, with the electronic age, those days are over. Not only can you very likely find that coupon online, you can find many others as well.

1. Find coupon codes. Enter a search for coupon codes in your search engine. This will give you many sites from which to choose. Each site will usually have a directory of stores so that you can easily find the store for which you would like a discount. I do not limit myself to just using one coupon code site, I take a look at several to make sure I find the best codes.
2. Follow the instructions for using a coupon code. Sometimes to use a discount you have to click on the link from the coupon code site. These are my least favorite types of coupons to use. I prefer when they list a code you can use when you're shopping online. Some coupons can be printed out and used at the store (BE SURE it will be accepted at the store, though, as many coupon codes found online are for online shopping use only).
3. Use your coupon code online. I like to open a new window to do my shopping and keep my coupon code page open too. This way I can easily toggle between the two windows. Do your shopping, then proceed to the checkout. Somewhere during the checkout process (but BEFORE you complete your purchase) there is a place to enter your coupon code (or codes – yes, many sites will let you use more than one coupon code. I always look for a percentage-off coupon code AND a free shipping coupon code).
4. Enter your coupon code(s). When you determine where to put your coupon codes in the check out process, you can either copy the coupon code from the coupon code site and paste it in the checkout form or you can just type it in manually. I usually use the copy and paste method to eliminate any errors.
5. Be sure the coupon code is valid. Coupon code sites are not always kept up to date and you may be using a code that is invalid. Before completing your check out, see if your code has been accepted. If it has not, try another one. As mentioned before, many stores will let you combine coupon codes, but some will not; so watch to see if both codes were accepted. If it does not accept both codes, be sure to use the code that will save you the most money. For instance, a 20% coupon will usually save you more than free shipping, but if you need to expedite your shipping, it might be better to use the coupon on free shipping, and then pay only for the upgraded shipping.
6. Check out. Once you are satisfied with your total amount, complete your check out and enjoy your new purchase(s).

I have found that many well-known stores are represented at coupon code sites. Most of the codes are for online shopping use only, but you will notice that there are printable coupons as well. It is a little time consuming, but can save you some money in the long run. Good luck and have fun!