A guide to stacking rewards

Looking for savvy ways to help save money while shopping? Stacking promo codes and other rewards can be an effective strategy for boosting cost savings.

Whether someone is a seasoned bargain hunter or just getting started, this shopping technique can potentially help individuals make smart purchase decisions and unlock savings. Learn how to get coupons and potential ways to stack deals and rewards.

What is coupon stacking?

Coupon stacking refers to a money-saving strategy that involves using multiple coupons or promo codes on a single purchase.

Instead of using just one coupon, people can combine different types of coupons, such as manufacturer's coupons, store coupons, and digital or printable coupons, to apply multiple discounts to their purchase. This strategy may allow individuals to receive deeper discounts.

Strategies for stacking coupons and rewards

Looking for ways to successfully stack coupons and rewards? Consider these strategies and best practices.

Organize and plan before shopping

Determine what items are needed and prioritize them based on current needs and available promo codes. Look for combinations of coupons, discounts, and rewards that can be applied to planned purchases.

Review payment methods to find additional offers or rewards opportunities. While a promo or coupon code may be available to use, stacking that benefit with a payment method that may yield cash back along with using a rewards credit card could lead to greater savings, cash back, or larger rewards.

While coupon stacking may lead to significant savings, it's essential to avoid buying items that aren’t needed simply because someone has promo codes or savings offers.

Prioritize high-value coupons

When stacking coupons, use high-value coupons first. Start with manufacturer's coupons or store-specific coupons that offer the most significant discounts. This may help increase savings on the most expensive items.

Understand store policies

Not all retailers or brands allow reward or coupon stacking. Some retailers may have restrictions on the types of coupons that can be stacked, and they may have specific rules regarding the order in which coupons are applied. It may be best to get familiar with policies before attempting a coupon-stacking purchase.

If a store doesn’t allow stacking of coupon or promo codes, there may still be additional ways to stack rewards or cash back. Using a payment provider or cashback app that offers deals for using the provider to shop or pay can be a useful way to stack rewards. Paying with a rewards or cashback credit card — such as the PayPal Cashback Mastercard — can earn points or cash back while still receiving the savings given by a coupon code.

Sign up for loyalty programs

Many companies offer loyalty programs that provide exclusive offers and rewards for members. Some card providers and payment providers may offer loyalty rewards for those that use their suite of products, while retailers may offer them for frequent shoppers. Consider checking if a company offers one of these programs and, if available, sign up to access additional savings opportunities. It may be possible to stack these rewards with other coupons.

Be mindful of expiration dates

Always check the expiration dates on promo codes and rewards. Expired coupons won't provide any savings, so remove any that are no longer valid.

Create a system

Stay organized by keeping coupons neatly sorted and easily accessible. Consider using a coupon binder or smartphone apps designed for coupon management to keep track of discounts.

Stay updated on the latest deals and promotions

By utilizing up-to-date discounts and offers, individuals may be better equipped to optimize their coupon-stacking strategy.

Get started by subscribing to brand newsletters, following stores on social media, and downloading online shopping tools and browser extensions — like the PayPal Honey shopping extension — that track the latest shopping deals, promo codes, and cash back offers.

Types of coupons

There are many different types of coupons available. Here are some common examples:

• Manufacturer coupons: Issued by product manufacturers, these offer discounts on specific items the manufacturer produces.

• Store coupons: Provided by retailers, these apply to products within the specific store.

• Digital coupons: These are accessed and redeemed online through retailer websites or associated third-party apps.

• Mobile app coupons: Discounts offered within retailer or brand mobile apps.

• Promo codes: Alphanumeric codes used during online checkout for discounts.

• Printable coupons: These can be printed from websites and used in physical stores.

• Email subscriber coupons: Discounts sent to subscribers via email.

• Loyalty rewards coupons: Earned through loyalty programs and can be redeemed for discounts.

• Cashback offers: Provide a percentage of money back on eligible purchases.

• BOGO coupons: Buy one, get one free or at a discount.

• Clearance sale coupons: Apply to clearance or discounted items.

• Seasonal or holiday coupons: Offered during specific seasons or holidays.

Learn about cashback apps.