How to Stack Coupons and Discounts for Maximum Savings
Everyone loves a good deal, but what if you could combine multiple discounts to save even more? Coupon stacking—the art of layering promotions—can help you slash prices dramatically when shopping online or in stores.
While some retailers restrict stacking, many allow it if you know the right strategies. Below, we’ll break down legitimate ways to combine coupons, promo codes, and cashback offers to maximize your savings—without breaking any rules.
Understanding Coupon Stacking: What’s Allowed?
Not all stores permit stacking, so it’s crucial to check policies before trying. Here’s a quick breakdown:
✅ Allowed Stacking:
- Store coupon + Manufacturer coupon (common at grocery/drugstores)
- Promo code + Cashback app (e.g., Honey + Rakuten)
- Loyalty discount + Sale price (e.g., Target Circle rewards)
❌ Usually Restricted:
- Multiple promo codes on one order
- Copying single-use coupons
Pro Tip: Always read the fine print—terms like “one discount per purchase” mean stacking isn’t allowed.
Step-by-Step Guide to Stacking Discounts
1. Start with the Base Discount (Sale Price)
Before applying coupons, shop during:
- Seasonal sales (Black Friday, Memorial Day)
- Clearance sections (often eligible for extra discounts)
- “Price match” policies (Best Buy, Walmart)
Example: A 50sweateronsalefor50sweateronsalefor30 gives you a $20 head start.
2. Add Store & Manufacturer Coupons
Many retailers accept one store coupon + one manufacturer coupon per item. Find them via:
- Coupon databases (Coupons.com, RetailMeNot)
- Newspaper inserts (Sunday papers)
- Store loyalty programs (Kroger, CVS ExtraCare)
Example: Use a 5storecoupon+5storecoupon+2 manufacturer coupon on that 30sweater,droppingitto30sweater,droppingitto23.
3. Apply a Promo Code at Checkout
If the retailer allows it, enter a promo code for:
- Percentage discounts (e.g., “EXTRA15”)
- Free shipping thresholds
- Gift card bonuses
Tools to Find Codes:
- Honey (auto-applies best codes)
- Capital One Shopping (suggests alternatives)
Example: A 15% off code reduces the 23sweaterto∗∗23sweaterto∗∗19.55**.
4. Use Cashback Apps or Credit Card Rewards
Even after coupons, you can earn additional cashback via:
- Rakuten/Ibotta (online purchases)
- Store-specific apps (Target, Walmart)
- Rewards credit cards (e.g., Chase Freedom’s 5% categories)
Example: If Rakuten offers 5% back, you’ll earn 0.98∗∗onthesweater,effectivelypaying∗∗0.98∗∗onthesweater,effectivelypaying∗∗18.57.
5. Leverage Rebates & Price Adjustments
- Rebate apps (Checkout 51, Fetch) pay you for buying specific products.
- Price protection (some credit cards refund price drops).
Example: If Fetch offers a 1rebateonsweaters,yourfinalcostdropsto∗∗1rebateonsweaters,yourfinalcostdropsto∗∗17.57**—a 65% savings!
Stores That Allow Stacking (2025 Guide)
Retailer | Stacking Policy |
---|---|
CVS | Store coupon + Manufacturer coupon + ExtraCare |
Target | Circle offer + Coupon + Sale price |
Walgreens | Register rewards + Coupons |
Kohl’s | Kohl’s Cash + Promo code + Sale |
Note: Amazon rarely allows stacking, but lightning deals + coupon clips sometimes work.
Advanced Stacking Tactics
- Gift Card Discounts: Buy discounted gift cards (Raise, CardCash) before shopping.
- Student/Military Discounts: Often stackable with other promotions (e.g., Apple Education pricing).
- Abandoned Cart Trick: Leave items in your cart; some stores email a discount code.
Final Tips to Avoid Pitfalls
🔹 Test codes in incognito mode—some target new customers only.
🔹 Track expiration dates—coupons often expire before sales do.
🔹 Be polite to cashiers—some may manually override stacking limits.
Bottom Line
With strategic stacking, you can routinely save 40–70% on everyday purchases. Start small (drugstores are great for practice), then expand to bigger hauls.
Want more savings tips? Explore our Smart Savings & Deals section for the latest coupon databases and exclusive discounts!