What is Coupon Stacking?
Coupon stacking is the practice of using multiple coupons or discounts on a single purchase to maximize savings. When done correctly, it can dramatically reduce your total cost—sometimes by 50-75%!
Types of Coupons You Can Stack
1. Manufacturer Coupons
These are issued by product manufacturers and can usually be found in newspapers, magazines, or on brand websites.
2. Store Coupons
Provided directly by retailers, these can often be combined with manufacturer coupons.
3. Digital Coupons
App-based or website coupons that are loaded to your store loyalty card.
4. Percentage-Off Coupons
Store-wide discounts like "20% off entire purchase."
5. Cashback Offers
Rebates from cashback websites or apps.
The Basic Rules of Coupon Stacking
Rule #1: One Manufacturer Coupon Per Item
You can typically only use one manufacturer coupon per item, but you can pair it with a store coupon for the same item.
Rule #2: Read Store Policies
Every retailer has different coupon policies. Always check before attempting to stack.
Rule #3: Stackable Combinations
Common stackable combinations include:
- Manufacturer coupon + Store coupon
- Percentage-off sale + Dollar-off coupon
- Store discount + Cashback app
- Student discount + Promo code
- Loyalty points + Coupon code
Stores That Allow Coupon Stacking
Target
Target allows stacking of manufacturer coupons with Target store coupons and Target Circle offers. You can also earn cashback through the Target RedCard.
CVS
CVS permits stacking of manufacturer coupons with CVS coupons, ExtraBucks rewards, and percentage-off coupons.
Walgreens
You can combine manufacturer coupons with Walgreens coupons and Balance Rewards points.
Bed Bath & Beyond
Known for accepting multiple coupons, including their famous 20% off coupons along with manufacturer coupons.
Kohl's
Allows stacking of percentage-off coupons with Kohl's Cash and Yes2You Rewards.
Advanced Coupon Stacking Strategies
Strategy 1: Timing is Everything
Stack coupons during major sales events for maximum impact. For example:
- Use a 20% off coupon during a 50% off clearance sale
- Apply cashback offers during Black Friday deals
- Combine student discounts with back-to-school promotions
Strategy 2: Digital + Paper Coupons
Many stores allow you to use both digital coupons (loaded to your loyalty card) and paper/mobile coupons for different items in the same transaction.
Strategy 3: Gift Cards as Payment
Purchase discounted gift cards (from sites like Raise or Gift Card Granny) and use them as payment along with your stacked coupons for even more savings.
Strategy 4: Free Shipping Stacking
Combine free shipping codes with product discounts. Never pay for shipping if you can avoid it!
Real-World Coupon Stacking Example
Scenario: Buying a $100 jacket at Target
- Store Sale: 30% off outerwear = $70
- Target Circle Offer: Extra 10% off = $63
- Manufacturer Coupon: $10 off = $53
- RedCard Discount: 5% off = $50.35
- Cashback App: 2% cashback = Net $49.35
Total Savings: $50.65 (50.65%)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Not Reading the Fine Print
Always check expiration dates, minimum purchase requirements, and exclusions.
2. Trying to Stack Incompatible Coupons
Two manufacturer coupons for the same item won't work. One manufacturer + one store coupon will.
3. Forgetting About Cashback
Cashback apps work alongside other discounts—don't leave money on the table!
4. Not Organizing Your Coupons
Keep digital and physical coupons organized so you can quickly find what you need.
Top Tools for Coupon Stackers
- CouponsCodeHut: Verified coupon codes from thousands of stores
- Rakuten: Cashback on purchases
- Honey: Automatic coupon finder and cashback
- RetailMeNot: In-store and online coupons
- Ibotta: Cashback on groceries and online shopping
Conclusion
Coupon stacking is a powerful way to maximize your savings, but it requires knowledge of store policies and strategic planning. Start small, learn what works at your favorite stores, and gradually build your coupon stacking skills.
Remember: every dollar saved is a dollar earned. Happy stacking!