In today’s economy, every dollar counts. While traditional paper coupons are becoming a thing of the past, digital coupons have taken over. If you’re not using them, you’re essentially leaving money on the table every time you shop.

This guide will show you how to master digital couponing, from the basics to advanced automation with Lasso.

1. Understand the Different Types of Coupons

Not all digital coupons are created equal. Knowing the difference can help you “stack” savings.

  • Store Coupons: Issued by the retailer (e.g., Kroger, Target). These are often specific to that store.
  • Manufacturer Coupons: Issued by the brand (e.g., P&G, General Mills). These can often be used at any store, but digital versions are usually tied to a specific store’s loyalty program.
  • Cash Back Offers: Apps like Ibotta or Rakuten give you cash back after your purchase.

2. Join Every Loyalty Program

Most digital coupons are tied to a store’s loyalty card or phone number. If you don’t have a “Kroger Plus” card or a “Target Circle” account, you can’t access the best deals.

Pro Tip: Use the same phone number for all your loyalty accounts to keep things simple.

3. The Power of “Stacking”

The “Holy Grail” of couponing is stacking. This means using:

  1. A sale price.
  2. A store coupon.
  3. A manufacturer coupon.
  4. A cash-back app offer.

When done correctly, you can often get items for free or even make money on the purchase (known as a “moneymaker”).

4. Don’t Fall for the “Gimmick”

Just because there’s a coupon doesn’t mean it’s a good deal. Always check the unit price (price per ounce or per lb). Sometimes the larger item without a coupon is still cheaper than the smaller item with a coupon.

5. Automate the Boring Parts

Manually “clipping” hundreds of coupons is tedious. This is where automation comes in. Tools like Lasso allow you to clip every available coupon with a single click.

Why Automate?

  • Time Savings: Instead of spending 30 minutes scrolling through an app, you click one button.
  • No Missed Deals: You might overlook a coupon for a product you buy every week. Automation ensures it’s clipped and ready to go.
  • Stress-Free Shopping: Knowing that every possible discount is already attached to your card makes the checkout process much more relaxing.

6. Planning Your Trip

Before you head to the store:

  1. Check the Weekly Ad: See what’s on sale.
  2. Run Lasso: Ensure all digital coupons are clipped to your account.
  3. Make a List: Only buy what you intended to buy. Coupons are only “savings” if you actually need the item!

Conclusion

Digital couponing doesn’t have to be a full-time job. By combining store loyalty programs, smart stacking strategies, and automation tools like Lasso, you can easily save $50-$100 or more on your monthly grocery bill.

Start your saving journey today and watch those totals drop at the register!