How to Get Coupons: Rewards Programs, Browser Extensions, Apps and More
Scoring deals doesn’t have to mean hunting through newspaper inserts. Learn how to find digital coupons and shop smarter in-store to boost savings.
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Prices are up, budgets are tight and coupons are more in demand than ever.
More than half of U.S. adults (52%) say they use. coupons to save on food and other necessities, according to a January 2025 NerdWallet survey.
Whether downloaded from an app or clipped from a store flyer, coupons are still one of the best ways to save. Here's how to find the best coupons — digital and paper — to stretch your budget further.
Digital coupon resources
Install a browser extension
When shopping online, use a browser extension such as Honey or Capital One Shopping, which track down discounts on your behalf.
These extensions typically locate coupons and automatically apply the codes to your cart, so you can save money without putting in much work.
Use social media
Follow social media accounts for stores, brands and products you like. Many share coupon codes on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram. You could also try reaching out to brands with a post or comment.
We sifted through Reddit forums to get a pulse check on how users find coupons. We used an AI tool to help analyze the feedback. People post anonymously, so we cannot confirm their individual experiences or circumstances.
Redditors say they combine multiple methods to save money using digital coupons. They follow couponing influencers on YouTube and TikTok who break down deals by store and explain how to stack coupons and combine deals.
Couponing groups on social media platforms are also valuable because other users share coupon codes and strategies for saving at specific stores. Store apps and websites that let you “clip” digital coupons before shopping are also key, users say.
Search a coupon database or app
Coupon databases are websites that compile printable and digital coupons, including rebates. You can use them to search deals by brand, product or store and save time. Search “coupon database” on Google to get started.
For on-the-go savings, try a free coupon app. Check with the store before you shop — not every store accepts digital coupons.
Visit retailer websites for digital coupons
If you plan to purchase an item, check retailer websites first. Most major merchants have a weekly ad, coupon or offers section online. Or you might see a limited-time discount code on the homepage or in an ad.
Rebate apps
Scan or upload your receipts to apps like Ibotta and Fetch to get cash back or points for purchases. Accrue points and cash them in for gift cards to popular stores.
Pros and cons of digital coupons, according to Redditors
Convenience is key.
Some digital coupons automatically apply at checkout.
Ability to stack store loyalty discounts with manufacturer coupons and rebate apps to maximize savings.
Lots of online resources, especially on social media, offering coupon strategies and deals to watch out for.
Poor cell service can make accessing coupons while shopping a hassle.
There are technology barriers for older adults and those without a smart phone.
Some store apps are complex and require some time to learn.
Data collection can lead to a loss of privacy.
Downloading store apps and rebate apps can feel like a big digital lift.
In-store coupon resources
Join store loyalty programs
Many major retailers offer rewards systems that are typically free to join and help you save money with coupons and other perks.
Enroll in these programs or join email lists for the retailers you shop at most. Many stores send returning customers exclusive coupons or apply discounts automatically during checkout.
Many retails offer their rewards programs through apps that send you push notifications. These apps make it easy to find store and manufacturer coupons in one place. Just make sure you enable push notifications in your phone's settings to get the deals.
» Read our complete guide: couponing for beginners
Pick up weekly ads at the store
Watch for weekly circulars on display near the front doors or registers. These might include store-specific sales or other offers that you can redeem immediately or during a future shopping trip.
Store flyers are the best way to find deals on things it can be hard to find coupons for, such as produce, meat and poultry.
Some discounters, such as Aldi, don’t accept coupons, but may have circulars that tell you what’s discounted that week.
» Learn more: how to save on groceries
Browse store aisles and look at product packaging
Some discounts hide in plain sight at the grocery store. Inspect items, such as meat and cereal, for a peel-off coupon attached to the box or packaging. You could get instant savings.
Don’t see a voucher on the product itself? Check shelves and other locations in the store. End caps might hold that week's specials.
Check your receipts
Take a close look at your receipt after every transaction. Some stores print coupons on the back. The cashier might also hand over a few extra slips of paper printed from a machine next to the register.
These offers are usually based on your shopping habits. For example, if you buy a toothbrush, you may receive a voucher for toothpaste.
Use welcome coupons
Some retailers offer coupons to first-time customers when you sign up with your email or phone number. While you may be apprehensive because you don’t want to share your personal data or be bombarded with emails, you could potentially snag a discount on items you’re going to buy anyway.
Get the deals without having to directly deal with spammy emails by using a separate account for first-time customer deals or using the "hide my email" feature if you have it enabled on your phone or desktop.
Other ways to save
Subscribe and bundle frequent purchases
Some retailers may offer discounts for items you repurchase frequently. Think of daily-use items such as vitamins, dish detergent, shampoo and diapers. Amazon, for instance, offers discounts on single purchases when enrolled in the Subscribe and Save feature and greater discounts when subscribed to five or more subscriptions in a single month.
Check the newspaper
Newspapers, particularly on Sundays, often have coupon inserts for food and household items. However, subscriptions can be pricey. You might be able to get access to newspapers through friends, businesses libraries and other sources for free. Free papers often have coupons, too.
Go through your junk mail
Next time you collect your postal mail, pause and do a quick review before automatically tossing any junk mail. Some stores mail flyers containing coupons based on recent purchases.
Shop the alternatives
Coupons are great, but they're not the only way to save money when you shop. Coupons are often for brand-name products. Generics may be cheaper than the brand-name products, even after the coupon’s discount.
» NEXT: See more ways to save money
WHERE TO GET COUPONS
WHERE TO GET COUPONS