Everyone loves a good deal. There’s something so satisfying about watching your total drop at the register. One way to save big is with coupons. And if you’re extra savvy, you might try stacking them! But wait—can you even do that?

It all depends on something called coupon stacking rules. Let’s break it down in a fun, simple way. Buckle up, deal hunter! You’re about to become a coupon stacking master.

What is coupon stacking?

Coupon stacking is when you use more than one coupon on a single item or order. Think of it like a savings sandwich. One layer of savings? Great. Two or more? Delicious.

But not every store allows this kind of savings party. And not every type of coupon plays nice with others.

Types of coupons

Before we talk stacking, let’s understand the main types of coupons:

• Manufacturer coupons: Provided by the company that makes the product. Think Kraft, Colgate, or Nike.
• Store coupons: Issued by the retailer. For example, Target or Walgreens might give you extra savings.
• Digital coupons: Found on apps or websites. Just click and add them to your account.
• Paper coupons: The old-school ones. You clip them from newspapers or print them at home.

Each coupon has its own rules. Reading the fine print can tell you a lot about what’s allowed.

Do coupons combine?

Short answer: sometimes.

Longer answer: It depends on where you’re shopping and what types of coupons you’re using. Here’s how it usually breaks down:

• Manufacturer + Store coupon: Often allowed. This is the golden duo—one from the product maker, one from the store.
• Two manufacturer coupons: Not allowed on one item. You can’t double up from the maker’s end.
• Two store coupons: Maybe! Some stores allow this, especially if they’re different types (like a % off and a $ off).
• Digital and paper coupons: Depends. Sometimes they are treated the same, so you can’t use both.

Every store has their own policies. And they can be very different!

Know your store’s policy

This is a big one. Each store decides how coupon stacking works in their world. Here are a few examples:

• Target: Allows one manufacturer and one Target coupon per item. You can also use Cartwheel discounts!
• Walmart: Doesn’t allow stacking. Only one coupon per item, period.
• Kroger: Varies by region. Most allow one digital or paper manufacturer coupon per product.
• CVS: Lets you use a manufacturer coupon, plus a store coupon, and sometimes an extra deal like “ExtraBucks.”

The best move? Ask or look online. Type in “[store name] coupon policy” and do a quick check.

Stacking scenarios: real-world examples

Let’s say you’re buying toothpaste:

1. You found a manufacturer coupon for $1 off Colgate.
2. Target has a $0.50 store coupon on Colgate products.
3. You also see a 10% off toothpaste Cartwheel offer.

If Target is your store, guess what? You can likely stack all three! That means triple savings. 🎉

But at Walmart, you’d only be able to use one. 😢

Tips for stack-savvy shopping

Want to make the most of stacking? Here are some pro tips:

• Read the fine print. Some coupons say “cannot be combined.” That’s a no-go for stacking.
• Use a coupon app. Apps like Ibotta, Rakuten, or Honey help find more deals.
• Watch expiration dates. Don’t wait too long. Deals don’t last forever!
• Stack with sales. Combine coupons with items already on sale for double discounts.
• Don’t be afraid to ask. Cashiers or customer service can help answer stacking questions.

Advanced stacking: Is it possible?

Oh yes, we’re leveling up. Here are some advanced (but legit!) stacking moves:

• Use a loyalty reward with coupons: Like Target Circle or CVS ExtraBucks. These are technically “store cash.”
• Stack after using a rebate app: Clip coupons, check out, then upload your receipt for more $$$ back.
• Combine gift cards with a coupon order: Get more stuff for less out of your own pocket.

Just be careful. If something feels shady, it probably is. Keep it honest—smart savings don’t need tricks.

Common coupon stacking mistakes

Let’s keep your savings sharp! Avoid these slip-ups:

• Using two manufacturer coupons on one item. Nope, that’s not allowed.
• Trying to stack expired coupons. Even if it’s just one day old, it’s invalid.
• Assuming digital and paper can always combine. Often treated the same, so pick one.
• Not checking store policies. What works at CVS may flop at Walgreens.

Every couponer slips sometimes. But now you know better.

Final thoughts: stack smart, save more

Coupon stacking is like a game, and you’re learning the strategy. With a bit of planning and awareness of the rules, you can score some awesome savings.

Here’s a cheat sheet to take with you:

• Yes: One manufacturer + one store coupon
• No: Two manufacturer coupons on the same item
• Maybe: Two store coupons—check policy!
• Bonus: Stack with sales, loyalty rewards, and rebate apps!

So the next time you’re holding a fistful of coupons, ask yourself: Do they combine?

If the rules say yes, click, clip, and cash in. Happy stacking!