Published on 16-Jan-2025
Using coupons makes saving money exciting, but problems with getting it to function can be frustrating. Find out the answers for these common reasons as to why your coupon may not be working and what simple troubleshooting presents to fix the problem. This is a handy guide to help you recognise and fix such issues.
The coupon often goes with a date of validity. When expired, your coupon will be non-functional. Always check the expiry date contained in the fine print or printed on the coupon before trying to redeem it.
There are certain coupons that are service-centric and sometimes product- or category-specific. One coupon may offer a discount only for a new customer, while another may have a minimum purchase amount to redeem it.
Solution: Read the particular terms and conditions closely to make sure your purchase falls within the requirements.
Expired coupons have limited use per customer and/or total redemption count. One try will redeem the coupon; it won't work again.
Solution: Check coupons for whether they are one-use or out of total redemptions. See if there are alternative offers.
Some coupons may not be valid everywhere. If you try to redeem that coupon outside of these locations—for example, applying an online coupon in a brick-and-mortar location or vice versa—the chances of redemption failure will arise.
Solution: Confirm whether the coupon is applicable to your shopping platform.
Occasionally, it may not necessarily be the coupon in particular that is at fault but the portal itself. Bugs in the website, congested servers, or outdated browser settings can also interfere with the crediting of the coupon.
Solution: Reload the webpage; maybe clear your cache in your browser, or use a different device. Consult customer service if the problem persists.
Retailers often restrict combining multiple coupons in a single transaction. If you’re trying to use more than one code, it may invalidate them.
Solution: Use the coupon that offers the best savings or check if stacking is allowed.
Some coupons are retailer-specific. Attempting to use a code for Store A on Store B’s website won’t work.
Solution: Verify that you’re applying the coupon at the correct retailer or platform.
If all the previously mentioned issues do not seem to apply, then the likely cause of the problem may reside in your own account or transaction.
Solution: Reach out to the store’s customer service team with details about the coupon and your order. They may resolve the issue or provide alternative discounts.
