Do know how to tell the difference between a store and manufacturer’s coupon?
It can be confusing to know the difference. Just check out this question from Wendy:
“If I print a coupon from Walmart’s site, is that a store coupon, even though it states manufacturer’s coupon? And if so, can I use a manufacturer’s coupon with it?”
This is actually a very good question as it can be very confusing to know for certain. At this time, Walmart does not have store coupons. The coupons you might find on Walmart’s site are all manufacturer’s coupons, which are redeemable anywhere (in most cases). When you actually have a true store coupon, you can stack that with a manufacturer’s coupon to maximize your savings. So, how can you tell the difference between a store coupon and a manufacturer’s coupon?
Also see: What you need to know about using digital coupons
It can be difficult to tell them apart. Of course, there are times when you just know. For example when you print a Target coupon or Walgreen’s IVC coupon, you can tell they are store coupons. It isn’t always so simple on others. Here are three things you can look for:
1. The easiest way that people feel you can tell is just by looking at the description. If it says manufacturer’s coupon, then you know it is and should be able to be redeemed anywhere. The confusion lies in if a store name is listed. There are times when it may appear to be a store coupon, when it is not. That means you have to look further.
2. Another way to know the difference is to look for a redemption address. Store coupons do not need to send the coupon anywhere for reimbursement, so there will not be a remit to address listed. However, manufacturer’s coupons must have this data listed so that the store can get their money back. Without that data, they can’t submit.
3. Finally (and the simplest way to know) is to check the barcode. If you see a 4, that indicates that it is a store coupon, but if it shows a 5 that means it is a manufacturer’s coupon (even if it shows a store logo). Easy, isn’t it?
Here are two examples with each area circled, to help you know where to look on your coupons.
MANUFACTURER’S COUPON
STORE COUPON
I hope this helps you know the difference and not only avoid embarrassment at the checkout line, but also save even more!