A rejected coupon does not always mean the code was fake. Retailers often attach conditions that determine when and where a promotion can be used.
Check the expiry date
The promotion may have ended or may only work during a specified time period.
Check the minimum spend
Some coupons only activate after the eligible subtotal reaches a required amount.
Review product exclusions
Certain brands, sale items, gift cards or categories may not qualify.
Check customer eligibility
The offer may be for new customers, members, app users or a specific region.
Look for automatic discounts
A store may already be applying another promotion that cannot be combined with the coupon.
Check spelling and spacing
Enter the code exactly as provided and remove accidental spaces before or after it.
Read the checkout message
The retailer error message often explains whether the problem is expiry, eligibility or the contents of the cart.
QUICK CHECKLIST
Before you buy
- ✓ Do not keep trying unrelated codes at random.
- ✓ Read the retailer terms when available.
- ✓ Confirm any accepted discount in the order summary.
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This article provides general shopping information. Prices, offers and store policies can change, so always verify current details before purchasing.