Knowing how to use a voucher code properly can be the difference between a real saving and a frustrating few minutes at the checkout. The process is simple, but details such as minimum spends, case-sensitive codes and excluded items catch many shoppers out. This guide walks through it, from finding a code to confirming the discount before you pay.
What is a voucher code?
A voucher code, also called a promo code, discount code or coupon code, is a short string of letters and numbers that a retailer issues to unlock an offer, such as money off, free delivery or a free gift. Retailers share codes through newsletters, social media and partner websites such as Bala Voucher.
Every code comes with terms: usually an expiry date, any minimum spend, the products it covers and whether it is limited to new customers.
How to use a voucher code, step by step
The exact layout differs from shop to shop, but the steps are almost always the same:
- Find the offer you want on the store’s page, for example the John Lewis vouchers or Argos vouchers pages, and tap Get code.
- Copy the code. On this site it is copied to your clipboard with one tap.
- Go to the retailer’s website and add the items you want to your basket.
- Open your basket or go to the checkout and look for a box labelled “promo code”, “discount code”, “voucher code” or “gift card or promotional code”.
- Paste the code exactly as written and tap Apply.
- Check that the discount appears in the order summary before you enter your payment details.
Where to find the code box
Some retailers show the code box on the basket page, others only on the payment step. If you cannot see it, look for a small link such as “Have a promo code?”. On mobile, the box is sometimes tucked under the order summary.
Copy and paste rather than typing
Typing a code by hand is the easiest way to get it wrong, as codes can be case-sensitive and mix look-alike characters such as O and 0. Copying and pasting avoids this, but check you have not picked up an extra space.
Read the terms before you pay
Before you pay, check:
- the expiry date and time, as some codes end at midnight
- the minimum spend, and whether it is calculated before or after delivery charges
- excluded brands, sale items or gift cards
- whether the code is for new customers, app users or members only
- whether only one code can be used per order
Can you use more than one code?
Most UK retailers allow one promotional code per order. Some let you combine a code with an automatic deal already shown on the site, and some let you add a gift card on top. If you have two codes, try the one with the bigger saving first. Our guide to codes versus deals explains how the two types of offer work together.
Combine codes with other ways to save
A voucher code is often just one part of the saving. Students can check the student discount page, and anyone watching delivery costs can look at free delivery offers. Cashback sites can add a little more, although some retailers do not pay cashback when a code from another site is used, so it is worth checking the cashback site’s terms.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I enter a voucher code?
Usually in the basket or on the payment page, in a box labelled promo code, discount code or voucher code. Some sites hide it behind a “Have a code?” link.
Why has my voucher code not reduced the total?
The usual reasons are an expired code, a minimum spend that has not been met or excluded items in the basket. Our guide on why a code is not working covers each one.
Are voucher codes case-sensitive?
Some are and some are not. Copying and pasting the code exactly as shown avoids the problem either way.
Can I add a code after I have placed my order?
Generally not. Most retailers cannot apply a code once an order has been paid for, so always apply it and check the total before you pay.
Conclusion
Using a voucher code takes less than a minute once you know where to look: copy the code, find the code box, paste it and check the total before paying. The real skill is reading the terms so the discount lands where you expect it. When you are ready to shop, browse all stores to find current codes and deals, or start with popular pages such as Boots and Currys.