A guide on how to use to discount codes at most UK shops.

What are online shopping voucher codes?

Just like in a magazine or newspaper where a shop will publish a voucher or promotional discount code which you can cut out and redeem at the shop for a discount or special offer when you buy something, online shops will offer money off coupons or discount voucher codes in the form of a voucher code.

This voucher code, known also as a promotional code, coupon code or discount voucher code is normally a series of letters and numbers such as 'AFF252'. Often they have no meaning to the user, but they do have a meaning to the website when they are entered into a form, usually at the checkout stage.

Here's how they work with an example

1. Find a suitable coupon or voucher code on Send me Discounts; one that will get you a discount at the shop you wish to use, or will give you a discount on a product you want to buy.

e.g

The image shows a voucher code displayed on SendMeDiscounts.co.uk, the code is highlighted in the box above. Once you have found the code, click on the link to visit the site and activate the voucher code and copy the code as above.

2. How to redeem the voucher code. After you have chosen the item you wish to purchase and have added it into your basket you will need to enter the voucher code in the promotional code or coupon code box usually at the checkout stage.

e.g

Enter the code in the box.

e.g

If the code is valid and up to date then the code should automatically subract the value of the coupon from your shopping basket total.

3. Not all shops and voucher coupons are the same. The example above describes how most shops and their voucher codes work, but because all shops have different websites and checkouts they may have to be redeemed in different ways. Some coupons may entitle the user to free delivery or other discounts, so it is worth checking to see how to use them and which one to use before purchasing.

4. My code did not work? There are many reasons why a code does not work. The important thing to remember is to copy the voucher codes exactly and click through to the retailer in order to activate any code if necessary. If it still does not work, it maybe that it has expired. Many retailers offer coupon codes for only a short period of time and may change them regularly, whilst we try and keep as up to date as possible and work with many of the retailers to ensure they are valid, somethimes it is possible to miss one or two. If you have identified an expired voucher code please let us know through the contact form.

More Help

Glossary of discount terms.
FAQs. A list of Frequently asked questions.

Discount code links

Wikipedia - brief information and history about coupon codes.

BBC - details of voucher codes released for Christmas.

Working Lunch Vouchers - Details on the Beeb about Voucher Codes

Money Saving Expert