The Coupon Insider: Walgreens tightens coupon policy

Every coupon clipper knows that knowledge is power, especially when it comes to a store’s coupon policy. If you’re well-informed at checkout, it’s one of the best weapons in your arsenal against paying full price. Unfortunately, every store has a different policy on limits, stacking and doubling. Even more unfortunate, few employees seem to be well-versed in their store’s policy.

Therefore, checking out at the same store with coupons can vary widely, depending on who’s at the register. Some coupon clippers even keep copies of such policies in their take-along coupon file — just so they’re at the ready when facing a coupon crisis at checkout.

The biggest issue for savers is the number of coupons you can use in a single transaction. Some stores have no limit. While others, typically, limit you to three to five of the same coupon. However, it gets trickier, when using coupons on sale and/or clearance items — especially “buy-one-get-one” promos. To this end, Walgreens has just changed its coupon policy in three big ways.

First, the chain no longer accepts a coupon if the value exceeds the price of the item. For example, you cannot use a $1-off coupon on 99-cent item. (Previously, cashiers would just adjust the value of the coupon.) Secondly, Walgreens no longer accepts two coupons on a buy-one-get-one free sale. You can now only use one per each BOGO pair. Finally, they no longer accept a buy-one-get-one free coupon on a buy-one-get-one sale free — making both items free.

For a review of Walgreens’ current coupon policy, click here. You can usually find a corporate coupon policy on a store’s website. If not, you can sometimes obtain a copy at the customer service desk. As a final resort, you can always call the customer service line for clarification. Remember, in the battle against paying retail, the more informed you are, the more you can shop smart and keep more money in your pocket.

Your greatest savings will always come from being a smart shopper in the grocery aisle and an informed shopper at checkout. Living On The Cheap is a great source for manufacturer’s coupons. Companies distribute new coupons often, so check back frequently for more savings.