Ah, the quest for savings! There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of watching your grocery bill shrink thanks to smart couponing. And when it comes to Kroger, a powerhouse in the grocery world, unlocking those deals can make a significant difference. While Kroger has heavily emphasized digital coupons in recent years, they've also recently brought back a more accessible way to get some of those coveted digital deals in a paper format. This is fantastic news for those who prefer the tangible feel of a coupon or find navigating apps a bit cumbersome.
So, are you ready to become a Kroger couponing pro? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Are You a Kroger Shopper's Card Holder? (If not, let's fix that!)
Before we even talk about coupons, the absolute first and most crucial step to saving money at Kroger is having a Kroger Shopper's Card. Without it, you're missing out on nearly all the advertised sales, personalized deals, and, yes, even the ability to utilize digital coupons.
What is it? The Kroger Shopper's Card is Kroger's free loyalty program. It's how they track your purchases, offer you personalized discounts, and link all those wonderful digital coupons to your account.
Why do I need it? It's your key to unlocking member-exclusive pricing, fuel points (which translate to savings at the pump!), and the foundation for all your couponing efforts.
How to get one:
In-Store: Simply ask a cashier or visit the customer service desk at your local Kroger store. They can sign you up on the spot and give you a physical card.
Online: Visit the Kroger website (Kroger.com) and look for the "Sign Up" or "Create an Account" option. You'll be prompted to provide some basic information and link a new or existing Shopper's Card to your online profile. If you don't have one, they'll issue you an Alt ID (usually your phone number) that you can use at checkout until you get a physical card.
Through the Kroger App: Download the Kroger mobile app (available on iOS and Android). The app will guide you through creating an account and linking or creating your Shopper's Card.
Pro Tip: Even if you prefer paper coupons, having an online account linked to your Shopper's Card is incredibly beneficial for viewing weekly ads and understanding what deals are available.
Step 2: Understanding Kroger's Coupon Landscape
Kroger's coupon system primarily revolves around digital coupons, but they've recently introduced a fantastic way to access those same digital deals in paper format. It's important to understand the different types to maximize your savings.
Sub-heading: Digital Coupons (The Core of Kroger Savings)
For a long time, Kroger has heavily promoted digital coupons loaded directly to your Shopper's Card. These are manufacturer and store coupons that you "clip" (add) to your account via the Kroger website or mobile app. When you scan your Shopper's Card at checkout, the discounts automatically apply.
Where to find them:
Kroger Website: Navigate to the "Savings" or "Digital Coupons" section on Kroger.com.
Kroger App: The mobile app has a dedicated "Digital Coupons" section.
How they work: You browse available coupons, click "Load to Card," and they're instantly linked to your Shopper's Card. When you purchase the qualifying item, the discount is applied at checkout. You can typically use each digital coupon once per transaction, but sometimes they allow up to 5 redemptions in a single transaction. Always check the coupon details.
Sub-heading: The Return of Paper "Weekly Digital Deals"
This is the game-changer for those seeking paper coupons! In a direct response to customer feedback, Kroger has started offering printed versions of their "Weekly Digital Deals." This means you don't have to clip them digitally if you prefer a physical sheet.
Where to find them: Look for these printed sheets at the store entrances or at the customer service desk in your Kroger store. They are essentially a printed handout that includes all the digital coupons and specials for the week on one sheet with a single barcode.
How they work: You simply grab one of these sheets, do your shopping, and then the cashier scans the single barcode on the sheet at checkout. This will apply all the advertised digital discounts listed on that sheet to your purchase, assuming you've bought the qualifying items. This simplifies the process immensely compared to individually clipping each digital coupon on your phone or computer.
Sub-heading: Manufacturer Paper Coupons (The Traditional Kind)
While Kroger heavily pushes their digital offers, they still accept traditional paper manufacturer coupons. These are the coupons you might find in:
Sunday Newspaper Inserts: Look for inserts like SmartSource (SS) and Save (formerly RetailMeNot Everyday/RedPlum) in your Sunday newspaper.
Printable Coupon Websites: Websites like Coupons.com, RedPlum.com (now Save.com), and https://www.google.com/search?q=SmartSource.com often offer printable manufacturer coupons. Always check their legitimacy before printing.
Product Packaging: Sometimes coupons are directly on products or inside their packaging.
Mailers: Brands may send coupons directly to your mailbox.
Kroger's Policy on Manufacturer Coupons:
They accept legitimate manufacturer coupons.
Only one manufacturer coupon (paper or digital) can be used per item purchased. This means you can't stack a paper manufacturer coupon with a Kroger digital manufacturer coupon for the same item. However, you can stack a manufacturer coupon with a Kroger store coupon (like a yellow tag sale or a "Weekly Digital Deal" that acts as a store offer).
Expired coupons will not be accepted.
Coupons must be for the correct brand, size, quantity, etc.
They may limit the number of identical manufacturer coupons redeemed per day per household (e.g., typically 3, but internet coupons might be limited to 2).
Step 3: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting and Using Kroger Paper Coupons
Let's break down the process into clear, actionable steps.
Sub-heading: Method 1: Obtaining the "Weekly Digital Deals" Paper Sheet
This is the easiest and most effective way to get paper versions of Kroger's digital offers.
Locate Your Nearest Kroger Store: Use the Kroger website or app's store locator to find your preferred shopping location.
Visit the Store: Head to Kroger, keeping an eye out for promotional materials as you enter.
Find the Coupon Kiosk/Display: As mentioned, Kroger is now providing printed "Weekly Digital Deals" sheets. These are typically found:
Right at the store entrance.
Near the customer service desk.
Sometimes in specific aisles where featured deals are located.
Look for a stack of printed sheets that summarize the week's top digital deals with a single barcode at the bottom.
Grab a Sheet: Take one of these sheets. There's no limit to how many you can take, but you only need one per shopping trip to apply the discounts.
Shop for Qualifying Items: Refer to the list on the paper sheet and purchase the items that are advertised as part of the "Weekly Digital Deals." Make sure you have your Shopper's Card ready.
Checkout: At the register, present your Kroger Shopper's Card (or enter your Alt ID). Then, hand the paper "Weekly Digital Deals" sheet to the cashier to scan the single barcode. All eligible discounts on the sheet will be applied automatically to your purchase. You should see them reflected on your receipt.
Sub-heading: Method 2: Using Traditional Manufacturer Paper Coupons
If you're a fan of the classic coupon clipping, here's how to integrate those into your Kroger savings strategy.
Gather Your Coupons:
Check Sunday Newspapers: Purchase your local Sunday newspaper and look for coupon inserts (SmartSource, Save).
Print Online: Visit reputable printable coupon websites (Coupons.com, Save.com, https://www.google.com/search?q=SmartSource.com). Always ensure your printer has enough ink and paper!
Look for Mailers/Product Packaging: Keep an eye out for coupons arriving in your mail or on products you buy regularly.
Match Coupons to Sales: This is where the real savings happen!
Review Kroger's Weekly Ad: Before you shop, go through Kroger's weekly ad (available online or in-store) to see what items are on sale.
Compare with Your Coupons: Look for coupons that match items already on sale. Combining a sale price with a manufacturer coupon is a prime couponing strategy.
Check Coupon Limits and Restrictions:
Read the fine print on each coupon: Does it specify size, quantity, or specific varieties?
Note expiration dates.
Be aware of "limit one coupon per purchase" or other redemption limits.
Organize Your Coupons: Before heading to the store, sort your paper coupons by aisle or by your shopping list to make checkout efficient.
Shop and Redeem:
Place the qualifying items in your cart.
At checkout, present your Kroger Shopper's Card first.
Then, hand your paper manufacturer coupons to the cashier after your items have been scanned.
Verify that the discounts have been applied on the screen or your receipt.
Step 4: Maximizing Your Kroger Savings Beyond Coupons
Coupons are fantastic, but they're just one piece of the puzzle. To truly become a Kroger saving superstar, consider these additional strategies:
Sub-heading: Leverage Your Shopper's Card (Beyond Coupons)
Fuel Points: Every dollar you spend at Kroger (with your Shopper's Card) earns you fuel points, which can be redeemed for significant discounts at Kroger Fuel Centers or participating Shell stations. This is a huge perk!
Personalized Offers: Based on your shopping history, Kroger will often send you personalized digital coupons or mailers with offers tailored to your purchasing habits.
Free Friday Downloads: Keep an eye out for "Free Friday Download" deals within the Kroger app or website. These are digital coupons for a completely free item, usually available for a limited time on Fridays.
Sub-heading: Explore Kroger Boost Membership
For frequent Kroger shoppers, especially those who use delivery or want even more fuel points, a Kroger Boost membership might be worth considering. It's a paid annual membership that offers:
Free Delivery: Next-day or same-day delivery options depending on the tier.
Double Fuel Points: You'll earn fuel points at an accelerated rate.
Exclusive Member Offers: Access to special discounts only available to Boost members.
Sub-heading: Pay Attention to Sales and Store Brands
Weekly Ads: Always review the weekly ad before you shop. Plan your meals and shopping list around what's on sale.
"Woohoo! Great Deal" Tags: Look for these yellow tags in store. They indicate significant price drops on various items, often clearance or manager's specials.
Kroger Brand Items: Don't shy away from Kroger's store brands (Kroger, Simple Truth, Private Selection). They often offer excellent quality at a lower price point than national brands.
Step 5: Troubleshooting and Tips for a Smooth Couponing Experience
Connectivity Issues (for digital coupons): If you're relying on digital coupons and experiencing connectivity issues in the store, sometimes logging out and back into the Kroger app can help.
Missing Digital Discounts: If a digital coupon doesn't apply, politely ask the cashier to verify that your Shopper's Card was scanned correctly and that you purchased the exact qualifying item.
Understanding "e-coupons": On your receipt, digital coupon deductions will typically appear as "ecpn" below the item.
Stay Informed: Sign up for Kroger's email list to receive updates on sales, new digital coupons, and special promotions.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to use Kroger paper coupons at self-checkout?
You can use the new "Weekly Digital Deals" paper sheets at self-checkout by scanning the single barcode on the sheet after you've scanned your Shopper's Card. For traditional paper manufacturer coupons, you'll need to use the "coupon scan" option on the self-checkout screen or ask for assistance.
How to find out which Kroger stores offer paper coupons?
Currently, it's understood that Kroger is implementing the "Weekly Digital Deals" paper sheets across all their family of stores. Look for them at the store entrance or customer service desk.
How to combine digital and paper coupons at Kroger?
Kroger's policy generally allows one manufacturer coupon (digital or paper) per item. However, you can stack a manufacturer coupon (paper or digital) with a Kroger store coupon (like a sale price from the weekly ad or the discounts applied by scanning the "Weekly Digital Deals" paper sheet).
How to get more manufacturer paper coupons for Kroger shopping?
Beyond Sunday newspaper inserts, check printable coupon websites (Coupons.com, Save.com, https://www.google.com/search?q=SmartSource.com), look for coupons directly on product packaging, and sign up for mailers from your favorite brands.
How to know when Kroger's "Weekly Digital Deals" paper sheets are updated?
The "Weekly Digital Deals" typically refresh every Wednesday, aligning with Kroger's weekly ad cycles. Check your store weekly for the new sheet.
How to ensure my Kroger Shopper's Card is linked to my online account?
Log in to your Kroger.com account or the Kroger app. Navigate to your "Profile Information" or "Account Settings" to verify that your Shopper's Card number (or Alt ID) is correctly linked.
How to get "Free Friday Download" coupons at Kroger?
These are digital-only. You need to log into your Kroger account on their website or app on the specific Friday the offer is available and "clip" (load) the coupon to your Shopper's Card. Then, redeem it in-store by the expiration date.
How to maximize fuel point earnings at Kroger?
Beyond regular grocery purchases, look for special promotions like 2x or 4x fuel points on gift card purchases (which you can then use at other retailers or even for future groceries!).
How to check if a digital coupon has been applied to my Kroger purchase?
Digital coupon discounts appear as "ecpn" on your printed receipt, usually directly below the item to which the discount was applied.
How to save money at Kroger without using any coupons?
Focus on buying items on sale from the weekly ad, choosing Kroger brand products, taking advantage of "Woohoo! Great Deal" items, and earning/redeeming fuel points for gas savings.
