The Kroger shopping card, often referred to as the Kroger Plus Card or Shopper's Card, is your gateway to significant savings and exclusive benefits at Kroger Family of Companies stores. It's not just about getting discounts; it's about unlocking fuel points, personalized offers, and even contributing to community causes. Ready to start saving? Let's dive in!
Why You Need a Kroger Shopping Card: The Perks!
Before we get to the "how," let's quickly touch on why this card is so essential for any regular Kroger shopper. It's more than just a piece of plastic (or a digital ID!):
Member-Only Savings: Access to exclusive deals, promotions, and sales that non-cardholders miss out on.
Digital Coupons: Load digital coupons directly to your card via the website or app, saving you from clipping physical coupons.
Fuel Points: Earn points on your grocery purchases that can be redeemed for discounts at Kroger Fuel Centers and participating partner stations.
Personalized Offers: Kroger analyzes your shopping habits and sends you personalized coupons and offers tailored to your favorite products.
Cash Back Rewards: In some programs, you can earn cash back on eligible purchases.
Community Rewards: Link your card to a local non-profit or school, and Kroger will donate a percentage of your purchases to that organization at no extra cost to you.
Seamless Checkout: Simply scan your card, enter your Alt ID (usually your phone number), or use Kroger Pay for quick application of discounts.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Kroger Shopping Card
Getting your Kroger shopping card is a straightforward process, and you have a couple of convenient options: online or in-store. Let's walk through each one.
Step 1: Decide Your Preferred Method
First things first, how do you prefer to sign up? Do you like the convenience of your computer or smartphone, or do you prefer to handle things in person during your next grocery run? Both methods are simple, but one might be a better fit for you.
Option A: Online (Recommended for Digital Benefits): This is often the quickest way to get started, especially if you plan to use digital coupons and the Kroger app.
Option B: In-Store: If you're already at Kroger, you can get a physical card immediately.
Let's explore both in detail.
Step 2: Signing Up Online - The Digital Advantage
The online method allows you to create a digital account and link your Shopper's Card, giving you access to all the digital benefits right away.
Sub-heading 2.1: Navigate to the Kroger Website
Open your web browser and go to the official Kroger website:
Sub-heading 2.2: Create a Digital Account
Look for "Sign In" or "Register": In the top right corner of the homepage, you'll typically see options like "Sign In" or "Register." If you don't have an account, click on "Create an Account."
Provide Your Information: You'll be prompted to enter some basic details. This usually includes:
Your Email Address: This will be your primary login ID.
Create a Password: Make it strong and memorable!
Select Your Preferred Store: This helps Kroger tailor offers and show you local deals. You can change this later if needed.
Link Your Shopper's Card or Create an Alt ID:
If you already have a physical Kroger Plus Card (perhaps from an older sign-up or someone in your household has one), you'll be asked to enter your Shopper's Card number. This will link your existing card to your new digital account.
If you don't have a physical card, you can create a virtual Alt ID. This is often your 10-digit phone number. This Alt ID will function exactly like a physical card at checkout – you'll simply enter your phone number on the keypad. Remember this number, as it's what you'll use in-store if you don't have the physical card.
Confirm Your Account: You might receive a confirmation email. Be sure to check your inbox (and spam folder!) and click the verification link if prompted.
Sub-heading 2.3: Download the Kroger App (Optional, but Highly Recommended!)
While not strictly necessary to get the card, downloading the Kroger app will greatly enhance your shopping experience.
Search for "Kroger" in your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android, Apple App Store for iOS).
Download and Install the official Kroger app.
Log In using the same email address and password you just created for your digital account. Your linked Shopper's Card or Alt ID will automatically be associated with the app.
Now you're ready to start loading digital coupons, checking your fuel points, and even creating shopping lists directly from your phone!
Step 3: Getting Your Card In-Store - Quick and Easy
If you prefer a physical card right away, or if you're not comfortable with online registration, you can easily get a Kroger shopping card at any Kroger Family of Companies store.
Sub-heading 3.1: Approach the Customer Service Desk
When you visit any Kroger store, head directly to the Customer Service Desk. This is usually located near the front entrance of the store.
Sub-heading 3.2: Request a Kroger Plus Card
Simply inform the customer service representative that you would like to sign up for a Kroger Plus Card (or Shopper's Card).
Sub-heading 3.3: Provide Necessary Information
The associate will ask you for some basic information. This usually includes:
Your Name
Your Phone Number: This is crucial, as it often doubles as your Alt ID for easy lookup at checkout.
Your Address (optional, but helpful for receiving mailed offers).
Your Email Address (optional, but highly recommended for digital coupons and offers).
They may have a short form for you to fill out or they might input the information directly into their system.
Sub-heading 3.4: Receive Your Physical Card
Once your information is entered, the representative will typically issue you a physical Kroger Plus Card on the spot. You can start using it immediately for savings.
Sub-heading 3.5: Register Your Card Online (Crucial for Full Benefits!)
Even if you get a card in-store, it's highly recommended to register it online. This is where you unlock all the digital coupon benefits, personalize your offers, and manage your rewards. Follow the steps in "Step 2: Signing Up Online - The Digital Advantage," and when prompted, enter the physical card number you just received to link it to your new digital account.
Step 4: Activating and Maximizing Your Savings
Once you have your card (physical or virtual Alt ID) and your digital account set up, it's time to put it to good use!
Sub-heading 4.1: Loading Digital Coupons
This is one of the biggest benefits!
Via the Kroger App or Website: Log into your digital account.
Browse "Digital Coupons": Look for the "Savings" or "Digital Coupons" section.
"Clip" Coupons: Browse through the available coupons and click "Load to Card" or "Clip" for the ones you want. They are then automatically linked to your Shopper's Card.
Redeem at Checkout: When you purchase the qualifying item in-store or online, simply scan your card or enter your Alt ID at checkout. The discount will be applied automatically! You'll see "ecpn" on your receipt next to the discounted item.
Sub-heading 4.2: Earning Fuel Points
Every time you shop and use your Shopper's Card, you earn fuel points.
Shop at Kroger: For every dollar you spend on eligible items, you earn points.
Redeem at the Pump: When you're at a Kroger Fuel Center or participating partner station, swipe your Shopper's Card or enter your Alt ID. Your available fuel discounts will be applied. Make sure to check your app or account online for your current fuel point balance.
Sub-heading 4.3: Joining Community Rewards (Give Back While You Shop!)
This is a fantastic way to support local non-profits without spending extra money.
Log into Your Digital Account: Go to the Kroger website or app.
Find "Community Rewards": This is usually under "My Account" or a similar section.
Search for Your Organization: You can search by the organization's name or their NPO number (ask your chosen charity for this!).
Enroll: Select your desired organization and click "Enroll."
Shop and Earn: Now, every time you shop and use your Kroger Plus Card, a portion of your eligible purchases will go to that organization. It's a win-win!
Step 5: Maintaining Your Account and Staying Informed
To ensure you're always maximizing your savings, keep your Kroger account updated.
Sub-heading 5.1: Update Your Profile Information
Regularly check your "My Account" section online or in the app to ensure your contact information (especially email) is correct. This ensures you receive personalized offers and communications.
Sub-heading 5.2: Check Weekly Ads and Personalized Offers
Make it a habit to browse the weekly ad and your personalized offers (accessible through your digital account) before you shop. These can often lead to significant savings on items you already buy.
Sub-heading 5.3: Understand Expiration Dates
Digital coupons, fuel points, and cash back rewards all have expiration dates. Pay attention to these to avoid missing out on savings. The app and website usually display these clearly.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to check my Kroger Plus Card balance?
You can check your Kroger Plus Card points balance (including fuel points and cash back rewards) by logging into your Kroger digital account on their website or through the Kroger mobile app. The information is typically displayed prominently on your account dashboard.
How to use Kroger digital coupons?
Once you have a Kroger digital account linked to your Shopper's Card, simply log in to the Kroger website or app, browse the "Digital Coupons" section, and click "Load to Card" on the coupons you wish to use. The discounts will automatically apply when you scan your Shopper's Card or enter your Alt ID at checkout.
How to link my phone number to my Kroger Plus Card?
When you create a digital account, you'll have the option to use your phone number as an "Alt ID." If you already have a physical card, you can link it to your online account, and your phone number will usually be associated with it. If not, you can ask a customer service representative in-store to link your phone number when you sign up.
How to replace a lost Kroger Plus Card?
If you've lost your physical Kroger Plus Card, you don't necessarily need a new one if you have a digital account linked to your phone number (Alt ID). You can continue to use your phone number at checkout. If you still want a physical card, you can request a new one at the customer service desk in any Kroger store. Make sure to link the new card to your existing digital account.
How to get fuel discounts with my Kroger card?
To get fuel discounts, simply use your Kroger Plus Card (or enter your Alt ID) every time you shop at Kroger stores to earn fuel points. Once you've accumulated enough points, swipe your card or enter your Alt ID at a Kroger Fuel Center or participating partner station before you pump gas, and the discount will be applied.
How to enroll in Kroger Community Rewards?
Log into your Kroger digital account on the Kroger website. Navigate to the "Community Rewards" section (often found under "My Account"). Search for the non-profit organization or school you wish to support by name or NPO number, then select "Enroll."
How to use Kroger Pay?
Kroger Pay is a feature within the Kroger app that allows you to pay for your groceries and apply your Shopper's Card benefits with a single scan. After linking a payment method in the app, simply select "Kroger Pay" at checkout, and a QR code will be generated for the cashier to scan.
How to update my address on my Kroger account?
You can update your address and other personal information by logging into your Kroger digital account on the Kroger website or app. Look for a "My Account" or "Profile Information" section, where you should find options to edit your details.
How to find my Kroger Plus Card number?
If you have a digital account, your Kroger Plus Card number is typically displayed within your "My Account" section on the Kroger website or app. If you use your phone number as an Alt ID and don't remember your physical card number, you can usually retrieve it through your online account or by calling Kroger Customer Service.
How to get personalized coupons from Kroger?
Once you have a Kroger digital account and consistently use your Shopper's Card when you shop, Kroger's system will learn your purchasing habits. Based on this, they will automatically send personalized digital coupons and offers to your linked digital account, which you can then load to your card.
