Have you ever found yourself at the Kroger checkout, fumbling for your Plus Card, or perhaps realizing you left it at home just as the cashier scans your last item? Or maybe you've heard about all those amazing digital coupons and fuel points but aren't quite sure how to access them? Well, you're in the right place! Linking your Kroger Plus Card to your Kroger app is a game-changer for any savvy shopper. It unlocks a world of convenience, personalized savings, and rewards right at your fingertips. Let's get you set up, step by simple step!
The Power of the Kroger App: Why Link Your Card?
Before we dive into the "how-to," let's quickly understand why this is so beneficial. Linking your Kroger Plus Card to the app means:
Effortless Digital Coupons: No more clipping paper coupons! Browse and load hundreds of digital coupons directly to your card with a tap. They automatically apply at checkout.
Personalized Savings: The app learns your shopping habits and offers personalized deals and promotions, ensuring you save on the items you buy most.
Fuel Points Tracking: Easily track your accumulating fuel points and see when they expire, helping you maximize your savings at the pump.
Shopping List Creation: Build and manage your grocery list within the app, even adding items directly from the weekly ad or digital coupons.
Kroger Pay: A secure, contactless payment method that combines your Plus Card and payment in one quick scan at checkout.
Order History & Reordering: View past purchases and easily reorder your favorite items for pickup or delivery.
Pharmacy Management: Refill and track prescriptions directly from your phone.
Ready to unlock these benefits? Let's begin!
Step 1: Prepare for Your Digital Shopping Journey (Get Your Essentials Ready!)
This first step is all about gathering the necessary information and ensuring you have the right tools. Don't skip this part! A little preparation goes a long way.
1.1: Grab Your Kroger Plus Card
You'll need your physical Kroger Plus Card. Look for the 12-digit number on the back of the card. This is your unique identifier that links your purchases to your rewards.
What if I don't have a physical Kroger Plus Card? No worries! You can often create a virtual card directly within the app or website during the registration process. Alternatively, you can get one from the customer service desk at any Kroger store. If you've been using your phone number at checkout, you might need to call Kroger Customer Service (1-800-576-4377) to get your card number associated with that phone number.
1.2: Get Your Smartphone Ready
Make sure your smartphone (iPhone or Android) is charged and has a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
1.3: Download the Kroger App
If you haven't already, download the official Kroger app from your device's app store.
For Android users: Search for "Kroger" on the Google Play Store.
For iPhone users: Search for "Kroger" on the Apple App Store.
Once downloaded, open the app and get ready to proceed!
Step 2: Creating or Logging into Your Kroger Digital Account
This is the core of linking your card. Your Kroger digital account acts as the central hub for all your savings and rewards.
2.1: Initial App Launch and Sign-In/Register Prompt
When you open the Kroger app for the first time, you'll likely be prompted to "Sign In" or "Register."
If you already have a Kroger Digital Account (even if you haven't used the app before): Select "Sign In."
If you're brand new to Kroger's digital world: Select "Register" or "Create Account."
2.2: The Registration Process (for New Users)
If you're registering, you'll be guided through a few simple steps:
Enter Your Information: You'll typically need to provide your email address, create a password, and enter your zip code.
Select Your Preferred Store: This is important for seeing accurate local deals and for pickup/delivery options. You can change this later if needed.
Link Your Plus Card (Crucial Step for New Accounts!): This is where you'll enter that 12-digit number from the back of your Kroger Plus Card. If you don't have a physical card, the app might offer an option to create a virtual one at this stage. Make sure to enter the entire number correctly without spaces or dashes.
Agree to Terms & Conditions: Read through them (or skim, we know how it goes!) and accept.
Email Verification: Kroger will often send a verification email to the address you provided. Go to your email inbox and click the link to verify your account. This step is crucial to activate your digital account fully.
2.3: Logging In (for Existing Users)
If you already have a digital account, simply:
Enter your email address and password.
Tap "Sign In."
If you've forgotten your password, use the "Forgot Password" link to reset it. Follow the on-screen instructions and check your email for a password reset link.
Step 3: Verifying Your Card is Linked (The Confirmation Stage)
Once you've either registered or logged in, it's time to confirm that your Kroger Plus Card is indeed connected to your app.
3.1: Navigate to "My Account" or "Profile"
Within the Kroger app, look for an icon or menu option that says "My Account" or your "Profile." This is typically found in the bottom navigation bar or a side menu (often represented by three horizontal lines, also known as a "hamburger menu").
3.2: Check for Your Plus Card Information
Within "My Account," you should see a section related to your "Shopper's Card," "Plus Card," or "Loyalty Card."
Here, you should see your Kroger Plus Card number displayed.
Alternatively, you might see an "Alternate ID" (usually your phone number) that is linked to your card.
If your card number is not displayed, or if it prompts you to link a card, you'll need to follow the prompts to add it. You might see an option like "Add Shopper's Card" or "Link Card." Enter your 12-digit card number when prompted.
If you successfully see your card number, congratulations! Your Kroger card is now linked to your app. You're ready to start saving!
Step 4: Maximizing Your Savings (Beyond Just Linking)
Now that your card is linked, let's explore how to truly leverage the app for maximum savings and convenience.
4.1: Clipping Digital Coupons
Browse: From the app's home screen, look for sections like "Digital Coupons," "Weekly Ad," or "Savings."
Clip: As you browse, simply tap the "Clip" button next to any coupon you want to use. These coupons are automatically loaded to your linked Plus Card.
Redeem: When you shop in-store, simply scan your Kroger Plus Card (or use your Alternate ID/phone number) at checkout. The clipped digital coupons will automatically deduct from your total. For online orders, they'll apply automatically to your cart.
4.2: Using Kroger Pay
Kroger Pay is a fantastic feature for speed and convenience at checkout.
Set Up Kroger Pay: In your app, go to "My Account" or "Wallet" and look for "Kroger Pay." You'll be prompted to link a payment method (debit card, credit card) and set up a PIN.
At Checkout: When at the register, open the Kroger app, tap "Kroger Pay," and generate your unique QR code. The cashier will scan this code, and it will simultaneously apply your Plus Card savings and process your payment. It's truly one scan for everything!
4.3: Building Your Shopping List
Add from Ads/Coupons: As you browse the weekly ad or digital coupons, you can often add items directly to your shopping list within the app.
Manual Entry: You can also manually add items to your list.
In-Store Helper: Use your digital shopping list while you're in the store. You can check off items as you add them to your cart.
4.4: Checking Fuel Points
In your "My Account" section, you'll find a dedicated area for "Fuel Points." This will show your current balance and when they expire. Plan your fuel ups accordingly to maximize those savings!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the process is generally smooth, you might encounter a hiccup or two. Here are some common issues and how to address them:
"Card number entered is not valid": Double-check that you've entered all 12 digits correctly, without any spaces or hyphens. Ensure you're entering the number from the back of your Kroger Plus Card, not a credit card number. If it's a brand new card, you might need to use it at a Kroger store at least once before linking it online.
"This Card number has been associated with another account": This is common if you previously created a digital account with a different email address or if another family member linked the card to their account. Contact Kroger Customer Service (1-800-576-4377). They can help un-link it from the old account or merge accounts if appropriate.
App Crashing or Freezing: Try clearing the app's cache and data (in your phone's app settings), force-closing the app, and then reopening it. If the issue persists, uninstall and reinstall the app.
Can't log in despite having an email from Kroger: It's possible to receive emails from Kroger without having a full digital account. You'll need to go through the "Register" process and create a digital account, even if you already have a Plus Card.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my Kroger Plus Card number?
You can find your Kroger Plus Card number on the back of your physical card (it's usually 12 digits long). If you've linked it to your digital account, you can also find it in the "My Account" or "Shopper's Card" section of the Kroger app or website.
How to use digital coupons with my linked Kroger card?
Once your Kroger card is linked to the app, simply browse the "Digital Coupons" section and tap "Clip" on the coupons you want. When you checkout in-store, scan your physical Kroger Plus Card or use your Alternate ID (usually your phone number), and the clipped coupons will automatically apply.
How to find my Alternate ID for my Kroger Plus Card?
Your Alternate ID is typically the phone number you provided when you signed up for your Kroger Plus Card. You can use this phone number at checkout instead of scanning your physical card.
How to reset my Kroger app password?
On the Kroger app's login screen, tap "Forgot Password." Enter your email address associated with your account, and Kroger will send you a password reset link via email.
How to change my preferred Kroger store in the app?
In the Kroger app, go to your "My Account" or "Profile" section. Look for an option to manage your "Preferred Store" or "Store Location." You can then search for and select a new store.
How to earn fuel points with my Kroger Plus Card?
You earn fuel points by shopping at Kroger stores and participating in special promotions. Every dollar spent on groceries and general merchandise typically earns you 1 fuel point. These points accumulate on your linked Kroger Plus Card and can be redeemed for savings at Kroger Fuel Centers.
How to check my Kroger fuel points balance?
You can easily check your fuel points balance in the Kroger app by navigating to the "My Account" section and looking for "Fuel Points" or "Rewards." It will display your current balance and expiration date.
How to use Kroger Pay in the app?
First, set up Kroger Pay in your app by linking a payment method. At checkout, open the Kroger app, tap "Kroger Pay," and a unique QR code will be generated. The cashier will scan this single QR code to apply your loyalty discounts and process your payment simultaneously.
How to get a new Kroger Plus Card if I lost mine?
You can request a new Kroger Plus Card at the customer service desk of any Kroger store. If you already have a digital account linked, you might be able to simply pick up a new physical card and link it to your existing account.
How to contact Kroger customer service for app issues?
For any issues with your Kroger app or account, you can contact Kroger Customer Service by calling 1-800-576-4377. They can assist with technical difficulties, account troubleshooting, and other concerns.
