Have you ever wished for a superpower that could make your grocery shopping faster, smarter, and more rewarding? Well, get ready, because the Kroger app is exactly that! It's not just another app on your phone; it's your personal shopping assistant, coupon clipping machine, and fuel point tracker, all rolled into one. Whether you're a seasoned Kroger shopper or new to the family of stores, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of harnessing the app's full potential.
Let's dive in and transform your grocery experience!
Step 1: Getting Started – Download, Account Creation, and Linking Your Shopper's Card
This is where your Kroger app journey begins! Without these foundational steps, you won't be able to unlock the incredible savings and conveniences the app offers.
Sub-heading: Downloading the App
For iPhone users: Open the App Store, search for "Kroger," and tap "Get" to download.
For Android users: Open the Google Play Store, search for "Kroger," and tap "Install" to download.
Once downloaded, locate the Kroger app icon on your home screen and tap to open it.
Sub-heading: Creating Your Digital Account
Upon opening the app for the first time, you'll likely be prompted to sign in or create an account.
Tap "Create Your Account": This will initiate the registration process.
Enter Your Information: You'll be asked to provide details such as your email address, first and last name, and create a password. Choose a strong, memorable password!
Select Your Preferred Store: The app will prompt you to choose your primary Kroger store. This is crucial for seeing relevant weekly ads and product availability. You can usually do this by entering your zip code or allowing the app to use your location.
Agree to Terms and Conditions: Read through the terms and conditions (or at least skim them!) and tap to agree.
Confirm Your Account: You might receive an email or text message to verify your account. Follow the instructions to complete the verification.
Sub-heading: Linking Your Shopper's Card
This is arguably the most important step, as it connects all your in-store and app activities, ensuring you get all your personalized savings and fuel points.
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
If you already have a physical Kroger Shopper's Card:
Once logged into your digital account, navigate to the "Profile Information" or "Account Settings" section.
Look for "Shopper's Card Number" or a similar option and select "Edit."
Enter your existing Shopper's Card number. This will link your physical card to your new digital account. Voila! All your points and existing account features will sync up.
If you don't have a Shopper's Card:
Don't worry! When you create your digital account, a virtual Shopper's Card (often called an "alternate ID") is typically created for you. This will be the number you use at checkout.
The app will automatically link this virtual card to your account.
| How Do I Use The Kroger App |
Step 2: Navigating the App – Understanding the Layout and Key Features
Now that you're set up, let's explore the app's layout. The Kroger app is designed to be intuitive, but knowing where everything is will save you time.
Sub-heading: The Home Screen – Your Command Center
The home screen is your central hub. You'll typically find:
Search Bar: At the top, this allows you to quickly find specific products, coupons, or departments.
Quick Links/Banners: These often highlight current promotions, popular features like "Digital Coupons" or "Weekly Ad," and seasonal offers.
Kroger Pay: A prominent button, usually in the top left or a quick access area, for quick, contact-free payments. We'll delve deeper into this later!
Sub-heading: The Main Menu (Three Lines/Hamburger Icon)
Typically located in the top left or bottom right, this menu provides access to various sections of the app:
Shop: For Browse products, building your cart, and choosing pickup or delivery.
Weekly Ad: Your digital version of the weekly circular, packed with deals.
Digital Coupons: Where you'll find hundreds of digital coupons to "clip."
My Account: For managing your profile, payment methods, fuel points, purchase history, and more.
Store Locator: To find other Kroger locations or fuel centers.
Pharmacy: For managing prescriptions.
Help & FAQs: If you ever get stuck, this is a great resource.
Sub-heading: Bottom Navigation Bar
Many apps also feature a convenient bottom navigation bar for quick access to frequently used sections like:
Home
Weekly Ad
Coupons
List (your shopping list or cart)
More (leading to the full main menu)
Take a moment to tap around and familiarize yourself with where everything is. Practice makes perfect!
QuickTip: Don’t just scroll — process what you see.
Step 3: Mastering Digital Coupons – Your Gateway to Savings
This is where the real magic happens for your wallet! Digital coupons are the core of Kroger's savings strategy.
Sub-heading: Finding and Clipping Coupons
Navigate to "Digital Coupons": From the home screen or main menu, tap on "Digital Coupons."
Browse and Filter: You'll see a vast array of coupons. You can:
Scroll endlessly: See all available coupons.
Use categories: Filter by department (e.g., "Dairy," "Produce," "Snacks").
Search: If you're looking for a specific item, use the search bar within the coupons section.
"Load to Card": When you find a coupon you want to use, simply tap the "Load to Card" button. The coupon is instantly loaded onto your Shopper's Card. You don't need to print anything!
Important Note: Once a coupon is loaded, it's active. When you purchase the qualifying item and scan your Shopper's Card (or use Kroger Pay), the discount will automatically apply at checkout. You'll see "ecpn" next to the item on your receipt, indicating a digital coupon was used.
Sub-heading: Managing Your Clipped Coupons
"My Coupons" or "Loaded Coupons": Within the Digital Coupons section, you'll usually find a tab or link that says "My Coupons" or "Loaded Coupons." This shows you all the coupons you've clipped.
Removing Coupons: Most coupons can be removed from your card if you decide you no longer need them before purchase. Just find the coupon in "My Coupons" and select "Remove from Card."
Step 4: Building Your Shopping List – Organized and Efficient
Say goodbye to forgotten items and scribbled notes! The Kroger app's shopping list feature is a game-changer.
Access Your Shopping List: Typically found on the bottom navigation bar or in the main menu as "List" or "Shopping List."
Adding Items:
From the Weekly Ad: As you browse the Weekly Ad (Step 5), you can tap on sale items to directly add them to your list. This is super efficient!
From Digital Coupons: Similarly, many digital coupons allow you to "Shop All Items" associated with the coupon and add them to your list.
Manual Entry: You can also manually type in items you need. The app often has predictive text to help you find common grocery items quickly.
From Past Purchases: If you're a regular shopper, you can view your purchase history (in "My Account") and easily re-add items you frequently buy.
Organizing Your List: The app often organizes your list by aisle or department, which can be incredibly helpful for efficient in-store shopping. You can usually check off items as you place them in your cart.
Step 5: Exploring the Weekly Ad – Discovering the Best Deals
The digital Weekly Ad is your secret weapon for maximizing savings. It's updated regularly with the latest promotions.
QuickTip: Read in order — context builds meaning.
Open the Weekly Ad: Tap "Weekly Ad" from the home screen or main menu.
Browse the Ad: You can typically view the ad as a flip-through digital circular or as a list of items.
Add to List/Clip Coupons: As mentioned in Step 4, you can tap on items in the ad to directly add them to your shopping list. Many weekly ad deals also have associated digital coupons that you can clip directly from the ad page.
Filter by Department: If you're only interested in produce deals, for example, you can often filter the ad to show only items from specific departments.
Step 6: Shopping Online – Pickup and Delivery Made Easy
The Kroger app brings the store to your fingertips, allowing you to shop from the comfort of your home.
Sub-heading: Choosing Pickup or Delivery
Start Shopping: From the home screen, tap the "Shop" or "Pickup & Delivery" option.
Select Your Method: You'll be prompted to choose between:
Pickup: You shop online, and a Kroger associate will gather your groceries. You then drive to the store at a scheduled time, and they'll bring your order out to your car.
Delivery: Your groceries are shopped and delivered directly to your doorstep (availability may vary by location).
Set Your Store/Location: Confirm your preferred store for pickup or enter your delivery address.
Sub-heading: Building Your Online Cart
This process is similar to building your in-store shopping list:
Browse Products: You can browse by department, search for specific items, or add items from your pre-built shopping list.
Add to Cart: Tap "Add to Cart" for each item. You can adjust quantities easily.
Substitutions: Pay attention to substitution options. If an item is out of stock, Kroger might offer a substitute. You can choose whether to allow substitutions or require the exact item.
Review Your Cart: Before checking out, always review your cart to ensure you have everything you need.
Sub-heading: Scheduling and Payment
Choose a Time Slot: For both pickup and delivery, you'll need to select an available time slot that works for you. These can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours.
Enter Payment Information: You'll be prompted to enter your credit/debit card details. The app is secure and encrypts your information. You can also save payment methods for future use.
Apply Digital Coupons: Any digital coupons you've clipped to your Shopper's Card will automatically apply to qualifying items in your online order.
Review and Confirm: Double-check all details – items, time slot, payment – then confirm your order. You'll receive a confirmation email.
Sub-heading: Picking Up Your Order
Arrival at Store: When your pickup time arrives, head to your chosen Kroger store. Follow the signs for the designated Pickup Area.
Check-In: The app may prompt you to "check-in" when you're nearby, or there will be a designated phone number to call upon arrival.
Receive Your Order: A friendly Kroger associate will bring your order to your car. This is your chance to refuse any substitutions if you don't want them. You can also give any paper coupons to the associate at this time (though digital coupons are preferred and automatically applied).
QuickTip: Keep a notepad handy.
Step 7: Utilizing Kroger Pay – Fast, Contact-Free Checkout
Kroger Pay is a fantastic feature for speedy and secure checkouts, both in-store and at the pump. It combines your Shopper's Card, digital coupons, and payment method into one quick scan.
Sub-heading: Setting Up Kroger Pay
Access Kroger Pay: From the home screen, tap the "Kroger Pay" button.
Follow Prompts: You'll be guided through a one-time setup process:
Link Payment Method: Choose from existing payment methods saved in your account or add a new one (credit/debit card).
Create a PIN: Set a secure 4-digit PIN for Kroger Pay. You may also have the option to use biometrics (fingerprint/face ID) for even faster access.
Sub-heading: Using Kroger Pay at the Register
Open Kroger Pay: At checkout, open the Kroger app and tap "Kroger Pay."
Enter PIN/Biometrics: Enter your 4-digit PIN or use your biometrics to authenticate.
Scan QR Code: A unique QR code will appear on your screen. Present this QR code to the cashier to scan.
What's great about this? The single QR code scan simultaneously applies your loyalty information (Shopper's Card for points and digital coupons) and processes your payment. No more fumbling for multiple cards!
Sub-heading: Using Kroger Pay at the Fuel Pump
Before Pumping: Before you even get out of your car at a Kroger Fuel Center, open the Kroger app and select "Kroger Pay."
Select "Use at the Pump": Enter your pump number.
Make Selections: The app will prompt you to confirm your fuel discounts and payment method.
Pump Your Gas: Once confirmed in the app, you can proceed to pump your gas. Your digital receipt will be available in the app.
Step 8: Managing Your Account – Fuel Points, Purchase History, and More
Your "My Account" section is packed with useful information.
Fuel Points: Track your accumulated fuel points. These points can offer significant savings at Kroger Fuel Centers.
Purchase History: View your past purchases. This is excellent for budgeting, re-ordering frequently bought items, or checking receipts.
Payment Methods: Add, update, or remove credit/debit cards saved in your account.
Profile Information: Update your personal details, preferred store, and communication preferences.
Notifications: Manage push notifications and email subscriptions to stay informed about deals and offers.
The Kroger app truly puts the power of saving and convenience right in your pocket. By following these steps, you'll be a Kroger app pro in no time, making your grocery runs more efficient and rewarding!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Kroger App
Here are 10 common "How to" questions about using the Kroger app, along with quick answers:
How to find my Kroger Shopper's Card number in the app? Your digital Shopper's Card (or alternate ID) is automatically linked when you create your account. When you use Kroger Pay, your loyalty information is included. You can often find your linked card number in the "My Account" or "Profile Information" section of the app.
How to clip digital coupons on the Kroger app? Navigate to the "Digital Coupons" section from the home screen or main menu. Browse the available coupons and tap the "Load to Card" button on each coupon you wish to use. They will automatically apply at checkout when you scan your Shopper's Card or use Kroger Pay.
How to view the weekly ad on the Kroger app? Tap on the "Weekly Ad" option from the home screen or the main menu. You can then browse the current week's deals and add items directly to your shopping list.
How to place a pickup order using the Kroger app? Select "Shop" or "Pickup & Delivery," then choose "Pickup." Build your cart by adding items, select a convenient pickup time slot, and proceed to checkout to pay.
How to use Kroger Pay for in-store purchases? Open the Kroger app, tap the "Kroger Pay" button, enter your PIN or use biometrics, and present the generated QR code to the cashier to scan at checkout. This handles both loyalty and payment.
How to check my fuel points balance on the Kroger app? Go to the "My Account" section of the app. You should see your current fuel points balance displayed there.
How to change my preferred Kroger store in the app? In the "My Account" or "Settings" section, look for an option related to "Preferred Store" or "Location." You can then search for and select a new primary store.
How to add items to my shopping list on the Kroger app? You can manually type items into your "Shopping List" within the app, or you can add items directly from the "Weekly Ad" or qualifying "Digital Coupons" by tapping on them.
How to troubleshoot if the Kroger app isn't working or loading coupons? First, try closing and reopening the app. If that doesn't work, clear the app's cache and data in your phone's settings. As a last resort, uninstall and reinstall the app. Ensure your device's date and time are set correctly.
How to find my past purchase history in the Kroger app? Navigate to the "My Account" section in the app. There should be a "Purchase History" or "Order History" option that allows you to view details of your previous transactions.