Have you ever wished for a simpler way to access all those fantastic Kroger savings without fumbling for a physical card or even remembering a lengthy number? Well, you're in luck! Kroger offers something called an "Alt ID," which is essentially a digital shortcut to your Kroger Plus loyalty account. It's usually your phone number, making it incredibly convenient. This lengthy guide will walk you through every step of creating and using your Kroger Alt ID, so you can unlock a world of personalized discounts, fuel points, and more!
Let's dive in and get you set up for some serious savings!
How to Create an Alt ID for Kroger: Your Ultimate Guide to Smarter Shopping
The Kroger Alt ID is a game-changer for frequent shoppers. It links directly to your Kroger Plus account, allowing you to easily access all your loyalty benefits at checkout, online, or through the Kroger app. No more searching for a plastic card or scribbling down numbers!
Step 1: Do You Have a Kroger Plus Card or an Online Account Already?
This is where we start! The process for creating an Alt ID slightly differs depending on your current relationship with Kroger's loyalty program.
Sub-heading: Scenario A: I Already Have a Kroger Plus Card (Physical Card)
If you've been a loyal Kroger shopper and have a physical Kroger Plus Card, that's great! Your Alt ID will essentially be linked to this existing account.
Sub-heading: Scenario B: I Don't Have a Kroger Plus Card, But I Have an Online Account
Perhaps you've only ever shopped online or used the app, and you have a digital account but never got a physical card. No problem! Your Alt ID will be part of this digital setup.
Sub-heading: Scenario C: I'm Completely New to Kroger Loyalty!
Welcome! This is the most comprehensive path, as we'll set everything up from scratch for you.
Step 2: Accessing the Kroger Digital Platform
No matter your starting point, the journey to your Alt ID begins online or through the Kroger app.
Sub-heading: Using the Kroger Website
Open your web browser: Go to the official Kroger website:
www.kroger.com.Look for "Sign In" or "Register": These options are typically located in the top right corner of the homepage.
Sub-heading: Using the Kroger Mobile App
Download the Kroger App: If you haven't already, download the official Kroger app from your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS).
Open the App: Launch the Kroger app on your smartphone or tablet.
Locate "Sign In" or "Create Account": Similar to the website, these options will be prominent upon opening the app.
Step 3: Creating or Linking Your Digital Account
This is the core step where you establish or connect your digital presence with Kroger.
Sub-heading: If You Are Completely New (Scenario C from Step 1)
Click on "Register" or "Create Account": This will initiate the account creation process.
Enter Your Information: You'll be prompted to provide essential details such as:
Email Address: Choose an email you regularly check.
Password: Create a strong, unique password.
Zip Code: This helps in selecting your preferred store.
Preferred Store: Select the Kroger store you shop at most frequently. This is important for local deals and weekly ads.
Agree to Terms and Conditions: Read through them and check the box to agree.
Create a New Alt ID: During this process, you will usually be given the option to "Create a new Alt ID to use in store." This is where you'll enter your 10-digit phone number (including area code) as your Alt ID. Make sure it's a number you'll remember easily and consistently use.
Verify Your Account: Kroger will likely send a verification email to the address you provided. Check your inbox (and spam folder!) and click on the link to activate your account.
Congratulations! Your digital account is now active, and your chosen phone number is set as your Alt ID.
Sub-heading: If You Already Have a Kroger Plus Card (Scenario A from Step 1)
Click on "Register" or "Create Account": Even if you have a physical card, you need to create a digital account to link it and manage your Alt ID.
Enter Your Information: Provide your email address, create a password, enter your zip code, and select your preferred store.
Link Your Existing Plus Card: You will be prompted to enter your existing 12 or 13-digit Kroger Plus Card number (found on the back of your card). If you primarily use your phone number at the register, and don't know your card number, you may need to call Kroger Customer Service at 1-800-KRO-GERS (1-800-576-4377) to get it.
Confirm Your Alt ID: Often, if you already have a Plus Card linked to a phone number, that number will automatically become your Alt ID. Verify this information in your account profile. If not, you might have an option to set a 10-digit Alt ID (your phone number is highly recommended).
Verify Your Account: As with new accounts, you'll likely receive an email to verify your digital account. Click the link to complete activation.
Sub-heading: If You Don't Have a Physical Card but Have an Online Account (Scenario B from Step 1)
Sign In to your existing Kroger digital account using your email and password.
Navigate to "My Account" or "Profile Information": This section usually contains your loyalty program details.
Check for "Shopper's Card Number" or "Alt ID": You should see an option to edit or add this information.
Verify or Add Your Alt ID: If your Alt ID isn't already set to your preferred 10-digit phone number, now is the time to add it. Make sure it's accurate and easily memorable.
Step 4: Verifying Your Alt ID and Understanding its Use
Once you've gone through the registration or linking process, your Alt ID should be active.
Sub-heading: How to Confirm Your Alt ID is Active
Check Your Account Profile: Log back into your Kroger digital account (website or app) and navigate to "My Account" or "Profile Information." Your Alt ID (usually your phone number) should be clearly listed under your Shopper's Card details.
Make a Test Purchase (Optional but Recommended): The best way to confirm is to use it! The next time you're at Kroger, at checkout, instead of scanning a physical card, simply enter your 10-digit Alt ID (your phone number) on the keypad. You should see your personalized discounts and fuel points reflected on your receipt.
Sub-heading: How to Use Your Alt ID
At the Checkout: When prompted for your Kroger Plus Card, simply enter your 10-digit phone number on the pin pad.
Online Shopping: When placing a Pickup or Delivery order, ensure you're signed into your digital account. Your Alt ID is linked to this account, so all applicable savings will automatically apply.
Kroger App: Your Alt ID is intrinsically linked to your app account. You can access digital coupons, manage your shopping list, and view fuel points directly through the app.
Step 5: Maximizing Your Kroger Savings with Your Alt ID
Your Alt ID is more than just a convenient way to identify yourself; it's your key to unlocking a treasure trove of savings!
Sub-heading: Clipping Digital Coupons
Log In: Access your Kroger digital account on the website or app.
Browse Digital Coupons: Navigate to the "Digital Coupons" section.
Clip and Save: Click "Load to Card" for any coupons you wish to use. These will automatically apply when you use your Alt ID at checkout.
Sub-heading: Earning and Redeeming Fuel Points
Shop and Earn: Every dollar you spend on eligible items at Kroger (when using your Alt ID or physical card) earns you Fuel Points.
Track Your Points: You can see your Fuel Points balance on your receipt, in your digital account, or on the Kroger app.
Redeem at the Pump: At a Kroger Fuel Center or participating partner station, simply enter your Alt ID (your phone number) at the pump to redeem your accumulated fuel savings.
Sub-heading: Personalized Offers and Weekly Ads
With your Alt ID, Kroger can tailor offers and coupons based on your shopping habits, leading to even greater savings. Always check your digital account for personalized deals and preview the weekly ad early to plan your shopping trips strategically.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Kroger Alt IDs
Here are 10 common questions about Kroger Alt IDs, along with their quick answers:
How to check if I already have a Kroger Alt ID?
You can check by logging into your Kroger digital account on their website or app and looking under "My Account" or "Profile Information" for your Shopper's Card details; your Alt ID (usually your phone number) will be listed there if it's set up.
How to change my Kroger Alt ID if I want a different number?
To change your Alt ID, log into your Kroger digital account, go to your profile or Shopper's Card settings, and look for an option to edit your Alt ID or phone number. If you encounter issues, contact Kroger Customer Service for assistance.
How to use my Kroger Alt ID at self-checkout?
At the self-checkout, when prompted for your loyalty card, look for the keypad and simply type in your 10-digit Alt ID (your phone number) to apply your savings.
How to troubleshoot if my Kroger Alt ID isn't working at checkout?
If your Alt ID isn't working, first ensure you're entering the correct 10-digit number. Then, verify your Alt ID in your online account. If issues persist, contact Kroger Customer Service as there might be a discrepancy in their system.
How to link a new phone number to my existing Kroger account as an Alt ID?
Log into your digital account on Kroger's website or app, navigate to your profile or Shopper's Card section, and you should find an option to update or add a phone number which will serve as your Alt ID.
How to get a physical Kroger Plus Card if I only have an Alt ID?
You can typically request a physical Kroger Plus Card at the customer service desk of any Kroger store. They can link it to your existing digital account and Alt ID.
How to ensure my digital coupons apply when using my Alt ID?
Ensure you have "clipped" or loaded the digital coupons to your card in your Kroger digital account (website or app) before you shop. When you use your Alt ID at checkout, these clipped coupons will automatically apply.
How to earn Fuel Points using my Kroger Alt ID?
Simply use your 10-digit Alt ID (your phone number) at the checkout when making eligible purchases at any Kroger Family of Stores. Your Fuel Points will automatically accumulate in your account.
How to redeem Fuel Points with my Kroger Alt ID at the gas pump?
At a Kroger Fuel Center or participating partner fuel station, follow the prompts on the pump screen to enter your Kroger Plus Alt ID (your 10-digit phone number) to apply your fuel discounts.
How to view my Kroger shopping history associated with my Alt ID?
Log into your Kroger digital account on the website or app. Look for sections like "Past Orders," "Purchase History," or "Digital Receipts" to view your shopping history linked to your Alt ID.
