Wondering what you should do if a store refuses your coupons? I can help.
It has happened to all of us, I’m sure. You get to the checkout and hand over your coupons to your cashier, to have them tell you that they can’t accept them. While it might make you feel like falling to the floor and throwing a tantrum, that isn’t really the best solution. Here are some things you can try if your store refuses your coupons.
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1. Ask them why.
If the store refuses your coupons, it could simply be that they don’t know how to read a coupon. They may not see that you can use the coupon on any product, not just the one pictured. It may also not exclude trial sized products, but the cashier doesn’t realize that.
Try to talk to them about it before you get angry. You might just help give your cashier a quick coupon lesson!
2. Refer to the store’s coupon policy.
While we can’t all print and keep them with us at all times, most of us have a phone with the capabilities to bring up the most recent coupon policy. You might place a bookmark on your phone, or even just pull up our Coupon Policies page, which gives information, as well as links to the store’s policy.
Look it over with the cashier and see if you can’t figure out where it says that the coupon is not accepted. It could be a misunderstanding or a change in the policy since the last time you shopped there.
3. If it doesn’t scan, don’t get angry.
I know it is frustrating when you know your coupon is valid, but it will not scan. This happens many times when printable coupons.
While many stores will simply enter the value and proceed, some have strict policies where if it does not scan, they will not accept it. Just take your coupon back and try to use it somewhere else. You can also always ask them to remove that item from your purchase, which they can easily do for you.
4. Ask to see a manager. If you feel your blood pressure rising and your face is getting red, it might be the time to ask for a manager. Cashiers can only do so much, but managers have more authority and are usually pretty willing to work with customers (I stress usually).
5. Leave. If you are terribly upset with the policies or the way that you are being treated, you can just ask the store to return the items as you will not be shopping there. You don’t need to be rude, you can simply say that you are not interested in proceeding with your purchases. This will allow you to get away before you get angry and say something you wouldn’t normally say.
This is, of course, the last resort and the most extreme option. However, if the issue has escalated and is not being resolved, it is probably best to do so for both you and the employees of the store.
6. Email the company (after 1 day). If you find that you are still upset with the situation after 24 hours has passed, it is a good idea to contact them about your experience. I say to wait 24 hours because if you send it instantly, you might say things you would regret.
If you have a receipt, that includes a lot of important information including: Cashier Info (could be a code), date and time you shopped, the store number (if applicable) and quite often, the manager’s name. Be specific in your email and do not be rude (remember, you catch more flies with honey than vinegar). I know that I appreciate it when I find out something isn’t working so that I can do what I can to make it right and stores deserve the same respect.
The most important thing of all is to try to keep your cool. We all make mistakes. Computers are coded by humans, so they too are not beyond having issues too. Keep your cool and know that there are some things you can do!
What do you do if your store refuses your coupons?