Stores vary widely in how they handle promo codes in the checkout process. The best stores are up-front and clear about their codes. They apply the codes right away in the shopping cart, prominently display your discount, and may even provide the exact details of the coupon once you apply it. If your particular purchase isn't eligible for the discount, some stores will help you find something that is eligible by noting the parameters. Many, but not all, stores will at least display a message explaining if your purchase is invalid or ineligible. However, many retailers aren't as forthcoming; some stores will have you jump through a few hoops before you find out if the coupon will work for your order. You may have to go through the checkout process and enter all of your information, even your credit card number, before you can see if the coupon is valid. There are also cases where the store will appear to accept a coupon, but will show absolutely no information and no discount, like a coupon black hole. Troubleshooting a Coupon That Isn't Working A coupon code might not work for several reasons. Most common are restrictions and exemptions. Exclusions Even if a code appears to be general and apply to anything offered on the site, there will typically be at least a few exclusions. Unless specifically stated, coupons won't discount store gift cards or certain brands that are excluded because of manufacturer restrictions. Some coupons will exclude entire categories, such as sale and clearance items, or items with special pricing, such as "Deal of the Day" items. Free shipping coupons may exclude oversized or heavy items. At a few stores, exclusions can be so substantial that it's almost hard to find an item that the code does apply to. Restrictions If the store you are shopping at has a Marketplace, or other sellers listed on their site, coupons may not apply to these items. In most cases, coupons will only apply to items the store sells directly. A code will also not work if it has already expired. Stores can discontinue codes before the expiration date they provide, or there may not be an exact expiration given, meaning the offer can end at any time. Getting More Details If you see the coupon listed on the store's website, check for a "details" link with fine print that can provide insight into what items are eligible for the discount and what items aren't. These links can be found in a variety of places — on the homepage, on product pages, or in the cart after the code is applied — and it can save a lot of time to review this information to verify if your purchase is eligible before going through the checkout process. Alternatively, try Googling the coupon to find any restrictions.How to Tell if the Discount Was Successfully Applied Stores vary widely in how they handle promo codes in the checkout process. The best stores are up-front and clear about their codes. They apply the codes right away in the shopping cart, prominently display your discount, and may even provide the exact details of the coupon once you apply it. If your particular purchase isn't eligible for the discount, some stores will help you find something that is eligible by noting the parameters. Many, but not all, stores will at least display a message explaining if your purchase is invalid or ineligible. However, many retailers aren't as forthcoming; some stores will have you jump through a few hoops before you find out if the coupon will work for your order. You may have to go through the checkout process and enter all of your information, even your credit card number, before you can see if the coupon is valid. There are also cases where the store will appear to accept a coupon, but will show absolutely no information and no discount, like a coupon black hole. Troubleshooting a Coupon That Isn't Working A coupon code might not work for several reasons. Most common are restrictions and exemptions. Exclusions Even if a code appears to be general and apply to anything offered on the site, there will typically be at least a few exclusions. Unless specifically stated, coupons won't discount store gift cards or certain brands that are excluded because of manufacturer restrictions. Some coupons will exclude entire categories, such as sale and clearance items, or items with special pricing, such as "Deal of the Day" items. Free shipping coupons may exclude oversized or heavy items. At a few stores, exclusions can be so substantial that it's almost hard to find an item that the code does apply to. Restrictions If the store you are shopping at has a Marketplace, or other sellers listed on their site, coupons may not apply to these items. In most cases, coupons will only apply to items the store sells directly. A code will also not work if it has already expired. Stores can discontinue codes before the expiration date they provide, or there may not be an exact expiration given, meaning the offer can end at any time. Getting More Details If you see the coupon listed on the store's website, check for a "details" link with fine print that can provide insight into what items are eligible for the discount and what items aren't. These links can be found in a variety of places — on the homepage, on product pages, or in the cart after the code is applied — and it can save a lot of time to review this information to verify if your purchase is eligible before going through the checkout process. Alternatively, try Googling the coupon to find any restrictions. Take $7 OFF Any Order with this promo code at Edible Arrangements! Restrictions apply!
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