If you’ve ever wondered how some shoppers walk out of the store with hundreds of dollars in groceries for a fraction of the cost, the secret is often coupon stacking. This powerful technique lets you combine multiple coupons on a single purchase, multiplying your savings without multiplying your effort.

The best part? You don’t have to be an “extreme couponer” to do it. With a little know-how and planning, anyone can master coupon stacking. In this guide, we’ll show you what coupon stacking is, how it works, and how to start today.

What Is Coupon Stacking?

Coupon stacking is the practice of using more than one coupon on the same item to maximize savings. The most common combo is:

  • Manufacturer Coupon: Issued by the product’s maker (e.g., Kellogg’s, Tide).
  • Store Coupon: Issued by the retailer (e.g., Target, Kroger).

When stores allow both on the same purchase, you instantly double your discount. Add in loyalty rewards, cashback apps, and rebates — and suddenly you’re stacking 3–4 savings layers on one product.

The Rules of Coupon Stacking

Not all stores allow coupon stacking, and the rules can vary. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Most major retailers (Target, Walgreens, CVS, Kroger) allow one manufacturer coupon + one store coupon per item.
  • Some coupons can’t be combined (check the fine print).
  • Digital and paper coupons often stack together.
  • Loyalty points or cashback apps (like Ibotta, Fetch) can usually be added on top.

👉 Pro Tip: Always read coupon restrictions. Look for “cannot be combined” or “one per purchase.”

Step-by-Step: How to Stack Coupons Like a Pro

Start With Store Apps
  • Download the apps for your favorite stores (Target Circle, Walgreens, Kroger Plus).
  • Clip all available digital store coupons.
Add Manufacturer Coupons
  • Find them in Sunday inserts, manufacturer websites, or printable coupon sites.
  • Match them to the same items already on sale at your store.
Look for Sale Prices
  • Best results happen when the item is already discounted.
  • Example: Cereal on sale for $2.50, plus $1 store coupon + $1 manufacturer coupon = $0.50 final price.
Stack Cashback Apps
  • Submit your receipt to apps like Ibotta, Checkout51, or Fetch Rewards.
  • Extra $1–$3 back can make some items free or even profitable.
Use Loyalty Rewards
  • Redeem store points or rewards on your stacked deals.
  • Example: CVS ExtraBucks + coupons often make personal care items free.

Real-Life Example

Here’s what stacking looks like in practice:

  • Item: Tide Laundry Detergent (normally $12.99)
  • Sale Price: $9.99
  • Store Coupon: -$2.00
  • Manufacturer Coupon: -$2.00
  • Ibotta Rebate: -$1.50
  • Final Price: $4.49

👉 That’s a 65% savings on a single item. Multiply this strategy across your weekly shopping, and you’re saving hundreds each month.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ❌ Not reading the fine print — some coupons exclude trial sizes or require multiple items.
  • ❌ Forgetting expiration dates — digital coupons often reset weekly.
  • ❌ Overbuying — don’t stockpile beyond what you can realistically use.
  • ❌ Not scanning loyalty cards — missing out on hidden member-only discounts.

Where to Find the Best Coupon Stacking Opportunities

  • Target – one of the easiest for beginners; digital + paper + Circle offers.
  • Walgreens – store coupons + manufacturer + Balance Rewards.
  • Kroger – weekly digital deals + manufacturer + fuel points.
  • CVS – ExtraBucks rewards stack beautifully with coupons.

👉 See today’s hottest coupon matchups on ClickableCoupons.com

Final Thoughts

Coupon stacking is one of the most powerful tools for cutting grocery costs. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll never shop the same way again. Start small — pick one store, one product, and try stacking this week.

Remember, every dollar saved is a dollar earned. And with stacking, those dollars add up fast.