Understanding coupon lingo can feel like standing in a foreign food market, trying to buy a pocket of tomatoes. It's not just the lingo that can throw you, there's also an understated art to working the coupon system to get the most out of it. You need to know which coupons work best with which combinations, the stores that make it worthwhile, and of course, which days are best for couponing. Before you know it, you've spent a sizeable part of your day trying to figure it out, and that's where the coupon lingo comes in.
Types of coupons
- BOGO or B1G1: This coupon is a firm favorite among couponers and offers a buy-one-get-one-free option.
- Bricks: The option to reprint a ticket means that the offer is available more than once. You can also choose to have your coupon mailed to you.
- Blinkies: Flashing like a Las Vegas casino slot machine, blinkies are those flashing coupon machines in the store.
- Circle: As if we didn't already have enough excuses to get lost in Target for a couple of hours! Target CircleTM offers a variety of discounts or B1G1 offers.
- Catalina or CAT: It's time to cozy up to your cashier because this is where you'll get access to your purchase-based coupon. This is printed at the cashier as a result of your purchases.
- CC: A competitor coupon is a free-for-all coupon that allows you to use the coupon at a number of stores, even if they are competitors.
- DG or DQ: Digital coupon, thanks internet! IP or printable internet coupons might also be lingo thrown around with DG and DQ.
- Inserts: Let's all make a mad dash for the Sunday Paper and bank on those coupons!
- Manufacturer's coupon (MFC, MC, or MQ): If you're a fan of a certain brand, keep an eye out for these.
- Stickies or peelies: Sticker coupons that you find on the product itself. Be sure to check the expiry date.
Common coupon lingo
- Bump: When you want to bump your comment or thread up higher on social media to keep the conversation active.
- Circular: The weekly store offers and if you're not getting it in your mailbox, many retailers now offer it as part of their newsletter mailing list.
- CRT: Cash receipt tape, or more commonly your cash receipt. You'll want this baby if you're in the mix to qualify for a CAT.
- EXP: You're going to want to keep you eye on this one as it's the expiry date.
- Matchups: This is like a level-up option to your coupon and happens when great coupons and store deals align.
- Overage: Got a $5 toothpaste coupon and your toothpaste only comes to $3? Some stores still allow you to apply the remainder to other items purchased, but you'll have to check the store policy.
- RC: Raincheck is when you want to purchase a sale item, but the store is out of stock. Once the item is in stock, the store will allow you to purchase the item at the sale price. Ensure the RC is signed and stipulates the sale price.
- Stack: Stacking coupons to make the most out of a purchase. Check coupon and in-store rules for any restrictions.
Other coupon terms
- AC: After coupon
- CS: Customer service
- Ea: Each
- ETS: Excludes trial size
- FAQ: Frequently asked questions
- FAR: Free after rebate
- GC: Gift card
- HBA: Health and beauty
- ISO: In search of
- MIR: Mail in rebate
- OOS: Out of stock
- OTC: Over the counter
- OYNO: On your next order
Save money while you shop
Couponing is more than just about frugal living and stockpiling for the lean months. It also allows guilt-free shopping and freedom of mind that you're prepared for the next season.
Check your Coupon Book Finder for coupons and ideas on how to make the most out of your coupon stash.
