In many US stores, two people can pay very different prices for the same cart. The difference is usually a free loyalty program and coupons.
Most supermarkets, pharmacies and big stores have a free loyalty program (also called a rewards card or store app).
Download the store app, or ask at the register: "Can I sign up for the rewards program?"
Give your phone number and email. A US phone number is usually needed.
At checkout, scan the app or type your phone number.
Many prices on the shelf say "with card" or "member price". Without the program, you pay the higher price.
Digital coupons: in the store app, tap "Clip" on each offer. The discount is applied when you scan the app at checkout.
Paper coupons: in the Sunday newspaper and free mailers. Hand them to the cashier.
Manufacturer coupons come from the brand; store coupons come from the store. Some stores let you use one of each on the same item.
BOGO means "buy one, get one" free (or at a discount).
Rebate: you pay full price and get money back later after sending a form or a receipt photo. Many people forget to claim it.
Cash-back apps give you a small amount back when you scan receipts. They collect your shopping data. Read what you agree to.
Black Friday: the day after Thanksgiving (in 2026, Friday November 27). Big discounts in stores and online, often starting earlier in November.
Cyber Monday: the Monday after Thanksgiving, mainly online.
After Christmas (late December to early January): winter clothes and holiday items.
Back-to-school (July and August): school supplies, laptops, clothes. Some states have a sales tax holiday (a few days with no sales tax on certain items). This differs by state.
Holiday weekends: Presidents Day (February), Memorial Day (May), July 4, Labor Day (September): furniture, mattresses, appliances.
End of season: summer clothes are cheap in August, winter coats in February and March.
Buying something because it is on sale. A discount on something you do not need is not a saving.
Signing up with your main email. Many people use a separate email for store offers.
Trusting "was $199, now $99". The first price may never have been real. Compare prices on two or three websites.
Letting a store save your card in every app. Use one or two stores you visit often.