Why promo codes fail and what to check first

When a promo code fails, the checkout message may tell you what needs to change. Start with the offer terms and work through these common causes.

Review the cart and minimum spend

Some codes work only on particular products or categories. A minimum spend may apply to eligible items before shipping and tax. Remove any item you added solely to meet a minimum if the extra cost exceeds the discount.

Check account and region restrictions

Some offers are limited to first-time customers, particular shipping regions or orders placed through a store’s app. Make sure the offer matches the way you’re ordering.

Try the code on its own

Copy the code without extra spaces. If an automatic sale or another code is already applied, compare the order total with each offer separately. Use the one that leaves you with the better total.

Look for an expiry date

A store may end a promotion at a specific time or while supplies last. Review the merchant’s current terms before relying on the discount.