How to use a voucher code at checkout
Last updated: 12 July 2026
Applying a discount code takes about ten seconds once you know where to look. Here's the whole process, plus the fixes for when a code won't go through.
Step by step
- Fill your basket first. Add everything you want to buy before you think about a code — some codes need a minimum spend to unlock.
- Go to checkout and find the promo box. It's usually on the basket or payment page, labelled Promo code, Voucher, Discount code, Coupon, or Gift card. On mobile it's sometimes hidden behind a small "Add a code" link.
- Paste the code exactly. Copy it here with the Copy button so you don't mistype it — codes are case-sensitive on some sites.
- Press Apply and check the total. The order total should drop and show the discount as a line item. If it does, you're done.
- Rejected? Try the next code. Our lists are ranked with the most likely-to-work code first, so just work down the list — it costs nothing to try another.
Why a code gets rejected (and how to fix it)
- Minimum spend not met — add a little more to the basket, or pick a code with no minimum.
- New customers only — won't work if you've ordered before; look for a general code instead.
- Excludes sale items — the code may only apply to full-price products in your basket.
- Won't stack — if there's already an offer applied, the code may be blocked. Remove the other offer and compare which saves more.
- Expired — codes come and go. Try the next one on the list; we refresh daily.
- Typo — use Copy rather than retyping, and check for stray spaces.
Get the biggest saving, not the biggest number
A "50% off selected lines" code can be worth less than "15% off everything" depending on what's in your basket. If a store has several codes, try the top two or three and keep whichever knocks the most off your total.
See our guide to the best UK voucher codes for how we rank them, or search for your store now.