Understanding Coupon Lingo - What is OVERAGE?

There are a lot of abbreviations used when it comes to couponing and deals.  Let me help you decode it all!

What does "overage" mean in couponing? 

Overage is when the value of your coupon exceeds the value of the item.  For example a $2 off coupon for a product that only costs $1.75 results in 25c overage.

Some stores allow this, some do not.  What ALL stores will NOT do is give you money back.  For example, if you used the $2 coupon on the $1.75 item don't expect to go through the check out and have the cashier give you 25c.  (There is on exception to this in the new Walmart coupon policy)

You will have to make sure there are other items in your transaction to absorb the overage.  Purchase the $1.75 item and a 35c pack of gum.  Use your $2 off coupon and pay 10c.  You absorbed your overage with the second item.

Some stores, however, will adjust the value of the coupon to the price of the item if their register beeps to alert them to this. This can vary from store to store.  You will still get the item for free but with no overage.

Another way overage occurs is if you stack a store coupon with a manufacturer coupon.


See more Couponing Lingo.