Do you remember how frustrated you were standing in that long line at your favorite store? Trying desperately to take advantage of their semi-annual end-of-season sale, or whatever scheme they may be running that week. That frustration is a thing of the past because these days most popular online retailers including Amazon.com, BarnesAndNoble.com, Staples.com, Gap.com, and OldNavy.com offer online coupons to encourage consumer spending and loyalty.

The only problem is you have to know where to find the coupons and how to use them. I am sure you have seen that box when you are checking out at your favorite online retailer saying, “Enter Coupon Code,” and said to yourself, “Whoa, where do I get one of those?” These coupon codes can offer you anything from “$10 off your $50 purchase” to “Get Free shipping on your $30 order.” Online coupons can save you and your family some serious bucks, especially around the holidays. I know they have been a life-saver for me and my family.

What Exactly are Coupon Codes?

The majority of coupons that retailers offer are “coupon code” deals. These often look something like this, "Use Coupon Code: 4839, to save 20% off your next purchase." Most retailers prompt you to enter your coupon code during the checkout process; however, some give you the opportunity to do so earlier. Coupon codes are entered differently on every site, but in general you should look for a box marked "Coupon/Discount" or "Promotion Code." (Not to be confused with the Gift Certificate box---which is not where you enter a Coupon Code.) Once you enter the coupon code, the discount should be reflected as you continue the checkout process.

Where To Find Coupon Codes?

Simple, search the Internet for them. This is easy when you use the best search engine on the Net for coupons, Google.com . Say for example you want to find Eddie Bauer Coupons, all you have to do is type in “Eddie Bauer Coupons” in the search box. Google makes this search very easy by the way they spider the Internet. Their search results will bring up sites that specialize in online coupons, deals, and bargains for your particular store. Just click on a Web site that appeals to you and you are off to the races saving big bucks along the way.

Some of these Web sites are better than others. The good ones will update their content daily with new coupon codes and deals and will have a comprehensive list of online retailers from which to choose.

Make Sure Your Coupon Code Works Before Finalizing Order

Unless you want to pay the regular price make sure your discount is reflected in your total purchase price. Otherwise, you will not receive your discount.

Unfortunately, online merchants will not apply coupons to previously completed orders. If the discount does not show up, it usually means that the coupon or discount has expired. These promotional offers often expire unexpectedly.

IMPORTANT: Remember that coupons do end unexpectedly, so be sure that the discount has been applied before you submit your order! Read any restrictions carefully, since some online coupons are only valid on particular items or certain departments.