Internet Coupons are a valuable resource in Couponing. There are a ton of websites that provide Internet Printable Coupons, it is our responsibility to determine whether or not that particular coupon is in fact Legitimate.

If it is coming from a legitimate website such as Coupons.com, Smart Source, Red Plum ,etc. then you really need not worry. However, the ones you may get a link to via the email or one you may find randomly that seems to good to be true should be examined before using it. Here are some things to look for on Legitimate Internet Coupons:

  • 2 sets of Linear Bar codes located at the bottom of the coupon: This barcode identifies the manufacturer, the item, and the value of the coupon.
  • Usage policy in small print (just like coupons you get from your inserts)
  • Expiration date
  • Redemption information
  • A single 2D barcode at the top right of the coupon: This barcode identifies the ip address the coupon was printed from.

Most internet coupon sites will allow you to print two of the same coupon per computer. However, each coupon will have a unique number sequence that is specific to the ip address of your computer.

If you want to check the validity of a coupon, feel free to check out this List of Fraudulent Coupons

Misuse of these sort of coupons is ILLEGAL, as is making photo copies of Internet Coupons. It is a criminal offense that can be investigated and prosecuted by Federal, State or Local law enforcement authorities.

This also negatively impacts us couponers because if Stores lose money on these internet coupons, they may very well stop accepting them or make it very difficult to use them.

There are plenty of great deals to take advantage of… so it really is not worth doing something illegal.

If you have any questions, feel free to comment below or email me. 🙂

Thanks WeUseCoupons