How to Add a Discount Code in WooCommerce: A Beginner’s Guide

WooCommerce is a fantastic platform for selling online, but sometimes you need to incentivize customers with discounts. Adding discount codes is easier than you think! This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, even if you’re completely new to WooCommerce. Let’s dive in!

Why Use Discount Codes?

Discount codes are a powerful marketing tool. They can:

• Boost sales: A little incentive can go a long way in persuading customers to make a purchase.
• Clear out inventory: Offer discounts on slow-moving items to make room for new stock.
• Reward loyal customers: Show appreciation with exclusive codes for your repeat buyers.
• Promote new products: Generate excitement around new releases with special launch discounts.
• Increase average order value: Offer a discount for purchases above a certain amount.

For example, imagine you’re selling handcrafted jewelry. Offering a code like “SUMMER20” for a 20% discount during the summer months can significantly boost your sales compared to not having any promotions at all.

Method 1: Adding a Discount Code Through WooCommerce’s Coupons Section

This is the most straightforward method.

• Log in to your WordPress dashboard. Navigate to WooCommerce > Coupons.
• Click “Add Coupon.” This will bring you to the coupon creation page.
• Fill in the required fields:
• Coupon code: Choose a memorable and easy-to-use code (e.g., “WELCOME10,” “SUMMERFUN,” or “FREEBIE”).
1. Discount type: Select either “Percentage discount” or “Fixed cart discount“. A percentage discount offers X% off the total, while a fixed cart discount offers a specific dollar amount off.

Amount: Enter the discount amount (e.g., 10 for 10%, or $10 for a $10 discount).

Individual use only?: Check this box if each code can only be used once. Uncheck for multiple uses.

Expiry date (optional): Set an expiration date if you want the discount to be valid only for a limited time. This is very useful for time-sensitive promotions.

Minimum spend (optional): Set a minimum order value to activate the discount. This is useful to encourage larger purchases (e.g., “Spend $50, get 10% off”).

Maximum spend (optional): Set a maximum amount the discount can apply to, useful for controlling costs on high-value orders.

Usage limit per coupon (optional): Specify how many times the coupon can be used overall.

Usage limit per user (optional): Limit how many times a single customer can use the coupon.

Exclude product categories (optional): Choose to exclude certain product categories from the discount.

Exclude products (optional): Exclude specific products from the discount.

Include product categories (optional): Apply the discount *only* to specific categories.

Include products (optional): Apply the discount *only* to specific products.

• Click “Publish.” Your discount code is now ready to use!

Method 2: Using WooCommerce Plugins (Advanced Users)

While the built-in coupon system works perfectly for most, some plugins offer more advanced features like creating tiered discounts or more complex coupon rules. Research and choose a reputable plugin before installing it.

Testing Your Discount Code

After creating your discount code, it’s crucial to test it. Add a product to your cart and enter the code to ensure it applies correctly. This helps prevent issues before your customers discover them.

Promoting Your Discount Code

Finally, make sure to promote your discount code effectively! Use social media, email marketing, or add it directly to your website. Clear communication is key.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to successfully add discount codes to your WooCommerce store and boost your sales! Remember to always test your codes before launching a promotion.