
If you’re tired of scrolling through expired coupon codes that never work, I’ve got a better system that has saved my family hundreds of dollars over the years.
Instead of hunting for one-time deals, I sign up for the store’s app, text alerts, or email list. Many retailers give new subscribers a welcome discount right away, then keep sending personalized offers, early access to sales, and digital coupons that actually apply at checkout.
As a mom (and grandma) with 4 little ones to spoil, shopping here in the Salt Lake Valley, these alerts have become one of my favorite money-saving habits. Last month alone I saved a whopping $42 by using these techniques.
Here are the retail stores and alerts I recommend most in 2026:
(NOTE: Look for their sign-up's, links to apps and offers at the top or bottom of the page).
Kids & Family Clothing
- The Children’s Place Sign up for text alerts ? Get 30% off your next purchase (new subscribers only).
- Carter’s Sign up for emails and texts ? Often receive 20% off your purchase.
- Old Navy / Gap Join text or email alerts ? Frequently get 20–30% off your first purchase.
Department & Discount Stores
- Kohl’s A C4U favorite! Sign up for emails or text alerts (text SHOP15 to 56457) -> Get 15% off your next purchase plus ongoing coupons. Note: Currently there is a 20% off coupon available here ->
- Target Join Target Circle for free in the app -> Receive personalized weekly digital coupons and 5% off on your birthday.
- JCPenney Sign up for text alerts or emails -> New subscribers often receive an extra 30% off instantly. Great for apparel, home, and jewelry.
- Macy's Save with currently available coupons, including New email subscribers can receive special discounts, and shoppers can find up to 70% off clearance items.
- Ross Dress for Less Save up for email alerts -> Early notice on in-store events and special promotions.
- Burlington Sign up for SMS/text alerts -> Be first for exclusive deals.
- TJ Maxx Sign up for emails -> New subscribers often receive a free shipping code.

Home, Sports & Outdoor
- Ace Hardware A C4U favorite that includes Smith & Edwards too. Join Ace Rewards via the app -> Often get a $10 welcome coupon or bonus offers. Plus, scan your bar code at checkout everytime you shop for bonus rewards.
- Dick’s Sporting Goods Sign up for text alerts -> Commonly receive $20 off $100 or similar welcome offers.
- REI Co-op Sign up for text alerts -> Get 20% off one full-price REI Co-op brand item.
- RC Willey (Utah’s favorite furniture and appliance retailer) Sign up for personalized emails and SMS -> Get $25 toward your next purchase and early sale alerts.

Crafts & Other Retail
- Michaels A C4U favorite! Sign up for text alerts or emails -> Frequently get 40% off one regular-priced item or other craft supply coupons.
- Express Sign up for text or email alerts -> Often receive 20–30% off your first purchase.
- Bath and Body Works: A C4U favorite! Earn 1,000 points to redeem a free product (up to $18.95 value). New members often receive a coupon, such as $10 off a $30 purchase upon registration. A special free item is added to the app wallet during your birthday month.
- American Eagle Join text alerts ? New subscribers frequently get 20% off plus ongoing promotions.
- Hot Topic (popular with teens) Join email or text list -> Access to exclusive coupons and promotions.
- Savers / Value Village A C4U favorite! Join the Super Savers Club with your email ->Special promotions and birthday coupons.
My Honest Tip as a Local Mom (and Grandma) Start with just 3–4 stores you actually shop at regularly so you don’t get overwhelmed with texts. I personally keep Michaels, Target, Kohl’s, and Ace Hardware active — they give me the most consistent wins for my needs. You can always text STOP to opt out of any list.
What are your favorite apps or text alerts for saving at retailers?
Note: Welcome offers and discounts can change, so be sure to check the current deal right after signing up.

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