Suggested Retailer Guidelines for Accepting Internet or Computer Generated Coupons

Due to increased coupon fraud, especially in the area of coupons that are downloaded from the Internet and printed on a home computer, members have requested guidelines that will help them reduce losses. The following suggested guidelines have been developed to assist retailers in keeping their customers happy while at the same time containing the number of fraudulent coupons that consumers attempt to redeem.

1. Retailers should not accept "free product" Internet or computer generated coupons
2. Retailers should place a dollar limit on the coupon's value (example: Internet or computer generated coupon cannot have a value of more than $2.00)
3. Retailers should only accept Internet or computer generated coupons that scan; and
4. Retailers should only accept Internet or computer generated coupons with a Household Name printed on the front of the coupon.

Click here for a poster that you may want to consider displaying near cash register if you decide to adopt the suggestions as store policy.