CVS 101

Getting started with CVS:

STEP 1: Get your CVS ExtraCare card

You can ask a cashier, or sign up online. To get started immediately, ask for it at the store. Otherwise you'll have to wait for it to arrive in the mail.

You will need to have the card with you so it can be scanned upon checkout. (*note* CVS is in the process of adding ExtraCare "kiosks" at the front of the store... you can scan your card on the way in and get coupons before you even start to shop! We have scored some great $/$$ deals this way)

STEP 2: earn ECB (ExtraCare bucks)

ECB are earned through promotions, such as “Buy _____, receive $__ in ECB.”

These promotions are found in the monthly and weekly ads.

The ECB's will print at the end of your receipt - clip them and handle them as you would cash.

The required amount to receive the ECB is calculated before coupons.

You do not have to buy all the products for that particular promotion in the same transaction, or even at the same store.

ECB coupons can be used to purchase nearly anything in the store. (*note* this does exclude prescriptions, alcohol, tobacco, and Gift Cards)

You will not get change back when you spend your ECB's. They can be entered as less than their face value (if your cashier knows how), for example if your total comes to $2.97 and you have an ECB for $2.99 that you would like to use, the casher is able to key it in for $2.97. That is, if you don't mind losing 2 cents.

ECB coupons expire 4 weeks from the date they are printed.

STEP 3: Working your coupon magic at CVS

CVS accepts manufacturer's coupons, including IP (internet printable) coupons. CVS also issues their own store-specific coupons. You can get these by email or printed out at the end of your receipt (these are referred to as CRT's - cash register tape).

Both ECB and CRT coupons are linked to your CVS account, which means you cannot use them without the same CVS card that earned them.

The CVS coupon policy allows for the use of one manufacturer and one CVS coupon on the same item. The best deals are found when you can combine a cvs item coupon and/or a manufacturer's coupon on an item that gives back ECB's.