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FAQ

Find some Q&As below about Groupon.

General questions about Groupon deals

How do I buy a Groupon deal?

Just click the “Buy!” button before the offer ends. We’ll charge your card and send a confirmation email. If your deal uses a voucher for redemption, you can print your voucher by visiting your My Groupons page and clicking “View Voucher,” or you can access the voucher on your mobile device using the Groupon app and present it to the business.

Can I buy a Groupon deal as a gift for someone else?

Yes. Unless the “Rules” on your voucher or the Fine Print state otherwise, gift away! If the option is available, you can select the gift option at checkout to email the voucher to a friend, or you may give a voucher to someone directly.

I bought a Groupon voucher – how do I use it?

Once you’ve paid, you’ll receive an email confirmation. The email will include a link to your My Groupons page so you can print your voucher from your account. If you prefer to go paperless, you can always pull up your voucher on your mobile device using the Groupon app when you are ready to redeem it. Your voucher will include redemption instructions right on it!

Can I use my Groupon voucher with other coupons or in combination with other discount offers or specials?

No – sorry. Groupon deals are already a bargain and may not be combined with any other promotion.

What happens if my Groupon voucher’s promotional value expires?

When your voucher’s promotional value expires, you can always redeem it for the amount paid. For more information about the promotional value and the amount paid, read our Terms of Sale.

I bought a Groupon deal – can I return the voucher?

We are always here to help! We have a number of ways to come to your aid, depending on the reason you’re asking:

  • “I just changed my mind.” Any unredeemed voucher may be returned for a refund within the first seven days after purchase. After that, all sales are final.
  • “I redeemed my voucher and was disappointed in my experience.” We always want you to have a great experience with Groupon. That’s why we have the Groupon Promise. If you use a Groupon voucher before its promotional value expires, take a Getaways trip, or attend a GrouponLive event and are disappointed by your experience, we’ll work with you to make it right or give you a refund. Learn more.
  • “I tried to redeem my Groupon voucher for the amount paid and the business refused to honor it.” Contact us and we will make sure you can redeem your voucher as stated in the Fine Print or give you a refund.
  • “I tried to redeem my Groupon voucher and the business was closed.” If anything happens that makes it impossible for you to redeem your Groupon voucher, we’ll make sure you get a refund. Contact us here.

Will purchasing a Groupon voucher fill the hole where my childlike sense of wonder used to be?

Maybe.

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Questions about Groupon Now!™ deals

What is Groupon Now!?

Looking for something to do right now? Groupon Now! deals are great time-limited offers from local businesses. These deals must be redeemed between the hours specified on the deal page and voucher, and usually on the same day of purchase. Most deals are available in limited quantities and only for a short period of time.

How do I buy a Groupon Now! deal?

Now! deals are mixed in with the rest of the local deals we offer. You can identify them by a clock icon Groupon Now! and purchase them on the web, through our mobile app for iPhone, iPad, Android, Blackberry, or Windows devices, or by accessing our mobile touch site at touch.groupon.com. On the app and touch site, Now! deals can be found on the “Nearby” tab.

To buy a Now! deal, click or tap the “Buy!” button on the deal page as you would for any other deal. The only difference is that you have to redeem Now! deals between the hours specified on the deal page and voucher.

Do Groupon Now! deals require a minimum number of purchasers?

No, there’s no “tipping point” and the deal is good as long as your purchase is completed. However, merchants may limit the number of customers who can buy their deals.

Does Groupon Now! take into account the relativistic experience of time postulated by Einstein?


Yes, which is why all Groupon Now! purchases made outside the standard deviation of the Earth's velocity will be honored at their purchaser's subjective moment of acquisition.



Can I use my Groupon Bucks to buy a Groupon Now! deal?

Yes.

How early can I buy a Groupon Now! deal before I can redeem it?

The redemption period will always be listed on the deal page and on the voucher. When you buy a Groupon Now! deal, you should typically expect to use it that day. However, some deals are available a few days in advance, so be sure to check the Fine Print before you buy.

How do I use my Groupon Now! deal?

The same way you use a daily Groupon deal! You can view and print all of your vouchers from the My Groupons section of your account. Redemption instructions will be listed on your Groupon Now! voucher.

Does the Groupon Promise apply to the purchase of a Groupon Now! deal?

Yes.

Whom do I contact if I have a problem with my Groupon Now! deal?

You can contact Groupon or the merchant directly. We’ll do our best to help.

What happens if I don’t use my Groupon Now! voucher in time?

No harm, no foul. If you don’t get a chance to use your Groupon Now! voucher before the promotional value expires, we will refund the purchase value in the original form of payment. Unprinted, unviewed Now! vouchers will be automatically refunded within 72 hours of expiration. If you printed or viewed your Groupon but did not use it, contact us and we’ll be happy to give you a refund.

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Questions about Groupon Getaways deals

What is Groupon Getaways with Expedia?

Groupon has teamed up with Expedia to create Groupon Getaways by featuring select travel experiences at great values. We look into each destination—whether it's a five-star resort or a cozy bed and breakfast—and provide local insights to make every travel experience one of a kind. Backed by the Groupon Promise, Groupon Getaways will inspire you to explore the world—one deal at a time.

Why am I able to choose my dates at the time of purchase for some deals, but not others?

There are two different ways to enter into your Groupon Getaways experience; some of our deals are offered as Getaways Bookings, while other deals are voucher offers which have a separate reservation process.

By purchasing a Getaways Booking, you are not only purchasing your room at the Groupon rate—you are scheduling the date of your stay all in one transaction. On the other hand, if you haven’t solidified your travel dates, buying a Groupon Getaways voucher might be the option for you. The Groupon Getaways voucher entitles you to the Groupon rate while allowing you to book your stay at a later time through the hotel directly.

Is airfare included in Bookings or voucher offers?

Unless otherwise specified in the deal, airfare is not included.

Voucher Offers with Groupon Getaways

How do I book my Getaway?

After your purchase, your Groupon Getaways voucher will be available in your account under My Groupons and will include all of the necessary booking information. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Find the offer that’s right for you.
  2. Purchase your Groupon Getaways voucher.
  3. Contact the merchant, as specified on your Groupon Getaways voucher or in the Fine Print & Details, before the book-by date (a.k.a. the promotional value expiration date).
  4. Book a date within the travel window specified in the Fine Print & Details.
  5. Mention your Groupon Getaways voucher and provide your credit card information, if necessary, to secure your reservation.
  6. Safe travels!

What if I can’t book or travel before the promotional value expires?

If the promotional value of your Groupon Getaways voucher expires before you use it, the voucher is still worth what you paid for it as a credit with the merchant toward the advertised experience. Additionally, each Groupon Getaways offer carries a booking guarantee. If you aren’t able to book the dates you want after purchasing, please contact us for a refund before the promotional value expires.

What happens if I need to cancel my trip after I have booked it?

Check the Fine Print and Details of the Groupon Getaways offer for the cancellation policy before purchasing the Groupon Getaways voucher. If the policy allows for cancellations, call the merchant and Groupon Customer Support to cancel your reservation. You may be charged a cancellation fee if applicable.

Can I upgrade my room?

Some properties allow for upgrades at an additional cost. The Hotel Policies section under the Fine Print & Details of the Groupon Getaways offer should include this information. If the offer includes an upgrade option, you can arrange your upgrade directly with the merchant when you call to book your stay.

May I buy more than one Groupon Getaways voucher?

It depends! The Fine Print varies for each Groupon Getaways offer, so check it for any restrictions. For some Groupon Getaways offers, you can combine more than one voucher for a longer stay.

Are taxes included in voucher-based Groupon Getaways offer?

Typically, taxes are not included in the amount paid for a Groupon Getaways voucher. Check the Fine Print & Details to see if any additional taxes or fees are owed upon booking or at check-in.

A reminder about the Fine Print:

Please take extra care to check the Fine Print & Details in the Groupon Getaways offer before you buy and again on your Groupon Getaways voucher after purchasing for important information about the offer, including blackout dates.

Where am I allowed to travel?

We leave that up to you, but we suggest you do your research before traveling to far off lands. To find information regarding necessary travel documents and travel advisories, the United States Department of State travel website is a great resource.

Bookings with Groupon Getaways

How do I confirm my Getaway?

If you made a reservation through Groupon Getaways, you’re all set. You don’t need a Groupon voucher and will receive confirmation in your e-mail. Your confirmation will also be available in your Groupon account under My Groupons. (You do not need to contact the merchant unless you are making a special request; special requests must be made before your check-in date.)

Are my Getaways Bookings paid in full?

Yes. All Getaways Bookings are prepaid in full at the time of purchase unless otherwise stated. Getaways Bookings expressly exclude any other traveler costs including, without limitation, travel insurance, incidentals, service charges, gratuities or expenses due to special requests or add-ons.

Can I book the Groupon rate directly with the merchant if I mention Groupon?

No. The only place you can book the Groupon rate is through Groupon Getaways. Be sure to book with us while the offer is available for a limited time!

Do I need to have the same credit card with me at check-in that I used to purchase my Getaways Booking?

No. The merchant will require a valid photo ID and any valid credit card for check-in, but not necessarily the credit card used for purchase.

Are taxes included in the price of my Getaways Booking?

Yes. When you purchase a Getaways Booking, any applicable taxes will be included, unless otherwise stated.

Where can I make special requests related to my hotel stay?

All requests must be made directly with the merchant prior to check in. Groupon will not handle any special requests and cannot guarantee these requests will be fulfilled.

What happens if I need to cancel my Getaways Booking?

Check the Fine Print & Details for the applicable cancellation policy before purchasing and booking. Before the cancellation deadline, you can cancel your Getaways Booking through Groupon by signing into your account under My Groupons or by contacting Groupon Customer Support. After the cancellation deadline, you must contact the merchant, who will handle cancellations on a case-by-case basis. You may be charged a cancellation fee if you do not meet the cancellation deadline.

What happens if I need to modify my Groupon Getaways Booking after purchasing?

Groupon is unable to modify your Getaways Booking. You may cancel your Getaways Booking and purchase a different stay if the offer is still live on Groupon Getaways. Once the offer has closed, you will not be able to rebook your stay with the merchant through Groupon Getaways.

What happens if I need to modify my Traveler’s Name?

Any modifications to the Traveler’s Name must be made through the merchant. Groupon will not accommodate modifications to the Traveler’s Name and cannot guarantee these requests will be fulfilled.

What should I do if the hotel has problems locating my Getaways Booking?

If the merchant is unable to locate your Getaways Booking for any reason, please call Groupon Customer Support at (888) 375-5777 and we will resolve any miscommunication.

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Questions about Groupon Goods deals

What is Groupon Goods?

Groupon Goods features really great deals on some of today's most innovative and Y2K-compliant products. To get airspace on Groupon Goods, a product has to be cool enough to share and innovative enough to inspire. We'll drop the newest goods right into your inbox, or you can discover them yourself under the “Goods” tab on Groupon.com.

I bought something through Groupon Goods – how do I get my stuff?

First, check the deal’s Fine Print to see whether the item was sold by Groupon Goods or another merchant.

Items sold by Groupon Goods: Most of the time, you won’t have to do anything once you order—just wait for your goods to arrive. We'll send you an order confirmation and provide your shipping information to our supplier or distributor who will ship your order on our behalf.

Items sold by a merchant: In some instances, you will be redirected to the merchant's website to complete the purchase process directly through them. More commonly, your voucher will contain redemption instructions that will ask you to enter your super-secret redemption code on the merchant’s site to get your stuff. Learn more about redemption code deals.

How can I get Free Shipping and Free Returns?

Free standard shipping applies on most U.S. orders of $15 or more before tax and other applicable fees. At this time, multiple orders of the same deal are counted separately, so to qualify for free shipping, each individual order must total at least $15.

Some deals offer 3-business-day expedited shipping for a fee, which can vary depending on the size and weight of the product. If expedited shipping is available, you will see an "Expedited (3 days)" option at checkout. The cost will be shown when you select that option.

We also offer free returns on any eligible product within 14 days of receipt in the U.S. and Canada. See below ("Can I return items I buy from Groupon Goods for a refund?") for more details on returning Goods items.

As always, be sure to check the deal's Fine Print to see which shipping terms and return options are available for a particular item. As a rule, large, oversized items and products delivered by special or white glove carriers do not qualify for free shipping or free returns. An item is considered oversized if it weighs more than 150 lbs., its longest side is more than 105 inches, or its girth is more than 165 inches. Girth = longest side + (width x 2) + (depth x 2).

When and how will my goods arrive?

The When: Unless otherwise stated in the Fine Print of the deal, goods may take up to two and a half weeks to arrive, and we'll provide tracking information whenever possible. You can check the Fine Print and view any available tracking by heading to your My Groupons page.

The How: Shipping and tracking options, along with any shipping fees, will be stated in the deal’s Fine Print and may vary by offer. Most products purchased through Groupon Goods may be shipped to any state in the United States except Hawaii, Alaska, and certain moon colonies. Some deals have more restricted shipping options, while others may allow shipping to Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, or Canada. Check the deal’s Fine Print for shipping details.

Will I get my Goods order before Christmas/Hanukkah/Houseplant Appreciation Day?

Most orders are delivered within 2 1/2 weeks from the purchase date. If delivery is guaranteed by a certain date, it will be specified in the Fine Print. Outside of that, we can't promise that your order will arrive in time for any upcoming holidays.

May I exchange a product I buy on Groupon Goods for a different item?

At this time we do not offer replacements, exchanges, or clones. Please read about refunds and returns below ("Can I return items I buy from Groupon Goods for a refund?").

Can I return items I buy from Groupon Goods for a refund?

Unless the Fine Print says otherwise, you can return almost any item you purchased directly from Groupon Goods within 14 days of receipt, on us. This includes items that arrive damaged, defective, or missing parts.

However, books, beauty products (excluding electronics), undergarments, food and other perishable items, any items marked “final sale,” and items that have been worn are nonrefundable and may not be returned. Free returns do not apply to these items.

Some items offered by Groupon Goods have a custom return policy, so always check the deal’s Fine Print before you buy.

How do I return items I buy from Groupon Goods?

This depends on where you received the product.

U.S. orders: Select "Return" from the down arrow next to “Track Order” in your account. If your purchase is eligible for a return, you'll be directed to fill in your return details and print a prepaid mailing label. Within 14 days of receipt of the goods, use the prepaid mailing label to ship the unused item back to us sealed in its original packaging, with all original parts and accessories included.

Canadian orders: If your purchase is eligible for a return, contact us within 14 days of receipt of the product to request a Return Authorization form and prepaid mailing label. Pack the printed authorization with your return, and use the prepaid mailing label to ship the unused item back to us sealed in its original packaging, with all original parts and accessories included.

No matter where you live, please see the previous question for information on eligible returns. Groupon Goods will not process or take title to a returned good until the return shipment is received and accepted at the address shown on your return mailing label.

When do I get my money back from a returned Groupon Goods product?

If your Groupon Goods purchase qualifies for a refund and you’ve followed the return instructions, we will refund the amount you paid shortly after your shipment has been processed. While refunds are typically issued quickly, please allow up to 30 days from the date you return the product. Applicable shipping charges and restocking fees (if any are disclosed in the terms of the offer) may be deducted from your refund.

Whom do I contact with questions or concerns about my Groupon Goods order?

This process will vary depending on whether the item was sold by Groupon Goods or another merchant.

Item sold by Groupon Goods: As always, we offer our Grade-A customer support with real people—or very convincing robots—who get back to you with answers as soon as possible. Click here to contact Customer Support.

Item sold by a merchant: Please contact the merchant directly. The merchant’s contact information will typically be provided in the deal’s Fine Print. If the merchant failed to address your concerns, or if you have questions about the terms of the deal, the nature of Groupon, or how dolphins sleep without drowning, please contact us.

Are Groupon Goods products covered by a warranty?

The items sold on Groupon and Groupon Goods, either directly or through a merchant, are provided as-is.

Although we do our best to make sure that the descriptions of products on our site are accurate and complete, we cannot guarantee they are. If you order something that does not match its description on the site, you may return it unused and sealed in the original packaging as described under “How do I return items I buy from Groupon Goods?” Please read more about warranties in our Terms of Use.

To obtain a manufacturer’s warranty, please contact the manufacturer directly. Groupon Goods or a particular merchant may not be an authorized re-seller of goods sold via our website, in which case the goods may not be covered by the applicable manufacturer’s warranty.

Can I edit or cancel my Groupon Goods purchase?

Of course! But you'll need to be speedy—you can make changes to a Groupon Goods order for up to 2 hours after making your purchase. Once that 2-hour window ends, we’ll start preparing your order for the pilgrimage to its new home. For information on returns, see “Can I return items I buy from Groupon Goods for a refund?”

Is sales tax charged on Groupon Goods?

Yes, all items sold by Groupon Goods and shipped to any address in the United States are subject to sales tax. The appropriate charges will be added to your merchandise total and displayed on the checkout screen. Click here for information about sales tax for deals that are redeemed on a merchant’s website using a redemption code.

How is sales tax computed?

The amount of tax depends on many factors, including the type of item purchased and where it is being shipped. If something is subject to sales tax in the state to which the order is shipped, tax is generally calculated on the selling price of each individual item. As required by applicable state law, the selling price of an item could include item-level shipping-and-handling costs. Groupon works with a leading service provider to obtain sales-tax rates.

How does Groupon Goods determine the “list price” of an item it sells?

List prices may be based on a survey of other online merchants, tied to a particular merchant’s current or former price, or suggested by either the manufacturer or our supplier. It is not necessarily representative of current prices of other online merchants or the prevailing retail price in every area. An offer that’s a fantabulous deal in one area may only be a stupendous deal in another due to regional price differences and the spotty existence of the word fantabulous.

Can I buy from Groupon Goods in bulk?

Although we’d like to satisfy the bulk orders of extended families, school groups, and clown car occupants, we limit the quantity customers can order to give all users a fair shot at the deal. These limitations will always be listed in the Fine Print of each deal.

I’m a merchant and would like to partner with Groupon Goods. Should I send a product sample?

We love your enthusiasm! The first step to getting featured on Groupon Goods is filling out this form.

Please do not send unsolicited product samples, irreplaceable materials, or anything that you want returned. Groupon is not responsible for payment for any product samples or the handling, arrival, or return of any samples.

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Questions about GrouponLive or Ticketed Event deals

What is GrouponLive?

GrouponLive delivers deals on the hottest tickets around town. We feature sporting events, concerts, theatrical performances, and other forms of live entertainment where applause is appreciated. Check out your Daily Deal email or the All Deals tab to find GrouponLive deals near you.

What is a G-Pass ticket?

G-Pass tickets from Groupon grant you direct admission to GrouponLive events. For deals using G-Pass tickets, just print your G-Pass, bypass the box office, proceed directly to your gate, and take your seat—no need to redeem a Groupon voucher for a separate ticket at the box office before the show! We recommend avoiding eye contact with jealous onlookers.

Do all Live events use G-Pass tickets?

Only select events use G-Pass tickets at this time. If the deal page does not specify that G-Pass tickets will be issued, you’ll need to exchange your voucher for a ticket at the venue. Always double-check the Fine Print and redemption instructions on your voucher for details.

I bought a G-Pass deal — now what?

Take this time to break into spontaneous renditions of 80’s power ballads in celebration of your rad ticket purchase, as it may take up to 48 hours after the deal closes for your order to process. After we’ve processed your payment, you’ll receive an email receipt confirming your purchase. This email will also explain how to print your G-Pass once it’s available in your Groupon account. The G-Pass ticket will display the name of the purchaser, seating information, and other details necessary for redemption. Rather than pulling it up on the mobile app, please print your G-Pass ahead of time for hassle-free entry to the event.

How do I exchange my Groupon voucher for tickets?

If you have a Groupon voucher instead of a G-Pass ticket, you will need to exchange it for a ticket either at the box office on the day of the event, or as otherwise specified in the deal’s Fine Print or redemption instructions. Unless otherwise stated, you must print the voucher and present it at the venue’s box office with a photo ID. Rather than pulling it up on the mobile app, we strongly recommend you print your Groupon voucher ahead of time to exchange it at the box office. The venue will match your ID with the name on the voucher, scan the voucher, and issue your ticket.

How will tickets be distributed and how will my seat be assigned?

This varies from deal to deal. Always read the offer’s Fine Print and other applicable terms carefully before you complete your purchase. For select events, you’ll receive a G-Pass ticket, which you may use for admission to the event, and which will include your seating information (unless the event is General Admission). We strongly recommend you print your G-Pass for entry to the event, rather than pulling it up on the mobile app. If the deal page does not specify that G-Pass ticketing is used, you must exchange your voucher for a ticket. Tickets are usually distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at ticket pick-up. Seating may be assigned on a first-purchased, first-served basis. Please see the Fine Print and redemption instructions on your voucher for more information.

How do I purchase GrouponLive vouchers or G-Pass tickets as gifts?

How generous of you! Just enter the intended recipient’s name in the “Additional Information” field at checkout. Unless the event’s deal page specifies that G-Pass ticketing is used, the name on the Groupon vouchers must match the name of the person claiming the tickets at the venue’s box office. If you need to change the name on a Groupon voucher, you can contact our customer service team at www.groupon.com/support or (888) 375-5777 no later than 24 hours prior to the event. Please note that requests to change the name on a Groupon voucher will not be honored if they are submitted after this time.

May I sit with friends who also bought their tickets through GrouponLive?

This varies from deal to deal. While some events are general admission, the Fine Print for other deals may specify that you must purchase together to sit together, or that you will need to exchange your vouchers for tickets together to sit together. For deals using G-Pass, you must purchase your tickets in the same transaction in order to be seated together. For deals not using G-Pass tickets, group seating is not guaranteed, but it is more easily accommodated if your group picks up your tickets together. Please review the deal’s Fine Print for specific details.

I have friends attending the same event but they did not buy tickets through GrouponLive. Can we still sit together?

Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee that attendees who purchased tickets through any other service will be seated with you. We apologize for any inconvenience.

When does the box office open?

Please review the deal terms and redemption instructions on your voucher for pick-up details. Also, please be sure to check with the venue directly to confirm box office hours, even though most typically open several hours prior to showtime. Some box offices are also open in the days leading up to the event and will allow you to pick up your tickets early.

May I request Wheelchair Accessible Tickets when ordering through GrouponLive?

Most of the venues that host events featured on Groupon are wheelchair accessible and are happy to accommodate anyone with a disability. However, before you purchase tickets to any event, we recommend contacting the venue to verify if all the tickets being offered through GrouponLive will meet your specific needs.

Can I upgrade my seats if I buy tickets through GrouponLive?

No, unfortunately. GrouponLive is able to offer tickets for seats in certain sections of the venue at a discounted rate. If there are different pricing and seating options available through GrouponLive, you may select the option that best suits you. Otherwise, all tickets available through GrouponLive are valid only for the identified section.

I bought tickets through GrouponLive. Can I get a refund?

Only if you act quickly! Unlike most vouchers that you purchase through Groupon, tickets purchased through GrouponLive are only refundable on the day of purchase. Please review our Extraordinary Event Policy for details on refund exceptions.

May I give my GrouponLive tickets to someone else?

Absolutely, but the name on the Groupon must match the name of the person claiming the tickets at the venue’s box office. If you need to change the name on a Groupon voucher for a ticketed event, please contact our customer service team at www.groupon.com/support or (888) 375-5777. Please note that requests to change the name on a ticket will not be honored if they are submitted less than 24 hours before the event.

Is parking or anything else included in my GrouponLive purchase?

If parking, refreshments, or other amenities are included as part of a GrouponLive deal, they will be listed in the offer’s Fine Print and on your printed voucher.

Is tax included?

Most tickets that you purchase through GrouponLive will include all fees. If there are any additional charges not included in the price of your Groupon voucher, that information will be specifically disclosed in the deal’s Fine Print and on your printed voucher.

Your “Buy!” button brought me to a third party site and now I need help with my purchase. What do I do?

If the “Buy!” button takes you to a third-party site to purchase your tickets, please contact that business for further information regarding your order. You may also be able to find the answer to your question on our Third Party Site Terms.

Does GrouponLive have a best-price guarantee?

Unfortunately, we are not in a position to make that promise. Groupon works with great promoters and venues to offer you amazing opportunities to attend live concerts and events at remarkable discounts. When these merchants offer their tickets though our services, we advertise a discounted ticket price based on the merchant’s then-current ticket prices at the time the deal is offered. As the date of the event gets closer, some merchants may release unsold tickets at an even deeper discount than what was offered through GrouponLive. Buying tickets in advance ensures that you will get tickets that are discounted at the time you purchase them, but please be aware that we do not control the pricing or inventory management decisions of the venues and producers.

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Questions about redemption code deals

What are redemption codes and how do they work?

After purchasing certain products from Groupon merchants through Groupon Goods or another Groupon platform, you may receive a unique, time-limited, alphanumeric code (“redemption code”) listed on your voucher or other order confirmation. You’ll redeem your code through the merchant’s site to receive your purchased goods. Redemption instructions will also be printed on your voucher or order confirmation, and will specify the steps you should follow to redeem your Groupon voucher.

My redemption codes are about to expire during my annual hibernation. What now?

If the promotional value of your Groupon voucher expires before you use it, the voucher is still worth what you paid for it as a credit with the merchant toward the advertised goods or services, unless otherwise stated on the voucher.

What about shipping and sales tax on redemption code deals?

Unless otherwise noted in the deal’s Fine Print, redemption codes include shipping and other fees. Redemption codes may not be combined with other offers. The merchant may collect sales taxes from residents of certain states when redemption codes are redeemed on the merchant’s site.

Please consult each deal’s Fine Print for more information.

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Questions about referrals and Groupon Bucks

What is the Refer-A-Friend program?

So glad you asked! When you refer a friend to Groupon, you can earn $10 in Groupon Bucks! As long as your friend is subscribing to Groupon for the first time (within 72 hours of clicking your personal referral link) and buys their first Groupon deal of $10 or more, you’ll see the credit in your account approximately 7 days after that deal closes. It’s our way of saying “thanks” for spreading the word about Groupon. Please click here for full Refer-A-Friend program terms and conditions.

How do I refer a friend?

Log in to your account at Groupon.com and click the “Refer Friends. Get $10” button in the upper left corner. (Don’t have an account yet? You can sign up in the upper right corner of this page.) You’ll see a special link enclosed in the message – this is your personal referral link. Send this link to friends and family via any method you choose: email, Facebook, Twitter, or IM. When a friend who is new to Groupon clicks your link, subscribes to Groupon, and buys his or her first Groupon deal of $10 or more, you will earn $10 in Groupon Bucks.

I just sent a referral to my friend - now what?

Hey, thanks for the referral! You’re on your way to a reward. Once we confirm that your friend has clicked your link, subscribed to Groupon within 72 hours, and purchased his or her first deal of $10 or more, you’ll be eligible to receive $10 in Groupon Bucks. Learn more here. You should see the Groupon Bucks in your account approximately 7 days after the close of the deal they purchased. All rewards are subject to the return policy below.

If my friend cancels or returns his or her first Groupon deal, will I still earn $10 in Groupon Bucks?

If your friend’s first purchase is canceled or returned, your $10 in Groupon Bucks is also subject to cancellation.

I told someone about Groupon but they didn’t click the link. Will I still get $10 in Groupon Bucks?

In order for you to earn $10 in Groupon Bucks through this offer, your friend must click your personal link before signing up and buying his or her first Groupon deal.

If my friend has already bought a Groupon deal, can I still get $10 in Groupon Bucks if they click my link?

No, unfortunately. Your friend’s purchase must be his or her first Groupon purchase in order for you to earn $10 in Groupon Bucks.

Can I refer myself to earn Groupon Bucks?

No. You must refer people other than yourself to earn Groupon Bucks as part of our Refer-a-Friend program. Attempting to refer yourself can result in disqualification from the Refer-a-Friend program and other Groupon offers.

Can I refer as many people as I want?

Yes! However, you may only earn a maximum of $100 in Groupon Bucks over the lifetime of your participation across all referrals (the “Lifetime Program Limit”). See full Refer-A-Friend Terms here.

I received referral links from three people – do they all get rewarded?

No, only the last link you click before making your first purchase will generate a reward for the person who sent it to you. Which friend do you like best?

What’s the catch?

In order for you to earn $10 in Groupon Bucks, your friend must click your personal referral link, subscribe to Groupon within 72 hours, and buy his or her first Groupon deal of $10 or more. Groupon Bucks will be awarded to the account associated with your personal referral link and are not transferable to other Groupon users. You may earn a limit of $10 in Groupon Bucks per friend you refer, up to a lifetime limit of $100. Groupon reserves the right to cancel, revoke, or otherwise prevent the issuance of Groupon Bucks in any suspected case of fraudulent use or misuse of this program. Please click here for full Refer-A-Friend program terms and conditions.

What are Groupon Bucks? How do they work?

Groupon Bucks are a form of site currency redeemable only toward future Groupon purchases. For example, if you have $10 in Groupon Bucks in your account and the deal you want costs $20, your $10 in Groupon Bucks will automatically apply to your order and the amount due will be $10. On the other hand, if you have $10 in Groupon Bucks in your account and the deal you purchase costs only $3, you’ll have a remaining balance of $7 in Groupon Bucks in your account, which will be applied to your future purchases automatically.

Groupon reserves the right to discontinue Groupon Bucks or modify the terms under which they are offered. To accumulate and redeem Groupon Bucks, you must create, and maintain in good standing, a Groupon customer account registered with a valid credit card. Groupon Bucks do not expire. Unless required by law, Groupon Bucks are non-transferrable and are not redeemable for cash.

How do I see how many Groupon Bucks I have in my account?

You can check your Groupon Bucks balance in the My Groupons section of your account. Just select it from the drop-down menu below your name in the upper-right corner of your screen. The balance will be displayed in the upper-right corner of this page.

Will my Groupon Bucks ever expire?

Nope, Groupon Bucks never expire! Unless the terms of the offer in which you earned them specifically state that they expire, they will remain in your account until you use them.

Can I use my Groupon Bucks if I make a purchase on the Groupon mobile app?

Definitely. Unless a specific offer does not permit the use of Groupon credit, they’ll be applied at checkout in the same way as if you were purchasing a Groupon deal on your computer.

Can I apply my Groupon Bucks to a Gift Card purchase?

Not at this time. Groupon Bucks can only be used towards the purchase of a Groupon deal.

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Questions about sales tax

How does sales tax generally work with Groupon vouchers?

A customer is not charged sales tax when a merchant’s voucher is acquired from Groupon. Sales tax may be charged and collected by a merchant when the voucher is redeemed, depending on whether the underlying product or service is subject to sales tax and whether or not the merchant has a collection obligation (e.g. a merchant may not have to collect tax in the state to which an order is shipped).

In some states, sales tax will be charged and collected by the merchant based on the full offer value of the voucher (amount paid by consumer plus Promotional Value) plus overspend (e.g. amounts in excess of voucher). In other states, merchants will charge and collect sales tax based upon the amount paid for the voucher plus any overspend (e.g. Promotional Value is subtracted before tax is computed).

Example: A customer has paid $20 for $40 of food at a restaurant. The total bill, before taxes, is $50. If the state requires tax to be collected on the full offer value, the sales tax will be based on $50. If the state allows for a reduction in tax base of the Promotional Value, the sales tax will be based on $30 ($20 paid by the customer plus $10 overspend).

Several states, including California, Kansas, Massachusetts, New York, and Texas, have expressly issued statements regarding how sales tax must be calculated in transactions in which a voucher is redeemed (i.e. whether sales tax is computed before or after application of the voucher). The guidance from California, Kansas, Massachusetts, New York and Texas (shown below) is also available online.

California
In September 2011, California released Publication 388, which in part states: “Retailers often engage in marketing and sales programs in which they issue coupons that entitle their customers to a discounted price for products sold by the retailer. Deal-of-the-day instruments (coupons) fall within this category. In general, tax applies to the amount paid by the customer for the deal-of-the-day instrument plus any additional cash, credit or other consideration required to be paid when the product is purchased.”

Massachusetts
In September 2011, Massachusetts released a draft directive, which in part states: “The sales price subject to tax in transactions where the retail customer pays in whole or part with a third party certificate is not reduced by the amount of the third party certificate. Thus, assuming that the taxable item has a sales price equal or greater than the face value of the certificate, the “sales price” includes the face value of the certificate as well as any cash or other consideration paid. The vendor must report that amount as gross receipts subject to tax on its sales and use tax return. The vendor also must separately state the sales tax on any receipt issued to the customer as required by G.L. c. 64H, § 5.”

Kansas
In June 2011, Kansas released a question and answer publication, which in part states: “Retail promotional deals, sometimes referred to as 'deals-of-the-day,' ... are treated in the same manner as purchases of gift certificates for sales tax purposes. The payment made by the purchaser to the deal of the day provider for the promotional 'deal' certificate is not subject to sales tax. When the promotional deal certificate is redeemed by the customer at the promoting retailer’s location, sales tax should be calculated on the full selling price of the taxable sale before applying the value of the promotional deal certificate to reduce the sales price.”

New York
In September 2011, New York released TSB-M-11(16)S, which in part states: “No sales tax is due if the voucher is redeemed for products or services not subject to sales tax. However, sales tax is due and must be collected from the customer when a voucher is redeemed for taxable products or taxable services. In this case, the amount subject to sales tax depends on whether the voucher is a specific product or service voucher or a stated face value voucher.”

“A specific product or service voucher is a voucher without a specific stated value that may be redeemed only for a specified product or service or combination of products and/or services. A voucher qualifies as a specific product or service voucher even if the normal or regular selling price of the product or service is stated on the voucher. When this type of voucher is redeemed for a taxable product or service, the amount subject to sales tax is the total price that the customer paid the deal site for the voucher.”

“A stated face value voucher is a voucher with a specifically stated value, and when redeemed, the value of the voucher is applied towards the price of the products or services purchased by the customer. A stated face value voucher is generally treated in the same manner as a gift card. That is, it is treated as cash up to the stated face value of the voucher. Therefore, when this type of voucher is redeemed for taxable products or services sales tax is computed on the selling price of the items before the value of the voucher is applied against the purchase price.”

Texas
In June 2011, Texas released the following statement via their Tax Policy Newsletter: “Daily deals offered by sellers through third parties, such as social media networks and radio stations, are treated as gift certificates. Sales tax is not due on the sale of a deal by a third party.

"When the deal is redeemed for a taxable item (either by the original purchaser or someone who may have received the deal as a gift), the deal is treated like cash given for the purchase of the item. If the item purchased is taxable, sales tax is due on the full sales price, including any amount paid with the use of the deal.”

How does sales tax work for travel deals I buy through Groupon Getaways?

Typically, taxes are not included in the amount paid for Groupon Getaways deals. Check the Fine Print & Details to see if you will owe additional taxes or fees upon booking or at check-in.

How does sales tax work for tickets I buy through GrouponLive?

Before you purchase any ticket through GrouponLive, read the terms of the offer carefully. Most tickets that you purchase through GrouponLive will include all fees. If fees and taxes are not included, that information will be specifically disclosed in the deal’s Fine Print and printed on the face of the voucher.

How does sales tax work for items I buy through Groupon Goods?

Items sold by Groupon Goods and shipped to any address in the United States are subject to sales tax. The appropriate charges will be added to your merchandise total and displayed on the checkout screen. The amount of tax depends on many factors, including the type of item purchased and where it is being shipped. If something is subject to sales tax in the state to which the order is shipped, tax is generally calculated on the selling price of each individual item. As required by applicable state law, the selling price of an item could include item-level shipping-and-handling costs. Groupon works with a leading service provider to obtain sales-tax rates.

How does sales tax work for redemption code deals?

The merchant may collect sales taxes from residents of certain states when redemption codes are redeemed on the merchant’s site.

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