How to auto-apply coupon codes in WooCommerce

When a discount is applied automatically at checkout, customers don’t need to search for a code or enter anything manually. The process is smooth, and it can improve the overall shopping experience.

For store owners, running promotions can be frustrating when customers forget to use a code or aren’t even aware one exists.

Auto-apply discounts solve this problem. They’re easy to set up in WooCommerce, and in this guide, we’ll walk through the steps without unnecessary jargon or complexity.

Use a plugin that actually works

If you want a plugin that just works (and keeps working), go with WooCommerce Advanced Coupons. It’s:

• Updated regularly
• Easy to use (yes, even for non-techy folks)
• Packed with useful discount conditions like minimum spend, product category, user role, and more

Here’s the quick setup:

1. Install WooCommerce Advanced Coupons
2. Create your coupon
3. Set the conditions
4. Tick the box to auto-apply it
5. Test it out

Done.

If you’re new to auto-apply coupons:

1. Begin with just one coupon: This helps you understand how it works without overwhelming your system or confusing customers
2. Choose a straightforward discount: Start with something like “10% off all products” before setting up more complex conditional discounts
3. Run an A/B test: Compare conversion rates with and without the auto-apply feature to confirm it’s helping your business

The manual method with adding code snippet

We’re including this for the developers, or those with a staging site and time to test.

You will write a tiny piece of code to apply a specific coupon automatically if certain conditions are met.

phpCopyEditadd_action('woocommerce_before_cart', 'apply_matched_coupons');

function apply_matched_coupons() {
    if (WC()->cart->has_discount('YOUR_COUPON_CODE')) return;
    WC()->cart->add_discount('YOUR_COUPON_CODE');
}

Swap out 'YOUR_COUPON_CODE' with your actual code.

Word of warning:
If you’re not used to messing around with code, don’t touch functions.php. Use a plugin like Code Snippets to keep your site from imploding. Or better yet, just use the plugin route and save yourself the hassle.

Understanding coupon stacking

It’s important to know how auto-apply coupons interact with other discounts:

• WooCommerce default settings: Allow multiple coupons by default
• Potential conflicts: Auto-applied coupons might conflict with manually entered ones
• Solution: In Advanced Coupons, you can set rules for coupon combinations and prioritization

This helps prevent situations where customers get unintended “double discounts” or where your best discount isn’t being applied.

Extra tips for adding coupons code in WooCommerce

Once you’ve got auto-discounts sorted, think bigger. Combine them with:

• Flash sales (discounts that expire after a day or two)
• Product bundles (“Buy 2, get 10% off”)
• Exclusive perks for logged-in users

Plugins like YITH Dynamic Pricing and Discounts can help you pull off more complex promos if that’s your thing. But again — only go down this route if you’re ready to learn or have help.

FAQs

Can I add more than one condition?
Yes. Most good plugins let you set all sorts of rules (product, cart total, user role, etc.).

Will my customer see the discount at checkout?
Absolutely. It’s applied automatically and shows up like magic. No code-fumbling required.

What if the discount doesn’t work?
Test everything before going live. A staging site is your friend here.

Kahunam’s take

Auto-apply coupons make life easier for you and your customers. If you’re not running them yet, you’re leaving sales (and smiles) on the table.

Our advice? Don’t go down the DIY-code path unless you’ve got dev experience. Use the plugin. Save time. Avoid headaches. Focus on selling.

Need a hand? Book a discovery call to get right consultant with Kahunam’s experts.