How to Monetize a Coupon Blog and Clip Your Way to Cash

Starting a coupon blog is exciting! There’s so much to figure out, like picking a domain, setting up WordPress, and publishing your first deals.

Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to shift gears and focus on monetizing your coupon blog. Trust me, this is where the fun begins!

Whether you’re new to blogging or already a coupon pro, there are plenty of ways to turn your blog into a money-making machine. Let’s dive into the details on how to make that happen.

1. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is the best monetization method for coupon bloggers because it hits the sweet spot between time investment and earning potential.

Affiliate marketing is a form of advertising where a publisher (the site owner) links to a product in their content and earns a commission from the advertiser (the affiliate program) if readers click on that link and make a purchase.

Also, since you can add links to your existing content, it’s the perfect method for beginners. You’ve already written content, so you’ve already done the hard part.

How to Start Affiliate Marketing for Coupon Bloggers

When diving into the coupon blogging niche, it's important to consider the types of affiliate products that resonate with your audience. Here are several options worth recommending:

• Online Stores: Retailers like Amazon, Walmart, or Macy's often have affiliate programs. They offer various products across categories.
• Subscription Services: Products like meal delivery, streaming services, or subscription boxes can attract regular customers looking for deals.
• Coupon Websites: Partnering with sites like Rakuten or Honey allows you to promote exclusive cash back or coupon codes.
• Travel Deals: Affiliates like Expedia or Hotels.com provide discounts for travel enthusiasts. Perfect for vacations or weekend getaways.
• Financial Products: Credit cards and financial services often provide substantial bonuses for sign-ups, making them attractive for deal-seekers.

Why these products? Here’s a quick look:

• Diverse Options: They cater to different audience interests, maximizing potential clicks and conversions.
• Proven Popularity: Many affiliate products are established brands that consumers are already familiar with and trust.
• Recurring Revenue: Some affiliates offer subscriptions, which can lead to consistent income streams.
• High Commissions: Certain niches, like travel or finance, often provide higher affiliate commissions.
• Seasonal Promotions: Many have ongoing sales events, creating continual opportunities for coupon promotion.

Once you’ve identified which products will solve problems for your readers, you need to sign up for their affiliate programs.

You should start by joining the Amazon Associates affiliate program.

Most physical products in the coupon niche will be available on Amazon, and the conversion rate on Amazon is insane.

Yes, Amazon’s commission rates are rough, and they only offer a 24-hour cookie duration, but the conversion rate makes up for it. Plus, you’re nearly guaranteed to get accepted into their program.

For products that aren’t available on Amazon, just Google “[Product] affiliate program,” and you’ll find their program’s signup page.

To save you some time, here are a few of the best affiliate networks for coupon bloggers:

1. Academic Superstore

   

   Commission Rate: 4% Per Sale

   Cookie Duration: 45 Days

   Find academic edition software discounts for students, teachers, and schools. Educational pricing available.

2. Points

   

   Commission Rate: 1.25% - 10% Per Sale

   Cookie Duration: 15 Days

   Points.com allows you to manage all your different loyalty programs from one interface. Even exchange and redeem points for other things.

3. Ibotta

   

   Commission Rate: $2 Per Referral

   Cookie Duration: Unknown

   Ibotta is a free app that rewards you for purchases you already make. Get cash when shopping in-store. Online shoppers earn via their web portal.

Once you’ve been approved for the product’s affiliate program, the program will give you your affiliate link, and you can start inserting it into your content.

How To Monetize A Coupon Blog With Affiliate Marketing

To add your link to your content, go to your post editor, highlight the relevant text, and insert the link.

Here are a few best practices for adding affiliate links to your WordPress blog:

• Add links where it’s helpful. Adding too many links to your blog posts is just like adding too many ads; it’s annoying. Add links to product titles, images, CTA buttons, and the first time you mention a product. That’s plenty.
• Disclose your links. Every blog post with affiliate links should have a disclaimer at the beginning, and every CTA or product image should also.
• Use direct sales language. When you are writing your call to action, be direct. It’s not rude to say, “Check the price” or “Buy this product today.” Being too passive makes you look unconfident.

Or, take it a step further by creating product displays.

You Can Double Your Affiliate Sales With Lasso Displays

You can create displays manually using the post editor to add links to images and buttons.

However, it can be time-consuming to create these displays and keep them updated if you’re doing it all by hand.

Luckily, monetizing your blog with affiliate links is simplified when you’re using a tool like Lasso.

Lasso makes it super easy to add links and product displays to your posts. You can add product displays to posts right from the post editor; no coding is required. It’s as simple as clicking your mouse three times.

You can also automatically import product info from retailers like Amazon. Just paste the link into the Lasso dashboard, and Lasso will populate the display with the product title, image, and price.

With all of this, remember to follow the guidelines in the affiliate program’s terms and conditions. Amazon, in particular, is pretty stringent.

But everything Lasso does is compliant with Amazon Associates’ TOS, so you never have to worry about being booted from the program.

That’s just scratching the surface of what Lasso can do to help you monetize your coupon blog. If you’re ready to start making a serious affiliate income from your coupon site, sign up for Lasso today.

Affiliate Marketing Pros and Cons for Coupon Bloggers

Affiliate marketing can be a great way for bloggers to monetize their content. One major pro is that it allows you to earn passive income. Once you've set up your affiliate links, you can earn commissions even while you're sleeping. Plus, if your niche aligns with popular products, your potential earnings can be substantial.

However, there are downsides to consider as well. It's not always easy to attract clicks and conversions. Many bloggers struggle with keeping their audience engaged without sounding overly salesy. Additionally, commission structures can vary. Some programs pay well, while others might not offer enough incentive for your efforts.

It's also worth noting that integrity plays a key role in affiliate marketing. If low-quality products are promoted, it can damage your reputation. Your audience trusts your recommendations, so you need to stay genuine. Balancing your promotion efforts with valuable content is crucial in maintaining that trust.

2. Display Ads

The second best way to monetize your coupon blog is with display ads. Ads are the internet's favorite monetization method, but they have severe drawbacks.

How to Monetize a Coupon Blog With Display Ads

Monetizing a coupon blog with display ads couldn’t be easier.

First, choose an ad network to join. Networks have traffic requirements, so here are the best ad networks to join based on your site’s page views:

• 100,000+ Visitors per month - Raptive
• 50,000+ Sessions per month - Mediavine
• < 50,000+ Visitors per month - Ezoic

Once you’re accepted to an ad network, follow their instructions to integrate their ads into your site. They will have documentation for every type of content management service (WordPress, Joomla, Ghost, etc.).

If your chosen ad network has a dedicated accounts manager, they will guide you through getting their ads on your site.

And… that’s it. Let the ads run and wait for your deposits to hit your account.

Display Ad Pros And Cons For Coupon Bloggers

Display ads can be a great way for coupon bloggers to monetize their sites. They provide a visual way to attract visitors, which can lead to increased clicks. If you have a solid mix of content and ads, you can guide users toward your affiliate offers or promotions effectively.

However, there are cons to consider as well. Many users have ad blockers, which can significantly reduce your ad visibility. Plus, not all ads are relevant to your audience; irrelevant ads can annoy visitors and hurt your site’s reputation.

Another issue is the potential for low click-through rates. Unless your ads are highly targeted, they may fail to engage your readers. This means you could earn less than you hoped, making it essential to test different ad types and placements.

Lastly, maintaining a balance is crucial. Too many display ads can clutter your blog and detract from the user experience. Striking the right balance between content and ads will keep your audience engaged while maximizing your revenue potential.

3. Digital Products

Selling your own digital products is a great way to increase your earnings per visitor in the coupon niche.

A digital product is anything you can sell on your coupon blog that the customer will receive via download.

Digital Products to Sell on a Coupon Blog:

• E-books: Create e-books focused on saving money, budgeting tips, or coupon strategies. They’re easy to distribute and can provide great value.
• Printable Coupon Cheat Sheets: Offer printable guides that help users navigate finding and using coupons effectively. These are super handy for quick reference.
• Online Courses: Develop mini-courses on topics like extreme couponing, savvy shopping tricks, or financial planning. Use video or PDFs for easy learning.
• Membership Access: Establish a VIP club where members can access exclusive deals or premium content. Charge a monthly fee for special perks.
• Coupon Clipping Service: Provide a digital service where you clip and send users physical coupons, making it easier for them to save.

A lot of people search for simple checklists and guides related to different topics. They’d happily pay you for them.

Pros and Cons of Selling Digital Products for Coupon Bloggers

Selling digital products has its perks for coupon bloggers. First off, there's the low overhead. You don’t need to worry about inventory or shipping costs. Just create your eBook or online course once, and it's ready for sales anytime.

Another great aspect is the potential for passive income. Once your digital product is up and running, it can continue to sell without your constant attention. This can free up your time to focus on creating more content and growing your audience.

However, there are downsides too. Marketing your digital product can be tough. You’ll need to invest time and effort into promotion. Just creating a helpful guide won’t bring in sales if no one knows about it.

Also, competition can be fierce. Many bloggers are riding the digital product wave, so finding your niche is essential. If your offering doesn’t stand out, even the best product might not see the success you’re hoping for.

How To Monetize a Coupon Blog By Selling Digital Products

The first thing to do is create your digital product.

Look at which content your audience interacts with the most, and brainstorm digital products to help serve their search intent.

That’s what I did when I created our Ultimate Blogging Guide:

Then, create the product using whatever tools are at your disposal. For example, use Microsoft Word to create an ebook PDF, or Google Sheets to create interactive spreadsheets and checklists.

Next, you have to figure out how to distribute your product. The easiest way to distribute PDFs is by uploading them to your WordPress media library. Then you can give customers the link, and they can download the PDF from there.

Lastly, you’ll have to set up payment processing and order fulfillment. A plugin like Woocommerce can automate most of this, but you’ll have to tie it to a processor like Stripe or PayPal.

Woocommerce can even connect to an email tool like ConvertKit, so as soon as your customer finishes their checkout, they’ll get an email with a link to their download.

Barring any issues, you won’t have to do anything but watch your bank account grow.

4. Email Newsletter

One effective way to monetize a coupon blog is by creating an email newsletter. This method allows you to build a loyal audience and engage with your readers on a more personal level. Let's explore how to monetize a coupon blog with an email newsletter and the pros and cons of email marketing for coupon bloggers.

How to Monetize a Coupon Blog with an Email Newsletter

Email newsletters are a powerful tool for coupon bloggers. They allow you to connect directly with your audience, sharing exclusive deals, tips, and discounts. With the right strategy, you can not only grow your subscriber base but also create a steady income stream through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and promoted content.

To start monetizing with an email newsletter, build a solid mailing list. Encourage your blog visitors to subscribe by offering an enticing incentive, like a free ebook of the best current coupons or exclusive subscribers-only deals. Once you have a healthy list, segment your audience based on their interests in various coupon categories or brands. This way, you can tailor your content and offers, increasing engagement and making it more appealing to potential sponsors.

Once your newsletter is up and running, incorporate affiliate links strategically within your emails. For instance, highlight special promotions from brands you trust and include link-outs to their products or services. When your subscribers click through and make purchases, you earn a commission. This method works particularly well for coupon bloggers since your audience is already looking for deals. They are primed to take advantage of the offers you send them, making it more likely you will see conversions.

Another way to monetize your newsletter is through sponsored content. Once you build a solid following, brands may approach you for dedicated placements in exchange for a fee. Sponsored emails can be a win-win; your subscribers get great deals, while you earn income without compromising your blog's integrity or offer value.

Pros and Cons of Email Marketing for Coupon Bloggers

• Pros:
  • Direct connection with your audience: Email allows you to reach subscribers directly in their inbox, enhancing engagement and building loyalty.
  • Targeted marketing: You can segment your list to deliver tailored coupon offers based on your subscribers' interests.
  • Higher conversion rates: Since your subscribers are seeking deals, they're more likely to react positively to your promotions, boosting your affiliate earnings.
  • Brand partnerships: Large email lists can attract sponsors, giving you opportunities for monetizing through sponsored content.
• Cons:
  • Growing your list: Building an email list takes time and commitment, especially in the competitive space of couponing.
  • Maintenance: Regular upkeep and content creation for your newsletters are essential, which can be time-consuming.
  • Deliverability issues: Sometimes, emails end up in spam folders, which can lower your overall readership.
  • Unsubscribes: If your content isn't relevant or engaging enough, you may face higher unsubscribe rates, affecting your reach.

5. Consulting and Coaching Services

Consulting or coaching is exchanging your expertise and time for a fee. Your customers need an expert, and you’ve proven yourself to be that expert.

As you become an authority in the industry, people will reach out to you with questions about topics they consider you an expert in.

Now, you don’t have to charge for being helpful, but you should place a dollar value on your time.

As a coupon blogger, you extensive knowledge of the industry. If a reader reaches out to you asking for help, you should get paid for that effort.

How To Monetize A Coupon Blog With Consulting Services

Monetizing a coupon blog with consulting services is similar to selling sponsored posts.

Put a “Coaching” option in your nav bar that goes to a landing page outlining your consulting services and your hourly rate. This will help head off some of the people looking for free advice.

Then, wait for requests to come in, evaluate them, and propose your offer. If the customer accepts, send them an invoice using PayPal or another payment processor, and schedule the call.

Pros and Cons of Selling Consulting Services for Coupon Bloggers

Selling consulting services can be a great way for coupon bloggers to monetize their expertise. Many readers trust bloggers to share tips on saving money and managing budgets. This creates an opportunity to offer personalized advice for a fee. People often seek one-on-one guidance, making it a potentially lucrative venture.

However, there are some downsides. Consulting requires a significant time investment. You’ll need to balance this with your regular blogging schedule. Plus, not all readers may be open to paying for services. You might face some resistance if they’re used to getting free content. It's important to establish your worth to avoid undercutting yourself.

Another pro is flexibility. You can set your own rates and choose your clients. This can lead to more rewarding and tailored interactions. The ability to adapt your services based on feedback can help you grow your consulting business over time.

On the flip side, marketing your consulting services can be challenging. Standing out in a crowded market requires smart strategies and persistent effort. You'll need to continue to promote your services through your blog, social media, or even email newsletters. Balancing this can add pressure to your workload.

Coupon Blog Monetization FAQs

What Is The Best Way To Make Money From Coupon Blogging?

If you want to build a successful coupon blog, then affiliate marketing is the best way to monetize it. It’s the least intrusive way to make a lot of money from your site without much extra effort.

Can I Make A Full-Time Income From Coupon Blogging?

Absolutely! Some coupon blogs, like Hip 2 Save and Money Saving Mom get hundreds of thousands of monthly visitors. That’s enough for a full-time income for a small team of people.

How Do I Start a Coupon Blog?

Learning how to start a coupon blog is the first best way to use your expertise to start an online business.

You need to register a domain, install WordPress, and publish great content. It's a lot of work, but totally worth it!

How Do Coupon Bloggers Get Paid?

Most coupon bloggers make money through affiliate commissions and advertising fees. Both of these monetization methods pay out one or two months after the fees have been generated.

Some coupon bloggers also sell sponsored posts, consulting services, or their own products. In these cases, a payment processor like PayPal or Stripe is necessary.

Is Coupon Blogging Easy?

Nothing worth doing is truly easy, but that doesn’t mean coupon blogging isn’t fun.

As a coupon blogger, you’ll get to go places, try new things, and meet new people. And it will be part of your business! What could be cooler than that?

Is It Worth Starting A Coupon Blog?

It’s absolutely worth it to start a coupon blog. Not only can you make a living from it, but you can also build a community and control the conversation.

Once you’re an established authority, people in coupon-related industries will take you seriously.

Final Thoughts on Monetizing a Coupon Blog

Now that you've learned all the ways to monetize your coupon blog step by step, here's a bonus tip for you:

Use multiple monetization methods!

Diversifying your income streams is key to securing your blog’s future.

Promote affiliate offers, display ads, and even create your own products. That way, if one income source dips, your business stays strong.

By taking this layered approach and putting in hard work, you’ll be on your way to earning what your online business truly deserves.

Why You Should Trust Our Coupon Blogging Content

You may be thinking, "that's all great, but what does Lasso know about coupon blogging?"

Quite a lot, actually.

Here's why you can trust our process for building a successful coupon blog:

We've Built Wildly Successful Blogs

Lasso is built for affiliate marketers, by affiliate marketers. We're not gurus; we've walked the walk.

Our team members have built multiple blogs from the ground up, some of them earning over seven figures in revenue.

We put that experience into every guide we write, so you can trust we're giving you a process that works.

We Talk To Coupon Bloggers Every Day

Lasso's WordPress plugin is installed on over 8,000 websites, including a lot of coupon blogs.

Our team supports those bloggers every day as they create awesome content and earn lots of money.

These communications give us a bird's-eye view of what's new in the coupon industry. We take that information and use it to keep these guides as up-to-date and accurate as possible.

We're Super Nerds

We've put a lot of company focus into learning everything we can about blogging, affiliate marketing, SEO, and anything to do with online entrepreneurship.

We attend conferences, collect high-level contacts, read tons of books, and distill all of that information into our content. We pass information onto you that was previously only available to industry insiders.