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

Starting a coupon blog? There’s a lot to figure out, like picking a domain name, setting up WordPress, and creating posts. Once you get the hang of things, it’s time to focus on monetizing your coupon blog.

This part can be super exciting!

Whether you’re just starting out or already a coupon pro, there are solid ways to make money from your blog. With the right strategies, you can turn this fun hobby into a full-time gig. Let’s dive into each method!

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, there are plenty of awesome affiliate products you can recommend. Here’s a solid list to get you started:

1. **Digital Coupons & Cashback Sites**: These platforms allow users to find and use coupons for various retailers. Popular sites like Rakuten or Honey are great examples.

2. **Coupon Books**: Physical or digital coupon books can be a great deal for families looking to save on groceries and dining out.

3. **Subscription Boxes**: Recommend subscription services that offer discounted first-month deals or coupon options. Think about beauty, snacks, or lifestyle boxes.

4. **Discounted Gift Cards**: Websites that sell gift cards at a discounted price can be a hit. Users love saving money even on gifts!

5. **Online Courses and E-books**: Many platforms provide short courses on budgeting, saving, and using coupons effectively.

6. **Budgeting Apps and Tools**: Tools like Mint or YNAB help users track their spending and maximize savings through coupons.

Here are some reasons why these products are great for your audience:

• Cost Savings: They help users save money, which is the primary goal of couponing.
• Budgeting Assistance: Many products enhance financial literacy and budgeting skills.
• Convenience: Online and digital options make it easy for users to access discounts on-the-go.
• Variety: There’s something for everyone; from groceries to gifts, the options are endless!
• Engagement: Affiliate products often drive traffic and engagement through valuable content.

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 solid income source for bloggers. You can earn commissions by promoting products related to your niche. This works especially well if you already have a loyal audience that trusts your recommendations.

One major pro is the flexibility it offers. You can choose which products to promote and create content around them. This allows you to align your affiliate products with your blog's theme, enhancing credibility.

However, there are a few downsides. Competition can be fierce, and standing out might require extra effort. Additionally, your income can be unpredictable, especially if you rely solely on affiliate sales.

Another concern is that not all affiliate programs are created equal. Some might have lower commission rates, or their terms can change unexpectedly. It's essential to do thorough research before signing up for any affiliate program.

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 mixed bag for coupon bloggers. On one hand, they can generate a steady stream of passive income. Once you set them up, they work in the background, allowing you to focus on creating content. This means you can earn money while you sleep, which is a big win.

However, they can also clutter your blog and distract your readers. If the ads aren't well-targeted, they may not appeal to your audience, which could lead to lower engagement. Plus, too many ads can make your site feel spammy, which might deter potential visitors.

Another con is the impact on load times. Heavy ad scripts can slow down your site, frustrating users. A slow website can cause visitors to bounce, negating all the efforts you put into attracting them in the first place. Balancing ads and user experience is key.

Ultimately, the effectiveness of display ads largely depends on your audience and how you deploy them. Testing different strategies can help you find the right approach that keeps your blog looking clean while still making money.

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.

Here’s a quick list of digital products you can sell on your coupon blog:

• E-books: Write guides on saving money or budgeting tips and sell them as e-books.
• Printable Coupons: Create unique printable coupons that visitors can download and use.
• Budgeting Templates: Offer customizable spreadsheets to help people manage their finances.
• Online Courses: Teach users about smart shopping or how to find the best deals through video courses.
• Membership Access: Provide exclusive content or deals for a monthly membership fee.

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 can be a game-changer for coupon bloggers. One major pro is the potential for passive income. Once you create a product like an eBook or a course, it can generate revenue without needing much ongoing work. Plus, the low overhead costs mean you keep most of your profits.

On the flip side, there's a steep learning curve. You need to understand digital marketing, SEO, and sometimes even the tech side of things to launch successfully. That can be overwhelming for some bloggers, especially those who are just starting.

Another advantage is the ability to build brand loyalty. Offering valuable digital content gives your audience a reason to return to your site. However, keeping your audience engaged requires consistent quality and updates, which can be time-intensive.

Lastly, there's always the competition. The digital product market can be saturated, especially if you're in a popular niche. Standing out requires creativity and a unique selling proposition, which can be a challenge but also a chance to showcase your expertise.

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, providing them with valuable content and exclusive deals. By leveraging an email list, you can keep your readers informed about the latest coupons, promotions, and personal savings strategies, all while creating opportunities to monetize your blog.

To monetize your coupon blog through an email newsletter, start by building a quality email list. Offer incentives, like exclusive coupons or a free ebook, to encourage visitors to subscribe. Once you have a sizable list, you can promote affiliate products and services directly within your emails. Look for valuable partnerships with brands that align with your audience's interests. Share links to their offers, and earn a commission for each sale made through your referrals.

Another effective strategy is to use sponsored content. Reach out to businesses that align with your niche and offer to feature their products or discounts in your newsletter. This not only provides value to your readers through exclusive savings but also generates income for your blog. Remember to disclose any sponsored content transparently to maintain trust with your audience.

Lastly, consider creating premium content for your subscribers. This could be in the form of a paid newsletter that offers advanced savings tips, personalized coupon strategies, or access to private sales. This approach can help monetize your blog while fostering community among your most dedicated readers, enhancing their loyalty to your brand.

Pros and Cons of Email Marketing for Coupon Bloggers

• Pros:
  • Direct Engagement: You can communicate directly with your loyal audience, increasing the chances of conversions.
  • Targeted Promotions: It allows for personalized offers based on subscriber interests and preferences, leading to higher response rates.
  • Cost-Effective: Email marketing often leads to a high return on investment, especially when you build a sizable list.
  • Builds Relationships: Regular newsletters help you build a stronger relationship with your audience, increasing trust and loyalty.
• Cons:
  • Time-Consuming: Crafting quality content for your newsletter requires consistent effort and time.
  • Management Challenges: Growing and managing your email list can be complex, especially when maintaining compliance with regulations.
  • Risk of Unsubscribes: Frequent emails may lead to audience fatigue, leading to increased unsubscribes.
  • Deliverability Issues: Emails can end up in spam folders if not optimized correctly, reducing visibility.

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

There are some solid benefits to offering consulting services for coupon bloggers. First up, it can boost your income. If you’ve mastered the art of couponing, sharing your insights can attract clients eager to learn. Plus, it allows you to leverage your existing audience. Your readers already trust you, making it easier to sell your expertise.

However, there are a few downsides to consider. Providing consulting services requires a time investment. You’ll need to craft tailored strategies and offer one-on-one support, which can be time-consuming. Additionally, it can be challenging to manage expectations. Not all clients will see immediate results, and that can lead to dissatisfaction.

Another pro is the ability to diversify your income streams. Beyond just posting about coupons, you can add value by providing personalized guidance. On the flip side, marketing yourself as a consultant can be tricky. You’ll need to promote your services effectively while maintaining the authenticity that drew your audience in the first place.

In short, selling consulting services as a coupon blogger can pay off. But keep in mind the balance between your time, client satisfaction, and maintaining your brand’s integrity. Weigh the pros and cons to see if it fits with your goals.

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

Congratulations! You’re now equipped with all the ways to monetize your coupon blog step-by-step.

But here’s a tip to make it even better:

Diversify your income streams!

Using multiple monetization methods is key to securing your blog’s future.

If you rely on affiliate offers, display ads, and your own products, you won’t be left in the lurch if commissions drop.

With this layered approach, along with your hard work and smart planning, you’ll be well on your way to earning what your blog 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.