Never order online without choosing store pickup, because their shipping rates kill any deal. The real trick is their free Big Rewards program. They email 20% off total purchase coupons every few months, and those actually work on clearance items. Also, check the back red-tag aisles on Fridays right after markdowns.

Big Lots does 10% off for first responders, but you have to link your Big Lots Rewards account through ID.me first. Once it's verified, the discount auto-applies online at checkout. Just note it won't stack with their regular 20% off weekend coupons, so check which saves you more before paying.

You have 30 days to return most online Big Lots stuff to a local store. Just pull up the confirmation email barcode on your phone or bring the packing slip. Heads up: local managers usually reject freight and oversized furniture at the counter, so you’ll have to call corporate support for a pickup.

Just use a burner email for the 15% off code. Heads up though, it usually takes about 10 minutes to actually hit your inbox, so don't stand in line waiting for it. It usually auto-loads into your Rewards account if you link your phone. Doesn't work on clearance or dairy, obviously.