Understanding and using virtual coupons

Virtual coupons are a powerful tool for event organizers who need to generate a high volume of unique, single-use discount codes. Instead of sharing one general code (like "SAVE10") that can be reused or leaked, Virtual Coupons allow you to provide a unique "one-and-done" code to every attendee or partner.

What are Virtual Coupons?

Virtual Coupons act as alternate codes for a Primary Coupon. When you enable this feature, the system generates a batch of unique alphanumeric strings that inherit all the rules—such as discount value, expiration dates, and applicable tickets—of your primary template.

Key Benefits:

• Security: Each code is typically used once; once redeemed, that specific virtual code becomes void.
• Efficiency: Create hundreds of unique codes at once without manually configuring each one.
• Partner Tracking: Ideal for distribution via third-party sites or local partners to track specific campaign success.

How to Use the Virtual Coupons Feature

Step 1: Create Your Primary Coupon

Before generating virtual codes, you must create a standard coupon to act as the template.

1. Go to Manage Coupons and click Create Coupon.
2. Set your Discount Value, Applicable Tickets, and any Scheduling dates.
3. Primary Code Restriction: It is important to note that once virtual coupons are enabled, the primary code itself can no longer be used for checkout.
4. Important for Bulk Use: If you want to create 500 disposable coupons, your Total Redemption Limit must be at least 500 for the codes to work properly.

Step 2: Access the Virtual Coupon Menu

1. Once the primary coupon is created, locate it in the main coupons menu.
2. Click the pencil icon under the "Virtual Coupons" column for that specific coupon to open the Manage Virtual Coupons menu.

Step 3: Generate Codes

1. Check the box labeled "Enable virtual coupons".
2. Enter the Number of codes you wish to create in bulk. You can increase or decrease this number later as needed.
3. Click Generate Virtual Coupon Codes.

Step 4: Distribute Your Codes

• Copy Coupon Codes: Copies the entire list to your clipboard.
• Download Coupon Codes: Exports the codes into a CSV file, perfect for email marketing platforms.

Configuring "One-Time Use" vs. Cart Behavior

While a virtual coupon is typically "one-time use," its behavior within a single transaction is dictated by the settings of the Primary Coupon.

• Standard Single Use: By default, once a virtual code is processed in an order, it is marked as "Used" and cannot be used again.
• Applying to Multiple Items in One Cart: If your Max Discounts Per Order on the primary coupon is set to more than one (or left blank for unlimited), a single virtual code can apply a discount to multiple tickets within the buyer's cart during that single transaction.
• Strict One-Ticket Limit: If you want a virtual code to only discount a single ticket even if a buyer has many in their cart, set the Max Discounts Per Order on the primary coupon to 1.

Virtual Coupon FAQ

How many virtual codes can I generate?

You can generate as many as you need, but ensure your Total Redemption Limit on the primary coupon is equal to or greater than the number of virtual codes you plan to distribute.

Can a virtual code be used more than once?

Yes, depending on the status. While typically used as single-use codes, you can manually edit a code's status to Unlimited in the management table, or delete an unused code to free up a redemption.

If I delete a virtual code, does it free up a "use"?

Yes, if a code is deleted before being redeemed, it no longer counts against your primary coupon's limits.

Troubleshooting: Why isn't a virtual code working?

• Usage Status: Check the Manage Virtual Coupons table. If it is marked as Used, it has already been redeemed.
• Primary Coupon Limits Reached: If the primary coupon's Total Redemption Limit is met, all associated virtual codes will stop working, even if they appear as "Available."
• Stock Cap Exhausted: If your primary coupon has a Max Discounted Tickets (Stock) limit, the virtual codes will expire once that total ticket count is reached.
• Timing and Expiration: Ensure the current time is within the Start and End dates set on the primary coupon.