> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.dc.ag/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Value or Discount Coupon?

> The difference between a value coupon and a discount coupon and when to use which

dynamic commerce Coupon Codes distinguishes between two fundamentally different types of coupons. Which one you need is decided when creating a coupon code via the **value type** (and, for amount, additionally via the **Value Coupon** toggle).

## Discount Coupon

A discount coupon grants a **reduction** on the order when the code is entered. It is a marketing and promotional tool.

* **Value types:** Amount (fixed reduction), Percent (percentage discount), Item (free item) or Special Shipping (special shipping conditions).
* **Possible conditions:** Minimum order value (**From Amount**), maximum number of uses and a validity period (**Start/End Date**).
* **Consumption:** According to the defined rules, for example once or up to the maximum number of uses.

## Value Coupon

A value coupon is more of a **means of payment** than a discount. It carries a balance that can be used across multiple purchases.

* **Creation:** Select the value type **Amount** and additionally activate the **Value Coupon** toggle.
* **Balance:** The credited balance does not expire. With each redemption, the amount used is deducted until the value is exhausted. The **Amount Available** field shows the remainder.
* **Posting:** Value coupons are posted via the general ledger account defined in the [setup](/docs/en/bc-coupon-codes/user-guide/einrichtung).
* **Conditions:** Usually none (no minimum order value, no usage limit), since it is a balance.

## Comparison

| Aspect            | Discount Coupon                         | Value Coupon                    |
| ----------------- | --------------------------------------- | ------------------------------- |
| Purpose           | Reduction / promotion                   | Balance / means of payment      |
| Value type        | Amount, Percent, Item, Special Shipping | Amount + "Value Coupon" toggle  |
| Reusable          | Depending on rules (e.g. max. number)   | Yes, until balance is exhausted |
| Remaining balance | No                                      | Yes (Amount Available)          |
| Conditions        | From Amount, max. uses, period          | Usually none                    |

## Which one do I choose?

* You want to run a **discount promotion** (e.g. 10 % during a promotional period, free item from a certain cart value, free shipping): **Discount Coupon**.
* You want to issue a **balance** that works like a gift card and can be redeemed multiple times: **Value Coupon**.

## Related Topics

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Create Coupon Codes" icon="ticket" href="/docs/en/bc-coupon-codes/user-guide/gutschein-codes-erstellen">
    Select the value type and create the coupon code.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Use Cases & Best Practices" icon="lightbulb" href="/docs/en/bc-coupon-codes/user-guide/anwendungsfaelle">
    Typical scenarios and practical tips.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>