Restaurant servers can exploit coupons in various ways to commit theft.
By: Doug Rector ~
3/18/2025
Here are some common methods:
- Pocketing the Discounted Amount
- A server applies a coupon to a customer’s bill but charges them full price. They then pocket the difference.
- Example: A $20 coupon is applied, but the customer still pays full price in cash. The server keeps the $20.
- Using Unredeemed Coupons
- If a restaurant has a lenient coupon policy, servers might collect unused or discarded coupons and apply them to cash-paying customers’ bills.
- They then take the discount amount for themselves.
- Fake Coupon Scams
- Servers generate or use expired/ineligible coupons to reduce a bill and pocket the difference.
- Example: A server applies a discount from an expired promotion and keeps the extra cash.
- Fraudulent Void Transactions
- The server rings up an order, applies a coupon, and then voids the check after the customer leaves.
- They keep the payment, making it appear as if the order was canceled.
- Coupon Stacking
- Some restaurants allow multiple coupons on a single check. A dishonest server might apply multiple discounts to a bill and keep the extra cash.
- Reusing Coupons
- Digital or printed coupons can sometimes be used multiple times.
- A server might apply the same coupon code to multiple checks, keeping the savings.
- Overcharging and "Refunding" Themselves
- A server overcharges a customer, later "corrects" it by applying a coupon to the check, and takes the extra money.
How Restaurants Can Prevent This
- Require manager approval for coupon use.
- Track coupon redemptions in the POS system.
- Audit cash transactions regularly.
- Limit coupon stacking and set expiration controls.
Would you like help drafting policies to prevent coupon fraud in your restaurant?
Doug Rector
