Seasonal clearance is one of the best ways to save big at department stores—but most shoppers miss the window or shop too early to get the deepest discounts. By learning when to buy, what to look for, and how to stack your savings, you can shop smarter all year long. Here’s how to take full advantage of clearance cycles at retailers like Macy’s, Kohl’s, and JCPenney.
Know the Right Time to Shop Clearance
Clearance items follow predictable markdown cycles tied to retail seasons. Here’s a general guide:
- January–February: Winter apparel, boots, holiday décor, bedding
- April–May: Spring clothing, Easter items, lightweight outerwear
- July–August: Summer fashion, swimwear, patio furniture, Fourth of July goods
- October–November: Back-to-school leftovers, early fall styles, Halloween
Retailers start marking items down near the end of each season, but the best clearance prices hit after the season is over. That’s when you’ll see discounts of 60–80% or more.
Use Store Tags to Decode the Deal
Department stores use price tag endings and color codes to indicate markdown levels:
- Macy’s: Prices ending in .96 or .93 typically signal final clearance
- Kohl’s: Yellow stickers usually indicate clearance; items ending in .00 or .99 are last-chance markdowns
- JCPenney: Tags ending in .97 or labeled “RED ZONE” are typically closeout pricing
Scan barcodes using each store’s mobile app to check for further untagged markdowns:
Shop Off-Season to Maximize Value
The key to seasonal clearance shopping is buying items when you don’t need them.
- Stock up on winter gear in late February
- Buy swimsuits in August
- Grab backpacks and school gear in October
While it may feel premature or late, these purchases position you to save significantly compared to peak-season pricing.
Stack With Coupons, Loyalty, and Payment Rewards
Clearance items often qualify for additional savings—especially if the store allows promo code stacking. Check for current offers via their websites.
Stretch Your Budget With Gift Card Strategies
While not all clearance items qualify for coupons, they can still be paid for using gift cards. To get even more out of your purchase, consider earning cashback with a Kohl’s gift card or getting rewards with a JCPenney gift card through Fluz. This lets you capture value on top of deep discounts. If you’re not using Fluz yet, download the app here and be ready for your next clearance run.
Don’t Wait Too Long
Final markdowns come with limited size and color availability. Shop early during the clearance phase if you want variety, or late if you’re focused strictly on price. Combine both strategies by checking inventory online and reserving for store pickup when possible.
