How to Score Dollar General Penny Items Like a Pro
Want to know how everyone’s scoring those Dollar General penny items?
You’ve probably heard whispers about people finding brand-name items for just a penny at Dollar General. Sounds fake, right? But it’s 100% real—and surprisingly easy once you know the rules. Below is your no-fuss tutorial on how to find Dollar General penny items, save a ton, and maybe even have some fun doing it.
NOTE: Once something is marked a penny, it’ll stay that way—but occasionally resets do happen, so always double-check using the app.
What Is Penny Shopping at Dollar General?
Basically, when DG clears out seasonal items or discontinued stuff, it goes through markdown phases—25%, 50%, 70% off – and then eventually becomes a penny item. These items are meant to be pulled from the shelves by staff. But if they miss something, it’ll ring up for $0.01 at the register.
That’s where you come in.
Penny shoppers keep an eye on these markdown cycles and pounce when the items are accidentally left on the floor. It’s like a scavenger hunt – with a serious adrenaline rush when you score!
Penny Shopping Rules You Gotta Follow
These aren’t just suggestions – they’re the unofficial commandments of penny shopping. Break them, and you risk ruining the whole game for everyone.
🚫 Rule #1: Don’t Talk About Penny Items (Seriously)
Do not ask store employees about penny items. If you do, they’ll just remove them. They’re supposed to pull them anyway, so asking for help is like snitching on yourself.
🔍 Rule #2: Don’t Ask Employees to Price Check
Want to know if something’s a penny? Use the Dollar General app. Asking a cashier will just get the item pulled or denied.
- Open the DG app
- Tap “Lists”
- Click the barcode scanner in the top right
- Scan your item
Easy. If it doesn’t ring up right, just quietly put it back. No big deal.
☎️ Rule #3: Don’t Call Corporate
This isn’t the hill to die on. DG doesn’t have to sell you penny items, and if you complain, it’ll just make them tighten up on the deals. Play it cool and don’t blow up the spot.
🧹 Rule #4: Don’t Trash the Store
Clean up after yourself. Don’t leave piles in the aisle or knock stuff over. Let’s not make it harder for future penny hunters.
😎 Rule #5: Be Cool, Have Fun
This is supposed to be fun. Be kind to employees and fellow shoppers. It’s not Black Friday—there’s no need to wrestle over expired Easter candy.
How to Actually Find Penny Items
Now for the good stuff. Here’s how to find penny items without wandering the store for hours or annoying anyone.
1. Download the Dollar General App
You’ll need this to scan items as you go. The price will show up right in the app.
2. Check the Weekly Penny Lists
Find these in penny shopping Facebook groups, Reddit, or TikTok. People post UPCs, photos, and the locations where they found them.
Just know that not all stores are the same. Some items might’ve already been pulled at one store but not another.
3. Learn the Markings
Look for tags with dots or stars – especially older ones with season codes like F21, S22, etc. These are often the ones that hit the penny stage.
4. Put Everything in Your Basket Before Checkout
According to DG policy, you can only buy what’s in your cart at the time of the scan. So if something rings up for a penny, don’t try to run back for more – it’ll be too late. That’s why some people clear shelves. (We get it, but be mindful.)
5. If It Rings Wrong, Just Say “Nah”
If something doesn’t ring up how you thought, just say:
“Oh, you know what? I’m not going to need that after all. Thanks!”
No drama. No confrontation.
6. Keep a Screenshot of the Penny Policy
Sometimes staff gets confused or weird about it. Having the policy handy can help, but again – be nice.
Final Thoughts
We hope this guide made Dollar General penny shopping feel a little less intimidating and a lot more fun. Think of it as a treasure hunt with wild savings, but remember – if you’re respectful and low-key, you’ll get way further in the long run.
Want more penny shopping tips? Come hang with us in our Hot Deals Facebook Group for weekly updates, screenshots, and hauls.
-
Kate Spade Outlet Sale: Extra 25% Off Fall Styles
The Kate Spade Outlet Fall Sale features an extra 25% off, with select merchandise already marked up to 70% off. Shop handbags, wallets, clothing, jewelry, shoes, and accessories while available.
-
LocknLock Container Deal: Get 13 Pieces for $22.99
QVC has the LocknLock 13-piece Nostalgic Nestable Multi-Shape Set for $22.99, down from $34. Choose from several colors while the discounted price and preferred options remain available.
-
Kohl’s Sephora Beauty Sale – Save 50% at Kohl’s
Sephora at Kohl’s is offering 50% off select beauty products through September 17. New one-day deals arrive throughout the event, with savings on makeup, skincare, fragrance, haircare, and body products. Kohl’s coupons and Kohl’s Cash do not apply, and popular items may sell out early.
-
Moultrie Trail Camera Deal – Save 34% on a 2-Pack
Amazon has marked down the Moultrie Edge 3 Cellular Trail Camera two-pack to $99 for a limited time. That is 34% off the listed price of $149.99. Each camera offers 40MP photos, 1080p video, a 0.5-second trigger, low-glow flash, GPS and multi-carrier connectivity.
-
MIULEE Blackout Curtains: Save 29% on Amazon
Amazon has the MIULEE 100% Blackout Linen Curtains for $27.74 during a limited-time deal. That is 29% off the $38.99 list price for a two-panel, 52×84-inch copper brown set.
-
10 Beauty & Wellness Products Worth Buying Now
Discover 10 beauty and wellness products designed to make everyday routines feel a little more special. From skincare and supplements to travel-friendly fragrance, relaxation essentials and thoughtful self-care finds, these products were chosen for their useful features, appealing ingredients and ability to fit naturally into busy routines.
