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How can I use voucher codes for my article?
Last updated on October 04, 2026
Voucher codes are single-use discounts. Voucher codes can be used in Elsevier fully open access journals and in a small number of hybrid journals.
The voucher code can be used in either one specific journal or in multiple journals, which depends on the campaign.
When launching a new open access journal, the Editor of that journal will invite a number of authors to publish in the journal for free. Voucher codes will be sent to the authors via email from the Editor. The selected authors then use the codes when they proceed through the author journey (completing the Rights and Access Formopens in new tab/window). Authors can also receive voucher codes through marketing campaigns.
The possible error messages that you might see if there is an error in entering the voucher code are listed below, along with suggested actions to resolve the problem.
Error detail | What does this mean? | Suggested action |
|---|---|---|
Journal not found | Journal name or number that the voucher code is associated with has not been recognised. | Check that the code has been entered correctly. |
No discount for discount code | Code has been created without any discount associated. | Please click the "Chat with us" icon at the bottom‑right for further assistance. |
Discount for discount code is expired | Expiry date for that voucher code has passed. Code therefore is no longer valid. | Please click the "Chat with us" icon at the bottom‑right for further assistance. |
Discount for discount code is not valid | This will happen if the code entered is different from the one stored in the system. | Check that you entered the code correctly. If this does not work, please click the "Chat with us" icon at the bottom‑right for further assistance. |
Voucher is already claimed | This code has already been used against that journal. | Please click the "Chat with us" icon at the bottom‑right for further assistance. |
You may also get a message asking you to contact Customer Support. For further assistance, send us the details of the error message you encountered using the "Chat with us" icon at the bottom‑right.
The voucher code can be applied during the publishing journey to get a waiver or pay the discounted Article Publishing Charge (APC). For more information, visit the link Open access: Voucher codeopens in new tab/window or Publishing Journey videos: How do I complete the Rights and Access form?opens in new tab/window
An open access voucher code consists of a prefix, unique code of 6-8 characters and a postfix. Either the prefix or the postfix includes "OA" or the journal acronym.
Stacking of APC discounts is not possible for a voucher code and a Research4Life discount. However, the author will still receive the best price. For example: The voucher code is a 100% discount and authors from country group B are eligible for a 50% discount. In this case, the author will receive the best discount rate (100%).
Voucher codes are not shown on the invoice. Only the discounted net price is displayed.
Still have a question?
We can help. Click “Chat with us” at the bottom right to reach Eva, our virtual assistant. If none of the suggested topics match your question, choose the option for other topics. Then tell Eva your open access query, including your article reference or invoice number if you have one, and Eva will help directly or connect you with the right team.
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