Skip to main content

As the calendar winds down, retailers look to clear out inventory—making the end of the year one of the best times to score deals on office supplies. From overstocked essentials to discontinued tech, these clearance events offer deep discounts if you know what to look for and when to shop.

Here’s how to take advantage of year-end office clearance sales and stretch your budget even further.

Why Retailers Slash Prices in Q4

In the fourth quarter, especially after Black Friday and before inventory resets in January, retailers reduce prices to make room for next year’s stock. This includes:

  • Seasonal and limited-edition office items
  • Obsolete tech and accessories
  • Overstocked essentials (paper, pens, toner)
  • Dated materials like planners and calendars
  • Storage and furniture with discontinued models

Clearance pricing typically appears online and in-store around mid-December and intensifies after Christmas.

Use Cashback Apps to Stack Savings

To make these deals even better, use cashback platforms like Fluz, Rakuten, or Ibotta. You can often buy an Office Depot gift card online or get a BJ’s gift card with cashback and use it toward clearance items—earning rewards even on already-discounted purchases.

These platforms also occasionally offer seasonal bonus boosts, especially during the holiday shopping period.

What to Prioritize During Year-End Sales

Not everything on clearance is a smart buy, but these categories often deliver the most value:

  • Tech accessories: Mice, keyboards, webcams, chargers, and headsets
  • Office furniture: Discontinued desks, chairs, shelving
  • Organization tools: Storage bins, desk trays, binders
  • Paper and writing supplies: Particularly when sold in bulk
  • Planners and calendars: Get them cheap and early for the coming year

Be cautious with perishable or trend-based items that may not be useful long term.

Tips to Maximize Your Savings

  • Combine offers: Use store rewards with cashback gift cards from Fluz for double savings
  • Watch for online-only deals: Clearance items often go live online before hitting stores
  • Sign up for emails: Many retailers send exclusive coupons or early access to clearance events
  • Check return policies: Clearance may be final sale—verify before purchasing in bulk

Final Thoughts

End-of-year clearance sales offer an opportunity to refresh your office, stock up on essentials, and even prep for Q1—all at reduced prices. With a little strategy and help from cashback tools like Fluz, you can turn year-end inventory turnover into long-term savings.