There are two different kinds of codes, and they work differently:
Referral codes are handed out by other CareerLab HQ users. Entering one gets you $5 off your first month on Essential or Professional — you still pick a plan and check out, the discount just applies automatically. The person who gave you the code gets a free month once you complete your first payment.
Access codes are issued directly by the CareerLab HQ team (support, early-access invites, promotions). Entering one upgrades your account to whatever tier it grants immediately, at no cost — there's no checkout step, since no payment is involved.
Both are entered in the same box on the Redeem page; CareerLab HQ detects which kind it is and routes you accordingly.
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