Are you a Starbucks addict? Do you find yourself craving their delicious drinks but feeling guilty about the cost? Well, fear not! I’ve got you covered with these 14 easy hacks to help you get your favorite Starbucks drinks for free or at a discounted price.
Say goodbye to spending a fortune on your daily caffeine fix and hello to saving money while still indulging in your favorite beverages. So, grab your reusable cup and get ready to dive into the world of free Starbucks drinks!
Join the Starbucks Rewards Program
The first step to unlocking free Starbucks drinks is to join the Starbucks Rewards Program. There are many benefits to joining the Starbucks rewards program. This loyalty program offers a range of benefits, including free drinks and personalized offers.
By becoming a member, you receive a complimentary Starbucks birthday drink and one Star for each dollar you spend. In addition, you’ll also get complimentary brewed hot or iced coffee and tea refills, personalized offers, and the convenience of ordering ahead for in-store pickup. And here’s a green bonus: Bring your reusable cup and receive 25 Stars along with a 10-cent discount, reducing waste and rewarding you at the same time.
Simply sign up on the Starbucks website or download the Starbucks mobile app to get started. Watch for special promotions and bonus star challenges to make even more rewards.
Free Starbucks Drink: How Many Stars Are Required?
25 Stars: Customize your drink with extras like an extra espresso shot, syrup, or a dairy substitute.
100 Stars: Redeem for brewed hot coffee, a bakery item, such as pastry, or a hot tea.
150 Stars: Treat yourself to a handcrafted drink, a hot breakfast item, or a parfait.
200 Stars: Enjoy a protein box, a delicious sandwich, or a bag of whole-bean coffee.
400 Stars: Unlock the flexibility to choose between four free cups of coffee at Starbucks or redeem a Starbucks signature product like a travel cup or an accessory valued at under $20 (before-tax).
Latest stars redemption tiers.
Bring Your Own Reusable Cup and Get 25 Free Stars
If you bring your own clean, personal reusable cup to a Starbucks cafe when you order, you’ll get 25 Stars on your purchase and save 10 cents on your drink. These 25 Stars can be used for free customization, like an extra espresso shot or your favorite syrup.
This fantastic benefit, known as the Reusable Cup Benefit, can be redeemed up to three (3) times per day and once per order.
For instance, if you bring in two reusable cups and order two handcrafted beverages in a single order, you’ll receive a maximum of one Bonus Star load.
However, it’s important to note that the Reusable Cup Benefit is not available for beverages served in Starbucks-provided “for here” mugs and glassware or for drinks ordered via Drive-Thru or the Starbucks app. To qualify for the Reusable Cup Benefit, members must remain “active” by making at least one (1) Star-earning transaction within the prior two (2) years.
If you make four trips, you’ll earn 100 stars and that’s enough to get a free coffee or tea. However, that’s not the best part.
And remember, the minimum redemption for these hard-earned Stars is 100 for a free hot coffee or tea, bakery item, or snack. So, keep sipping, saving, and earning to reach that 100-star milestone and treat yourself to a free Starbucks drink.
Take Advantage of Birthday Rewards
Make your birthday extra special with a free drink from Starbucks.
As a Starbucks Rewards member, you’re eligible for a free birthday drink. Simply redeem your reward on your actual birthday and treat yourself to your favorite Starbucks beverage. It’ll work with any drink, including handcrafted drinks, frappuccinos, and refreshers.
Just ensure you’re a member for at least seven days before your birthday and have earned at least one star in the past year.
On your birthday, visit any Starbucks store in the U.S. and enjoy a complimentary handcrafted beverage, a food item, or a bottled drink. The best part? You can go all out and customize your drink or even grab something from the food menu for free.
No More 30-Day Wait: In the past, Starbucks gave you 30 days to claim your birthday treat, but now, it’s valid only on your actual birthday. If you can’t make it that day, try contacting Starbucks customer service—sometimes, they’re kind enough to extend the offer. So, go ahead, join Starbucks Rewards, and savor a birthday drink your way!
Take Advantage of Unlimited Free Refills
Starbucks offers unlimited free refills of hot or iced brewed coffee or tea (not espresso drinks, refreshers, frappes, or fancy drinks) during the same store visit at participating Starbucks stores. Starbucks inside of Target stores is one of them. If you leave the store or visit a different one, unfortunately, you won’t be eligible for a refill, so you’ll need to buy a new drink.
To be eligible for this, you’d need to use a registered Starbucks card or the Starbucks app to pay before purchasing your beverage and then again when you request a refill.
Please note that this offer is not available in the drive-thru. Nevertheless, it’s a fantastic way to savor multiple cups of coffee or tea without spending extra money, especially if you’re shopping at Target.
Earn Stars with Every Purchase
As a Starbucks Rewards member, you’ll earn stars with every purchase. The number of stars you earn depends on your membership level and the items you order. For every $1 you spend, you’ll earn one star.
Once you accumulate enough stars, you can redeem them for free drinks and other rewards. How to earn stars:
- Earn 1 Star per $1 spent by scanning your member barcode and paying with various methods, including cash, credit/debit cards, or mobile wallets in participating stores.
- Earn 2 Stars per $1 spent using your preloaded digital Starbucks Card or a registered physical Starbucks Card within the app.
Participate in Buy One, Get One Free Promotions
Keep an eye out for special promotions at Starbucks, such as buy one, get one free deals. These promotions are typically offered during holidays or special events. By taking advantage of these offers, you can enjoy two drinks for the price of one. This is a great way to treat a friend or family member to a Starbucks drink while also scoring a freebie for yourself. Check the Starbucks app or website for information on upcoming promotions and make the most of these limited-time offers.
Collect Stars from Friends and Family
If you don’t visit Starbucks frequently enough to accumulate stars quickly, enlist the help of friends and family. Ask them to scan your Starbucks Rewards card when they make a purchase. This way, you can earn stars faster and reach your free drink rewards sooner. It’s a win-win situation as they get their coffee fix, and you get closer to enjoying a free beverage. So, spread the word and let your loved ones contribute to your Starbucks rewards.
Customize Your Drink for Free
Did you know that you can customize your Starbucks drink for free? Whether you prefer an extra shot of espresso, a different syrup, or a dairy substitute, you can request these customizations without any additional charge. This allows you to tailor your drink to your taste preferences without spending extra money. So, don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different combinations of flavors to make your Starbucks drink truly your own.
Save More Money by Customizing Your Starbuck Drink
When you order a drink at Starbucks, you can make it your own in many ways. There are more than over hundred thousands possible customizations! Some of these can help you save money.
Customize Your Iced Latte
Instead of ordering a regular venti iced caramel macchiato for $6.37, ask for a triple iced espresso ($3.25). Add five pumps of vanilla syrup (+$0.8), a caramel drizzle ($0.6), and 2% milk(free), with regular ice. This custom version costs only $4.98, saving you over a dollar and thirty seven cents.
Use the Starbucks App
Ordering through the Starbucks app or website makes these hacks easier. The app shows the ingredients of drinks and the price, allowing you to customize them precisely to your liking.
Check Regular Drink Components
If you prefer grande or venti sizes, check the regular drink’s components (like espresso shots and syrup pumps) and apply those changes to your iced espresso. For instance, a regular grande iced caramel macchiato costs $5.45, so the $4.35 modified version saves you money.
Apply for a high-yield online savings account.
As a bonus tip, consider applying for a high-yield online savings account. Current APY is pretty good, between 4.5% and 5%.
If you have $5,000 in your savings account, you could potentially earn a $18-$20 a month, helping you save and grow your money over time.
Sometimes, if you open a new account, the bank may offer you a bonus, which is even better!
Find Hidden Funds to Treat Yourself at Starbucks
MissingMoney.com is a website that helps people search for unclaimed property or money that might be owed to them. It can be helpful because many individuals have forgotten about funds or property they are entitled to, such as uncashed checks, forgotten bank accounts, or other unclaimed assets.
While you might not directly get cash for Starbucks through this website, you could potentially discover unclaimed money or property that you can then use as you see fit, including treating yourself to some Starbucks! It’s a way to potentially find money you didn’t even know you had.
Get a Treat for Your Dog for Free
Here’s a fun one that’s not for you but for your furry friend! When you’re at Starbucks ordering your drink, just ask for a “puppuchino.” It’s a small cup of whipped cream that your dog will absolutely enjoy as a special treat.
Enjoy Free Syrups and Toppings as a Gold Level Rewards Member
Once you reach Gold Level status in the Starbucks Rewards Program, you’ll unlock even more perks. One of these perks is the ability to add extra syrups, shots of coffee, and whipped cream to your drink for free. These are usually considered premium add-ons that come at an additional cost, but as a Gold Level member, you can enjoy them without paying anything extra. So, take advantage of this opportunity to enhance your favorite Starbucks beverages without any additional expense.
Order a Larger Size Drink and Share
If you’re planning to visit Starbucks with friends or family, consider ordering a larger size drink and sharing it. For example, instead of ordering individual tall-sized drinks, opt for a venti or grande size and ask for extra cups. This way, you can split the drink among multiple people and save money. It’s a great way to enjoy your favorite beverages together while also keeping your wallets happy. So, the next time you visit Starbucks with a group, consider this cost-saving hack.
Pre-order your Drink with the Starbucks App
Avoid long queues and save time by pre-ordering your Starbucks drink with the Starbucks mobile app. Simply download the app, create an account, and place your order ahead of time. When you arrive at the store, skip the line and head straight to the pick-up counter to collect your drink. This not only saves you time but also ensures that your drink is ready exactly how you like it.
Get Free Water at Starbucks
If you’re in need of a refreshing drink but don’t want to spend any money, Starbucks has you covered. Simply ask the barista for a cup of tap water, and they’ll gladly provide it to you free of charge. This is a great option when you’re on the go and need to stay hydrated without breaking the bank. So, whether you’re enjoying a day of exploring or just passing by a Starbucks store, remember that you can always quench your thirst with a complimentary cup of water.
Look Out for Limited-Time Offers and Special Deals
Stay updated on the latest promotions, limited-time offers, and special deals at Starbucks by regularly checking the Starbucks app or website. Starbucks often introduces new menu items, seasonal drinks, and exclusive discounts for a limited period. By being aware of these offers, you can take advantage of discounted or even free drinks. So, keep your eyes peeled for exciting opportunities to enjoy your favorite Starbucks beverages without spending a fortune.
Earn Free Starbucks Gift Cards with Survey Sites
If you’re a fan of online surveys, you can leverage your participation to earn free Starbucks gift cards. There are various survey sites like Swagbucks, Toluna, and Ibotta that allow you to earn points or cash rewards, which can be redeemed for Starbucks gift cards. Simply sign up for these survey sites, complete surveys, watch videos, or shop online to accumulate points. Once you have enough points, you can redeem them for Starbucks gift cards and enjoy free drinks. It’s a simple and fun way to treat yourself to Starbucks without spending any money.
Contests and Giveaways
Starbucks occasionally holds contests and giveaways through social media platforms or in collaboration with partners. Participating in these contests can be a fun way to win Starbucks gift cards, which can then be used to enjoy your favorite drinks without spending money.
Mystery Shopper Programs
Mystery shopper programs are a unique way to enjoy Starbucks for free. Some companies pay individuals to evaluate their experiences at various stores, including Starbucks. While this might not guarantee free Starbucks every day, it can offer occasional treats in exchange for your feedback on the store’s services.
In conclusion, scoring free Starbucks drinks is easier than you might think. By joining the Starbucks Rewards Program, bringing your own reusable cup, taking advantage of free refills, and participating in special promotions, you can enjoy your favorite beverages without emptying your wallet. Customize your drinks, collect stars from friends and family, and make the most of birthday rewards to maximize your freebies. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can savor the taste of Starbucks without breaking the bank. So, indulge in your favorite drinks and enjoy the satisfaction of a free or discounted Starbucks experience.
Double and Triple Stars Days
On these special occasions, Starbucks rewards you with two to three times the usual number of stars for every $1 you spend. These days happen at least once a month, and Starbucks will notify you about the eligible dates via email or the app.
To snag those extra stars, simply activate the Star Days offer before you make your purchase. If you forget to activate it, you’ll only earn 1 to 2 stars per $1.
Activation is easy – just open your app, find the button that says “activate the offer,” and click it. Once that’s done, you can order your favorite drink as usual, and the bonus stars will be yours.
Interesting Starbucks Hack
Double Trouble
Want two drinks for the price of one at Starbucks? Here’s a simple trick: when you order a cold drink, just ask for two cups with ice. Typically, you get one cup filled with ice and your drink, which means less actual drink. But with this trick, you can get a full cup of your chosen drink without all the ice, essentially giving you two drinks for the price of one.
Discover the Abandoned Drink Section
Ever been curious about what happens to those Starbucks drinks that get misordered, misplaced, or simply forgotten about? Well, here’s a little secret that could save you some bucks: you might be able to snag one for free! Towards the end of the day, Starbucks often ends up with a few drinks that were fully paid for but left behind.
By politely asking the barista if you can have one of these abandoned drinks, you might just score a free beverage. It’s worth a shot, right? Just remember, it’s probably best to pick a drink without milk, and as always, do this at your own risk.
Mistaken Orders
Occasionally, a barista mix-up can actually work in your favor. Maybe you happen to study with your friends at a coffee shop and you might be offered with the drink for free. Or you can kindly inquire if you can take it. It’s a little bonus that can add some unexpected joy to your visit.
Crazy Hack Alert – Mr. X’s Daily Free Coffee
A customer, known as “Mr. X,” managed to secure a free Starbucks drink every single day. Mr. X’s quest for free caffeine began with purchasing a staggering 365 Starbucks Cards, each registered with a different birthdate.
This shady trick lets him claim a free birthday drink every day of the year. Some people might not consider this entirely ethical, so it’s not a recommendation.
In conclusion, scoring free Starbucks drinks is possible with little patience and some efforts.
By joining the Starbucks Rewards Program, bringing your own reusable cup, taking advantage of free refills, and participating in special promotions, you can enjoy your favorite beverages without emptying your wallet.
Customize your drinks, collect stars from friends and family, and make the most of birthday rewards to maximize your freebies. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can savor the taste of Starbucks without breaking the bank. So, indulge in your favorite drinks and enjoy the satisfaction of a free or discounted Starbucks experience.
Vi, a software engineer with a keen interest in personal finance, had planned to retire once she reached her lean FI/RE (Financial Independence/Retire Early) goal. However, after achieving the goal, she took few months of a mini-retirement filled with travel and adventure and decided to continue her career.
For the past five years, Vi has been using Personal Capital (Empower), a free financial tool. Her favorite features include the dashboard for net worth, allocation, and planning, which help track her FI/RE goal and keep those investment fees in check.