7 Ways I Never PAY for Starbucks!

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Starbucks is sometimes the first thing we think of cutting when we start budgeting. We should all know that cutting your daily or weekly Starbucks isn’t going to make you rich overnight. But why pay for it when you can get it for free?

It is definitely one of those daily habits that adds up and can effect your bank account, but probably not going to make you a millionaire or able to buy a house in cash.

That being said, I was always annoyed with how much I was spending. I LOVE some Starbucks when I am running errands (especially as a tired mama and entrepreneur).

When I went to get my coffee the other day, I realized that I can not tell you the last time I actually paid for my Starbucks coffee out of pocket. I usually have anywhere from $20-$60 sitting in gift cards on my Starbucks app for the days when I need it (Or really just want it.)

Even if you get a $5 coffee, 5 days a week, cutting Starbucks will only save you about $1,300 a year. BUT the latte factor kicks in that if you use that $1,300 to pay off debt, put in savings, or invest it. That $1,300 can compound to SO much more!

So I am willing to put in a little extra work to be able to see the compounding effects of not paying for my Starbucks!

7 Ways I NEVER pay for Starbucks

1) Starbucks Rewards App

This is the obvious, but if you aren’t using the Starbucks rewards app, you NEED to jump on it. It seems like almost every restaurant is doing a rewards app and rewarding you for being a continued loyal customer. You can load any gift cards straight into the app.

The app has bonuses for buying certain types of coffee and getting it often. But the app also just gives you “stars” for making a purchase! They also have a free birthday drink when your birthday is entered into the app!

2) Fetch Rewards

Fetch Rewards is a free receipt rebate app! And I LOVE how easy it is. You just download the app, take a picture of your receipts and get points back! You can also connect your Amazon account and your email address for any e-receipts at the click of a button.

If you sign up for fetch through my referral link, we both get a welcome bonus.

 

3) Asking for them for holidays and gift giving holidays.

I am absolutely guilty of saying “I don’t really need anything” for gift giving holidays. I try to humbly say they don’t need to get me anything. If they are asking what you want, they are probably planning on getting something for you whether you answer or not.

Confidently say, “I would really love Starbucks gift cards for the days when I am running low on energy.”  And guess what, I usually get the gift cards. And I am so grateful for them.

4) Ibotta

Ibotta is another rebate app that gives you gift cards back for your receipts. You can get money back for groceries. This app is a little more specific on the brand and size, almost like digital coupons. I like Ibotta because you can try some new foods for “free.” You can also get a percentage back on your shopping if you shop through the app!

I usually get Starbucks or Amazon gift cards when I can out of Ibotta!

If you sign up using my Ibotta referral link, we both get a welcome bonus after you scan your first receipt.

5) Star games

Every once in a while the Starbucks For Life has games on their website. You can enter
without a purchase and have a chance to win stars and free items– up to “Free Starbucks for Life!” There are usually 2-3 difference chances to play throughout the year so try to watch for them if you are interested in playing for them!

6) Free Refills

If you are working in the store (and I BELIEVE this applies to Target with Starbucks locations inside), you can get a free refill. There are limitations to what you can get with it. But as I am writing this, it is hot coffee, iced coffees (not espresso or cold brew) or iced teas. Be sure to ask if your location does it before you assume. But I have used the space to work while drinking my coffee and then taken my refill to go and saved it for the next day! This only is available if they scan your member’s app during payment (or you use the app to pay)

 

7) Buy discounted Starbucks gift cards.

I love using Raise for discounted gift cards. If I DO end up purchasing Starbucks gift cards, this is the place to do it! Because this is a buy and sell site, there isn’t always GREAT deals on more popular gift cards, but I have used it for a ton of other places as well! Every little bit helps!

If you sign up using my Raise referral link, you and I both get a welcome bonus after you make your first purchase! If you are shopping on Raise, make sure you are also using Rakuten!

 

I hope this helped to find a way to get a little sweet treat for free! Do you have another one that isn’t on the list? I would LOVE to hear how you get FREE Starbucks!

 

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