Your birthday only comes once a year, so you deserve to celebrate with something special. As a Starbucks fan, you’re in luck – you can score a complimentary drink or food item from your favorite coffee shop on your big day! The Starbucks birthday reward is one of the best perks of the Starbucks Rewards program.
This annual freebie allows members to redeem a free menu item from Starbucks on their birthday. Keep reading to learn pro tips to maximize the value of the Starbucks birthday reward so you can fully take advantage of this tasty member-only perk.
To qualify, you must:
Have an active registered Starbucks card and Rewards account
Have made at least one purchase earning stars in the past year before your birthday
This birthday reward consists of one free menu item under $20. You can choose any handcrafted drink, hot breakfast sandwich, lunch item, sweet treat, or bottled drink. Popular picks are lattes, Frappuccinos, breakfast sandwiches, protein boxes, and Evolution juices.
Just take note that the birthday freebie excludes coffee beans, coffee gear, alcohol, and multi-serve items. But with so many delicious options to choose from, you can still indulge in your favorite Starbucks goodies!
Maximizing the Value of Your Birthday Reward
Since this perk is valid for one menu item up to $20, choose wisely to get the best bang for your free birthday buck! Here are some savvy tips:
Opt for a more expensive espresso drink like a latte over brewed coffee
Size up your drink to a larger grande or venti for more ounces
Add customizations like an extra shot, syrups, and dairy substitutes for free
Pick a food item typically priced over $5 like a sandwich or protein box
Select a pre-packaged Starbucks Doubleshot, Frappuccino, Evolution Fresh juice, or ethos water
Order earlier in the day to enjoy your treat for longer
Use mobile order ahead to skip the line and get your reward faster
With the right selections, you can easily get over $10 worth of food or drink for free. Now that’s one happy birthday!
How to Redeem Your Starbucks Birthday Freebie
When your birthday rolls around, redeeming your annual freebie is simple:
Download the Starbucks app and join Rewards
Make at least one purchase with your registered Starbucks card in the year before your birthday
Confirm your birthday is correct in your account profile
Check for your birthday reward loaded under “Rewards” up to 5 days before your birthday
Open the offer in-app on your birthday and show the barcode to the barista
Enjoy your free drink or food item!
As long as your account is active with an accurate birthday, the offer will automatically appear annually. New members can even qualify if they join at least 7 days before their big day.
If you don’t see your offer on your birthday, contact Starbucks Customer Service to troubleshoot. Just make sure to use your birthday freebie on your actual birthday, as it expires at 11:59 pm that day.
The Value of the Starbucks Rewards Program
The birthday freebie is just one of many benefits you’ll enjoy as a Starbucks Rewards member. Here are some of the perks that provide real savings:
Earn 2 stars per $1 spent when you scan and pay with your linked card
Get bonus stars and Double Star Days for accelerated rewards
Member-only promotions and special offers
Free refills on brewed coffee and tea during the same visit
Personalized offers based on your purchase history
Redeem stars for free drinks, food, and merchandise
Stars expire six months after earning, so be sure to accumulate and cash them in for rewards regularly. Between stars earned on purchases and the annual birthday freebie, the Starbucks Rewards program offers excellent value.
FAQs
How early can I get my birthday reward?
Your offer will appear in your account up to 5 days prior to your birthday.
What time does the offer expire on my birthday?
Make sure to use your reward by 11:59 pm on your actual birthday. After that time, it will expire.
Can I use my birthday reward at grocery store Starbucks locations?
Yes, your offer is valid at participating Starbucks locations including those inside grocery stores.
Do I earn stars when I redeem my birthday freebie?
No, you won’t earn stars on your birthday reward or any other reward redemption.
Can I get a Vertuo coffee pod for my birthday reward?
Unfortunately, coffee pods and bags of coffee beans are excluded from the birthday offer.
What if I missed using my birthday reward?
Expired birthday rewards cannot be reinstated, but your next one will load annually if your account is active.
Make the Most of Your Special Day with Starbucks
Don’t let your birthday pass without taking advantage of your free Starbucks treat! With a complimentary crave-worthy drink or food item, you can celebrate another trip around the sun in delicious style.
Use the tips provided to choose the highest-value menu items and customize your beverage to your liking. With its Rewards program perks like a free birthday pick-me-up, Starbucks makes it easy to indulge on your special day!
