Love Starbucks but hate the price? You’re not alone.

The good news? There are plenty of legit ways to get your favorite drinks for free.

From reward hacks to secret discounts, you can sip smarter without giving up your daily treat.

Here’s how to start saving—one free drink at a time!

1. Join Starbucks Rewards for Free Drinks

If you’re serious about scoring free Starbucks drinks, your first step should be joining the Starbucks Rewards program.

It’s the most consistent way to turn your everyday coffee run into free drinks, food, and even merch.

Think of it as a VIP pass with no strings attached to the treats you want.

What Is Starbucks Rewards?

Starbucks Rewards is a loyalty program where you earn “stars” for each purchase.

These stars add up and can be traded in for free drinks, snacks, and even merchandise.

Every order earns you stars when you pay through the Starbucks app or with a registered Starbucks card.

It’s more than just a points program—it’s a way to enjoy your coffee habit without breaking the bank.

The more you use it, the more rewards you unlock.

If you skip it, you’re literally leaving free drinks on the table.

How Many Stars for a Free Drink?

The program uses tiers. The more stars you save, the better the rewards:

• 25 Stars: Add a free shot of espresso, syrup, or dairy alternative to any drink.
• 50 Stars: Grab a hot brewed coffee or hot tea.
• 100 Stars: Choose between a brewed coffee, iced coffee, tea, bakery item, or snack.
• 150 Stars: Redeem for handcrafted drinks (like lattes or iced mochas), parfaits, or breakfast items.
• 200 Stars: Get a hot breakfast sandwich, protein box, salad, or a fancier handcrafted drink like a Frappuccino.
• 300 Stars: Treat yourself to a lunch sandwich, protein box, or even a bag of coffee beans.
• 400 Stars: Redeem for premium merch like a reusable tumbler, signature mug, or high-quality bag of whole-bean coffee (up to $20 in value).

Just remember—rewards may vary slightly by location, and how you pay affects how many stars you earn. Always check the current policy on Starbucks’ site or app.

How to Earn Stars Faster

Want to rack up stars quickly? Here’s how to boost your star balance without buying more than you need:

• Double Star Days: These special days give you 2x the stars on all purchases. Turn on notifications in the app so you never miss them.
• Bonus Star Challenges: Watch for custom challenges in the app where you earn extra stars by buying specific items.
• Use the App or a Registered Card: Always pay using the Starbucks app or a registered Starbucks card to earn stars.
• Starbucks Visa Card: Use the Starbucks Rewards Visa to earn up to 3 stars per $1 at Starbucks. New users can even get a 2,500-star bonus after meeting a spending threshold.
• Grocery Store Starbucks Products: Buy Starbucks coffee beans or K-Cups from grocery stores and enter the receipt online to earn stars.
• Online Purchases: Items like mugs or coffee bought through Starbucks.com also earn stars.
• Referral Bonuses: Invite friends to join Rewards. If they sign up and make a purchase, you both earn free stars.
• Pay for Refills with the Same Card: Use your registered card or app to pay for your drink and refill. It helps track your purchases and maximizes your rewards.
• BOGO Offers: While not directly tied to stars, these promos stretch your dollars and let you bank stars faster.
• Exclusive Deals: Starbucks sends app users special offers that reward extra stars for limited-time purchases.

2. Use the Starbucks App to Stay Ahead

Order Ahead & Earn More

With the Starbucks app, you can skip the long lines by ordering your coffee online, making your experience feel VIP.

Available for both iPhone and Android, the app allows you to place your order ahead of time so your drink is ready for pickup at the counter.

The app also gives you easy access to your rewards account, letting you track your stars earned through purchases.

When you pay using the app, whether through a preloaded gift card or a linked bank account, you earn stars for every purchase.

You can earn 2 stars per $1 spent if you register your gift card and use it via the app, while some transactions may give you 1 star per $1.

This means more opportunities to redeem free drinks.

Plus, the app allows you to manage your Starbucks card, which is essential for enjoying free in-store refills of brewed coffee and tea when you use the registered card.

Get Personalized Offers

The Starbucks app offers exclusive benefits and personalized offers based on your coffee purchase history.

As a registered Rewards member, you may receive special deals to help you earn more stars, making it easier to get free drinks.

The app also notifies you of these offers through push notifications, so you won’t miss out on exciting deals tailored just for you.

Receive Notifications About Freebies and Promos

One of the best features of the Starbucks app is the notifications about freebies and promotions.

The app will alert you about Happy Hour specials, where you can get drinks at half-price or enjoy 2-for-1 deals.

You’ll also get notifications for double stars earning events, which are perfect for maximizing your rewards.

The app lets you know about BOGO drink offers, discounts on seasonal favorites, and even bonus star challenges to boost your star count faster.

Plus, when your birthday rolls around, the app will send you a notification for your free birthday reward.

To stay in the loop and never miss a deal, make sure to opt-in to receive marketing and promotional offers from Starbucks.

With the app, you’ll always be in the know about how to score more Starbucks goodies.

3. Don’t Miss Your Free Birthday Drink

How to Qualify

To qualify, you must be a registered Starbucks Rewards member with your birthday entered in your account.

You also need to sign up at least seven days before your birthday and make at least one purchase before your birthday comes around.

Once you’re set up, a birthday coupon will appear in your Starbucks app.

When you visit the store, just show and scan your app to redeem it. That’s it.

What Can You Order for Free?

Your birthday reward gives you plenty of flexibility.

You can usually pick any size drink—yes, even a Venti or Trenti—and go for handcrafted favorites like a Caramel Frappuccino, an Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Espresso, or a Matcha Green Tea Latte.

If you’re in the mood for food, you can choose from items like banana bread, a breakfast sandwich, or even a bottled drink.

Some people use the opportunity to try something completely new, like a trending seasonal drink or a custom creation from the secret menu.

Go all out. It’s your birthday!

Important Birthday Reward Rules

Here’s the key thing to remember: the free birthday item is only valid on your actual birthday.

Starbucks used to offer a wider redemption window, but not anymore.

So, don’t wait. Set a calendar reminder, plan your visit, and grab your free treat.

If something comes up and you can’t make it on that day, try reaching out to Starbucks customer service—they may be able to help.

4. Take Advantage of Starbucks Refills Policy

How Free Refills Work

To get a free refill, you must be a Starbucks Rewards member and pay with a registered Starbucks card or the Starbucks app.

You also need to use the same registered card or app when you request your refill.

This isn’t just a nice gesture—it’s a built-in perk of being part of the Starbucks Rewards program.

No extra hoops to jump through. Just pay with your registered method, and refills are on the house.

What’s Eligible?

Refills are limited to brewed coffee and tea only. That includes hot or iced coffee, cold brew, and hot or iced tea.

The cool part? It doesn’t matter what your original drink was. You could start with a fancy Frappuccino and then refill with a simple iced tea or brewed coffee.

As long as it’s a brewed beverage, the refill is free.

Must You Stay in the Store?

Yes. This is one of the most important rules. To be eligible for a free refill, you have to stay inside the store.

If you leave—even just to run an errand or hit the drive-thru—your visit is considered over.

That means any new drink will be a new purchase.

The refill perk is designed for people who hang out in-store, whether you’re working, studying, or just relaxing.

5. Look Out for Buy One Get One Free (BOGO) Deals

BOGO deals are one of the easiest ways to enjoy free Starbucks without needing points or rewards.

These buy-one-get-one-free drink specials pop up throughout the year and can save you money, especially when you’re already planning to grab a handcrafted beverage.

While getting a completely free drink from Starbucks isn’t always simple, BOGO deals make it easier to enjoy more for less.

When They Happen (Happy Hour + Special Events)

BOGO deals often show up during Starbucks Happy Hour, which usually runs on select Thursdays from 2 PM to 7 PM at participating locations.

During this window, you can buy one handcrafted drink and get another free.

It’s a solid deal for meeting up with a friend—or grabbing a backup for later.

Beyond Happy Hour, Starbucks also launches seasonal and holiday promotions that include BOGO deals.

These limited-time events can happen at any point in the year, so it’s worth staying alert.

How to Get Notified in Time

The best way to catch these deals is by using the Starbucks mobile app.

It will send push notifications about upcoming Happy Hour events and other 2-for-1 specials.

Inside the app, check the rewards section regularly for new offers and updates.

Thursdays are especially important—there may be a redeemable coupon waiting for you.

You should also check your email for announcements and pay attention to in-store signs that promote local deals.

To make sure you’re in the loop, join the Starbucks Rewards program, opt into marketing emails, and consider following Starbucks on social media for updates and surprise promos.

6. Bring Your Own Cup for a Discount

One of the simplest ways to save money at Starbucks—while helping the planet—is by bringing your own reusable cup.

It’s a small change that adds up fast.

How Much You Save Each Time

Every time you bring your own cup, Starbucks gives you a $0.10 discount on your drink. It might not sound like much, but it adds up.

If you grab a coffee daily, that’s $36.50 in savings per year, which could equal around 18 free cups of coffee just from bringing your own cup.

Environmental + Budget-Friendly Benefits

Bringing your own cup helps the environment by cutting down on waste.

It’s a simple step toward being more eco-conscious while sipping your coffee.

On the budget side, you not only get the $0.10 discount, but you might even get a little more drink than you paid for.

If you bring in a larger reusable cup and order a smaller size, baristas often fill it to the top, giving you more coffee for less.

So you’re saving money, reducing waste, and potentially getting more coffee in one go.

It’s a win all around—and yes, you’ll probably look a little cooler with your own stylish cup too!

7. Score Free Starbucks Gift Cards

You don’t always need to spend money at Starbucks to get rewarded.

With a little effort and the right tools, you can earn free Starbucks gift cards just by doing things you already do online—like shopping, scanning receipts, or taking quick surveys.

Use Rewards Apps (Swagbucks, Fetch, Drop, etc.)

Swagbucks is one of the most popular ways to earn gift cards by doing simple online tasks.

You can take short surveys, play games, watch videos, shop, or even browse the internet to earn points.

These points can be exchanged for free Starbucks gift cards.

Swagbucks is widely trusted and even offers a sign-up bonus to new users.

Fetch Rewards works by rewarding you for scanning your grocery receipts. You earn points for purchases, which you can trade in for Starbucks gift cards.

You can also boost your balance by referring friends and family, and new users may get a welcome bonus for signing up.

Drop is a passive rewards app that links to your debit or credit card. When you shop at your favorite stores, you earn points automatically.

Drop also gives you the option to earn more by playing games or answering quick surveys. Starbucks gift cards are one of the many redemption options.

Other similar platforms include Survey Junkie, MyPoints, and American Consumer Opinion.

Each allows you to earn points for tasks like reading emails or answering questions, and most offer sign-up bonuses too.

The more apps you use, the faster you can build up rewards for free Starbucks.

Shop Through Cashback Sites

Sites like Rakuten let you earn cashback from everyday online shopping.

You shop through the Rakuten website or app, and they give you a portion of the store’s commission as cashback.

Rakuten partners with thousands of retailers and offers a welcome bonus for new members.

That cashback can go directly toward Starbucks purchases, making your drinks feel like they cost nothing.

Payouts happen quarterly, so if you’re a regular online shopper, this is an easy way to fund your coffee habit over time.

Take Online Surveys for Gift Card Rewards

Taking surveys is another simple way to earn Starbucks gift cards.

Sites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, MyPoints, and American Consumer Opinion let you trade your time and opinions for points.

These points can be redeemed for Starbucks gift cards. It won’t make you rich, but it can easily cover a few lattes here and there.

The key is to sign up for multiple platforms and stay consistent.

Just remember to confirm your email and fill out your profile to start receiving survey opportunities right away.

8. Buy Discounted Starbucks Gift Cards

If you’re looking to save even more on your Starbucks runs, buying discounted gift cards is a smart move.

These cards let you spend less while still enjoying the full value of your drinks.

Where to Find Deals (Raise, Gift Card Granny, etc.)

Discounted Starbucks gift cards are available through several online platforms.

Many websites offer Starbucks cards at reduced prices, sometimes saving you anywhere from 1% to 35%.

Occasionally, you can even find Groupon deals, like a $10 Starbucks card selling for just $5—cutting your cost in half. Keep an eye out for limited-time offers, too.

For example, Starbucks has been known to offer a free $5 e-gift card when you buy a $25 card. That’s instant extra value.

Stack with App Rewards for Bigger Savings

The best part about buying discounted Starbucks gift cards? You can stack them with other money-saving strategies.

Load your discounted card into the Starbucks app, and you’re still eligible to earn stars through the Rewards program.

That means you get full credit toward free drinks, even though you paid less to begin with.

Use your discounted balance during BOGO Happy Hour promos, and you’re doubling your savings.

Every time you use the app to pay, you can earn stars, enjoy exclusive deals, and qualify for perks like free refills and birthday treats.

So, not only are you saving at the start—you’re getting even more value each time you sip.

9. Earn a Free Drink Through Referrals

You don’t always need to spend money to earn your next Starbucks drink.

In some cases, you can simply share the perks with others and earn rewards through referrals—either via apps or directly through Starbucks promotions.

Refer Friends via Rewards Apps

While referral bonuses from rewards apps don’t give you a Starbucks drink instantly, they can lead to free Starbucks gift cards over time.

Apps like Fetch Rewards let you earn points every time someone signs up using your referral code.

These points can later be redeemed for gift cards, including Starbucks.

For example, Fetch may even give you a $2 bonus just for signing up with a referral code.

The Drop app also allows you to earn points from purchases and activities, and although it doesn’t always advertise referral bonuses for free drinks directly, the points you rack up from referrals can still be traded for Starbucks gift cards.

The more people you refer, the more points you collect—and that can mean more free coffee for you.

Watch for Starbucks Promotions with Referral Bonuses

From time to time, Starbucks itself runs referral promotions through its Rewards program.

These deals might reward you with free stars or discounts when someone signs up using your referral link.

It’s a win-win: you help a friend discover the Rewards program, and you move closer to earning a free drink.

These Starbucks referral campaigns aren’t always active, so the key is to watch the app and email updates closely.

When they pop up, act quickly and share the offer with your friends to take full advantage.

10. Use Your Credit Card Points for Starbucks Credit

If you’re already using a rewards credit card, you might be sitting on free Starbucks drinks without realizing it.

Many credit cards let you earn points on everyday spending—groceries, gas, bills—and those points can be redeemed for Starbucks gift cards or even direct Starbucks stars if you have the right card.

Which Cards Offer Starbucks Rewards?

The most Starbucks-friendly option is the Starbucks Credit Card itself. If you qualify and sign up, this card gives you serious perks.

You can earn a sign-up bonus of 2,500 stars after spending just $500 in the first three months.

That’s worth about 20 free drinks. After that, you continue earning 3 stars per $1 spent at Starbucks.

The more you use the card, the faster those stars add up in your Rewards account.

Even if you don’t have a Starbucks-branded credit card, many general rewards credit cards still work.

These cards let you earn points on your usual purchases and later redeem them for gift cards, including Starbucks.

You just need to check if Starbucks is listed as a gift card option in your card’s rewards program.

How to Redeem Points for Gift Cards

Redeeming your credit card points for Starbucks is usually simple.

Log into your credit card’s rewards portal, either online or through the mobile app.

Look for the gift card section and search for Starbucks. Choose the amount you want, and confirm the redemption.

You’ll usually receive a digital gift card code you can apply to your Starbucks app or use in-store.

If you’re using the Starbucks Credit Card, it’s even more streamlined.

The points you earn are automatically converted into stars and added to your Starbucks Rewards account.

You can then use them within the app just like any other earned stars—for drinks, snacks, and even Starbucks merchandise.

11. Watch for Starbucks Social Media Freebies

Starbucks doesn’t just give out rewards in-store or through its app.

If you keep an eye on their social media, you might stumble into some surprise freebies, limited-time deals, and exclusive giveaways that can score you free drinks and gift cards.

Starbucks occasionally hosts giveaways on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, offering everything from gift cards to free drinks.

These giveaways are usually easy to join.

You’ll need to follow Starbucks’ official accounts, keep an eye out for contest announcements, and then engage with the post, usually by liking it, commenting, or tagging a friend.

Sometimes they’ll ask a fun question or have a quick challenge.

Even if you don’t win, following their pages is a good way to stay in the loop on all kinds of upcoming deals and coffee news.

12. Attend Starbucks Special Events for Freebies

Starbucks doesn’t just hand out perks through its app or Rewards program—it also creates real-world experiences where you can enjoy free drinks, samples, or bonus stars just for showing up.

These events are worth keeping an eye on if you’re serious about getting more value from your coffee run.

Throughout the year, Starbucks hosts seasonal events and in-store promotions that can earn you everything from free samples to bonus stars and even free drinks.

During the holiday season, for example, some stores give out stamp cards that reward you with a free Grande holiday drink after a few purchases.

You might also catch summer sampling parties that offer refreshing drink samples.

As we touched on earlier, regular BOGO specials are another easy win, especially during Happy Hour—usually held on select Thursdays from 2 PM to 7 PM.

Starbucks may also offer 50% off any handcrafted beverage during these times.

Using a gift card you earned from another promo or rewards app can double the savings.

Events like Red Cup Day in November are also popular. When you buy a holiday drink, you may receive a free reusable red cup, while supplies last.

And don’t overlook smaller moments—baristas sometimes give away mis-made drinks or offer free sample-size food and beverages in-store.

To catch all of these deals, make sure you’re checking your Starbucks app, email, and in-store signage.

Bonus star offers and double star days are frequently announced through the app, so it’s worth staying connected.

13. Ask About Free Samples In-Store

Sometimes, getting a taste of Starbucks doesn’t cost a thing—literally.

If you’re already inside a Starbucks location, there’s a chance you might be offered a free sample of a drink or snack.

It’s not something that happens every day, but when it does, it’s a nice bonus for simply being in the right place at the right time.

What You Can Try

The free samples usually come in small, bite-sized portions.

They’re often offered to customers who are working, studying, or just relaxing inside the store.

Examples include things like a mini macchiato served in a pup cup or a sample of a Starbucks Oat Bar.

Baristas may offer small sips of new drinks or small bites of snacks to encourage you to try something different.

These samples are meant to give you a quick taste—enough to tempt you into trying the full version on your next visit.

Limited-Time Seasonal Items

You’re more likely to find samples available during seasonal events and promotions.

Around the holidays or during summer campaigns, Starbucks might hand out small tastings of limited-time drinks or food items to help promote new releases.

It’s a great way to try something new without spending money.

While not guaranteed, these opportunities tend to happen when there’s a new menu item or special event going on.

To catch these freebies, just stay alert when you’re in the store.

Baristas may offer them casually, so being friendly and engaged can help.

You can also check the app, store signs, or even ask a barista if there’s anything available to sample that day.

14. Save Money with Secret Menu Hacks

If you love Starbucks but not the prices, a few insider tricks can help you cut costs without cutting quality.

These lesser-known hacks let you enjoy your favorites while keeping your budget intact.

Order a Short (Secret Size)

Starbucks offers a “Short” size, which is 8 ounces—smaller than a Tall but not listed on the regular menu.

It’s part of the unofficial “secret menu” and is perfect when you want a quick caffeine hit without the extra cost.

You’ll save about 15% compared to ordering a Tall, and in many cases, the caffeine content is similar.

A Short can also mean fewer calories while still delivering the same rich flavor.

Best of all, it’s one of the rare Starbucks drinks under $2.

Customize to Save (light ice, no water, split drinks)

Getting more value sometimes means knowing how to ask. For iced drinks, request light ice to get more liquid and less filler.

With iced tea, ask for no water—Starbucks brews their teas as a concentrate and usually dilutes them. Skipping the water gives you nearly twice the tea.

Another trick? Split a Venti drink with a friend. Just order a Venti and ask for two empty Tall cups.

Pour the drink yourself, and you’ve got two smaller drinks for less than the price of two individual Talls—a potential savings of up to $2.

Just be sure to do the splitting on your own, or Starbucks may charge you for two drinks.

For hot brewed coffee or Americanos, try ordering a Tall in a Grande cup (or Grande in a Venti).

You’ll get nearly the same amount of coffee, but pay less than if you ordered the larger size outright, and still have room for cream.

DIY Your Favorite Drinks with Cheaper Combos

Build your own drink and save big. One of the best hacks is to create a DIY iced latte using the condiment bar.

Order a double or triple shot of espresso on ice in a larger cup (Grande or Venti).

Then, head to the condiment station and add free milk, cream, sugar, or even cinnamon and chocolate powder to make your custom latte.

This can save you a dollar or two versus buying a standard iced latte from the menu.

While getting a free Starbucks drink takes effort, these small tricks make your usual order cheaper—and sometimes even better.

15. Get Free Puppuccinos for Your Dog

A Puppuccino is a fun, pet-friendly freebie that Starbucks offers for your four-legged companion.

It’s a small cup filled with whipped cream, usually served in an espresso-sized cup, and it’s meant as a special treat for dogs.

You don’t need to see it on the menu—it’s part of Starbucks’ informal “secret menu.”

To get one, just ask for a Puppuccino at the counter or through the drive-thru when you’re with your pet.

Most baristas are familiar with the request and will happily prepare it.

According to some customers, it’s often given out for free, even in cases where the dog isn’t physically present.

While it’s always good to check with your local store, many customers have had success ordering this doggy delight without being charged.

It’s a small gesture, but it makes your Starbucks run a little more fun for both of you.

FAQs

Do I Get a Free Drink Just for Downloading the App?

Not instantly—but when you download the Starbucks app and join the Rewards program, you start earning stars right away.

Spend money, collect stars, and redeem them for free drinks, with rewards starting at just 25 stars.

Can I Get Any Size Drink for Free?

Yes. On your birthday, or when redeeming rewards for handcrafted drinks, you can typically choose any size, including Venti.

Just make sure your birthday is added to your account and use the app to redeem it on your actual birth date.

Is Starbucks Water Still Free?

Yes. You can still get a free cup of water at Starbucks, even if you’re not ordering anything else.

Can I Stack Discounts with Rewards?

Not always directly, but you can combine smart strategies.

For example, redeem a free gift card during a Happy Hour promo, or use a discounted gift card with the app to earn stars and save at the same time.