Loyalty programs don’t always sound exciting, but they’re one of the easiest ways to save money without extra effort. Stores, restaurants, and even gas stations are willing to give you discounts or rewards simply for signing up and using their app or card.
Over time, these small perks add up to real savings—sometimes without you noticing until you redeem them. By sticking with the programs I actually use, I’ve been able to save more than $200 in free perks without changing my normal spending.
Starbucks Rewards
With Starbucks Rewards, you earn stars every time you buy drinks or food. Those stars quickly add up to free items, from coffee to sandwiches. Signing up is free, and they often run bonus promotions that give you extra stars just for trying new menu items.
I’ve cashed in free drinks more than once and saved at least $20 in a single year. If you stop there regularly, it’s one of the easiest loyalty programs to make work in your favor.
Target Circle
Target Circle members get personalized offers, birthday discounts, and cash back in the form of Target Circle earnings. You don’t pay anything to join, and the rewards apply both in-store and online.
I’ve redeemed Circle earnings on everyday purchases like groceries and household supplies. The savings may feel small at first, but they add up quickly. Between discounts and rewards, I’ve saved more than $40 through this program.
CVS ExtraCare
CVS ExtraCare gives you coupons and rewards based on what you buy. On top of that, there are ExtraBucks offers that give you credit to use on your next purchase.
It’s especially valuable if you pick up prescriptions, beauty products, or household items at CVS. Over the course of a year, I’ve saved around $30 in rewards and discounts without spending extra effort.
Sephora Beauty Insider
Sephora’s program gives you points for every dollar spent, which you can redeem for products or samples. You also get a birthday gift every year, which is always a nice perk.
It’s free to join and doesn’t require you to hit spending minimums to get rewards. I’ve picked up full-size products and gifts worth more than $25 just from points and birthday perks.
Dunkin’ Rewards
Dunkin’ revamped its rewards program so you can earn points on every order, and those points can be redeemed for free drinks. Members also get exclusive deals through the app.
It’s easy to rack up free coffee if you go there even once a week. I’ve saved close to $20 in free drinks and discounts by using this program consistently.
Walgreens myWalgreens
With myWalgreens, you earn cash rewards on purchases that can be redeemed later. They also run bonus offers that give you extra rewards when you buy specific items.
I’ve redeemed rewards for groceries and health items, saving about $25 over time. Since Walgreens is convenient for quick trips, the rewards feel like free money when you’re already picking up essentials.
Chick-fil-A One
Chick-fil-A One members earn points for every purchase, which can be traded in for free food. They also send out birthday treats and sometimes surprise you with bonus rewards.
It’s one of the more generous food programs I’ve used. I’ve saved about $15 worth of meals just by letting points add up and redeeming them when I wanted a quick lunch.
Kroger Plus Card
Kroger’s loyalty program ties directly into groceries, which makes it easy to rack up savings. With a Plus Card, you get discounts, digital coupons, and fuel points that can cut down gas costs.
Between coupons and gas discounts, I’ve saved more than $30 over time. Since groceries and fuel are regular expenses, this program feels like one of the most practical to stick with.
Panera MyPanera
MyPanera gives you rewards that rotate between free drinks, bakery items, or discounts. They’re personalized, so different people may see different offers.
I’ve been surprised with free bagels, coffee, and other add-ons that save a few dollars each time. Over the course of a year, I’ve saved close to $15, and it’s all from purchases I was making anyway.
Shell Fuel Rewards
Fuel Rewards at Shell lets you earn discounts on gas by linking your grocery or dining purchases to your account. It takes a few minutes to set up but pays off long-term.
I’ve shaved off 10–20 cents per gallon regularly, which adds up fast. Between that and grocery-linked rewards, I’ve saved more than $30 on fuel alone.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
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