7 rewards programs that are actually worth it

7 rewards programs that are actually worth it

There are a lot of rewards programs that promise savings but end up feeling like a waste of inbox space. The best ones actually reward you for how you already shop—without requiring a bunch of hoops to jump through. Whether it’s stacking with sales, earning real cashback, or getting first dibs on promotions, these are the ones that actually give you something worthwhile. If you’re only going to sign up for a few, these are the ones to consider.

Target Circle

Target Circle gives you personalized offers based on what you already buy, plus access to rotating category-wide discounts. It’s easy to activate the deals in the app, and it stacks with sale prices and RedCard savings.

You don’t have to hit a spending minimum or keep track of points. The app also tracks your receipt history, which makes returns and reorders easier. If you shop Target regularly, it’s one of the most practical loyalty programs out there.

Ulta Beauty Rewards

Ulta’s rewards program actually pays off if you buy makeup or skincare even a few times a year. You earn points with every dollar spent, and those points can be used as cash toward future purchases.

What makes it better is the ability to stack points during special promos for faster rewards. You also get a free birthday gift and access to exclusive sales. Unlike some programs, the value of your points isn’t locked into random freebies—it goes toward whatever you actually want to buy.

Walgreens myWalgreens

myWalgreens earns points fast and works well for everyday purchases like prescriptions, toiletries, and snacks. You’ll also find regular digital coupons that apply automatically once you clip them in the app.

One of the biggest benefits is how quickly you can rack up $5–$10 rewards, especially during weekly bonus events. If you use the pharmacy or shop the sales, this one makes a difference without much effort on your part.

Chick-fil-A One

If you’re already stopping at Chick-fil-A, the rewards stack up surprisingly quick. You earn points for every order, and once you hit a certain tier, you start unlocking better rewards and personalized offers.

You can use points for free items at checkout and even gift rewards to others through the app. The program also tracks your favorites, so reordering is fast. It’s worth having if you eat there even occasionally.

Sephora Beauty Insider

Sephora’s Beauty Insider program is easy to join and comes with perks even if you don’t spend a ton. You get a free birthday gift, early access to sales, and the chance to redeem points for samples and product discounts.

While the points don’t turn into cash like Ulta’s, they still get you something tangible—especially if you wait for good Rewards Bazaar drops. The real value is during their seasonal sales, where members get deeper discounts depending on tier.

Starbucks Rewards

With Starbucks Rewards, you earn “stars” with every purchase, and you can redeem them for drinks, food, and merchandise. The app also lets you customize orders and skip the line with mobile pickup.

Bonus star challenges and double-star days help you rack up rewards quicker. If you already stop there a few times a month, it doesn’t take long to cash in on a free drink or snack. Plus, using a Starbucks card or app to pay earns you more than paying with a debit card.

Kohl’s Rewards

Kohl’s Rewards gives you 5% back on every purchase in the form of Kohl’s Cash, plus access to exclusive discounts and events. Your rewards are automatically added to your account at the start of each month.

If you pair it with regular Kohl’s Cash promos and sale stacking, the savings add up fast. You also get personalized coupons based on your shopping habits. It’s one of the better store programs if you shop their seasonal markdowns and home goods.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.