Loyalty Program
What Is Starbucks Rewards?
Updated May 2026 · Independent guide
Definition
Starbucks Rewards is a free loyalty program operated by Starbucks Corporation that allows customers to earn Stars on qualifying purchases. Members register a Starbucks Card or use the Starbucks mobile app to accumulate Stars, which are redeemed for free drinks, food items, and merchandise. The program has two membership tiers: Green (0–299 Stars) and Gold (300+ Stars per year). In the United States, members earn 1 Star per $1 spent with a registered Starbucks Card. Stars expire after 6 months of account inactivity. The U.S. and Canadian programs are separate — accounts, balances, and gift cards are not interchangeable between countries. Licensed Starbucks locations (inside Target, airports, and universities) may have limited Rewards functionality.
How Stars Work
| Stars Needed | What You Get |
|---|---|
| 25 Stars | Espresso shot, syrup, or sauce customization |
| 100 Stars | Brewed hot or iced coffee or tea (any size) |
| 200 Stars | Handcrafted drink, hot breakfast, or parfait |
| 300 Stars | Lunch sandwich, protein box, or salad |
| 400 Stars | Select merchandise or at-home coffee bag |
U.S. vs Canada
| Feature | United States | Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Earn rate | 1 Star per $1 USD | 2 Stars per $1 CAD |
| Currency | USD | CAD |
| Gift card region | U.S. only | Canada only |
| Account transfer | Not available | Not available |
| Star expiry | 6 months inactivity | 6 months inactivity |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Starbucks Rewards?
Starbucks Rewards is a free loyalty program that lets customers earn Stars on every purchase made through the Starbucks app or with a registered Starbucks Card. Stars can be redeemed for free drinks, food, and merchandise. The program has two tiers: Green (0–299 Stars) and Gold (300+ Stars).
How many Stars do you get per dollar at Starbucks?
In the U.S., members earn 1 Star per $1 spent using a registered Starbucks Card or the app. Paying with cash, credit card, or debit card directly earns Stars at a lower rate. Bonus Star promotions can increase the earn rate temporarily.
How do you redeem Starbucks Stars?
Stars can be redeemed in the Starbucks app. Redemption tiers start at 25 Stars for a customization, 100 Stars for a brewed coffee or tea, 200 Stars for a handcrafted drink or food item, 300 Stars for premium items, and 400 Stars for merchandise or at-home coffee.
Do Starbucks Stars expire?
Yes. In the U.S., Stars expire 6 months after they are earned if no qualifying purchase is made within that period. The clock resets with each qualifying purchase. Stars redeemed at licensed Starbucks locations (Target, airports) may not post to your account.
Is Starbucks Rewards different in Canada?
Yes. The U.S. and Canadian Starbucks Rewards programs are separate. Canadian members earn 2 Stars per $1 CAD spent. Points balances, redemption history, and accounts are not transferable between countries. Gift cards are region-locked (USD vs CAD).