Once again, Starbucks is changing its Starbucks Rewards program. 
Effective April 16, program updates include:
All Starbucks Rewards members earn Stars toward FREE rewards from the day they join. The change means members can earn enough Stars to redeem a reward in as few as two to three visits.
Currently, Starbucks Rewards members can redeem 125 stars for any beverage or single food item.
A new, tiered Rewards structure will replace the current single option at participating locations…
25 Stars — Extra espresso shot, dairy substitute or additional flavor
50 Stars — Brewed hot coffee, hot tea or select bakery items
150 Stars — Handcrafted drink, hot breakfast or yogurt parfaits
200 Stars — Lunch sandwich, protein box or Salad
400 Stars — Select merchandise or packaged coffee
The changes build on existing program benefits, which will remain available to all members. In addition to earning 2 Stars for every $1 spent, members enjoy FREE brewed hot coffee & tea refills, a FREE birthday treat and exclusive personalized offers, along with dozens of additional opportunities to earn Bonus Stars through monthly Double Star Days and more.
For complete details about the upcoming changes, click here.
One of the potentially more popular changes might be the option of redeeming Stars for at-home coffee. Brew your own coffee at home or work for 400 Stars. In addition, select bakery items (like the chain’s popular loaf cake slices) will cost fewer Stars at just 50.
If you’re a Starbucks Rewards Visa Credit or Prepaid cardholder, your stars will no longer expire.
Existing members who want to maximize their points should redeem Stars by April 16, in order to get the most benefit from the program. The new tiered rewards structure makes the Stars less valuable for those who use them for food (namely sandwiches, salads or protein boxes) or any handcrafted beverage.
