Buzz
With inflation on the rise, it’s a good idea to be more mindful of your spending—especially when it comes to choosing where you shop, whether it's pharmacies, grocery stores, or other retailers. Some shops provide great rewards for customers who enroll in their free loyalty programs; the exclusive deals, coupons, and rewards on your purchases make it an easy decision to download these apps, particularly if you already shop at these stores.
Here are our top recommendations for loyalty programs worth signing up for.
Top pharmacy loyalty cards
CVS
If you’ve spent time in America over the past sixty years, you’ve likely visited one of CVS’s nearly 10,000 locations. But when you picked up that birthday card or bag of Doritos, did you remember to scan your CVS ExtraCare card? If not, you're missing out on some valuable rewards. With their loyalty program, CVS offers 2% back in ExtraBucks on all purchases. Plus, you’ll get a $3 ExtraBucks reward every year on your birthday, as well as special discounted items (which change weekly). Just download their app and scan at checkout to save some extra cash.
Walgreens
If you've shopped at Walgreens (or Duane Reade in the New York area), you can save a significant amount by joining their loyalty program. With MyWalgreens, customers earn 1% cash rewards on every storewide purchase, including pharmacy items, and 5% rewards on Walgreens-branded products. You’ll also enjoy discounts on select sale items. Just be mindful that rewards expire 12 months after being earned, so don’t let them accumulate for too long.
Rite Aid
You can save a fair amount of money by enrolling in Rite Aid's loyalty program, Rite Aid Rewards. Customers earn points with every purchase (which translates to 2% rewards), when getting prescriptions filled, or even by receiving certain in-store immunizations (though the COVID-19 vaccine is excluded). Points can be converted into BonusCash, which can be used at checkout. Additionally, the Rite Aid Rewards program allows you to digitally clip coupons on the app, automatically applying discounts at checkout.
Top grocery store loyalty cards
Safeway
If you often shop at Safeway, you should think about joining the Safeway for U rewards program. Customers earn one point for every $1 spent on groceries, and 100 points lead to a reward. You can redeem rewards for discounted gas, free grocery items, or cash discounts at checkout. Plus, as a member, you’ll get a birthday freebie worth up to $10, along with a free item every month.
Publix
If you shop for groceries at Publix, you’ll benefit by joining their rewards program, Club Publix. Launched in 2020, Club Publix is a free program that offers rewards through digital coupons automatically applied at checkout, as well as a free birthday treat each year. Members also get early access to details like upcoming sales and BOGO offers.
Stop & Shop/Giant
Two well-known brands, one great rewards program. If you shop at either Stop & Shop or Giant, signing up for their free loyalty program is a smart move. You earn one point for every dollar spent, and these points can be redeemed for checkout discounts or gas savings (100 points equals a 10¢ discount per gallon, with a maximum of $1.50 off per gallon for up to 20 gallons). Plus, when you scan your membership card, any sale deals or discounts are automatically applied. Keep in mind that points expire one month after being earned, so stay on top of your rewards to maximize savings.
Additional store loyalty cards worth considering
Target
Maximize your savings at one of America’s largest discount department stores by joining the Target Circle rewards program. By enrolling, customers can earn 1% back on all purchases, plus gain access to hundreds of rotating deals on eligible items. You’ll also receive a birthday gift of 5% off a single purchase, valid for 30 days after your birthday. Rewards are earned both in-store and online, and they only expire if you go an entire calendar year without making a purchase.
JCPenney
JCPenney’s rewards program is definitely one of the best among department stores. Shoppers earn a $10 reward for every 200 points accumulated (at a 1 point per dollar rate), along with a special birthday gift each year. Members also get access to exclusive offers—currently, there's a $10 bonus reward for every $50 spent through July 4. Additionally, loyalty members enjoy discounted prices on select items.
Office Depot
If you often find yourself shopping for office supplies, the Office Depot rewards program is an excellent choice. Members receive 2% back on purchases, whether in-store or online, along with special pricing on select items. Furthermore, members can get $2 off purchases of at least $10 for every recycled cartridge they bring to the store, up to ten per month. Plus, members can earn $2 per review, up to three reviews per month. Spend $500 in your first year, and you’ll be upgraded to VIP status, which gives you 5% rewards on ink, toner, paper, and print services, as well as free two-day shipping on all orders (excluding holidays).
