Why You Should Join Rewards Programs Now

Customer rewards programs can save you money in a number of ways. Here are some reasons Why You Should Join Rewards Programs Now and programs to consider joining.

Rewards programs are nothing new. There have been punch cards for frequent customers forever. Now companies have moved to plastic rewards cards and some even have digital cards. What may be new to you though, is how far rewards programs have come and why joining them now is extremely helpful to budgeting and easier than ever to use. Here are some rewards programs you should consider joining as well as some information on Why You Should Join Rewards Programs Now.

Why You Should Join Rewards Programs Now

You can get free items. I have gotten all kinds of freebies just by joining rewards programs from free makeup to free fuel. I didn’t have to do anything crazy to get them, either. All I had to do was remember to input my account info or swipe my card to get these items.

You can combine reward card perks with sales and other coupons for deep discounts. One of my favorite ways to use rewards programs is to combine points system style rewards programs (often offered at pharmacies) with manufacturer and store coupons. This gives me deep discounts and sometimes items I need like toilet paper and cleaning supplies become free or extremely cheap.

Most rewards programs are automatic for shopping and purchasing just like you do normally. It used to be that you had to do a lot to get points or rewards and track a lot in order to get your rewards. No more! I have found that most programs are so stream-lined that simply swiping the card at the register will easily accrue points.

Some Rewards Programs You Should Consider Joining

KickBack Points Program– If you have 76 stations or perhaps Conoco stations (others depending on your area) this is one that you should join as I have used this reward so much over the last couple of years since it started. Basically, you get points for purchases (around 2 x the amount of dollars spent. For example, with the KickBack Program if you spend, $15, you get 30 points) which are just ‘free’ money you can use. Every 100 points is 1 dollar that can be used for any purchase. I like to let them add up and each summer, I usually have enough to fill my tank for a weekend get-away. The best part of this program is I don’t have to use it one gas. I can use it to buy snacks, road food and almost anything at gas stations that participate in the program.

Safeway Rewards– Get big savings on gas (up to $1 per gallon!) with the Safeway Rewards program. Every dollar spent here gets you 1 point. You get 10 cents off per gallon for every 100 points up to $1 per month. You can also get points by shopping at Albertson’s now as well. Additionally, you can get big savings that are personalized with the Just For U app attached to your rewards account.

Walgreens’ Balance Rewards– It used to be that Balance Rewards were only added to your account if you bought certain things, but Walgreens has revamped the program to include Everyday Points that are for any purchase (minus some things like tobacco, lottery and alcohol etc). This makes it easier than ever to save money. Additionally, you can now earn points in the pharmacy even with Medicare. And, just like the old program, you can still earn points for walking and doing active stuff.

CVS ExtraCare– This program can really help you add up the savings because you get 2% rewards on most purchases awarded quarterly! You will also get CVS ExtraCare Rewards members exclusive deals sent to your email.

Plenti Points– I love this reward program because it is the reward program that includes several retailers so it’s really easy to get points and it keeps me from having to carry a reward card for each of them since one works for all of them. Retailers on the Plenti Points program include Rite Aid, Macy’s, AT&T, Exxon, Chili’s and Expedia!

AutoZone Rewards– This program is great to join even if you don’t think you need it. I joined it thinking I would not use it as often as I did and I managed to use it on enough purchases to get a big reward or simple purchases like oil, fuel boosters, air fresheners and auto care items. To get rewarded yourself, just join the AutoZone Rewards Program and make 5 purchases of at least $20 each per year and you will be rewarded with $20 for your next purchase.

Target REDcard debit– This one is great for avid Target shoppers. Simply use their Target REDCard debit to pay for your purchases there and you get 5% off your entire purchase. You also get 30 extra days to return items. So while this is not exactly a reward program in the essence that it gives you rewards that add up, it does give you an immediate discount.

Are you looking for ways to save money? Check out these 52 small changes that will help you save more money this year. Don’t forget to Join the Facebook group to keep yourself accountable and discover more ideas for saving money.