Card FAQs

Card Use FAQs

Where can I use my Starbucks Card?

Starbucks Cards are accepted at most Starbucks locations in North America, including airport and grocery locations. Starbucks Cards can also be used interchangeably at most stores in Australia, Hong Kong, Ireland, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. Starbucks Cards issued in Greece, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Portugal, Russia, Singapore, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand and Turkey may only be used in the country from which they are issued.

How do I check the balance on my Starbucks Card?

Go to Starbucks.com/card and click on Check Your Balance. All you’ll need is the card’s 16-digit number and its CSC (Card Security Code), which is an 8-digit number that can be found under the scratch-off coating on the back of your card.

Does Starbucks charge a service fee for unused balances on my Starbucks Card?

No, there are no fees or expiration date associated with unused balances on the Starbucks Card.

Can I return a Starbucks Card that I purchased or received as a gift?

If you have a Starbucks Card that hasn’t been used, you may return it by calling 1-800-STARBUC (782-7282). You’ll be asked to provide the original receipt. We’ll send your refund check to you in the mail about 3-4 weeks after your call.

Can I reload my Starbucks Card?

Yes, Starbucks Cards are reloadable. At any time, you can reload your Starbucks Card with additional cash. With a registered card, you can even set up auto-reload, which will reload your card on a regular schedule or when the balance falls below an amount you choose.

How do I reload my Starbucks Card?

To reload your Starbucks Card, go to Starbucks.com/card and click on Reload Your Card. Or go to any participating Starbucks store.

How do I sign up for auto-reload?

Auto-reload is a great way to get the most of your Starbucks Card. Auto-reload is available for registered U.S.– and Canadian-currency Starbucks Cards. You set the reload amount and control when your card will be reloaded – on a regular schedule or when the balance falls below a certain amount. After logging in to your Starbucks.com account, visit the Card Management section and click on the Set Auto-Reload link.

Once I have signed up for auto-reload, when can I expect the reloads to occur?

If you signed up for an amount-based reload, your reload will occur the day after your balance dips to or below the minimum amount you specified. For example, if you chose $10 as your minimum balance, and your balance drops to or below that amount at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, your Card will not be reloaded until Tuesday. Amount-based reloads take place once a day, usually by close of business PST. If you signed up for a date-based reload, your reload will take place by 3:00 a.m. PST on the date you selected.

How can I transfer the balance from my old Starbucks Card to a new Starbucks Card?

Starbucks Cards with balances of $5 or more can be loaded onto another card in Starbucks retail stores. You can also transfer card balances online. After signing in to your Starbucks.com account, visit the Manage My Cards section and click on the Transfer Funds link.

How does Starbucks protect my privacy after I register my Starbucks Card?

Please read our Privacy Policy for details.

What should I do if my Starbucks Card is lost or stolen?

We’ll gladly replace all registered Starbucks Cards with a balance on them. After logging in to your Starbucks.com account, visit the Manage My Cards section and click on the Report Lost/Stolen link. We cannot replace unregistered Starbucks Cards, or registered Starbucks Cards with no balance.

We’ll freeze your remaining balance at the time you report your card as lost or stolen, transfer it to a new Starbucks Card and mail you the replacement card immediately – without hassles or fees.

Can I order multiple Starbucks Cards for employees, clients or customers?

Yes, contact our Corporate Sales team to order 15 or more Starbucks Cards. We offer complimentary ground shipping to one location. Go here for more information.

Card Registration FAQs

Why should I register my Starbucks Card at Starbucks.com?

Registering your Starbucks Card signs you up to enjoy My Starbucks Rewards in the United States and Canada. You also protect the balance of your card if it’s lost or stolen. Finally, with a registered card, you can manage your card in a variety of ways online. For example, you can set up your card to auto-reload when its balance falls below a certain amount. Please note: a valid U.S. billing address is required when registering your card.

How do I register my Starbucks Card?

It’s easy and only takes a few minutes online. You’ll need your card’s 16-digit number and its CSC (Card Security Code), which is an 8-digit number that can be found under the scratch-off coating on the back of your card.

My Starbucks Rewards FAQs (United States)

For info on My Starbucks Rewards in Canada, please visit www.starbucks.ca/rewards

How does My Starbucks Rewards work?

It’s as easy as registering a loaded Starbucks Card. This will automatically enter you into the Welcome level of the program, which means you’ll receive a free beverage on your birthday. 

Once you have visited and used your card five times (which earns you 5 Stars), you will move into our Green level, where you will receive the following benefits:

After you earn 30 Stars in 12 months (25 additional Stars after initially qualifying for Green level), you will qualify for the Gold level.  At this level you earn the following benefits:

What is a Star and how do I earn one?

You can earn Stars and receive in-store benefits simply by paying for a transaction with any Starbucks Card registered to your account at participating Starbucks stores in the United States and Canada and at www.starbucksstore.com. You will be able to track your Stars online by logging into your account.

Is there a fee to join My Starbucks Rewards?

No. There is no membership fee at any level of the new program. All you have to do is register your loaded Starbucks Card and you will be entered into the program. (If you card is not loaded, you will need to add a minimum of $5).

Will My Starbucks Rewards be recognized at all Starbucks stores?

Customers will receive a Star for each transaction at any U.S. or Canadian store that accepts the Starbucks Card. However, in-store benefits and coupon redemption will only be available at participating US and Canadian stores.

Coming 30 times in a year seems like a lot to qualify for the Gold level. Why so many?

It’s not as much as you might think. Customers who come in just once a week can earn their way into the Gold level in about 7 months and would easily re-qualify every year. And remember – it’s a free program, so we’re excited to welcome in more people at every level.

How long does it take for customers to receive their Gold Level Welcome Kit after earning Gold Level status?

It takes on average 4-6 weeks once reaching Gold Level to receive your personalized Gold Level card and Welcome Kit. All Gold Level benefits begin the moment you reach the Gold Level. You can begin earning Stars towards your Free Drinks by continuing to use any registered Starbucks Card to pay.

I’ve seen other coffee shops offer “buy 10, get 1” programs. Why do we have to buy 15 with Starbucks?

Typically those programs are strictly frequency based and offer very few additional benefits. We wanted to provide a program that offered a bundle of benefits such as a free birthday drink and free flavored syrups and milk options, because it would appeal to a broader range of our customers.

Can I transfer a My Starbucks Rewards membership to someone else?

Sorry, memberships are non-transferable and cannot be shared with family members, friends and others.

Do my Stars expire?

Your Stars will remain on your account as long as you have any activity in the past two years.  However, if you do not qualify for the Gold level again by your anniversary date (the date you qualified for the Gold level), you will revert to the Green level and lose all your Stars. If you earn 30 Stars again within 12 months you’ll move from Green right back to Gold. The same is true for Green-level customers. If you do not qualify for the Green level again by your anniversary date (the date you reached Green level), you will revert to the Welcome level and lose all your Stars. If you earn 5 Stars again within 12 months you’ll move from Welcome back to Green.  

Will you be changing the program again anytime soon?

We are always looking for ways to improve our programs and make them better for our customers. If you have ideas, please keep sending them to mystarbucksidea.com.

What is the main benefit at the Gold level?

The ability to earn free drinks based on visits is a key benefit of the Gold level. People told us they wanted to be recognized and rewarded for their frequent visits to Starbucks, and they also wanted free drinks.

The personalized Gold card is another way to provide recognition for the people who visit us the most.

Finally, the ability to receive special offers and promotions not available to other customers is a Gold level benefit. 

Do I have to present my Starbucks Card to get a free brewed or iced coffee or tea refill?

Yes. You will have to present your registered Starbucks Card to the barista for your free refill. Free refills must occur within the same store visit. Once you leave the store, your visit has ended and any subsequent coffee or tea refill thereafter would be considered a new purchase. Coffee and tea refills are intended for people who are spending time in our stores.

Can I get unlimited brewed coffee or tea refills? Can I use any size cup for free brewed refills?

Yes and yes. You can get unlimited brewed coffee or tea refills during your visit with any size cup, including hot or iced coffee/tea.

When will I receive exclusive offers and discounts?

On occasion, you’ll receive these offers and discounts via email or postal mail. Be sure you opt in to receive email and direct mail communications from us when you register.

Will I receive benefits at all Starbucks stores?

You will receive a Star for each visit to any U.S. or Canadian store that accepts the Starbucks Card and for purchases at www.starbucksstore.com. However, in-store benefits and coupon redemption will only be available at participating stores.

Why is registration necessary in order to join the program?

When you register your Starbucks Card, you provide contact information so we can send you benefits like a free drink on your birthday and special, exclusive offers and coupons. Additionally, by registering your card, you receive balance protection in case your card is ever lost or stolen. Finally, with a registered card, you can manage your card in a variety of ways online. For example, you can set up your card to auto-reload when its balance falls below a certain amount. Please note: a valid U.S. billing address is required when registering your card.

How do I register my Starbucks Card online?

It’s easy and only takes a few minutes at Starbucks.com/card. You’ll need your card’s 16-digit number and its CSC (Card Security Code), which is an 8-digit number that can be found under the scratch-off coating on the back of your card.

How many Starbucks Cards can I register as part of the new program?

You can register an unlimited number of cards to your Starbucks.com account.

When will I receive my complimentary birthday beverage?

After you register your Starbucks Card and provide us with your birthday, we will send you a postcard valid for a complimentary beverage on your birthday. You will receive your postcard 3-7 days prior to your birthday, and it will be valid for the date of your birthday only. Note: You must register at least 30 days before your birthday to receive a free birthday drink. In addition, to continue receiving your birthday beverage every year, you must make a purchase on your registered Starbucks Card within the past 12 months.

If I have multiple Starbucks Cards registered to my account, does that mean I will receive a birthday beverage for each one?

No. We will mail one birthday beverage postcard per person, per address.

What if I lose my Starbucks Card?

If your card is registered, your membership in My Starbucks Rewards and any remaining card balance will be protected at the time you notify us of its loss. After logging in to your Starbucks.com account, visit the Manage My Cards section and click on the Report Lost/Stolen link. We’ll freeze your remaining balance at the time you report your card as lost or stolen, transfer it to a new Starbucks Card and mail you the replacement immediately – without hassles or fees.

How does Starbucks protect my privacy after I register my Starbucks Card?

Please read our Privacy Policy for details.

Can I track my progress in the program and see how many Stars I have until I reach the next level?

Yes. At starbucks.com/account you will be able to log into your account and see how many Stars you’ve earned, your current benefits, how many Stars you have to go until you reach the next level and your transaction history. You can also view this same information on the Starbucks mobile application, available for iPhone, Android and Blackberry devices.

How soon will I be able to see the Stars I’ve earned after using my registered Starbucks Card?

Stars earned from using your registered Starbucks card will be available on your account within 24 hours.

What if my Star balance doesn’t look right? Who do I contact?

We want to make sure the balance on your account reflects your purchases accurately.  If the total number of Stars doesn’t appear to be correct, call 1-800-STARBUC (782-7282). 

Do I need to earn 5 Stars to unlock Green level benefits for each Starbucks Card I register?

No, once you’ve qualified for Green level benefits the first time, all future cards registered to your account automatically qualify.

What do I have to do in order to maintain Green level status?

Once you reach the Green level, you will need to earn 5 Stars per year to maintain your Green level status. If you do not earn 5 Stars, you will revert back to the Welcome level and your Star count will drop to 0. As soon as you earn 5 Stars again you’ll move from Welcome right back to Green. It should be noted, however, that to enjoy your Green level benefits like free select syrups and milk options or free brewed coffee and tea refills, you do need to use your registered Starbucks Card to pay for at least part of your transaction.

How do I maintain Gold level status?

Once you qualify for Gold level, you will be at that level for a full year from that date. Simply earn 30 additional Stars before your anniversary date (the date you earned Gold) and you will continue to enjoy all of the Gold level benefits for another year.

Can I qualify for multiple years in a single year? For example, if I earn 60 Stars in the next year, will I be in the Gold level for the next two years?

No. Every year on your anniversary date (the date you qualified for the Gold level), our system will look back and confirm whether or not you have earned the minimum 30 Stars during that timeframe. If so, you’ll remain at the Gold level for another year.

Why do I have to pay with my Starbucks Card to participate in the program?

The program is designed to reward our many customers who use and pay with a Starbucks Card. 

Will the use of any Starbucks Card registered to me count toward my program benefits?

Yes. The use of any card registered to your account will earn you Stars and enable you to enjoy the benefits associated with your membership level.

If I pay with my iPhone, Android or Blackberry using the Starbucks app will I still earn Stars?

Absolutely! Paying with the Starbucks application is exactly the same as paying with your Starbucks Card.

What if I need to pay for my transaction partially with my registered Starbucks Card and partially with cash – does that still count toward earning a Star?

Yes.

If I purchase two drinks in one transaction, do I earn 2 Stars?

Stars are earned based on each transaction, rather than the number of items purchased in the transaction.

Do I have to use the Gold level card you send me to receive the benefits?

No. You can use any Starbucks Card registered to your account to receive credit for your visits and store-level benefits. This means that once you hit the Gold level, although you’ll receive a really cool personalized card from us, you can keep using that adorable Customized Starbucks Card your granddaughter gave you.

Are all Starbucks Cards eligible for My Starbucks Rewards benefits?

All registered Starbucks Cards are eligible. This includes customized Starbucks Cards and mini Starbucks Cards. Cards purchased or registered outside of the United States and Canada will not earn Stars or My Starbucks Rewards benefits. 

Starbucks Card Mobile FAQs

I am having difficulty logging into my Starbucks.com account. How can I troubleshoot this?

Some users are experiencing issues logging into their Starbucks Card accounts Please email us at starbuckscardmobile@starbucks.com and include your username and the time you experienced the issue to help our tech team isolate the issue.

We are committed to creating a great app and appreciate hearing about any issues you are having. Follow our progress and engage in the dialogue at mystarbucksidea.com.

Where can I manage my Starbucks Card accounts?

You can perform common functions on your phone or go to starbucks.com/card for the full suite of account management features.

Can I change the email address on my Starbucks.com account?

Yes, you can view or change your email address by signing in and visiting your account section.

What is a 2D barcode?

The 2D barcode on your Starbucks Card Mobile application serves the same purpose as the card number on the back of your traditional Starbucks Card – it tells us your account number so you can use your phone to pay at Starbucks.

What do I do with my traditional Starbucks Card after I sign up?

Starbucks Card Mobile is a complement to your plastic card. We recommend that you keep your plastic card in a safe place – this way, if you lose your phone, you will still have your Starbucks Card.

Can I still use my mobile payment if I don’t have a network connection?

Yes, your barcode is stored locally on the phone and will be available when you open the application. However, you won’t be able to update your Starbucks Card balance until your network connection is restored.

What do I do if the scanner isn't working and I need to pay with my Starbucks Card Mobile?

First, make sure that the brightness setting on your phone is at a high level. Second, if the scanner still cannot read your barcode, simply read your Starbucks Card number to the barista. Your Starbucks Card number can be found right above the barcode.

How do I see my balance after I pay with my phone?

Your balance will automatically update each time you open the application. Additionally, you can refresh your balance by going to the MyCards screen, touching the balance and then touching the Refresh Balance button.

What if someone gets my phone? How do I protect my information?

To protect the balance on your Starbucks Card, register your Starbucks Card via your phone or at starbucks.com/card. This way if you lose your phone, you can report your lost Starbucks Card using the procedure for Lost Cards and you’ll receive full balance protection. Treat the Starbucks application much like you would your other credit and debit cards – if you notice any suspicious activity on your account please notify Starbucks customer service at 1-800-STARBUC (782-7282).

How do I reload my Starbucks mobile application?

Reload your Starbucks application or sign up for auto-reload directly from your phone by touching the Balance Button and then touching the Reload Card button.

Once I have signed up for auto-reload, when can I expect reloads to occur?

Your reload will occur the day after your balance dips to or below the minimum amount you specified. For example, if you chose $10 as your minimum balance, and your balance drops to or below that amount at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, your Card will not be reloaded until Tuesday. At this time, amount-based reloads take place once a day, usually by close of business PST.

How does Starbucks protect my privacy after I register my Starbucks Card?

Please read our Privacy Policy for details.

Where is my credit card information stored?

Your credit card information is never stored on your phone. Your credit card information can be stored in your Starbucks.com account if you choose to do so. Storing your credit card information in your Starbucks.com account is a convenient way to reload your Starbucks Card so that you don’t have to re-enter your credit card each time. For security purposes, you will be asked to enter your username/password each time you wish to authorize a reload. This way, even if you lose your phone, no one can authorize a reload of your card without your Starbucks.com account username and password.

Can I secure my Starbucks mobile application with a passcode?

Yes, you could choose to secure your Starbucks mobile application with a passcode by going to Settings>Passcode. If you set up a passcode, you will need to enter your passcode each time you open the application. If you lose or forget your passcode, you will need to report your Starbucks Card as lost and reinstall the Starbucks application.

What should I do if my Starbucks Card is lost or stolen?

We’ll gladly replace all registered Starbucks Cards. Visit starbucks.com/card and log in to your account, then click on Report Lost/Stolen. Or, you may call 1-800-STARBUC (782-7282) and report the loss. We'll freeze your remaining balance at the time you report your card as lost or stolen, transfer it to a new Starbucks Card and mail you the replacement card immediately – without hassles or fees.

What should I do if I get a new phone and want to move my Starbucks Card balance over to my new phone?

If your phone was lost or stolen, please follow the steps above. We will close your old Starbucks Card(s) and mail you a new Starbucks Card with your remaining balance. This new card can be added to the Starbucks app on your new phone. Please note that the replacement and mailing process takes up to 5 business days.

If you are upgrading or replacing your phone and still have access to your old device, you'll need to login to your Starbucks.com account and unregister any Starbucks Cards listed on your phone (if you don’t have a Starbucks.com account, you can skip this step). Next, remove all Starbucks Cards from your old phone using the Delete Starbucks Cards option on the Settings tab. You should now be able to add and use your Starbucks Card(s) with the Starbucks app on your new phone.

Starbucks Card on Facebook FAQs

What is the Starbucks Card application on Facebook?

This application allows you to manage your Starbucks Card without leaving Facebook. You can check your balance, register a new card, reload your card, view your Stars and My Starbucks Rewards level – and even give a gift to your Facebook friends by reloading their registered Starbucks Card.

How do I use the application?

It’s easy! All you need is a Facebook account, a Starbucks Card and a Starbucks.com account. If you already have a Facebook account, you can access the application at Facebook.com/Starbuckscard.

What does “Give a Gift” mean?

The Starbucks Card application allows you to give a gift on your Facebook friend’s registered Starbucks Card. Simply click on the “Give a Gift” tab and you will be able to select a friend, select an amount you wish to give, personalize a message, choose your payment method and send your gift. Make sure to invite your friends to use the application so you can give them the gift of Starbucks.

How will my friend know I sent them a gift on their Starbucks Card?

Once you have finished sending your gift, we will send your friend a notification using the email they have registered on their Starbucks.com account. A gift receipt email will also be sent to you at the email you have with your registered Starbucks.com account. You can also post a note to their wall or send them a message to let them know they should check the Starbucks Card application to find a treat from you.

What if I sent a gift that wasn’t received? What if I don’t receive a gift that my friend sent me?

First, visit the “My Starbucks” tab of the Starbucks Card application in Facebook. Click on “My Profile” and then “Facebook Gifts.” From there you can toggle between “Sent” and “Received” gifts. If you don’t see the gift you are looking for there, it was not sent. If you do see a gift there, make sure you check which of your Starbucks Cards it was sent to and then check that card’s balance and previous transactions. If you are still having trouble, please contact us.

Customized Starbucks Card FAQs

What happened to customized card?

Starbucks has heard from our customers that they want a quick, thoughtful, way to send personalized gifts to friend and family. Starbucks new eGift gives customers the opportunity to select a design, compose a personalized message, and instantly deliver a Starbucks Card using Starbucks.com, Facebook, or the Starbucks phone app. Please click here for questions about eGift.

Will my existing customized Card still work?

Yes. Your card will continue to be accepted at participating Starbucks locations and can continue to be reloaded either in store or online.