Where To Score Birthday Freebies And Discounts

The weeks leading up to your birthday can be an exciting time. There are plans to make, people to invite, and emails to check. No, we're not talking about your dreaded work messages, but the slew of emails you will likely receive from retailers, restaurants, and fast-food chains inviting you to take advantage of their birthday rewards.

Generally, if you've at some point given your information to a brand, you can expect a birthday promotion. From freebies and discounts to the somewhat lackluster gift of 3x reward points at Dunkin' (is this coffee chain or Starbucks cheaper?), which used to offer a free coffee but shifted gears, birthday celebrators can obtain their treat with no strings attached. In fact, folks on social media often chronicle their adventures as they take advantage of as many birthday promotions as possible in a single day. For example, TikToker @erickuuuuhhh snagged free coffee, donuts, a cookie, and makeup.

Read on to learn which of your favorite food chains and retailers offer the best birthday rewards.

Birthdays are all about the dessert, so why not snag a free sweet treat in honor of your big day? As long as you're a member of their respective rewards programs, which usually involves completing a quick and simple registration form online with your basic information (name, email address, phone number, and birthday), chains like Chili's and Olive Garden will give you a birthday dessert at no charge.

On the other hand, if you're feeling something sugary, but don't want the cheesecake, lava cake, or other desserts typical of a chain-restaurant menu, you can opt for a free Crumbl cookie instead, IHOP pancakes, Nothing Bundt Cakes bundtlet, Smoothie King smoothie, or Smashburger milkshake, just to name a few.

For those who prefer a more savory freebie, you can head to Chick-fil-A for a free sandwich or entrée (options vary depending on your membership level), an Auntie Anne's pretzel, a burger at Red Robin, or six free wings from Buffalo Wild Wings. As for Starbucks, those who sign up for the company's rewards program can choose either a free drink or food item.

Note that usually these promotions can be taken advantage of at any point during your birthday month, meaning you don't have to use it on your actual birthday. However, terms do vary, so be sure to check the fine print of any offers leading up to your birthday.

You can also swing by some favorite stores to enjoy free or discounted goodies on your birthday. While you won't be finding birthday rewards at places like Amazon or Walmart (as of this writing), members at Hot Topic, American Eagle/Aerie, and DSW can take advantage of $5 off during their birthday month, while those loyal to Victoria's Secret receive $10 off. J.Crew, meanwhile, offers discounts ranging from $10 to $20 depending on membership tier.

If you'd prefer something free over a coupon, Sephora (are the benefits of being a Sephora Rouge Member worth it?) and Bath & Body Works are the places to go. At any point during your birthday month, you can choose one of several gifts at Sephora, which changes its free offerings annually. In 2024, options include a Youth to the People Cleanse & Hydrate Skincare Set or a Vegamour Shiny Strands Birthday Set. Meanwhile, at Bath & Body Works, you can choose any product in the store, up to a $9.95 value.

The best deal may just be at Ulta, though. Similar to Sephora (is it or Ulta better for your wallet?), Ulta rewards members can choose from one of several free items (e.g., a travel-size Tarte Maneater Mascara or a jar of Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream), in addition to 2x points on purchases made during their birthday month and, for Diamond and Platinum members, $10 off in store or online.