Store Rewards: Saving Money for Free

Before you automatically say "No," allow the sales associate to fully explain the benefits of the rewards program. Not every associate is trying to push a store credit card; they only want to reward loyal customers. Rewards programs, membership clubs, or frequent buyer/loyalty programs are risk free, unlike credit cards, and will eventually save you tons of money, if not instantly, in the long run.

Risk Free but also Cost Free. Saving money for free? That does not sound right, but you better believe it. Most stores offer their rewards programs at no cost. You will encounter some stores that require a one-time payment to join, but I would only consider buying a membership if you shop at that particular store faithfully.

The perks of free memberships are the best. According the store, members take advantage of members-only discounts, free shipping on online orders, additional savings on redlined or clearanced merchandise (one of my favs), birthday coupons, freebies, and members-only mailers that give heads up on product arrivals or invitations to exclusive store events. Sounds like VIP status to me.

Earning Points Can Be Fun. Does the word "points" in the associate's spiel immediately turn you off? A lot of shoppers avoid joining store rewards programs because it requires accumulating X amount of points before receiving a reward or discount. They believe dealing with a point system is pointless because they only shop at the store on rare occasions or make small purchases each visit, but who said you had to spend your money to rack up points?

Friends Spend. You Benefit in the End. Since many stores have stopped issuing its members physical membership cards, your friends can easily help you gain points. When the cashier asks for a telephone number or e-mail during the transaction, your friend can simply give yours, and you receive the points from their purchase! (Let's hope they spend big)! You just sit back, relax, and watch your points skyrocket while you await the arrival of big time coupons or rewards in the mail.

My favorite stores with free loyalty programs are Borders, Ulta, Sephora, DSW, World Market, Food Lion, and Harris Teeter. The products I purchase at these stores are essential to my everyday life, so I am thrilled to present the cashier with a coupon or discount card at every visit. I estimate my total savings to be well over $1,000 annually.

After waiting in a checkout line forever, I am sure the last thing you want to do is sign up for something, but thanks to technology, everything is quick and easy these days. Plus, the coupon you receive in the mail for your next visit will make the additional 60 seconds it took to enroll worthwhile.

Visit the websites for the stores you shop or ask an employee at your next visit if they have a rewards program.

Other Stores Offering Rewards Programs:

-Bakers Shoe Store*
-Barnes & Noble*
-Bebe
-Big Lots
-CVS
-Guess
-Rite Aid

* indicates a payment is required for joining