The U.S. is likely a tad more dependent on fossil fuels than on coffee and donuts, I’d wager.
But while your everyday drive-thru purchases may seem trivial, those $3–$5 charges can snowball fast.
That’s why I put together this roundup of the best ways to cut costs at Dunkin’ Donuts.
You can grab your pre-work pick-me-up… without accidentally blowing your entire food allowance on Munchkins and Coolattas.
Here are six methods to save money at Dunkin’.
1. Enroll in DDPerks
You’ll receive not just one, butthreecomplimentary drinks when you join Dunkin’ Donuts’ rewards program,DDPerks: one at signup, one on your birthday and one every 200 points earned.
Every dollar equals five points, so you score a free drink after spending $40. If you pick up a $3 coffee daily, you’ll get a free one in under six weeks — likely sooner if you take advantage of bonus-point offers.
Plus, it’s simple to manage your account — check out Dunkin’s mobile app. You can even pay via your phone!
2. Pay Smarter
Full disclosure: This tip isn’t unique to Dunkin’ Donuts.
But if you’re not stacking savings, you’re leaving money on the table. Here’s what I mean…
Even if you plan to ignore the rest of this post’s suggestions and pay full price for your daily coffee, you could do better by choosing the right payment method.
Buy a discounted gift card from a marketplace likeRaise. You may be able to pick up a $20 card for $15 — instantly trimming a healthy percentage off every drink, breakfast sandwich and donut you buy.
If you want to maximize savings, purchase the discounted gift card — or the items themselves — with a cash-back credit card.
Even a modest 1% return is real money back when you spend. Just be sure to pay the balance in full each month to avoid interest charges!
3. Use Coupons
Even if you’re not a Perks customer (why wouldn’t you be?), coupons are still available.
Check local coupon booklets and circulars for Dunkin’ Donuts deals — and don’t forget to search online as well.
4. Inspect Your Receipt
Don’t toss that receipt with your straw wrapper!
Dunkin’ Donuts gives a free donut with a beverage purchase to folks who complete its customer satisfaction survey — and the access code you need is printed at the bottom of your receipt.
You can also try rebate apps and programs that may reimburse a portion of your purchase when you snap a photo of your receipt. Although not active at every moment,Ibottahas offered Dunkin’ deals previously!
5. Join AARP
If you qualify for AARP membership, here’s a perk — you’re eligible for a free donut whenever you buy a large beverage.
6. Brew Your Own
One pound of Dunkin’ Donuts coffee will run about $9.
How many cups that yields depends on your brewing method and desired strength, but it’s likely more than the number of drinks the same amount of money would buy at the actual shop.
Bonus: You’ll skip the absurd drive-thru line and actually make it to work on time.
Your Turn: How do you trim expenses at Dunkin’ Donuts? Did we overlook any great tips? Tell us in the comments!
Alex Morgan (@alexmorgan) is a staff writer at Savinly. He drinks more Dunkin’ Donuts coffee than you do. No, really.
