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Do you have a dairy allergy or prefer to consume dairy-free alternatives? Depending on where you stop for coffee and specialty drinks, ordering a beverage with milk alternatives can be much more expensive. And every extra cent you pay impacts your checking account balance.
Starbucks is one coffee chain that has been charging customers additional fees for non-dairy milk customizations. But that's about to change starting on Nov. 7.
Here's what you need to know before ordering your next handcrafted drink at your local Starbucks.
This change could save you money on your next coffee run
Starbucks recently announced it would launch its holiday-themed menu on Nov. 7. But that's not the only news the popular coffee brand shared with customers.
Also on Nov. 7, Starbucks will no longer charge more when customers request non-dairy milk in their drinks. The company noted that non-dairy milk substitutions are a popular drink customization. It's the second most popular customization, after adding espresso shots.
Customers who request substitutions with non-dairy milk alternatives like soy, oat, almond, or coconut milk will no longer pay an added fee. The retailer noted that nearly half of current customers in the U.S. who modify their drinks will see a price reduction of over 10%.
This change is welcome news for many Starbucks regulars. If you prefer non-dairy milk and have been paying extra for drink customizations at other coffee shops, you might consider ordering your next coffee at Starbucks to save money.
Why not stash the money you save on drink customization fees in a savings account? Check out our list of the best high-yield savings accounts to start maximizing your savings dollars today.
Earn rewards when you satisfy your Starbucks cravings
Whether you sometimes order beverages at Starbucks or are a regular customer, take advantage of the opportunity to earn rewards. By joining the Starbucks Rewards program, you can earn rewards (stars) every time you make a Starbucks run.
It's free to join. You can redeem your stars for freebies -- including coffee or tea, sandwiches, bags of coffee bans, and merchandise. And who doesn't like free stuff?
How many stars you earn depends on how you pay for your order. If you pay with a debit or credit card, you'll earn 1 star for every $1. You'll earn 2 stars for every $1 when using a Starbucks gift card. You can easily buy or reload a virtual Starbucks gift card in the app.
We suggest using a gift card as payment to maximize the stars you earn through the Starbucks Rewards program. You can use a credit card as payment when reloading gift cards.
Using a rewards credit card can help you double up on the rewards you earn. Want to earn cash back rewards?Check out our list of the top cash back credit cards that offer big rewards.
Not yet a Starbucks Rewards member? Now is an excellent time to join. Saving money by avoiding drink customization fees and earning free coffee and snacks as a rewards member can help you free up more money to put toward your financial goals.
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We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Natasha Gabrielle has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Starbucks. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
