The Penny Hoarder

What Is a Neobank?

101 Birthday Freebies — Celebrate With Free Stuff!

Posted: 25 Feb 2022 12:27 PM PST

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Close your eyes for a few moments and think of the first place you'll go post-pandemic.

Are you hiking to Machu Picchu? Dining on Kobe beef (in Kobe)? Sipping something strong and fruity on a white sandy beach? Perhaps you're just crossing state lines to see family or friends?

Wherever your mind took you, didn't you feel a little bit more relaxed in those few seconds?

No, this isn't a lesson in meditation. It's proof that planning a vacation — and the anticipation of experiencing it — can bring people just as much joy as being on the trip itself. A 2014 study from the University of Cornwall found that this delayed gratification was more pleasurable than the immediate kind you get when you order next-day Amazon delivery.

So, step away from your online cart and start planning your next vacation, however far out it may be. But make sure it's attainable, otherwise you'll be crushed when you realize you can't afford it. That's why we brought together these four ways to save up to $865 for a future getaway.

1. Start A Vacation-Only Savings Account

Setting money aside in a separate account can be a smart and safe way to protect your travel budget. You can't accidentally buy a pair of shoes with your hotel money that way! You'll be able to set a goal and watch the budget grow as you save more and more.

Here's a budget hack: Get an account that gives you free money for signing up and a high interest rate to grow that money faster. We found a company that will give you $100 just for opening a new debit card. It's called Aspiration.

Sure, a lot of debit cards offer sign-up bonuses throughout the year, but they often require you to jump through hoops with minimum requirements that feel impossible to hit.

But Aspiration makes it simple. To earn your $100, here's all you need to do: Open your Aspiration account and deposit at least $10. Then set up and receive three direct deposits of at least $500 each from your paycheck or government benefits. That's it! Then just wait for your check.

Even better? Your debit card gets you up to 10% cash back on your purchases and 16 times the national average of interest on your savings.

Enter your email address here, and link your bank account. And don't worry. Your money is FDIC insured and under a military-grade encryption. That's nerd talk for "this is totally safe."

2. Cut Your Expenses and Save The Excess

If you're overspending every month, it'll be difficult to find the cash for your next vacation — because you still need to be adding to your emergency fund and retirement fund, too.

Here's a quick fix: cut your car insurance rate. When's the last time you even checked car insurance prices?

You should shop your options every six months or so — it could save you some serious money. Use a website called EverQuote to see all your options at once.

EverQuote is the largest online marketplace for insurance in the US, so you'll get the top options from more than 175 different carriers handed right to you.

Take a couple of minutes to answer some questions about yourself and your driving record. With this information, EverQuote will be able to give you the top recommendations for car insurance. In just a few minutes, you could save up to $610 a year.

3. Get Paid Every Time You Go Shopping

Your trip is likely several months away (or more), which means you still need to shop for your everyday essentials. You might as well make money for them — and earn gift cards to use for your travel needs. You're going to want a good neck pillow for that 8 hour plane ride, trust us.

A free app called Fetch Rewards will reward you with gift cards just for buying toilet paper and more than 250 other items at the grocery store.

Here's how it works: After you've downloaded the app, just take a picture of your receipt showing you purchased an item from one of the brands listed in Fetch. For your efforts, you'll earn gift cards to places like Amazon or Walmart.

You can download the free Fetch Rewards app here to start getting free gift cards. Over a million people already have, so they must be onto something…

4. Earn $225 Killing Time Before Your Trip

If we told you you could get free money just for watching videos on your computer, you'd probably laugh.It's too good to be true, right? But we're serious.

A website called InboxDollars will pay you to watch short video clips online. One minute you might watch someone bake brownies and the next you might get the latest updates on Kardashian drama.

All you have to do is choose which videos you want to watch and answer a few quick questions about them afterward. Brands pay InboxDollars to get these videos in front of viewers, and it passes a cut onto you.

InboxDollars won't make you rich, but it's possible to get up to $225 per month watching these videos. It's already paid its users more than $56 million.

It takes about one minute to sign up, and you'll immediately earn a $5 bonus to get you started.

This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.

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What Is a Neobank?

Posted: 25 Feb 2022 09:00 AM PST

Despite the name, neobanks have nothing to do with the Matrix, and Keanu Reeves won't be showing up the next time you want to make a deposit. Rather, neobanks are technology companies that provide online banking services that you can access from your digital devices.

Neobanks, commonly referred to as "challenger banks," aim at providing essential financial services, such as savings and checking accounts, with an end goal of making personal finance a bit less intimidating and a whole lot more transparent than traditional banks.

These new fintech (financial technology) services are attempting to disrupt the banking industry by providing easier access to your financials via digital banking services, while also typically offering attractive features, including lower (or non-existent) banking fees and more competitive rates.

Keep on reading to learn more about how neobanks are re-shaping the banking landscape, and if they might be the right fit for your financial needs. But first, let's answer the most basic question: What is a neobank?

What Are Neobanks?

Neobanks are typically not banks, which is a shocking idea since the word 'bank' is right in the name. To be a true bank, an institution must be properly chartered, answering to federal and state regulators, while offering FDIC insurance to protect customer assets.

Rather, neobanks are technology companies that provide apps and software to make the entire banking process a bit easier. They are a new breed of financial institutions.

Neobanks, such as Chime, offer mobile apps and websites that allow you to easily manage your money. However, on the back-end, your money is being managed by a traditional bank. In the instance of Chime, your money is managed by a partner bank, either The Bancorp Bank or Stride Bank.

Some neobanks are take a similar approach as credit unions, attempting to forge close relationships with their customers and provide an overall better experience, such as higher interest rates on checking and savings accounts.

In fact, Bank Dora is the first neobank to partner with credit unions to secure its deposits.

Neobanks: the Pros and Cons

Like most things in life, neobanks have their own set of pros and cons. Here's a deep dive into some of the exciting banking services and features that neobanks and have to offer, and a few things you'll want to keep an eye out for when researching.

Pros

Non-existent or low fees: Because neobanks are online, they save on the overhead of maintaining physical locations. Often they pass on these savings to their members, forgoing or lowering many fees.
Better interest rates: That means more growth power for you with a whole lot less effort.
Banking convenience: You can fully manage your account, deposit checks and more all from the comfort of, well, anywhere.
Access to fee-free ATMs: Many neobanks partner with locations such as Walgreens, 7-Eleven, and CVS, to provide fee-free ATM withdrawals. Some even offer ways to deposit cash into your virtual account.

Cons

Not a 'real' bank - Neobanks are not technically banks. While this generally isn't an issue, you should be sure your neobank is FDIC insured, so your money stays safe.
No physical locations: If you are someone who prefers in-person assistance at brick and mortar banks, neobanks are likely not going to be the right choice for you.
Limited financial services: Many neobanks offer only savings and checking accounts. If you want a single bank that offers those as well as loan offerings, you may want to look elsewhere.
New to the market: Neobanks are simply too new to offer long records of proven success. They may be the next revolution of banking or a passing fad.
Out-of-network ATM fees: ATMs outside of your neobank's network will likely incur a pricey withdrawal fee. Be sure to check the ATM network for locations near you.

Neobanks vs. Online Banks

The primary difference between neobanks and online banks falls back to the idea that neobanks are not banks. Rather, neobanks are fintech companies that provide you with an online banking platform in partnership with a traditional banking institution.

An online bank typically has a bank charter and is able to provide you with the full range of services that a physical bank might offer, such as personal loans.

Some traditional banks have also begun to reach out into the digital domain, offering accounts for customers who are looking to bank primarily online.

Explore our list of the best online banks for 2022.

Are Neobanks Safe?

Similar to selecting a traditional bank, you'll want to do a bit of research before handing over your hard earned cash. With neobanks, it is essential to research the actual bank behind the fintech company that will be securing your money. For the most part, if you ensure that the supporting bank offers FDIC insurance, you should have little to worry about.

One additional consideration is that neobanks are not legal banks, so there are less regulations in place if problems arise. Let's say that you have an instance of fraud, there may be a bit of finger-pointing when it comes to who is at fault, the neobank or the banking institution.

As with any monetary decision, researching your options before making a move is essential. With neobanks, just a bit more investigation may be required. Most importantly, be sure to keep an eye on the partner bank's FDIC insurance offering.

Should You Consider a Neobank?

We started by asking 'what is a neobank,' but should you consider one for your own personal finance needs?

Whether or not a neobank is the ideal banking option for you will pertain to your individual preferences and the banking services that you prefer. A neobank might be the perfect option for you if you are someone who prefers to bank online, take advantage of no-fee savings, and leverage better interest rates for savings accounts to help achieve your long-term goals.

On the other hand, if you prefer face-to-face interactions with a banker at a local branch, the ability to apply for loans and mortgages with your primary bank, and want a time-tested well-regulated institution, a traditional bank may be the better choice.

Don't be fooled, however, in our best checking accounts roundup, Chime and Varo, two popular neobanks sit at the top. Neobanks have a lot to offer, and with significant fee-savings and competitive rates for savings accounts, they are worth considering against traditional banks.

1. Write a Love Letter

…to your creditors.

If you generally have a pretty solid credit history, save for a few missteps, then sending a well-executed goodwill letter to those you owe could help get you back in good graces with them and improve your credit score.

You'll want your letter to cover the following bases:

Explain why and how long you've been a loyal customer of the creditor.
Take responsibility for the mistakes that led to the blemishes on your credit history.
Describe the steps you're taking to ensure these mistakes don't happen again.
Appeal to their sense of empathy. Show that you want forgiveness but also that you are determined to do better going forward. Show them you deserve this!
Keep your letter clear and to the point.

Don't forget to include important information, like your account number and the date and amount of the missed payment you want removed from your credit history. Once you've written your goodwill letter, address it using the information on the creditor's website.

2. Let This Site Show You Exactly How to Improve Your Score

Your credit score is like your financial fingerprint. Everyone's is different and for different reasons. One person's credit score might be under 700 because they have an error on their report. Another person's credit score might be under 700 because they have a bill in collections.

That means everyone's strategy to improve their credit score will look different… but how in the world are you supposed to know where to start?

Thankfully, a free website called Credit Sesame will take a look at your credit report and let you know exactly what you need to do to improve your score.

Take, for example, James Cooper. He didn't know anything about credit, but Credit Sesame showed him the exact steps he needed to take to improve his score — from a 524 to 801.*

Then there are people like Salome Buitureria, a working mom in Louisiana who, in using Credit Sesame, found a major error on her report. The site helped her fix the mistake and take additional steps to raise her credit score nearly 200 points.*

Want Credit Sesame to show you exactly how to finally get your score over that 700 hump? It takes 90 seconds to sign up and get started.

A toddler lays on the floor as his mom works on a laptop with legos all around him.

3. Ask This Website to Pay Your Credit Card Bills This Month

If you have credit card debt, you know. The anxiety, the interest rates, the fear you're never going to escape…

Your credit card is getting rich by ripping you off with insane rates, but there are other, nicer companies that'll help you out. A website called Credible knows the best ones and could pair you up as soon as tomorrow.

Here's how it works: Credible will match you with a loan that'll cover your credit card tab. Use that loan to pay off your debt, then make monthly payments to repay the loan.

It could lower your monthly payments and help you pay off that debt a lot faster. Plus, no credit card payment this month. Credible won't make you stand in line or call a bank. And if you're worried you won't qualify, it's free to check online.

It takes just two minutes, and it could save you thousands of dollars. Totally worth it.

4. Stop Wasting Thousands Because of Your Bad Credit Score

Between higher interest on your car loan and credit card balance, your bad credit score could be costing you thousands of dollars each year.

But there's a debit card called Extra that can help build your credit without any of the hassle.

It's the only debit card that can positively impact your credit score without any of the risks that come with a regular credit card — there's no credit check, no interest and no deposit required to use it.

But there are rewards: When you sign up for an Extra debit card, you'll connect your existing bank account and get a credit limit based on your real-time cash balance. Then Extra will report your purchases as credit-worthy payments to the credit bureaus, just like a credit card company would, and give you points to spend on everything from beauty products to Apple Airpods.It takes just a few minutes to get started. Click here to apply. It could save you thousands of dollars.

5. Build Your Credit Score Without Getting a Credit Card

A woman puts her hands in her hair while looking stressed out.

Do you know how much money your bad credit score has cost you? Between higher interest rates on car loans or interest fees on your credit card balance, it could be thousands of dollars each year.

You know you need to fix it, but you don't have the time, money or energy. But there's a debit card called Extra that can help raise your credit without any of the hassle. And you could get rewards, too.

The Extra debit card is the first debit card that can positively impact your credit score without any of the risks from a regular credit card — there's no credit check, no interest rates and no deposit required to use it. Plus, you get to keep your money in the bank account you've always used.

Sign up for an Extra debit card by securely connecting your bank account. You'll get a credit limit based on your real-time cash balance. Every time you make a purchase with your Extra card, they'll spot you the cash now and pay themselves back the next day.

At the end of the month, all of your purchases are reported to the credit bureaus as credit-worthy payments — just like a credit card company would. But you won't be paying any interest fees since it's your money you're spending. You will earn rewards though!

It takes just a few minutes to sign up for an Extra debit card, and you can get all the perks of a credit card without the risks of a credit card. You can save thousands of dollars in interest, build your credit score and quite literally reap the rewards.

* Like Cooper and Buitureria, 60% of Credit Sesame members see an increase in their credit score; 50% see at least a 10-point increase, and 20% see at least a 50-point increase after 180 days.

Credit Sesame does not guarantee any of these results, and some may even see a decrease in their credit score. Any score improvement is the result of many factors, including paying bills on time, keeping credit balances low, avoiding unnecessary inquiries, appropriate financial planning and developing better credit habits.

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101 Birthday Freebies — Celebrate With Free Stuff!

Posted: 25 Feb 2022 06:00 AM PST

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101 Places to Get Birthday Freebies
Food & Drink
Entertainment
Clothes & Shoes
Beauty & Jewelry
Miscellaneous

Hooray! It's your birthday!

The last thing you should do is pay for stuff. So we've put together a list of 100 places where you can get birthday freebies, updated for 2022.

Most of these places require you to sign up for their email list or join their rewards club at least seven days before your birthday.

So get busy now and enjoy the free birthday stuff as it rolls in on your big day.

101 Places to Get Birthday Freebies

These restaurants and retailers will provide you with free treats for your birthday. Be sure to sign up in advance.

Food & Drink

1. A&W All American Food

Get a free root beer float on your birthday by joining the Mug Club.

2. ABC Liquor

3. Abuelo's

When you join the Mi Abuelo's Rewards program, you'll receive "special offers" on your birthday. You'll also receive a special offer upon joining.

4. Acapulco

Sign up for the Acapulco eClub and get a free entree on your birthday. Plus, you'll get a free appetizer with the purchase of an entree just for signing up.

5. Applebee's

Sign up for the email club, and get $5 off when you spend at least $25. You'll also get a free dessert on your birthday when you spend $15.

Here are even more discounts and free stuff for anyone who has served our country: Check out this list of 160 military discounts.

The exterior of an Arby's fast food restaurant.

6. Arby's

Sign up for Arby's emails and get a free small milkshake and curly fries on your birthday when you buy any sandwich. You'll also get 50% off the sandwich or wrap of your choice when you sign up.

7. Au Bon Pain

Join the Eclub, and get a free coffee and pastry on your birthday. You'll also get a travel mug just for signing up.

8. Auntie Anne's

Download the Pretzel Perks app, and get a free pretzel after your first purchase of $1 or more. Plus, you'll get 'something extra special' on your birthday.

9. Baja Fresh

10. Baskin Robbins

Create an account, join the Birthday Club, and get a free scoop of ice cream on your birthday.

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11. bd's Mongolian Grill

Get a free meal on your birthday when you join the bd's Rewards eClub, plus get a $5 coupon just for signing up. Unfortunately, if you frequent the Flint, Michigan, location you won't be able to take advantage of these offers. If you don't mind driving, you could try Ann Arbor, Novi or Sterling Heights instead.

12. Benihana's

13. Big Boy

Joining the I Love Big Boy email club gets you a free meal on your birthday.

14. BJ's Brewhouse

Join Premier Rewards Plus and get a free Pizookie for your birthday. What's that? It's a big, warm cookie smothered in ice cream… yum. What's even better is you don't have to wait for your birthday – you'll also get a free Pizookie just for signing up.

15. Black Angus Steakhouse

Join the Prime Club to get a free steak dinner on your first birthday as a member.

16. Bojangles

Get a free Bo-Berry Biscuit with a purchase on your birthday as a member of the Bojangles' eClub.

17. Bruegger's Bagels

Members of the Bruegger's Bagels Inner Circle will enjoy a free bagel and cream cheese on their birthday, and another free bagel and cream cheese just for signing up.

18. Buca di Beppo

You'll receive a free pasta after signing up, as well as a $20 birthday gift for joining the eClub.

The sign of Buffalo Wild Wings is photographed.

19. Buffalo Wild Wings

20. Carvel

Join Fudgie Fanatics to receive a free treat for your birthday. You can get a small soft serve birthday cone, take $2 off any cake (except for a small square) or take $3 off any sheet cake.

21. Chevys Fresh Mex

Members of the eClub get a free entree on their birthday. You can also get a free appetizer with the purchase of an entree just for signing up.

22. Chick-fil-A

Join Chick-fil-A One to get a "birthday reward."

23. Chili's

Get a free dessert for your birthday when you join My Chili's Rewards Club. Plus, as long as you spend $5, you get free chips and salsa or a non-alcoholic beverage with every visit!

24. Chipotle

Join the Chipotle rewards program to get free chips and guacamole on your birthday when you make a purchase of $5 or more. When you sign up and make your first purchase, you'll also get free chips and a choice of guacamole, queso blanco or salsa.

25. Cinnabon

Subscribe to Club Cinnabon to get a free iced coffee on your birthday and a free order of BonBites for signing up.

26. Cold Stone Creamery

Get a BOGO coupon for your birthday by signing up for the My Cold Stone Club. You'll also get a BOGO coupon just for signing up!

27. Culver's

Enjoy a free sundae on your birthday when you sign up for MyCulver's. You'll also get a BOGO value basket when you sign up.

28. Del Taco

If you join Del Yeah! Rewards, you can enjoy a regular-size premium shake for your birthday. If you've racked up more than 1,500 points, you'll get your choice of a shake or any dessert — except for Caramel Cheesecake Bites.

Plus you'll get two free The Del tacos when you sign up.

29. Denny's

Sign up for Denny's Rewards program online or via the mobile app. You'll get 20% off your next visit, plus during your birthday month you'll get "a delicious birthday gift."

30. Dippin' Dots

Get free Dippin' Dots for your birthday when you join the Dot Crazy! Email Club.

31. Dunkin' Donuts

Get a free beverage on your birthday by signing up for the DD Perks Rewards Program.

32. Edible Arrangements

Join Edible Rewards and receive a free 12-count chocolate dipped fruit box (valued at $29.99) during your birthday month as long as you've spent at least $29 in the past calendar year. You'll also get a $5 coupon for signing up (valid for 30 days).

33. Einstein Bros. Bagels

Get a free egg sandwich with a purchase on your birthday when you join the Shmear Society — not totally free, but hey, you'll need something to help wash that sandwich down. You'll have 14 days to claim your reward.

34. Firehouse Subs

35. First Watch

Get a BOGO breakfast, brunch or lunch for your birthday as a member of the Sun EClub. Sign up via the app on Android or iOS devices.

36. Friendly's

When you become a BFF Club member, you'll receive a free birthday sundae.

37. Godiva

As a member of the Godiva Rewards Club, you'll get a free birthday chocolate offer every year.

38. Habit Burger Grill

Be sure to join Habit Burger Grill's CharClub to enjoy a free Charburger on your birthday. You can sign up via the app on Android and iOS devices.

39. Hooters

Get 10 free boneless birthday wings when you sign up for Hootclub. You'll also get a free appetizer of $8.99 or less when you sign up — and after every eighth visit..

40. Houlihan's Restaurant and Bar

Email club members get a free birthday entree, plus $10 off just for joining.

41. IHOP

A woman smiles as she holds up a drink and a sub she got for free from Jersey Mike's Subs.

42. Jersey Mike's Subs

Get a free birthday sub when you sign up for the email club.

43. Krispy Kreme

Krispy Kreme Rewards members receive a free Original Glazed Dozen. You'll also get a free doughnut when you sign up.

44. Longhorn Steakhouse

As a member of the Longhorn Steakhouse's eClub, you'll get "special offers and coupons" on your birthday. You'll also get a free appetizer with the purchase of an entree when you sign up.

45. Marie Callender's

Join the eClub, and get 'exclusive email offers' for your birthday and wedding anniversary.. You'll also get a special dine-in offer for signing up. The company also allows you to add family members so they can get birthday rewards.

46. Moe's Southwest Grill

47. Nothing Bundt Cakes

Join the Nothing Bundt Cakes eClub and get a free Bundtlet on your birthday.

48. Olive Garden

Get a complimentary dessert on your birthday. No signup necessary..

49. On the Border

Join Border Rewards and get a "special surprise" on your birthday. Plus, when you sign up, you'll get a free dessert with the purchase of an entree.

50. Pei Wei

Sign up for My Wei Rewards and choose from these birthday freebies: crab wontons, traditional edamame, vegetable spring rolls or pork egg roll. The reward will automatically appear in your app seven days prior to your birthday.

51. Perkins

Members of the MyPerkins Club receive a "special gift" on their birthdays. Plus you'll get a 20% off coupon for signing up. You will also be able to add your children ages 12 and under so they can get birthday rewards, too.

52. Pinkberry

53. Pita Pit

54. Pizza Hut

Join the Hut Rewards program to get a "birthday reward."

55. Planet Smoothie

Join the Planet Smoothie Club and receive a free smoothie for your birthday.

56. Red Lobster

Enjoy a "birthday reward" when you sign up for the My Red Lobster Rewards program.

57. Red Robin

58. Rita's

Get a free Italian ice on your birthday when you download Rita's Ice App.

59. Romano's Macaroni Grill

60. Ruby Tuesday

As a member of So Connected, you'll get a choice of a free burger or a free garden bar entree on your birthday. You'll also get a $5 off coupon for signing up.

61. Sbarro

Get a free Big Deal Combo meal on your big day by joining the 'Q Crew, plus a $5 off $25 coupon just for joining.

Lots of places let you eat free on your birthday, but kids eat free all year at places around the country.

62. Sonny's BBQ

Get a free Big Deal Combo meal on your big day by joining the 'Q Crew, plus a $5 coupon just for joining.

63. Sprinkles

Receive a free cupcake (make that a baker's dozen if you're a Red Velvet tier member) for your birthday when you join Sprinkles Perks.

Robin Hartill, an editor at The Penny Hoarder, sips an iced coffee she got for free on her birthday at Starbucks in Saint Petersburg, Fla.

64. Starbucks

Get a birthday beverage or food item as a member of Starbucks Rewards.

65. Subway

Sign up for the Subway MyWay Rewards program and the sandwich-making company will give you "something special" on your birthday.

66. TCBY

Sign up for TCBY emails, and receive your first 3 ounces free on your birthday — as long as you've spent $100 at TCBY over the past year.

67. Texas Roadhouse

68. The Melting Pot

Members of Club Fondue will get a "birthday voucher."

69. The Spaghetti Warehouse

Join the Warehouse Club, and get a free meal on your birthday, plus a free appetizer with an entree purchase for becoming a member of the club.

70. Tijuana Flats

Become a Flathead and receive a free dessert for your birthday. You'll also get a free Tijuana Trio when you sign up.

71. Tropical Smoothie Cafe

Download the Tropical Smoothie Cafe app to be eligible for a "birthday surprise." What you get depends on your loyalty tier, but it ranges from a $2 reward to a free menu item.

72. Uno Pizzeria & Grill

Join the Uno Extras program, and receive a birthday coupon, as well as a free individual pizza.

73. Waffle House

Make sure you're a member of the Waffle House Regulars Club to receive a free waffle on your birthday. You'll also get free hashbrowns when you sign up. Additionally, Regulars receive an Anniversary Bacon Coupon, seasonal coupons, and other offers throughout the year.

74. Wienerschnitzel

Join the Wiener Lovers' Club, and get a "free food" each year on your birthday, plus a free chili dog for joining.

75. Zaxby's

Entertainment

76. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

Join Alamo Drafthouse Cinema's Victory program and get a free movie ticket on your birthday every year. If you visit Alamo Drafthouse Cinema more than 50 times per year, you'll get two free tickets for your birthday.

Two people laugh while watching a movie at the movie theater.

77. AMC Theatres

Become an AMC Stubs Insider to get a free large popcorn during your birthday month. If you're a Premiere or A-List member, you'll also get a free large fountain drink.

78. Harkins Theatres

79. Hard Rock

80. Redbox

Sign up for Redbox Perks and receive a free birthday rental (it must be used within 60 days). If you have made 50 purchases or rentals, you'll get two free birthday rentals.You'll also get a free one-night rental for signing up (that offer is valid for two weeks).

Clothes & Shoes

81. Anthropologie

As a member of the Anthro Loyalty program, you will get a "special treat to celebrate your birthday."

82. Banana Republic

When you sign up to receive Banana Republic's emails, you can opt to also get a "birthday gift."

83. Columbia

Members of the Greater Rewards program get a "birthday gift" in addition to a welcome gift from the sportswear and outdoor gear retailer.

Penny Hoarder senior writer Robin Hartill knows how to score the freebies on her birthday. Check out her haul.

84. Designer Shoe Warehouse (DSW)

Join the free DSW VIP Club to get a $5 birthday reward. You'll also get $5 on your birthday if you spend $200 annually as a VIP Gold member, and you'll get $10 if you spend $500 annually as a VIP Elite member.

85. Famous Footwear

Famously You Rewards members get a $5 birthday cash reward. You'll also earn double points on all of your purchases during your birthday month.

86. JCPenney

Receive a birthday gift when you sign up for JCPenney Rewards. If you are not a JCPenney credit card member, you must have earned points within the last 12 months. If you are a credit card member, you must have made a purchase with your JCPenney Credit Card within the past 12 months.

87. Kohl's

Members of the Kohl's Rewards program get a "special birthday gift."

88. Old Navy

When you join Navyist Rewards, you're eligible for one free "birthday surprise."

89. Torrid

90. Uniqlo

Download the Uniqlo app to get a birthday coupon during your birthday month.

Beauty & Jewelry

91. Aveda

You need to pay $10 to join Aveda's loyalty rewards program, but you'll receive a birthday gift, as well as double points on your Aveda purchase.

92. bareMinerals

93. Kendra Scott

Kendra Scott offers a 50% birthday discount on one fashion jewelry or color bar item. It also offers a 25% discount on fine jewelry, sterling silver jewelry or gold vermeil jewelry. You can also get 25% off a home goods item. Find out more information here.

94. Pandora

Members of the Pandora Club get a 15% discount during their birthday month. This offer can only be used one time and is valid on regular-priced jewelry only.

95. Sephora

Beauty Insiders are eligible to choose a free makeup or skin care gift for their birthday.

96. Ulta Beauty

As an Ultamate Rewards member, you'll get a free gift. If you've spent enough money to be a Platinum ($500) or Diamond ($1,200) member, you get an additional $10 coupon.

During your birthday month, you'll earn double points on all of your purchases.

Miscellaneous

97. Ace Hardware

Ace Rewards members get $5 off for their birthday at participating locations. If you've spent $750 at Ace Hardware over a 12-month period, your birthday rewards get bumped up to $10 off, regardless of location.

98. Container Store

Join the POP! (Perfectly Organized Perks) program to get a birthday gift.

The exterior of a CVS is photographed in Florida.

99. CVS Pharmacy

As a member of the ExtraCare program, you'll get a free, $3 Extrabucks reward on your birthday, as well as 2% back every time you shop.

100. Swagbucks

As a birthday reward, "you'll receive a Swag Up for a 55 SB credit when you redeem your next gift card."

101. World Market

Members of World Market Rewards get a "surprise offer" on their birthday, plus a 15% coupon for signing up.

The Penny Hoarder Staff

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Saturday, February 26, 2022