McDonald’s Rewards: Know How to Earn and Redeem Points!
McDonald’s Rewards program allows you to earn 100 points for every dollar you spend, whether dining in, ordering through the drive-thru, or using the mobile app. With a vast selection of over 200 menu items and numerous ways to earn points, accumulating rewards is easier than ever.
From a delicious Large Premium Iced Coffee to free burgers, there’s something for everyone. Plus, signing up is accessible for Canadians aged 14 and older, making it accessible for many. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the best strategies to earn and redeem your McDonald’s Rewards points, ensuring you maximize your benefits every time you indulge in your favorite McDonald’s meals.
Table of Contents
Program Overview
MyMcDonald’s Rewards is McDonald’s Canada’s official loyalty program, designed to be simple and rewarding. You earn 100 points for every $1 spent, with various earning methods, including in-store, drive-thru, kiosk, mobile app, and pick-up orders. Once you collect enough points, you can redeem them for food, drinks, and desserts. The program offers five reward categories, each with different point requirements.
Joining is accessible for Canadians aged 14 and older, making it accessible to a broad audience. The app also features bonus points and promotional offers to help rack up points faster. Watch for these deals by subscribing to the McDonald’s Canada eNewsletter and enabling push notifications. Whether you’re a frequent diner or an occasional visitor, the program is designed to enhance your McDonald’s experience.
Pros and Cons of the Program
| Feature | Description |
| Wide Accessibility | Over 1,300 McDonald’s locations in Canada with multiple earning methods: kiosk, app, drive-thru, or in-store. |
| Extensive Menu Choices | Covers 200+ menu items, updated annually, providing a variety of options for point redemption. |
| High Point Earning Rate | Earn 100 MyMcDonald’s Rewards Points for every $1 spent, allowing quick accumulation for redemptions. |
| Free Membership | Membership is free for Canadians aged 14 and older, eliminating cost barriers to participation. |
| Promotional Offers | Members enjoy bonus points and exclusive offers through the McDonald’s app and eNewsletter. |
| Expiration of Points | Points expire in 6 months if not used, potentially limiting for infrequent diners. |
| Limited Redemption Options | Points cannot be redeemed for delivery fees, service fees, tips, or non-food items like bags or bottles. |
| No Official Credit Card | No co-branded credit card exists, but users can utilize their preferred rewards credit card to earn additional points. |
Rewards Categories and Point Values
| Cost (Points) | Menu Items | Average Value (CPP) | Most Valuable Menu Item (CPP) |
| 2,000 points | 2 Li’L Donuts, Hash Brown, Coffee, Iced Coffee, or Tea (any size), Vanilla Cone | 0.16 | Large Iced Coffee (0.19 CPP) |
| 4,000 points | Cheeseburger Fries (any size), Latte (any size), Sausage McMuffin | 0.11 | Large Fries (0.15 CPP) |
| 6,000 points | *Bacon ‘N Egg, Egg, or Sausage ‘N Egg McMuffin, Junior Chicken, McDouble, Snack Size McFlurry | 0.08 | Snack Size McFlurry (0.09 CPP) |
| 10,000 points | 6-pc Chicken McNuggets, Any Happy Meal, Bacon ‘N Egg, Egg, or Sausage ‘N Egg McMuffin Extra Value Meal, Big Mac, McCrispy | 0.08 | McMuffin Extra Value Meal or McCrispy (0.10 CPP) |
| 14,000 points | 10-pc Chicken McNuggets, Big Mac Extra Value Meal, McChicken Extra Value Meal, Quarter Pounder with Cheese Extra Value Meal | 0.10 | Quarter Pounder with Cheese Extra Value Meal (0.12 CPP) |
Calculating Points Value
Calculating the value of MyMcDonald’s Rewards Points is straightforward. Use the formula: cost of reward in dollars divided by cost in points, then multiply by 100. For example, if a reward costs $2 and requires 2,000 points, the calculation is ($2/2000) x 100 = 0.1 cents per point. This method helps you identify the best redemption options.
Hefty Premium Iced Coffee typically offers the highest value. Always aim to redeem points at the 2,000-point level, as it provides more bang for your buck. Avoid high-tier rewards like those requiring 6,000 or 10,000 points; they often offer lower value per point. Monitor menu prices, which may vary by location, but the fundamental value remains consistent.
How to Earn MyMcDonald’s Rewards Points?
- In-Store Orders:
Scan your membership code at the front counter to earn 100 points for every $1 spent. Quick and easy, this method ensures you never miss out on rewards while dining inside McDonald’s.
- Drive-Thru Orders:
Provide your membership code when placing your order at the drive-thru. It’s a convenient way to accumulate points without leaving your car.
- Kiosk Orders:
Before making a payment, scan your membership code at a kiosk. This option is perfect for those who prefer self-service.
- Mobile App Orders:
Use the McDonald’s app to place your delivery or pick-up order. Ensure you’re logged in and apply your membership code at checkout to earn points seamlessly.
- Special Promotions:
Look for bonus point opportunities and promotional offers in the McDonald’s app. Subscribing to the McDonald’s Canada eNewsletter and enabling push notifications can inform you about these additional earning options.
How to Redeem MyMcDonald’s Rewards Points?
| Redemption Method | Process |
| Using the Mobile App | Tap “Rewards and Offers” in the app, then select the item you want to redeem from the “My Rewards” page. Add it to your mobile order and proceed to checkout. |
| At the Front Counter | Choose your reward in the app, select “Use at restaurant,” and show the code on your screen to the cashier when ordering in-store. |
| Drive-Thru Orders | Select your desired reward in the app and choose “Use at restaurant.” Provide the code when you place your order at the drive-thru speaker. |
| Kiosk Orders | Scan your reward code at a kiosk before making your payment. This ensures your chosen item is included for free. |
| Pick-Up Orders | Order through the McDonald’s app and apply your reward code at checkout. This allows you to pick up your free item along with your regular order. |
Utilizing Credit Cards for Maximum Rewards
- American Express Cobalt Card:
This card is excellent for dining out, offering 5 points per $1 spent on groceries and restaurants. With a low fee and no income requirements, it’s a top choice for maximizing your McDonald’s Rewards.
- MBNA Rewards World Elite Mastercard:
This card provides 5 MBNA Rewards Points per $1 spent on groceries and restaurants. Additionally, you can earn up to 15,000 bonus points annually, which is perfect for those who frequently visit McDonald’s.
- Simplii Financial Cash Back Visa Card:
Ideal for those who prefer cash back, this card offers a 10% return on restaurant purchases for the first four months. Post-promotion, it gives a 4% return, translating into significant savings.
- Visa Infinite Cards:
Many Visa Infinite cards offer elevated rewards for dining out. Check the specific terms of your Visa Infinite card to ensure you’re maximizing your earnings on McDonald’s purchases.
- Combine Points and Credit Card Rewards:
Use your favorite rewards credit card for every purchase to accumulate McDonald’s Rewards and credit card points. This dual accumulation strategy can significantly enhance your overall rewards.
Bonus Points and Promotional Offers
| Bonus Opportunity | Description |
| Bonus Points for First-Time Users | New members can earn bonus points on their first order through the McDonald’s app. Check the app for these offers. |
| Limited-Time Promotions | Seasonal promotions may allow you to earn extra points on specific menu items or during special events. |
| Double Points Days | Occasionally, McDonald’s offers double points days, enabling you to earn twice the rewards for every dollar spent. |
| Birthday Bonuses | Celebrate your birthday by earning bonus points; ensure your birthday is entered in your account profile to qualify. |
| Special Item Promotions | Certain high-value menu items may come with additional bonus points, highlighted in the app for easy access. |
Points Expiration and How to Avoid Losing Them
MyMcDonald’s Rewards Points expire after six months of inactivity. To avoid losing them, make sure to use your points regularly. Set a reminder to check your balance monthly. Redeem points even for small items like fries or a drink. Utilize the McDonald’s app to track your points quickly. Participate in bonus point promotions to keep your account active.
Try to place an order at least once every few months. Even small purchases can prevent point expiration. Use notifications from the McDonald’s app to stay updated on your points. Combining regular purchases with promotions maximizes your rewards. Keep an eye on your points balance and make a habit of redeeming them frequently. Regular activity ensures you always benefit from your hard-earned rewards.
Philanthropic Opportunities with Points
- Supporting Children in Need:
Donate your MyMcDonald’s Rewards Points to BBC Children in Need, helping to fund programs and services for children facing various challenges.
- Helping Families:
Contribute your points to Ronald McDonald House Charities, which provide a comforting place for families to stay while their children receive medical treatment.
- Combating Hunger:
Your points can be donated to FareShare, an organization dedicated to redistributing surplus food to charities that combat hunger and food waste.
- Community Development:
Consider donating to local initiatives and community projects supported by McDonald’s Canada to foster a positive impact in your neighborhood.
- Environmental Causes:
Points donations can also support environmental sustainability projects, helping McDonald’s Canada reduce its ecological footprint and promote greener practices.
Sign-Up Process and Getting Started
| Step | Description |
| Download the App | Download the McDonald’s app from the App Store or Google Play. Ensure your device has the latest updates for optimal performance. |
| Create an Account | Open the app and select “Sign Up.” Fill in your details, including email and password, and agree to the terms and conditions. |
| Get Your Code | After logging in, click on the square icon to generate your membership code. This code will be used to earn points on every purchase. |
| Start Ordering | Use your membership code when ordering in-store, at the drive-thru, kiosk, or via the app. Each method is seamless, ensuring you earn points regardless of how you order. |
| Monitor Your Points | Track your points balance and available rewards directly in the app. This helps you plan your redemptions and maximize your rewards efficiently. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I join the MyMcDonald’s Rewards program?
Download the McDonald’s app, log in, and follow the sign-up prompts. Membership is free for Canadians aged 14 and older.
How can I check my MyMcDonald’s Rewards points balance?
Open the McDonald’s app, navigate to the “Rewards and Offers” section, and your current points balance will be displayed. It’s an easy way to keep track of your earnings.
Do MyMcDonald’s Rewards Points expire?
Yes, MyMcDonald’s Rewards Points expire after six months of inactivity. To prevent expiration, make sure to redeem or earn points regularly.
Can I earn MyMcDonald’s Rewards Points on delivery orders?
You can earn points on delivery orders made through the McDonald’s app. Orders through third-party apps like Uber Eats do not qualify for points.
Conclusion
In conclusion, MyMcDonald’s Rewards program offers a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite meals while earning valuable points. With multiple earning opportunities and a wide range of redeemable items, the program caters to various tastes and preferences. You can maximize your benefits by using innovative strategies, like aiming for high-value rewards and leveraging bonus point promotions.
Combining your rewards with a sound credit card can further enhance your earning potential. Whether you’re a frequent McDonald’s visitor or an occasional diner, the program adds value to every purchase. So, sign up today, start collecting points, and treat yourself to some delightful rewards!
