What McDonald's Subscription Is

McDonald's Subscription, officially called MyMcDonald's Rewards, is a free loyalty program that lets you earn points on purchases and redeem them for food and drinks. You read the McDonald's mobile app, create an account, and start collecting points each time you buy something — whether you order in the restaurant, at the drive-thru, or through the app itself.

The program has no membership fee and no subscription charge, despite the name. You earn one point per dollar spent, and points accumulate in your account until you decide to redeem them. The redemption options change regularly, but typically include free items like a small fries, a drink, or a sandwich.

McDonald's also runs a separate paid subscription called McDonald's+ (available in some markets), which costs a monthly fee and offers perks like free medium fries or a drink with every visit. This is different from the free rewards program and is not available everywhere.

Key Takeaways

  • MyMcDonald's Rewards is free to join and earns you one point per dollar spent at any McDonald's location.
  • You access the program through the McDonald's mobile app after creating an account with your email or phone number.
  • Points never expire as long as your account remains active, so you can accumulate them over time.
  • McDonald's+ is a separate paid subscription available in select areas that offers monthly perks like free fries or drinks.
  • Redemption options vary by location and change throughout the year, so check the app to see what is currently available.

How to Set Up Your Account

read the McDonald's app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store on your phone. Open the app and tap the menu icon, then select "Sign Up" or "Create Account." You will need to enter your email address, create a password, and provide your name and phone number. Some locations also let you sign up in the restaurant or at the drive-thru kiosk, but the app is the fastest way.

Once your account is created, you are automatically enrolled in MyMcDonald's Rewards. You do not need to do anything else to start earning points. The next time you order, make sure you are signed into the app or provide your phone number at the register so the purchase links to your account.

How Points Are Earned and Redeemed

You earn one point for every dollar you spend, regardless of what you order or where you order it. A $5 meal earns 5 points; a $12 order earns 12 points. Points post to your account within a few minutes of purchase if you used the app, or within 24 hours if you provided your phone number at the register.

To redeem points, open the app and look at the "Rewards" or "Offers" section. You will see a list of items you can get with your points — these change regularly and may include free small fries, a free drink, a free sandwich, or a discount on a meal. Select the reward you want, and the app will show you how many points it costs. Tap "Redeem" and a code appears on your screen. Show this code to the cashier or scan it at the kiosk when you order, and the reward is applied to your purchase.

Points do not expire as long as your account is active. If you have not used your account in a long time, McDonald's may close it, but there is no set time limit published. You can check your points balance anytime by opening the app and looking at your account dashboard.

What Rewards Are Available

The rewards you can redeem change throughout the year and vary by location. Common rewards include a free small fries, a free small drink, a free sandwich (like a McChicken or hamburger), a free breakfast item, or a discount on a larger purchase. Some locations offer regional items or limited-time rewards tied to new menu launches.

The number of points required for each reward varies. A free small fries might cost 100 points, while a free sandwich could cost 150 or 200 points. The app always shows you the point cost before you redeem, so you know exactly what you are getting. You can browse all available rewards before you decide which one to work toward.

McDonald's+ Paid Subscription (Where Available)

McDonald's+ is a separate paid membership that costs money per month and is only available in certain areas of the United States. It is not the same as the free MyMcDonald's Rewards program. If you subscribe to McDonald's+, you typically get a free medium fries or drink with every visit, plus early access to new menu items and exclusive deals.

You can have both MyMcDonald's Rewards (free) and McDonald's+ (paid) at the same time. Points from the free program still accumulate even if you pay for the premium subscription. Check the app to see if McDonald's+ is available in your area, as it is not offered everywhere.

How to Use Rewards at the Register

When you are ready to redeem a reward, open the McDonald's app and go to the Rewards section. Select the reward you want and tap "Redeem." A barcode or code appears on your screen. At the register or drive-thru, show the cashier or kiosk screen the code, and they will scan it or enter it into the system. The reward is subtracted from your order total, and you pay for anything else you ordered.

If you ordered through the app for pickup or delivery, you can redeem a reward before you complete your order. The discount applies automatically, and you pay the reduced total. Some locations also let you redeem rewards at self-order kiosks in the restaurant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay to join McDonald's Rewards?

No. MyMcDonald's Rewards is completely free. You only pay if you choose to subscribe to McDonald's+, which is a separate paid program available in select areas.

What happens if I do not use my account for a long time?

McDonald's may close inactive accounts, though the exact time period is not publicly stated. If your account is closed, your points are lost. To keep your account active, log in to the app or make a purchase at least occasionally.

Can I use multiple rewards on one order?

No. You can redeem one reward per transaction. If you want to use multiple rewards, you would need to make separate orders.

Do points expire?

Points themselves do not expire as long as your account is active. However, if your account is closed due to inactivity, you lose the points. The app shows your current balance anytime you log in.

Can I transfer points to someone else?

No. Points are tied to your account and cannot be transferred, gifted, or shared with another person's account.