Changes at Starbucks New at Starbucks: Loyalty Benefits. "Starting in mid-April, customers who use registered Starbucks cards in select U.S. and Canadian stores will get several benefits: Starbucks will not charge for any syrups, milk alternatives and other extras added to drinks, no matter how numerous or complex. Senior Vice President Michelle Gass said she isn't concerned that will lead to more expensive, time-consuming orders. Refills of brewed coffee will be free during the same visit. They now often cost 50 cents. And any tall drink will be free with the purchase of one pound of beans."