While many popular chains have cut back on their birthday freebies, there are still plenty that offer gifts. During Cid’s birthday month, for example, her inbox was full of free products and restaurant offers. Her haul included three Krispy Kreme doughnuts, a mini-cake from Nothing Bundt Cake, a small Yankee Candle, a slice of Cheesecake Factory cheesecake, a Denny’s Grand Slam breakfast, and name-brand beauty products from both Sephora and Ulta. Some retailers email or text you a coupon; others automatically load it on your loyalty account. Carefully read the fine print to be sure you’re getting a real freebie — no purchase necessary. “Birthday rewards often change, so they’re difficult to nail down,” Chavez says. “The companies always use vague terms like surprise, gift, reward, et cetera.”
