There are 28.7 million active Starbucks reward members, as the popular coffee chain actively rewards those who frequent their stores regularly. The Starbucks application is a digital download on mobile devices (although some accounts are registered through a physical card), allowing users to access gift cards, stars (giving users free products when redeeming), rewards, and other unique perks like mobile ordering.
When someone close to us dies, closing online accounts protects their identity. In particular, closing membership and online accounts can reduce the risk of identity theft and fraud. Closing retail memberships and reward programs shouldn’t be overlooked as you navigate the grieving process.
This article will guide you in deleting a Starbucks account after someone dies, even without the login information.
Can You Delete a Starbucks Account When Someone Dies?
Unfortunately, Starbucks doesn’t let individuals delete an account when someone dies, but you can deactivate it. Deactivating an account will prohibit use through the application and online access.
The deactivation will refund any account balance and voids any rewards or stars on the profile. Users can also request an account “scramble,” which makes any account information unusable and inaccessible moving forward.
How to Determine if Someone has a Starbucks Account
The easiest way to determine if someone has a Starbucks account is to look through their phone for the Starbucks app. The Starbucks app shows the standard white and green twin-tailed siren logo. Click the app to see if it’s active or signed in. If the account is signed in, verify any account balance on the application under the account settings.
If the cell phone doesn’t have the Starbucks app, you can visit the rewards sign-in page online to confirm the account status. Under the sign-in options, choose the Forgot your Password button and enter the deceased’s email address.
Starbucks will send the registered email address instructions on resetting the password. If you can’t access your loved one’s email, continue to the Customer Service option below.
What Happens to Funds or Rewards on the Account?
Any preloaded funds on the account will be refunded to the account holder by check. Starbucks offers no refunds for stars or rewards within the application, meaning they will be lost during the account closure.
Unfortunately, Starbucks doesn’t allow users to transfer or share an account, meaning any rewards earned will remain with the account holder.
How to Delete a Starbucks Account Through the Mobile App
To delete the app from the phone, locate the account settings and the last option labeled “Help & Policies.” This option will bring a new message bar showing “request account deletion.” Fill out the necessary information, including the account's name and email.
Starbucks will send a confirmation email to the registered address on file. To permanently close this account, open this email and select the “Confirm Email” button.
How to Delete a Starbucks Account Through Customer Service
Starbucks offers three methods of contact when trying to close an account. You can call Starbucks at 1-800-STARBUC (1-800-782-7282) between 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. (Pacific time). Alternatively, you can chat with customer service by clicking the “Chat with us” icon at the bottom of the page. Chat services are available seven days a week, between 4:00 a.m. and 10 p.m. (Pacific time). Finally, users can contact Starbucks through email by visiting their Contact Us page.
What to Include When Talking to Starbucks Online
When contacting Starbucks, have a few personal details ready for the conversation. You’ll want to have the account holder’s name, birthday, email address, and phone number available.
Additionally, you may need to submit a death certificate to close the account. Ask the customer service representative what information you’ll need at the beginning of the call.
Always remain upfront with customer service, especially when indicating a person has died. It’s best to start with a direct request rather than potentially confusing the representative. A sample script might include:
Hi, my name is [Your Name]. Can I get your name or employee number, please?
I need to close [Account Holder’s Name] Starbucks account. [Account Holder’s Name] died on [date of death].
The account details are as follows:
Account Holder Name
Account Holder Email
Account Holder Date of Birth
Account Holder Phone Number.
I need to close this account permanently. What else do you require from me to do this?
Although this script looks pretty blunt, it eliminates the back-and-forth that often occurs with customer service loyalty teams. Always record the employee’s name, employee number, and conversation details. Record any reference numbers or confirmation codes.
Final Thoughts
Although it may seem trivial, closing out the subscriptions and services after our loved one passes away is important. These subscriptions offer a small piece of their previous life that we often hold on to for sentimental reasons.
While it is hard to close the accounts, protecting their identity in the afterlife is a beautiful way to honor your loved one. After all, closing a Starbucks account doesn’t erase their love of the brand; that memory will remain with you indefinitely, even without the account.
