SPONSORED CONTENT -- (StatePoint) Part of being a savvy consumer is finding valuable perks in unexpected places. These extras won’t just make you feel like a VIP, they’ll help you save big on the things you want and need.

Skeptical? You’re not alone -- a third of consumers are frustrated by the lack of value that loyalty programs offer, and for good reason. Many such programs are designed simply to make you spend more. With that in mind, check out these three companies, all of which are putting their customers first:

1. A phone plan with a difference: Simply by being a T-Mobile customer, you not only have wireless on the nation’s largest and fastest 5G network, you also have “Magenta “Status,” which comes with a suite of one-of-a-kind benefits across premium brands and services that can get you anywhere you want to go with style. T-Mobile has long given customers free streaming services and free in-flight Wi-Fi, along with free stuff every week from T-Mobile Tuesdays, such as fuel rewards and restaurant giveaways. And now, they’ve just turned the dial up to 11 with additional perks that come with major VIP vibes. This includes 15% off and automatic upgrades to Silver status at Hilton’s hotel brands worldwide, free gas top-off at Dollar or EV top-off at Hertz when returning your rental, monthly $5 movie tickets for everyone on your account, and 25% off tickets to some of the hottest shows at Live Nation amphitheaters and select clubs and venues. Add Club Magenta to your virtual wallet to enjoy premium views, private bars, giveaways and more. With no hoops to jump through, all the Magenta Status perks can add up to more than $1,500 each year in added value, putting money back in your pocket. Too many cool perks to track? Use T Life, a new app available on Android and iOS to easily manage them. To learn more about Magenta Status, check out www.t-mobile.com/status.

2. Savings on everyday items: Nobody likes paying more for needed items like prescription drugs, toiletries, personal care items and household supplies. Being an ExtraCare member of CVS offers you access to sale prices, special deals, birthday rewards, cash-back at the pharmacy and more. Membership is free, and easy to apply for at checkout or on the mobile app. (Speaking of the app, making use of it is a good way to track rewards and access additional offers.) There is also an ExtraCare+ option for $5 a month offering additional benefits, like prescription delivery and discounts on CVS-branded products. With the free tier already offering plenty of opportunities to save, you may not see a need to upgrade.

3. A faster and more affordable cup of joe: A morning cup of coffee is non-negotiable for many Americans, making racking up rewards through Starbucks Rewards painless. By earning stars, you can redeem them for the food and drinks you’re already enjoying, along with gifts like coffee tumblers. This loyalty program is not just about money, but about time as well. Because you can order ahead or scan and pay at the register in one step, you’ll move through the in-store or drive-thru line sooner, so you have more “me time” during those busy mornings.

At a time when the cost of most goods and services is on the rise, finding companies that give back to their customers can not only help you stretch your budget, it can feel like a breath of fresh air.

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