Delta and Starbucks Change Earning, With a New Delta Flight Requirement

Delta and Starbucks changed how linked SkyMiles and Starbucks Rewards accounts earn miles on August 5, 2026.

Earning is now based on qualifying Starbucks purchases rather than Starbucks Card reloads. Linked members earn 1 SkyMile per dollar, excluding taxes, tips, alcohol, and gift cards. A qualifying purchase can now earn miles without first making a Starbucks Card reload of at least $25.

The previous tiered system rewarded members for loading money onto a Starbucks Card. Independent reports showed earnings topping out at about 200 miles for a $100 reload. At that level, members earned about 2 miles per dollar reloaded. The new system awards everyone the same 1 mile per dollar spent on qualifying purchases.

That makes earning easier for customers who make smaller purchases without large reloads. Members who regularly used the highest reload tier will earn at a lower rate.

There is also a new eligibility requirement. To remain Flight Active, you must take a qualifying Delta flight with your SkyMiles number attached at least once every 12 months. The benefit offering double Starbucks Stars on eligible Delta travel days remains unchanged.

Members who linked their accounts before August 5 but do not have a recent qualifying flight can continue earning through October 5, 2026. Members who link on or after August 5 receive a one year window before they must meet the flight requirement.

Occasional Starbucks customers may find the purchase based system easier to use, while members who earned the highest reload bonuses lose the previous 2 mile per dollar ceiling. Either way, continued earning eventually requires a qualifying Delta flight. If you do not fly Delta, your Starbucks mileage earning will end when your applicable grace period expires.