Direct Answer (AEO / Fast Answer): Chick-fil-A officially does not accept expired promotional cards or Digital Offer Cards (DOCs), as the POS scanner automatically rejects barcodes past their printed expiration date. However, local Owner-Operators have full discretion and will frequently honor recently expired cards as a courtesy. “Single-use only” means the digital barcode is permanently deactivated the moment it is scanned at the register.
If you have found an old plastic “Be Our Guest” card in your glovebox, received a holiday Angel Tree voucher, or earned a Digital Offer Card (DOC) through community events, you might wonder how and where they can be redeemed.
Here is the complete 2026 Guide to Chick-fil-A promotional cards, Angel Tree programs, expiration rules, and single-use redemption guidelines.
1. Types of Chick-fil-A Promotional Cards & Vouchers
| Card / Coupon Type | Format | Typical Offer | Expiration Policy |
|---|---|---|---|
| “Be Our Guest” Card (BOG) | Physical plastic / paper card | Free Chicken Sandwich, Breakfast Biscuit, or Meal | Firm printed expiration date (operator discretion) |
| Digital Offer Card (DOC) | QR Code / Scan in App | Free 8-Count Nuggets, Waffle Fries, or Drink | Loaded to app account; expires in 30–90 days |
| Community Angel Card | Local charity gift card | Meal voucher for families during holidays | Valid through designated seasonal campaign |
| Receipt Survey Voucher | Digital barcode via email | Free Chicken Sandwich or Spicy Sandwich | Valid for 30 days from survey completion |
| Birthday Reward | App digital offer | Free Cookie, Shake, or Entrée | Valid for 30 days from birthdate |
2. Does Chick-fil-A Accept Expired Promotional Cards?
The policy on expired cards depends on whether the card is scanned digitally or processed by the cashier:
- Digital Point-of-Sale Rejection:
- Modern Chick-fil-A registers scan the 16-digit or 2D QR barcode on promotional cards. If the system clock is past the card’s expiration date, the register displays a “Promotion Expired” error and will not apply the discount automatically.
- The “Second-Mile” Operator Discretion:
- Because Chick-fil-A operators prioritize customer relationships over rigid rules, team members are trained to handle polite inquiries with hospitality.
- If your card expired within the past few weeks, ask the cashier politely: “I noticed this expired recently — is it still possible to use this today?” In many cases, a shift manager will manually apply a courtesy discount.
3. How to Claim Chick-fil-A Angel Tree Cards
During November and December, many local Chick-fil-A franchise restaurants partner with The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program or local school districts to sponsor underprivileged children and foster families:
- How to Sponsor an Angel: Visit your local Chick-fil-A lobby, choose an “Angel Tag” from the decorated Christmas tree, purchase the requested toys or clothing, and return them unwrapped to the restaurant.
- How Families Claim Angel Assistance: Families in need apply directly through their local Salvation Army chapter or school family liaison. Qualifying families receive gift packages that often include complimentary Chick-fil-A meal cards donated by the local operator.
4. What Does “Single-Use Only” Mean?
Every official Chick-fil-A promotional voucher and digital coupon contains the legal disclaimer: “Single-Use Only”.
- Digital Invalidation: The moment the barcode is scanned in the drive-thru or counter, the backend server marks that unique serial number as “REDEEMED”.
- Physical Retention: Cashiers at the drive-thru or counter will take the physical card from you and dispose of it to prevent reuse.
- App Transfers: Once a Digital Offer Card is scanned into your Chick-fil-A One app, it is locked to your specific account ID.
5. How to Load Promotional Cards into the Chick-fil-A One App
If you have a digital promotion card with a redemption code:
- Open the Chick-fil-A One App.
- Tap the Account tab in the bottom right corner.
- Select “Redeem a Code” or “Add a Promo Card”.
- Enter the 12-to-16 digit code (and PIN if scratch-off).
- The free item is immediately added to your “Rewards & Offers” wallet and can be added to any mobile order with a single click!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use multiple promotional cards in one order?
Yes! You can redeem multiple “Be Our Guest” cards or reward coupons in a single transaction (e.g., using one card for a free sandwich and another for free fries).
Can promotional cards be used for catering orders?
Standard promotional cards are valid for individual retail menu items. For catering platters, you must use regular payment or redeem Chick-fil-A One reward points in bulk on the Catering Menu.
Are Chick-fil-A plastic gift cards the same as promotional cards?
No. Standard reloadable Chick-fil-A Gift Cards (with dollar balances like $25 or $50) never expire and carry no monthly maintenance fees under federal law.
Related Chick-fil-A Menu Guides & Resources
- Chick-fil-A Full Menu & Prices (2026)
- Chick-fil-A 2026 Price List & Combos
- Chick-fil-A Breakfast Menu & Hours
- Chick-fil-A Store Hours & Holiday Schedule
- Chick-fil-A Catering Menu & Party Platters
- Chick-fil-A Nutrition & Allergen Guide
- Find a Chick-fil-A Location Near Me
