How to Save Money with DoorDash: A Quick Guide for the Budget-Conscious

If you’re diving into the world of DoorDash, don’t let those service fees and delivery charges drain your wallet. Here’s how to maximize your savings and make your takeout habit slightly less financially questionable:

1. Sign Up Offers: Freebies and Discounts Galore

When you’re new to DoorDash, they practically beg you to join with enticing sign-up deals.

• Free Delivery on First Orders: Most new users get a few delivery fee waivers to kickstart their foodie adventure.
• Promo Codes: Keep an eye out for codes like “TRYFREE” or seasonal promotions that slash your first few orders. Search online for active codes—they’re everywhere.

2. DashPass: The Holy Grail of Savings

If you’re ordering more than a few times a month, DashPass can be a game-changer.

• $0 Delivery Fees: For $9.99/month, you get free delivery on eligible orders (usually $12+). Perfect for regular users.
• Reduced Service Fees: DoorDash loves those sneaky fees, but DashPass trims them down for members.
• Shared Plans: Sharing is caring—and cheaper. Family DashPass plans save even more.

3. Coupons, Discounts, and Promotions

DoorDash always has deals floating around—you just need to know where to look.

• In-App Promotions: Check the “Offers” tab for discounts on specific restaurants or order types.
• Restaurant Deals: Many partners offer exclusive DoorDash discounts, like “20% off your first order” or free items when you hit a minimum spend.
• Email & Push Notifications: Don’t ignore those promotional emails—they often contain one-time codes or limited-time offers.

4. Referral Credits

Got friends? Perfect.

• $10+ Referral Bonuses: Invite friends to join DoorDash, and you’ll get credits when they place their first order. Some promotions offer even more!
• Win-Win: They get a discount, and you get free food. Why not?

5. Group Orders to Split Costs

• One Delivery Fee, Multiple Mouths: Gather your roommates, coworkers, or friends and place one big group order to save on fees. DoorDash’s group order feature makes splitting the bill easy.
• DashPass Savings Apply: If you’ve got DashPass, everyone benefits from free delivery and lower fees.

6. Stack Credit Cards and Cashback Apps

• Credit Card Perks: Some cards offer cashback or rewards on food delivery services, including DoorDash. Look for special partnerships with cards like Chase Sapphire or AmEx.
• Cashback Apps: Use apps like Rakuten or Drop to earn points or cashback on your orders.

7. Schedule Your Orders

• Avoid Peak Fees: Placing your order during high-demand times (like dinner rush) often comes with higher fees. Ordering ahead for off-peak times can help avoid these surcharges.

8. Loyalty Programs from Restaurants

Some restaurants partner with DoorDash to extend their own rewards programs.

• Double Dip: Earn points for both DoorDash orders and the restaurant’s loyalty program if eligible.

9. Chase Monthly Credits (For Cardholders)

If you’re lucky enough to hold a Chase Sapphire Reserve or Preferred card, you might qualify for DoorDash credits as part of your perks. Free food? Yes, please.

The Takeaway (Pun Intended)

DoorDash can feel like a money pit, but with these tips, you’ll be saving cash faster than your driver can show up at your door. Whether it’s stacking promo codes, using DashPass, or roping in your friends for group orders, there’s no reason to overpay for your next indulgence.