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Three wrapped sub sandwiches from Jimmy John’s are cut open to show their fillings, which include lettuce, sliced meats, and cheese. A Jimmy John’s box and papers are visible in the background.
May A. / Yelp

Ever-popular sub shop Jimmy John’s has decided to switch up its rewards system, and not a minute too soon for most fans of the chain. The key difference this time? Jimmy John’s rewards that people might actually want.

Improved, Hopefully

Two stacked boxes wrapped in Jimmy John’s branded sandwich paper and Jimmy John’s promotional tape, forming a bow on top. The packages sit on a countertop in a commercial kitchen.
ameliaing/Reddit.com

Jimmy John’s old “rewards” system was far from popular. Thread after thread after thread exists on Reddit full of complaints, closely matched by plenty of social media discourse. Previously dubbed “Freaky Fast Rewards,” the internet is full of people scratching their collective heads over it, calling it things like “really stupid” and “a joke.”

The Random, Surprise Awards Are Gone

Packets of "Triple Chocolate Chunk" cookies are displayed in a black stand at a counter, with a bakery or café setting visible in the background. Each cookie is individually wrapped in plastic.
Wharfrat402/Reddit.com

The reason that Jimmy John’s old rewards system stunk up so much air was probably because of the randomized format, where participants would receive surprise rewards based on purchase history, bonus offers, and in-app activity. “I’ve been eating Jimmy John’s for probably 10 years now, said one fan, “and I think the only thing I’ve ever gotten free was a soda pop or a cookie”. The promise of a free cookie after 10 years of loyalty is anything but compelling.

How the New Jimmy John’s Rewards Program Works

Jimmy John’s sub cut in the middle showing fillings of sliced meat and veggies
Cesar S. / Yelp

Ole’ James John has finally cooked up a far better, more straightforward system. Now known as JJ Rewards, you’ll earn 10 points for every dollar you spend. You can redeem them any time on the app or website, and you’ll be able to cash them in for sandwiches this time. Cookies and drinks are also options, if you prefer those instead. You’ll also receive a free sandwich after signing up and placing your first order of $5 or more, which is valid for any regular-sized Favorite, Original, or Plain Slim sandwich. You’ll also receive a birthday surprise, though the company doesn’t specify what that includes. In the past, participants have received a free sandwich, but its not yet clear if that remains the case.

Is the New Jimmy John’s Rewards Program Better?

A sub sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and meat is in front of a glass of Coca-Cola and a bag of Jimmy Chips. The background is red with a white JJ Rewards logo on the right side.
Jimmy John’s

So far, the new rewards have had a much warmer reception than the previous. Some are calling it a positive change, while others are worried it will cause you to spend more in the long run.

Meaningless Achievements Are Still in Play

Achievement Badges screen showing two badges: a stacked sandwich badge labeled "Sandwich-O-Meter" and a person dancing with a large sandwich labeled "Rockstar Rookie." Instructions to access badges are above.
gfc3rd/Reddit.com

Don’t worry, though. Jimmy John’s also offers achievement badges, if you are somebody who prefers rewards that aren’t real.

When Does Jimmy John’s Start the J.J. Rewards Program?

Jimmy John's front entrance
SweetBabeeJay/istockphoto

The new Jimmy John’s rewards program, JJ Rewards, launched on September 29, 2025, and is now live. Start hoardin’ those points.

More Fast-Food Deals and News

person holding a fast food package and glass with lunch in public
Михаил Руденко/istockphoto

Meet the Writer

Wilder Shaw is a staff writer at Cheapism who has written for publications like The Washington Post, Thrillist, Time Out, and more, but you most likely recognize him as Trick-or-Treater No. 2 from a 1996 episode of “The Nanny”. Give him a shout on Bluesky and Instagram.