Tax Day Freebies And Deals How To Save At Restaurants And Retailers On April 15

Tax Day, the annual deadline for filing federal income tax returns in the United States, typically falls on April 15 each year (unless it falls on a weekend). While this day may bring stress for many taxpayers, it has also become known as a day when numerous restaurants and retailers offer special deals and freebies to help soften the financial blow. This article explores the various Tax Day freebies and deals available to consumers, with a focus on offers from previous years and anticipated deals for future Tax Days.

Understanding Tax Day Freebies

Tax Day freebies have become a tradition across the United States, with businesses offering special promotions to attract customers on this significant date. These offers typically include discounted meals, free food items, and other incentives designed to provide taxpayers with a small reward for completing their tax obligations.

Most Tax Day deals are specifically valid on April 15, though some establishments extend offers for additional days or even the entire month of April. As with most promotions, these deals are generally only valid at participating locations, so customers should check with their local establishments to confirm availability.

Tax Day 2025 Freebies and Deals

Looking ahead to Tax Day 2025 on Tuesday, April 15, several restaurants and retailers have announced special offers. These deals provide opportunities for consumers to enjoy savings on food and other items.

Restaurant Deals

Several restaurant chains offer Tax Day specials:

• BJ's Restaurant: Patrons can receive $10 off a $40 purchase on April 15 for dine-in orders or by using the promo code 10OFF40 at checkout for takeout orders at participating locations. This offer cannot be redeemed with any other offers or discounts. Additionally, BJ's offers $5 Pizookies® every Tuesday at participating locations.

• Brusters of NC (Durham Renaissance Parkway): This location hosts a Customer Appreciation Night on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, from 6-9 pm. During this time, customers can enjoy $4 Small Dishes or Cake Cones and $5 Small Waffle Cones. There is a limit of one per person. The location is at 8200 Renaissance Parkway Suite 1002, Durham, NC, 27713. Details were sent via email to subscribers on April 13 or can be obtained by contacting the location directly.

• Buffalo Wild Wings: Rewards Members can enjoy buy-one-get-one-free traditional wings for dine-in only every Tuesday when they provide their phone number linked to their rewards account to their server.

• Burger King: Customers can get a Cheeseburger for just 1 cent with any $1 or more purchase made through the BK® App or on bk.com.

Anticipated Tax Day 2026 Deals

Based on previous years' offerings, several restaurant chains are expected to provide special deals for Tax Day 2026, which falls on Wednesday, April 15. These predictions are based on patterns observed in previous Tax Day promotions.

Food and Beverage Chains

• Krispy Kreme: Online shoppers can expect to score a second dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for free when using a promo code at checkout online or in the app.

• Mountain Mike's Pizza: The chain may offer a 15% discount on any pepperoni pizza (excluding minis) when customers use a promo code at checkout online or in the app.

• Olive Garden: A buy-one-get-one deal is anticipated for Tax Day in 2026.

• Papa Johns: Customers can likely look forward to purchasing any regular menu-priced large pizza (original crust) and getting a second large 1-topping pizza for $4.15 when using a promo code at checkout online.

• Paris Baguette: Rewards members may receive a free pastry with the purchase of any beverage on April 15.

• Potbelly: The chain may offer a free Original sandwich with the purchase of any Original or Big Sandwich when customers use a promo code at checkout online or in the app.

• Round Table Pizza: A Tax Day discount on large or XL pizzas is anticipated when using a promo code at checkout online or in the app.

• Shake Shack: A freebie with any purchase of $10.40 or more is expected when using a promo code at checkout online or in the app.

• Smoothie King: Healthy Rewards members can look forward to an exclusive offer on Tax Day (April 15) in 2026.

Quick Service and Casual Dining

• Dog Haus: An exclusive freebie with purchase offer for rewards members is anticipated on Tax Day at Dog Haus.

• Fazoli's: A buy-one-get-one-free deal on their Classic Baked Spaghetti is predicted when using a promo code at checkout online or in the app.

• Freddy's Custard & Steakburgers: Loyalty members may have the chance to earn double points on all purchases of $1 or more on April 15.

• Gopuff: Several Tax Day deals on items like ice cream and candy are expected in 2026.

• Great American Cookie: A buy-one-get-one-free Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake slice deal is anticipated.

• Grimaldi's Pizzeria: $10.40 off purchases of $30 or more is predicted when using a promo code at checkout online or in the app.

• Happy Joe's Pizza: A free small Cheese Stix with any pizza purchase is expected for Tax Day 2026.

• Hooters: Select appetizers for $4.15 each, including chips with queso, mozzarella sticks, fried pickles, and more, are anticipated.

• Kolache Factory: A free 12-ounce coffee with an in-store purchase is expected on Tax Day (April 15) in 2026.

• Kona Ice: Since 2016, Kona Ice has offered a free cup of shaved ice on April 15 as part of their "Chill Out Day" celebration.

Historical Tax Day Deals

Previous Tax Day celebrations have featured a variety of special offers that provide insight into the types of promotions consumers can expect in the future.

2019 Tax Day Offers

Tax Day 2019 featured several notable deals:

• Applebee's Grill & Bar: Throughout the entire month of April, customers could enjoy $1 Strawberry DOLLARITAS™ margaritas. This offer was available all day every day at participating locations and was promoted through their Facebook page.

• B.GOOD: Customers could receive their choice of a free green or grain bowl or burger when downloading the new B.GOOD app. Those who already had the app could score free fries with any purchase. This offer was valid at participating B.GOOD locations from Tax Day (April 15) through Saturday, April 20.

• BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse: The chain offered half-off large deep dish or Tavern-Cut Pizzas on Monday, April 15, 2019. The offer was valid for dine-in, take-out, or delivery.

Tips for Maximizing Tax Day Freebies

To make the most of Tax Day promotions, consumers should consider the following strategies:

1. Check for participation: Not all locations of a chain may participate in Tax Day deals. It's advisable to check with local establishments to confirm availability.

2. Join loyalty programs: Many deals require membership in loyalty programs or rewards clubs. Signing up in advance ensures eligibility for these special offers.

3. Read the fine print: Pay attention to purchase minimums, restrictions, and expiration dates. Some deals may require minimum purchase amounts or have specific time limitations.

4. Use promo codes: Many online and app-based deals require specific promo codes. These codes are typically announced in advance and should be entered at checkout.

5. Combine offers when possible: While many deals cannot be combined with other promotions, some establishments allow multiple offers to be used together.

The Evolution of Tax Day Promotions

Tax Day freebies have evolved significantly over the years, with more businesses participating and offering diverse types of promotions. Early promotions were primarily limited to food establishments, but now retailers across various sectors participate in Tax Day celebrations.

The concept of referencing Form 1040 in promotions has become popular, with many deals incorporating the number 1040 in some way, such as $10.40 off purchases or $10 off $40 orders. This trend has helped establish Tax Day as a recognized promotional event in the retail calendar.

Consumer Considerations When Claiming Tax Day Freebies

While Tax Day deals can provide valuable savings, consumers should keep several considerations in mind:

1. Taxes on freebies: In some cases, the value of free items may be considered taxable income. However, the IRS typically does not require individuals to report small promotional freebies.

2. Budget considerations: Tax Day deals should complement, not replace, regular budgeting practices. It's important to avoid overspending simply to qualify for promotional offers.

3. Health and dietary restrictions: When claiming food-related freebies, consumers should consider how these items fit into their overall dietary plans and health goals.

Conclusion

Tax Day freebies and deals have become an anticipated tradition for many consumers, offering opportunities to save on food and other items while celebrating the completion of tax obligations. Whether enjoying a discounted meal at a local restaurant or taking advantage of special promotions from national chains, these deals provide a welcome respite from the stress of tax season.

As businesses continue to recognize the value of Tax Day promotions, consumers can expect an expanding array of offers across various sectors. By understanding the typical patterns of these promotions and preparing in advance, shoppers can maximize their savings and enjoy the benefits of these special Tax Day celebrations.

Sources

1. Tax Day 2025 Freebies and Deals
2. Tax Day Freebies and Deals
3. Tax Day 2019 Freebies & Discounts
4. Free Family Activities and Deals