6 Ways to Score Free Food at Chick-fil-A

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Before they put a Chick-fil-A in my neighborhood, my taste buds and waistline didn't know what they were missing. Now that I have a Chick-fil-A nearby, it is hard to resist the delicious food, but even more so the amazing customer service.

As much as I love Chick-fil-A, I do not love that it costs almost $30 to feed my family of four. So I have rounded up the best tips to get discounted and free food at Chick-fil-A. No need to send me a thank-you note — a Chick-fil-A gift card will do just fine.

1. Use the Calendar Card Once a Month

At the end of each year, Chick-fil-A sells calendars for the upcoming year. These calendars have promo cards attached to them. Each month, they offer one free food item. These cards come with six mystery offers (usually for a full-price salad or sandwich) and six disclosed offers, which are usually for a large drink or fry.

I did not find out about these counter cards until last month. However, I was still able to hop onto eBay and purchase two calendars and cards for $15.99. Despite only having them for two months and missing January through April's offers, I've already redeemed $20 worth of food and drinks.

You are only able to have one card per customer, and to use one card per order. But, you are able to get a card for every member of your family! (See also: 14 Secret Fast Food Menus Revealed)

2. Download and Use the New Chick-fil-A One App

Chick-fil-A just released their new app, One, which allows you to earn points through your mobile phone. Also, if you download and sign up for the app before June 11, 2016, you will get a free sandwich. Not only will you be rewarded right away, but the app is very similar to Starbucks' rewards program. Scan your app every time you order Chick-fil-A, and you will earn credit toward free food. Also like the Starbucks' app, you can order ahead and pay with the Chick-fil-A app.

3. Dress Up for Cow Appreciation Day

This is one of the most well-known ways to get a free Chick-fil-A meal. Chick-fil-A holds a cow appreciation day each year in July. Individuals that dress partially like a cow will get a free entree. Those who don a full cow outfit will get a free meal. It is speculated that cow appreciation day 2016 will happen on July 8th.

4. Check Your Local Chick-fil-A Social Media

Check in with your local Chick-fil-A to know what special offers are going on. For example, many locations gave away free food to active and retired military during Memorial Day. Currently, my Chick-fil-A is giving away a free breakfast item every Wednesday morning in June, whereas the Willoughby, Ohio Chick-fil-A gave out free breakfast every Friday morning in May. Be sure to follow your local Chick-fil-A's social media accounts to be in the know, rather than the general Chick-fil-A accounts.

5. Buy a School Fundraiser Card

Chick-fil-A is also a big contributor to local schools and charities. Many times, they will contribute a free drink or another small freebie to fundraiser cards. For my area, Chick-fil-A offers a free frosted coffee with any purchase with the use of the school fundraiser card. I did pay $10 for this card, which also has many other local deals on it, but even if I just used it at Chick-fil-A, the card would have paid for itself in three trips.

6. Ask About Senior Discounts

Chick-fil-A's are individually owned and operated, but many locations have a senior discount for individuals 55 and older. Typical offers are a free drink or coffee, or a 10% discount. Check with your local restaurant to confirm.

Not only is Chick-fil-A generous with their free food offers, they are one of the top restaurants that contributes to local communities. Take a closer look at Chick-fil-A, and you will see that they contribute quite a bit of money to local schools, charities, scholarships, and more. So while I will enjoy my free Chick-fil-A food, I will also gladly give them my "dining out" budget over another restaurant.

What is your favorite thing to order from Chick-fil-A?