The inKind Annual Subscription: A Complete Guide

December 10, 2024
Jason Berwanger
Finance

Learn about the inKind Annual Subscription, offering 20% cashback at over 2,900 restaurants. Explore its benefits, costs, and how it compares to other programs.

The inKind Annual Subscription: A Complete Guide

Dining out is one of life's simple pleasures, but it can put a dent in your wallet. What if you could enjoy your favorite restaurants while earning cashback on every meal? With the inKind annual subscription, you can. This innovative dining membership program offers a unique way to save money and elevate your dining experiences. For a small monthly fee, you unlock 20% cashback at thousands of participating restaurants nationwide. But the inKind annual subscription offers more than just savings—it opens doors to priority reservations, exclusive events, and VIP treatment. Let's explore how this program can transform your dining habits from an occasional splurge to a rewarding experience.

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Key Takeaways

  • Unlock consistent dining savings with the inKind Pass: The $9.99 monthly subscription offers 20% cashback at thousands of restaurants, plus perks like priority reservations and exclusive events. Factor in the $100 annual fee and your dining habits to assess the value for your budget.
  • Coordinate inKind with your existing rewards strategies: While convenient, linking a credit card to the inKind app may affect your credit card rewards. Contact inKind or your card provider to understand how these programs interact and optimize your overall rewards.
  • inKind offers a win-win for diners and restaurants: Subscribers enjoy valuable savings and perks, while participating restaurants gain increased customer engagement and loyalty. Check the list of participating restaurants to ensure it aligns with your location and preferences.

What is the inKind Annual Subscription?

Key Features and How It Works

The inKind Annual Subscription is a monthly dining membership offering substantial savings at participating restaurants. For $9.99 per month, members receive 20% back on their dining bills at over 2,900 locations nationwide. This cashback, credited as inKind Cash Back, can then be used at any participating restaurant, bar, or cafe within the inKind network. Members earn rewards by simply settling their bills through the inKind app, streamlining the process for those looking to stretch their dining budgets. Beyond the cashback, the subscription includes perks like priority reservations at select venues, invitations to exclusive events, and VIP treatment, creating a premium dining experience.

The $100 Yearly Fee

The inKind Annual Subscription has a $100 annual fee, automatically billed to your credit card. This fee unlocks the 20% inKind Cash Back on all food and beverage purchases made through the inKind mobile app. The annual fee offers significant value, especially for frequent diners who can quickly recoup the cost through earned rewards. For more details on the terms and conditions, including information on the annual fee, check out resources like this article discussing the Amex Offer for inKind.

inKind Benefits

The inKind Pass offers a compelling suite of benefits, designed to enhance your dining experiences and provide significant value. Let's explore the key perks:

20% Cashback at 2,900+ Locations

One of the most attractive features of the inKind Pass is the 20% cashback at over 2,900 participating restaurants, bars, and cafes. This translates to substantial savings, especially for frequent diners. Imagine a fifth of your dining bill back in your pocket—it quickly adds up, making exploring new restaurants or revisiting favorites more affordable. This cashback program truly makes a difference for those who enjoy dining out regularly.

Priority Reservations and VIP Treatment

Beyond the cashback, the inKind Pass provides priority reservations at select venues. This perk eliminates the frustration of long wait times, ensuring you can snag a table at your favorite spots, even during peak hours. The VIP treatment adds a touch of exclusivity to your dining experience, making you feel valued and appreciated.

Exclusive Event Access

The inKind Pass also unlocks access to exclusive events curated for subscribers. These events range from unique culinary experiences to special gatherings and offer opportunities you won't find anywhere else. This perk adds another dimension to the subscription, providing access to a vibrant community and creating memorable experiences.

inKind vs. Other Dining Rewards Programs

How does inKind compare to other dining rewards programs? Let's take a closer look:

Cashback Percentages and Network Size

inKind offers a consistent 20% cashback at over 2,900 participating restaurants, bars, and cafes through their monthly subscription. This fixed percentage is a key difference—many credit card rewards programs have tiered cashback rates (like 3% on dining, 5% on groceries) or rotating bonus categories. While some premium cards might offer higher cashback at specific restaurants, inKind's steady 20% return across its network offers predictable savings. Consider the size of the inKind network. 2,900+ venues is substantial, but check if your go-to spots participate before subscribing to the inKind Pass. Compare this to the wide acceptance of major credit cards.

Perks and Features

Beyond cashback, inKind offers perks like priority reservations and access to exclusive events at select venues. These add-ons can be valuable, especially if you frequent popular restaurants or enjoy unique dining experiences. Traditional credit card rewards programs sometimes offer similar perks, such as concierge services or pre-sale tickets, but these often come with hefty annual fees. inKind bundles these benefits into its subscription.

Impact on Credit Card Rewards

A common question is how inKind interacts with existing credit card rewards. You can link a credit card and pay directly through the inKind app, with the 20% discount applied at checkout. However, it's unclear whether using inKind affects credit card rewards earnings. For example, if you use an American Express Gold card (which offers 4x points on dining), it's unclear if you'll still earn those 4x points on the pre-discount amount or the reduced price. This detail is important, as it could significantly impact the overall value of the inKind subscription, especially if you're focused on maximizing credit card rewards.

Maximize Your inKind Subscription

Getting the most out of your inKind subscription involves a bit more than just signing up. Here’s how to truly maximize its value:

Optimize Cashback Earnings

The inKind Pass, a $9.99 monthly subscription, offers 20% cashback at over 2,900 participating restaurants, bars, and cafes across the country. Think of it as a built-in discount every time you dine out. To really optimize your cashback, explore restaurants within the inKind network you might not have considered before. Branching out could introduce you to new favorites while consistently saving you money. Keep an eye out for special promotions or bonus cashback offers that inKind occasionally runs, further amplifying your savings.

Leverage Reservations and Events

Your inKind subscription unlocks more than just cashback. It also grants access to perks like priority reservations at popular spots, often bypassing those pesky waitlists. inKind also curates exclusive events specifically for members, offering unique dining experiences you won't find anywhere else. Take advantage of these perks to elevate your dining and discover something new.

Understand the Credit System

inKind operates on a credit system, and understanding its nuances is key to maximizing your benefits. When you purchase inKind credit, it never expires, giving you complete flexibility. However, the bonus credit you receive from inKind has a three-year expiration date. inKind applies your paid credit first when you dine, followed by the bonus credit. Keeping this order in mind helps you strategize your spending and ensure you use your bonus credit before it expires.

Participating Restaurants and Venues

One of the biggest draws of the inKind Pass is its expansive network of participating restaurants and venues. With over 2,600 options, you'll find everything from Michelin-starred restaurants for special occasions to your favorite local spots for a casual weeknight dinner. This variety makes the inKind Pass a versatile choice for all kinds of diners.

Michelin-Starred to Local Eateries

Whether you're craving a sophisticated tasting menu or a comforting bowl of ramen, the inKind network has you covered. The program boasts partnerships with high-end dining establishments, offering subscribers the chance to experience truly exceptional meals. But it doesn't stop there. The inKind Pass also includes a wide selection of more casual restaurants, ensuring there's something for everyone, regardless of your budget or palate. This blend of high-end and everyday options is a key differentiator for inKind, providing flexibility and value for its subscribers. You can explore participating restaurants on the inKind website.

Cafés, Bars, and Casual Spots

Beyond traditional restaurants, the inKind Pass extends to a variety of other venues. Think cozy cafés perfect for a weekend brunch, lively bars for after-work drinks, and quick casual spots for a midday bite. This breadth of options makes the inKind Pass more than just a dining program—it becomes a lifestyle perk that integrates seamlessly into your everyday routine. Whether you're grabbing a morning coffee or meeting friends for happy hour, you can likely find an inKind partner to use your pass.

Explore New Dining Experiences

The inKind team constantly expands its network, adding new restaurants and venues regularly. This commitment to growth means subscribers can always discover new culinary adventures and explore different cuisines. It also keeps the program fresh and exciting, encouraging you to try places you might not have otherwise considered. This focus on discovery and variety makes the inKind Pass a great way to expand your culinary horizons.

inKind Limitations and Considerations

While the inKind Annual Subscription offers attractive benefits, it's essential to understand its limitations and a few key considerations before committing. This will help you decide if the program truly aligns with your dining habits and financial goals.

Geographic Restrictions and Cashback Use

One of the first things to consider is where you can use your inKind benefits. While inKind partners with many restaurants, it's important to confirm your go-to spots participate. You can explore participating restaurants nationwide to ensure the program offers value in your area. Remember, the 20% cashback only applies at these partner locations. If your favorite local haunts aren't on the list, the subscription might not be the best fit.

Cancellation and Renewals

inKind provides flexibility for managing your subscription. You can cancel your inKind subscription anytime through the inKind app. Just navigate to the Subscription Management section in your Settings and select "Cancel Subscription." This simple process puts you in control of your commitment.

Impact on Other Rewards Programs

A common question about inKind is how it works with other rewards programs, especially credit card rewards. For example, there's discussion around whether inKind purchases count toward credit card dining rewards, like the 4x points on the Amex Gold card. This is a key factor for those looking to maximize all reward opportunities. Contact inKind support or your credit card company for a definitive answer on how these programs interact. This clarification will help you make an informed decision about the overall value of the inKind subscription.

inKind's Financial Implications for Businesses

This section explores the financial implications of inKind's annual subscription model for participating businesses, focusing on revenue recognition, cash flow, and tax considerations.

Revenue Recognition and ASC 606 Compliance

For restaurants partnering with inKind, understanding revenue recognition within the context of ASC 606 is crucial. ASC 606 provides a standardized framework for recognizing revenue from customer contracts. With inKind's subscription model, restaurants must recognize revenue gradually as services are delivered throughout the year, not as a lump sum when a customer purchases the annual subscription. This ensures financial reporting accurately reflects the value provided to the customer over time. This five-step process, outlined in resources like PayKickstart's guide on ASC 606, helps businesses understand these complexities. Accurately applying ASC 606 builds trust with stakeholders and ensures compliance.

Deferred Revenue and Cash Flow

The inKind subscription model often involves customers paying the annual fee upfront. This creates deferred revenue, also known as unearned revenue, which represents payments received but not yet earned. Managing this deferred revenue is essential for accurate financial reporting and healthy cash flow. Resources like TrueRev's guide offer valuable insights into handling deferred revenue. For example, if a customer pays $120 for an annual inKind subscription, the restaurant recognizes this revenue as $10 per month over the subscription term. This practice, explained by Revolv3, allows for better cash flow management and provides a clearer picture of the business's financial performance.

Tax Considerations and Ratios

How inKind revenue is recognized has significant tax implications for businesses. Understanding these implications is crucial for accurate tax reporting and financial planning. Recurly's examples highlight how proper revenue accounting can influence key financial ratios that stakeholders monitor. Additionally, resources like Accounting Insights emphasize the importance of mastering the financial nuances of subscription-based models, including their impact on profitability and cash flow. By carefully considering these factors, restaurants can optimize their financial strategies and ensure long-term success with the inKind program.

Common inKind Misconceptions

It’s easy to misunderstand some aspects of the inKind program. Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions about how it works.

Subscription Commitment and Flexibility

One frequent question is about subscription flexibility. Some people believe they’re locked into a long-term commitment. Not so! You can easily manage your inKind subscription through the app. Just head to the Subscription Management section in your Settings and click “Cancel Subscription” whenever you like. This puts you in control, allowing you to adjust your membership as your needs change.

Value for Businesses

Another misconception is that the inKind subscription model doesn't offer much value for businesses. In reality, the opposite is often true. Regular customer engagement is a key benefit when using this type of subscription model. This ongoing interaction builds stronger customer relationships and can increase both loyalty and retention—essential ingredients for any successful business.

Differences from Other Subscriptions

People sometimes assume inKind’s subscription works just like any other. However, the inKind model focuses on delivering tangible value for businesses. When you demonstrate clear value and contribute to customer success, you build loyalty that lasts. This emphasis on value sets inKind apart from other subscription services that may not prioritize customer success as highly. This McKinsey article offers further insights into successful subscription models.

Is inKind Right for You?

Deciding if inKind is a good fit depends on your dining habits and what you want from a rewards program. Let's break down who benefits most and what you should think about before subscribing.

Ideal User and Dining Habits

The inKind Pass, a monthly subscription service, offers 20% cashback at over 2,900 participating restaurants, bars, and cafes across the country. If you frequently dine out, particularly at higher-end establishments, the $9.99 monthly fee can quickly pay for itself. The added perks, like priority reservations and access to exclusive events, sweeten the deal for those who enjoy a premium dining experience. Think about how often you eat out and your average spending. If you're a regular at participating venues, inKind could be a valuable addition to your wallet.

Factors to Consider

Beyond the cashback, consider the other benefits. Do priority reservations or exclusive events appeal to you? These perks can enhance your dining experience and potentially offer additional value beyond the 20% return. Also, remember that you can cancel your inKind subscription at any time. This flexibility minimizes risk if you find it's not the right fit. However, if you're trying a free trial or using a promotional offer, set a reminder to cancel before it renews if you don't plan to continue long-term. One helpful article details how to manage an inKind subscription with Amex.

Evaluate Long-Term Value

inKind's foundation within the restaurant industry suggests a commitment to both customer and restaurant satisfaction. Positive user experiences with the product and customer service further support its potential long-term value. Consider whether the network of participating restaurants aligns with your preferences and location. If you find yourself consistently using the service and enjoying the benefits, the annual cost becomes a worthwhile investment in your dining experiences.

Sign Up and Start with inKind

Subscription Process

Getting started with inKind is straightforward. Subscribe to the inKind Pass, a monthly service for $9.99. This subscription allows you to earn 20% back on dining at over 2,900 restaurants, bars, and cafes across the country. To earn rewards, pay your bill through the inKind app. Consider the annual subscription too, as it sometimes offers special promotions.

Special Offers and Promotions

inKind periodically offers promotions, especially for new subscribers. For example, American Express cardholders have been offered statement credits for signing up for the annual subscription. Checking for these deals can increase your savings.

Use the inKind App Effectively

The inKind app is easy to use. When you're ready to pay, open the app and tap "Pay." Select the restaurant, and the app guides you through the rest. It's a quick and convenient way to get your 20% back.

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Frequently Asked Questions about the inKind Pass

How does the inKind Pass actually work?

The inKind Pass is a monthly dining subscription. You pay $9.99 per month, and in return, you get 20% back on your dining bills at participating restaurants, bars, and cafes. You pay through the inKind app, and the 20% cashback is credited back to your account as inKind Cash Back, which you can then use at any participating location. There's also a $100 annual fee, so factor that into the overall cost.

What's the catch with the annual fee?

The $100 annual fee is simply the cost of unlocking the 20% cashback and other perks like priority reservations and event access. Think of it as a membership fee. If you dine out often enough, the cashback you earn will likely offset the fee, making the subscription worthwhile.

Is the inKind Pass better than using a credit card with dining rewards?

It depends on your spending habits and the specific rewards your credit card offers. inKind gives you a flat 20% back at participating locations. Credit cards often have rotating categories or tiered rewards systems. inKind might be more straightforward if you value a consistent return at specific restaurants. However, if your card offers higher cashback rates or broader acceptance, it might be the better option. Also, check if using inKind impacts your credit card rewards earnings.

What if my favorite restaurants aren't in the inKind network?

The inKind Pass works with over 2,900 restaurants, but it's essential to check if your preferred spots are included before subscribing. The value of the pass diminishes if you can't use it where you typically dine. You can easily search for participating restaurants on the inKind website or app.

Can I cancel my inKind subscription if I don't like it?

Absolutely. You can cancel your inKind subscription anytime through the app. There's no long-term commitment, so you're free to try it out and see if it fits your lifestyle. Just remember to cancel before your next billing cycle if you decide it's not for you.

Jason Berwanger

Former Root, EVP of Finance/Data at multiple FinTech startups

Jason Kyle Berwanger: An accomplished two-time entrepreneur, polyglot in finance, data & tech with 15 years of expertise. Builder, practitioner, leader—pioneering multiple ERP implementations and data solutions. Catalyst behind a 6% gross margin improvement with a sub-90-day IPO at Root insurance, powered by his vision & platform. Having held virtually every role from accountant to finance systems to finance exec, he brings a rare and noteworthy perspective in rethinking the finance tooling landscape.

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