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VIP programs can include both entry rewards and perks to encourage customers to reach and maintain higher VIP tiers. While both offer value to your customers, they work differently within Smile.
Feature availability: VIP is available on Growth, Plus, and Enterprise plans.

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VIP entry rewards

VIP entry rewards are one-time rewards Smile automatically issues when customers enter a VIP tier. Customers can then redeem the reward like any other reward in your loyalty program. Entry rewards can be any of the following reward types:
  • Amount discount
  • Percentage off
  • Free shipping
  • Free product
  • Gift card (Shopify only)
  • Points
Additional reward options may be available through Smile integrations. To learn how to configure entry rewards, see Configure VIP tier entry rewards.

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VIP perks

VIP perks are ongoing benefits customers receive while they remain in a VIP tier. Unlike VIP entry rewards, perks are managed outside of Smile. Smile displays the perks included with each tier, while merchants manage the perk experience. Common VIP perks include:
  • Early access to new product launches
  • Priority customer support
  • Exclusive products or collections
  • Complimentary gifts
  • Invitations to special events
To learn how to add perks to your VIP tiers, see Configure VIP perks.

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Entry rewards vs. perks

VIP entry rewardsVIP perks
WhenIssued once when a customer enters a tierAvailable for as long as a customer remains in a tier
Issued bySmile, automaticallyThe merchant

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How VIP rewards and perks work

  • Entry rewards are only issued when a customer moves into a higher tier. They are not issued when a customer retains their current tier or drops to a lower one.
  • If your VIP program resets each year, customers who maintain their tier after the reset do not receive the tier’s entry rewards again.
  • Customers who move to a lower tier after a reset can earn entry rewards again later if they re-qualify for a higher tier. Smile treats this as a new tier promotion.
  • If a customer skips tiers — for example, moving from Bronze directly to Platinum — Smile issues entry rewards for every tier they passed through, not just the final tier.
  • Perks are display-only in Smile. Smile shows the perk name to customers in the panel but does not track, send, or verify delivery.
  • You can offer ongoing points-based benefits to customers in specific tiers by setting up VIP-tier earning conditions. See Configure points earning limits for details.