I load the e-card onto a plastic card at Starbucks. Then I register the card online at
https://www.starbucks.com/card . There are perks associated with having a registered card. If you purchase a certain amount, you receive a free credit for either a pastry or coffee on your birthday too. I bought a Venti Frappe with mine. When I cash out or win another Starbucks e-card, I load it onto the registered card.
Opt into the e-mails. I registered my Mom's card and last year, I loaded the Starbucks rebate onto her card. A couple of weeks later, Starbucks also e-mailed her $5 as a "Thank-you" for registering and using her card.

She had only used it once and I loaded the rebate-that was all in 6 months!
I use mine much more, but didn't receive an extra $5-it wasn't even her birthday!
There have been 2 different "blonde" Starbucks promotions on Facebook within the last month(only one allowed per FB accoutn total) where you rec'd a $2.60 e-card. I loaded that onto my registered card and used it on the BOGO special last week.
All that being said. Be certain to watch the "braggable bargain" that changes daily M-F on the Swagbucks site. They are often discounts on GC's. I've bought
Walmart, CVS, and Paypal on "braggable bargains". I can't remember if Starbucks has been one or not.
Next Monday, Feb 25th is Swagbucks anniversary. They will celebrate with 135 SB's worth of codes.
Enjoy!