How to Use Cashback Apps to Save Money on Everyday Purchases

January 16, 2022

Let’s be honest – who doesn’t want to save money? It’s a surprisingly easy thing to do, and there are tons of tools available to help. Today, we're diving into the world of cashback apps – those little helpers that quietly return a percentage of your spending back to you. Seriously, it’s like getting paid to shop!

What are Cashback Apps?

Simply put, cashback apps partner with retailers and offer you a discount (usually a percentage) on purchases you make through the app. When you shop through the app, a small amount of money is credited back to your account. It’s a passive way to earn rewards without any extra effort on your part.

Popular Cashback Apps to Consider:

There are a lot of cashback apps out there, so let’s break down some of the most popular and reliable ones:

Rakuten (formerly Ebates): This is arguably the most well-known and has the largest selection of retailers. They're super easy to use and offer a significant percentage back on many purchases.
Ibotta: Ibotta is fantastic for groceries and other household essentials. You typically earn cashback on specific products you buy, and you’ll need to scan your receipts to claim your rewards.
Fetch Rewards: Fetch Rewards is different – you simply scan any receipt, and they’ll automatically identify the brands and products you’ve purchased. They then award you points that can be redeemed for gift cards. It’s brilliant for tracking your spending habits too!
Swagbucks: Swagbucks offers a variety of ways to earn rewards, including cashback on shopping, taking surveys, watching videos, and playing games.

How to Maximize Your Cashback:

Download & Install: The first step is obvious – download the app you choose and create an account.
Link Your Payment Methods: Most apps allow you to link your credit or debit card for automatic cashback.
Shop Through the App: Always shop through the app or link before making a purchase. Don’t just click a link on Google – you’ll miss out on the cashback!
Check for Bonus Offers: Many apps have bonus offers for specific retailers or products. Keep an eye out for these, as they can significantly boost your earnings.
Don't Forget to Claim Your Rewards: Most apps require you to "cash out" your rewards. Make sure you don’t forget to do this! This usually involves reaching a minimum threshold (e.g., $20) or opting to redeem your rewards for gift cards.

A Few Extra Tips:

Stacking Rewards: Some apps allow you to stack rewards – meaning you can earn cashback from multiple apps on the same purchase. (Check the app’s terms and conditions.)
Read the Fine Print: Pay attention to the terms and conditions of each app, including payout thresholds, expiration dates, and eligible retailers.

Bottom Line:

Cashback apps are a smart and simple way to save money on your everyday purchases. With a little bit of organization and effort, you can start seeing your savings grow! Start exploring the options today and start earning those rewards.