How to Use Cashback Apps to Save on Everyday Purchases

April 3rd, 2024

Let’s be honest, saving money can feel like a constant struggle. We’re bombarded with ads, and it’s easy to spend without really thinking about where the money is going. But what if I told you there’s a surprisingly simple way to rack up rewards on your regular purchases? Enter cashback apps!

These apps are essentially digital rewards programs that give you a percentage of your spending back, often without you even realizing you're getting a deal. It’s a fantastic way to build up savings gradually, and the best part is, it’s incredibly easy to do.

Here's a breakdown of how to get started:

1. Choose Your Apps:

There are tons of cashback apps out there, each with slightly different rewards and features. Here are a few popular ones to consider:

Rakuten (formerly Ebates): This is probably the most well-known and offers cash back on a huge range of retailers, from Amazon to Target to Sephora.
Ibotta: Primarily focused on grocery purchases, Ibotta offers rebates on specific products you buy. They often have bonus offers too!
Fetch Rewards: This app rewards you for scanning any receipt – grocery, drugstore, or even restaurant! It's incredibly versatile.
TopCashback: Similar to Rakuten, TopCashback offers high cashback rates on select retailers.

2. Install and Sign Up:

Download your chosen app(s) from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). Create an account and link your credit or debit card. Don’t worry, they use tokenization, which means your actual card number is never exposed.

3. Shop as You Normally Do:

This is where the magic happens. When you shop at a participating retailer through the app (often by clicking a link in the app), the app tracks your purchase. For some apps like Ibotta, you'll need to scan the barcode of your purchased items before you pay.

4. Claim Your Rewards:

Rakuten & TopCashback: Cashback is automatically credited to your account after your purchase. You’ll typically see a notification when it’s ready.
Ibotta: You'll need to claim your offer within the app before you shop, then scan your receipt after purchase.
Fetch Rewards: Simply scan your receipts, and the app automatically tracks your spending.

5. Maximize Your Savings:

Check for Bonus Offers: Many apps run bonus offers for specific retailers or products. Take advantage of these to earn even more.
Stack Rewards: Some apps allow you to stack cashback with other rewards programs (like credit card rewards).
Make it a Habit: The key to successful cashback is simply incorporating it into your shopping routine.

Don’t just spend money, earn money back on your purchases! It's a low-effort, high-reward strategy that can quickly add up over time.

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