How to Use Cashback Apps to Save on Every Purchase
Are you leaving money on the table every time you shop? With cashback apps, you can earn money back on nearly every purchase—whether you’re grocery shopping, buying clothes, or booking a vacation. This guide will show you how cashback apps work, the best ones to use, and real-world strategies to maximize your savings.
1. What Are Cashback Apps and How Do They Work?
Cashback apps give you a percentage of your purchase price back when you shop through their platform. They partner with retailers and brands to offer these rewards as an incentive to drive sales. The cashback amount is credited to your account and can usually be redeemed as cash, gift cards, or PayPal deposits.
Real-World Example:
You buy a $100 pair of shoes from Nike using Rakuten, which offers 10% cashback. After your purchase, Rakuten credits $10 to your account, which you can withdraw later.
2. Best Cashback Apps for Maximum Savings
There are dozens of cashback apps, but some offer better deals than others. Here are the top-rated apps for different shopping categories:
✅ Rakuten (Best for Online Shopping) – Earn cashback from over 3,500 stores like Walmart, Target, and Amazon. ✅ Ibotta (Best for Groceries) – Get cashback on everyday grocery purchases by scanning receipts. ✅ Dosh (Best for Restaurants & Local Deals) – Link your credit card and earn cashback automatically when dining out. ✅ Fetch Rewards (Best for Scanning Receipts) – Earn points by scanning any receipt and redeem them for gift cards. ✅ Upside (Best for Gas & Travel) – Get cashback at participating gas stations, hotels, and restaurants.
Real-World Example:
Lisa shops for groceries at Walmart and buys a $50 basket of items. She:
- Uses Ibotta to scan her receipt and earns $5 cashback for eligible products.
- Scans the same receipt in Fetch Rewards and earns 1,000 points ($1).
- Pays using a Dosh-linked credit card, earning an additional 2% cashback ($1).
Total savings: $7 on a $50 grocery bill!
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Using Cashback Apps
Follow these steps to ensure you never miss out on cashback:
Step 1: Sign Up for Multiple Cashback Apps
To maximize savings, stack cashback rewards by using multiple apps. Sign up for Rakuten, Ibotta, Dosh, Fetch Rewards, and Upside.
Step 2: Activate Cashback Before Shopping
- If shopping online, always activate cashback through apps like Rakuten before making a purchase.
- If shopping in-store, scan receipts in Ibotta, Fetch Rewards, and other apps.
Step 3: Link Your Credit or Debit Card
Some apps, like Dosh and Upside, automatically track cashback earnings when you use a linked card, making it effortless to save.
Step 4: Withdraw Your Cashback
Once you reach the withdrawal threshold (usually $5-$25), cash out via PayPal, direct deposit, or gift cards.
Real-World Example:
Jessica buys a $200 flight through Expedia and earns:
- 5% cashback via Rakuten ($10 back)
- 2% cashback from her travel rewards credit card ($4 back)
- $10 off using a promo code
Total savings: $24 off a $200 flight!
4. Pro Tips to Maximize Your Cashback Savings
💡 Use a Cashback Browser Extension – Install Rakuten’s extension so you never forget to activate cashback while shopping online.
💡 Combine Cashback with Coupons & Promo Codes – Use TheDiscountMamas.com to find the best discount codes and stack them with cashback rewards.
💡 Double Dip on Credit Card Rewards – Use a cashback or travel rewards credit card for purchases to earn even more savings.
💡 Check for Limited-Time Bonuses – Cashback apps often offer higher rates during sales events like Black Friday or Prime Day.
Final Thoughts: Start Earning Cashback Today!
Cashback apps are an easy way to earn money on everyday purchases. By stacking multiple cashback rewards, using promo codes, and leveraging loyalty programs, you can save hundreds (or even thousands) per year!
💬 Have you used cashback apps? Share your biggest savings score in the comments below!
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