The Best Cashback Apps To Save Money
This post contains affiliate links which means I’ll earn a small commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you. Please see full disclosure here. I only recommend products I personally use and trust.
The Best Cashback Apps To Save Money
Earning rewards on everyday purchases is now easier than ever. This is thanks to the rise of cashback apps. These apps let you earn money back on your favorite brands. They are a great choice for smart shoppers wanting to save money.
With cashback apps, you get a percentage of your purchase back. This can be as cash back or rewards points. It not only helps you save money but also makes shopping more fun.
Key Takeaways
- Earn rewards on everyday purchases with cashback apps.
- Save money on your favorite brands.
- Get cash back or rewards points on purchases.
- Make shopping more rewarding.
- Simple and easy to use.
What Are Cashback Apps and How Do They Work?
Cashback apps have changed how we shop, letting us earn money back on things we’d buy. They’re easy to use and help save money on daily items.
These apps partner with stores to give a percentage of the purchase back to you. You can browse offers, buy things, and see your rewards on a digital platform.
The Technology Behind Cashback Apps
The tech in cashback apps tracks your buys and gives you rewards. It uses affiliate marketing networks to connect stores with the apps.
Affiliate links are key. They help the apps know who to give rewards to and make the cashback process work.
How Companies Profit While Giving You Money Back
Companies make money from cashback apps in different ways. They get affiliate marketing commissions and use data to improve marketing. A part of these earnings goes back to you as cashback.
| Revenue Stream | Description | Benefit to Company |
|---|---|---|
| Affiliate Commissions | Retailers pay for sales generated | Increased sales and brand visibility |
| Data Analytics | User purchase data is analyzed | Targeted marketing and insights |
Knowing how cashback apps work helps you save more. It also lets you shop smarter.
The Best Cashback Apps To Save Money
There are the many cashback apps to help you save money. It’s important to find the best ones to save money.
Selection Criteria for Our Top Picks
We looked at several things to pick the best cashback apps. We checked the range of offers, ease of use, and payout methods. We also considered the user interface and user experience.
Another key factor was the variety of shopping categories each app supports. Whether you’re buying groceries, booking travel, or eating out, the best apps should offer rewards in many areas.
What Sets the Best Apps Apart
So, what makes the top cashback apps stand out? They seamlessly fit into your shopping habits. They offer personalized offers and exclusive deals that make saving easy.
The best apps are also clear about their terms and conditions and payout structures. They let users track their earnings and redeem rewards easily.
By focusing on these points, we found the top cashback apps for saving money. These apps can help you save money, whether you’re new to cashback services or not.
Grocery and Everyday Shopping Cashback Apps
Shopping for groceries just got more exciting with cashback apps. These apps put money back in your pocket. Now, your daily grocery shopping can earn you significant rewards.
Ibotta
Overview
Ibotta is a top cashback app for grocery items and everyday purchases. It’s easy to use and has many brands to choose from. This makes earning cashback simple.
Pros
- Variety of Offers: Ibotta works with many brands, giving you lots of cashback options.
- User-Friendly: The app is easy to use, helping you find and use offers without hassle.
- Bonus Offers: Ibotta often has special offers for certain tasks or products.
Cons
- Minimum Payout: You need to meet a minimum payout to cash out, which can take time.
- Limited Offers: Some items you buy might not be on Ibotta’s list.
Features
Ibotta offers personalized deals, bonus challenges, and cashback on groceries. You can also search offers by category to plan your shopping better.
Fetch Rewards
Overview
Fetch Rewards is a well-known app for earning cashback on everyday items. It’s known for being easy to use and straightforward.
Pros
- Easy to Use: Fetch Rewards is simple, making it easy to earn cashback.
- No Minimum Payout: You can cash out anytime without a minimum amount.
- Variety of Participating Brands: It works with many brands, giving you cashback on different products.
Cons
- Limited Control Over Offers: You can’t choose the offers you get.
- Ad Presence: The app shows ads, which some find annoying.
Features
Fetch Rewards is known for its easy receipt scanning, cashback on many purchases, and no minimum payout. It also has a referral program to get friends involved.
Credit Card and Banking Cashback Apps
Credit card and banking cashback apps have changed how we earn rewards. They make every purchase count. These apps let you earn money back on your daily spending, credit card use, and banking activities.
Dosh
Dosh is a cashback app that rewards users for their purchases at thousands of retailers. This includes both online and in-store buys, as well as certain credit card and banking transactions.
Overview
Dosh works with over 7,000 brands. Users can earn cashback without needing coupons or promo codes. Just link your card, and Dosh tracks your purchases automatically.
Pros
Automatic Cashback: No need to track purchases or use coupons. Broad Retailer Network: Earn cashback at many retailers.
Cons
Limited Control: Users have little control over cashback offers. Data Sharing: Dosh collects user data, which may worry some.
Features
- Automatic cashback on purchases
- No coupons or promo codes required
- Real-time cashback tracking
Venmo Cashback
Venmo, a popular peer-to-peer payment service, also offers a cashback program. It rewards users for their purchases at select retailers.
Overview
Venmo Cashback is for users who often buy through Venmo. It offers cashback on certain transactions.
Pros
Easy Integration: Cashback is easy to use in the Venmo app. Cashback Opportunities: Earn cashback on Venmo purchases.
Cons
Limited Availability: Cashback offers might be fewer than other platforms. Transaction Requirements: Cashback is only for Venmo transactions.
Features
- Cashback on select purchases
- Easy tracking of cashback earnings
- Seamless integration with Venmo payments
Dosh and Venmo Cashback offer unique benefits. They cater to different user preferences. Whether you like automatic cashback or rewards through a specific payment platform, there’s an app for you.
| App | Cashback Mechanism | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dosh | Automatic on purchases and certain transactions | Automatic cashback, broad retailer network | Limited control, data sharing |
| Venmo Cashback | On select purchases through Venmo | Easy integration, cashback opportunities | Limited availability, transaction requirements |
Online Shopping Cashback Apps
Online shopping cashback apps have changed how we shop. They give rewards on purchases from many online stores. These apps work with thousands of stores to offer a percentage back on your buys. This makes them great for those who shop online a lot.
Rakuten
Overview
Rakuten, once known as Ebates, is a leader in cashback. It offers cashback at over 2,500 stores, including big names like Walmart and Macy’s.
Pros
Wide range of retailers: Rakuten works with thousands of stores. This gives users lots of shopping choices. Generous cashback offers: Rakuten has some of the best cashback rates, sometimes up to 40% back.
Cons
Minimum payout threshold: Rakuten requires a $5 minimum payout. While not high, it can delay payouts for those earning less. Browser extension required: To get the most from Rakuten, you need to install its browser extension. Some might find this intrusive.
Features
Rakuten has a simple interface. It’s easy to use and find great cashback deals. It also gives a quarterly bonus for meeting spending thresholds.
Top Cashback
Overview
TopCashback is a well-known cashback platform. It offers a wide range of cashback deals across different categories. It’s proud to give 100% cashback on its offers, keeping none of the commission.
Pros
100% cashback guarantee: TopCashback ensures users get the maximum cashback. Competitive rates: It often has some of the best cashback rates, making it popular with online shoppers.
Cons
Payout processing time: TopCashback takes longer to process payouts than some rivals. This can delay when users get their cashback. Customer service: Some users have had mixed experiences with TopCashback’s customer service.
Features
TopCashback offers a price match guarantee and exclusive deals. Its platform is easy to use, making it simple to track your earnings.
Gas and Fuel Savings Cashback Apps
Earning cashback on gas is now easier than ever. Apps like Upside and GasBuddy help you save money on fuel. With fuel costs rising, these apps can make a big difference in your savings.
Upside
Upside is a cashback app for fuel purchases. Let’s take a closer look at what it offers.
Overview
Upside gives cashback on gas at thousands of stations nationwide. You can earn a percentage of your fuel spend back as cash.
Pros
- Easy to Use: The app is simple to navigate, making it easy to find stations and earn cashback.
- Wide Coverage: Upside works with many gas stations, so you can earn cashback at various places.
Cons
- Variable Cashback Rates: Cashback rates can change by location and promotion.
- Limited Additional Features: While great for gas cashback, it might not have as many features as other apps.
Features
- Personalized Offers: You might get special offers based on your buying habits.
- Easy Cashout: Upside makes cashing out easy, with options like PayPal and gift cards.
GasBuddy
GasBuddy is another app for saving on fuel. Let’s look at its features and benefits.
Overview
GasBuddy helps find cheap gas prices and offers cashback on fuel purchases.
Pros
- Price Comparison: It lets you compare prices at nearby stations to get the best deal.
- Cashback Opportunities: GasBuddy offers cashback through partnerships with certain retailers.
Cons
- Ads and Notifications: Some find the ads and notifications too much.
- Limited Cashback: Cashback rates might not be as high as other apps.
Features
- Trip Planning: GasBuddy helps plan trips, including finding gas stations along the way.
- Community Driven: The app relies on user reports to keep gas prices current.
Dining and Restaurant Cashback Apps
Cashback apps have changed how we eat out, giving us rewards for dining. Eating out can cost a lot, but with the right app, you can save money. This makes dining more affordable.
Seated
Seated is a well-liked app for dining cashback. It helps you save money while enjoying your favorite meals.
Overview
Seated works with restaurants to give users cashback rewards. It’s free to download and use, making it a good choice for saving on dining costs.
Pros
Easy to Use: Seated is simple to use, making it easy to find and use offers. Generous Rewards: You can earn a lot of cashback on your dining purchases.
Cons
Limited Availability: Seated is not everywhere, which can be a problem for some. Restaurant Participation: Not all restaurants join the program, which limits your choices.
Features
Seated has many features, like personalized dining suggestions and special offers. You can also get rewards by inviting friends to join.
Rewards Network
Rewards Network is another app for dining cashback. It’s perfect for those who eat out a lot.
Overview
Rewards Network gives cashback rewards for dining at thousands of restaurants. It’s designed to be easy to use, with a simple interface for finding and using offers.
Pros
Wide Availability: Rewards Network is available all over the country, with thousands of restaurants. High Cashback Rates: You can earn up to 15% cashback on your dining purchases.
Cons
Minimum Payout: Rewards Network has a minimum payout, which can delay cashouts for small earners. Restaurant Limitations: Some users might find their favorite restaurants not participating.
Features
Rewards Network has many features, like a user-friendly interface and detailed earnings reports. You can also get exclusive dining offers and promotions.
Receipt Scanning Cashback Apps
Receipt scanning cashback apps are a simple way to save money. They let users earn cashback or rewards by scanning their receipts. This makes it easy to get rewards on everyday purchases.
Popular Receipt Scanning Apps
Two top apps in this field are Receipt Hog and Coin Out. They each offer unique features and benefits.
Receipt Hog
Overview
Receipt Hog is an easy-to-use app that rewards users for scanning receipts. It works with many retailers and offers several ways to earn rewards.
Pros
The app’s easy-to-use interface and wide range of supported retailers make it popular. Users can also earn more by doing surveys and watching videos.
Cons
Some users find the app slow at times. The rewards might not be as high as other apps.
Features
Receipt Hog has many features, like scanning receipts, doing surveys, and watching videos. Users can cash out their rewards via PayPal or gift cards.
CoinOut
Overview
CoinOut is another app that lets users earn money back on purchases. It works with many retailers and makes earning rewards straightforward.
Pros
The app’s simple and intuitive design makes it easy to use. CoinOut also has a referral program for extra rewards.
Cons
The app might not work with as many retailers as others. The rewards could be lower too.
Features
CoinOut’s main feature is scanning receipts to earn cashback. It also has a referral program and sometimes offers bonus rewards.
Browser Extension Cashback Tools
Shopping online just got easier with browser extension cashback tools. These tools add cashback rewards to your shopping. Honey and Capital One Shopping are two top tools that make online shopping better.
Honey
Overview
Honey is a browser extension that offers cashback and applies coupon codes automatically. It’s a great tool for online shoppers.
Pros
Automatic Coupon Application: Honey saves time by automatically applying the best coupon codes.
Cashback Rewards: You can earn cashback on purchases from many retailers.
Cons
Limited Retailer Participation: Some retailers may not be included in Honey’s network.
Features
- Cashback on purchases
- Automatic coupon code application
- Price tracking
| Feature | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Cashback | Earn a percentage back on purchases | Savings on online shopping |
| Coupon Application | Automatic application of coupon codes | Time-saving and ensures discounts are applied |
| Price Tracking | Tracks price history of items | Helps in making informed purchasing decisions |
Capital One Shopping
Overview
Capital One Shopping is a powerful browser extension. It offers cashback rewards, price tracking, and deal alerts. It makes shopping better.
Pros
Comprehensive Price Tracking: Capital One Shopping helps you buy at the best time.
Deal Alerts: You get notified about sales and promotions.
Cons
Cashback Rates Variability: Cashback rates can vary a lot between retailers.
Features
- Cashback rewards
- Price tracking
- Deal alerts
| Tool | Cashback | Price Tracking | Deal Alerts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honey | Yes | Yes | No |
| Capital One Shopping | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Retailer-Specific Cashback Programs
Many retailers now offer their own cashback programs. These programs give customers exclusive rewards and benefits. They aim to build loyalty and encourage repeat business by letting shoppers earn money back on their purchases.
Target Circle
Target Circle is Target’s loyalty program. It offers a cashback reward to its members. It’s simple and rewarding, allowing customers to earn cashback on their purchases.
Overview
Target Circle is free to join. It gives a 1% cashback reward on all purchases made at Target. The cashback is given in the form of a credit on the customer’s Target RedCard.
Pros
The program is straightforward. There are no complicated rules or restrictions on earning cashback. Members also get personalized deals and discounts.
Cons
One drawback is that the cashback is only redeemable on future Target purchases. This limits its flexibility.
Features
Target Circle offers additional features. These include exclusive deals, early access to sales, and a birthday surprise. These features enhance the overall shopping experience.
| Feature | Target Circle |
|---|---|
| Cashback Rate | 1% |
| Redeemable On | Target Purchases |
| Additional Benefits | Exclusive Deals, Early Sale Access |
Amazon Prime Rewards
Amazon Prime Rewards is part of the Amazon Prime membership. It offers cashback and other rewards to its members. It’s designed for frequent Amazon shoppers, providing a way to earn rewards on their purchases.
Overview
Amazon Prime members can earn cashback on certain purchases. The rate varies depending on the category and specific promotions.
Pros
The program offers a high earning for frequent Amazon shoppers. It also includes other Prime perks like free shipping and streaming services.
Cons
The cashback rates can be complex to navigate. The program’s benefits are most valuable for those who frequently shop on Amazon.
Features
In addition to cashback, Amazon Prime Rewards includes benefits. These include 5% cashback on Amazon Fresh purchases. This makes it valuable for regular Amazon customers.
| Feature | Amazon Prime Rewards |
|---|---|
| Cashback Rate | Varies by Category |
| Redeemable On | Amazon Purchases |
| Additional Benefits | Free Shipping, Streaming Services |
How to Choose the Right Cashback App for Your Needs
To save more money, pick a cashback app that fits your shopping style. With many choices, it can feel hard to decide. But, knowing your shopping habits and comparing apps can help you choose wisely.
Assessing Your Shopping Habits
First, think about what you usually buy. Do you shop for groceries, clothes, or eat out a lot? Some apps give more cashback for certain things. For example, if you love dining out, look for an app that rewards you for restaurant visits.
- Identify your most common shopping categories.
- Consider your preferred payment methods.
- Look for apps that offer rewards in your preferred categories.
Comparing Payout Methods and Minimums
Also, check how you can get your cashback. Some apps pay via direct deposit, others through gift cards or PayPal. Look at the minimum amount you need to cash out, which can be $5 to $25 or more. Choose an app that pays out in a way you like and has a minimum you can reach.
- Payout methods (direct deposit, gift cards, PayPal).
- Minimum payout thresholds.
- Any additional fees associated with the app.
By understanding your shopping habits and comparing apps, you can find the best one for you. This way, you can save more money.
Maximizing Your Cashback Earnings
To get the most out of cashback apps, you need a smart plan. Knowing how to use these apps can really boost your savings. We’ll look at two key strategies: using many cashback apps together and timing your buys for the best returns.
Stacking Multiple Cashback Apps
Using more than one cashback app for a single buy is a great way to earn more. For example, you could use a cashback credit card, Rakuten, and Target Circle for the same purchase. This way, you can get the most cashback possible.
Let’s see how stacking works:
| Cashback App | Cashback Rate | Earnings on $100 Purchase |
|---|---|---|
| Rakuten | 5% | $5 |
| TopCashback | 3% | $3 |
| Target Circle | 2% | $2 |
| Total | $10 |
As the table shows, stacking apps can get you $10 back on a $100 buy.
Timing Your Purchases for Maximum Returns
Timing your buys is also key to getting more cashback. Many apps and cards offer better rates for certain categories or times. For example, some cards give 5% cashback on groceries in the first quarter. Buying during these times can help you earn more.
“The key to maximizing cashback earnings is to be strategic and flexible with your shopping habits.” – Cashback expert
To time your buys well, do the following:
- Keep an eye on cashback offers and rates
- Buy during high-cashback times or categories
- Use different cashback apps for various categories
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
Cashback apps are popular for giving users a percentage of their purchases back. But, it’s important to know they come with challenges. Privacy is a big concern.
Privacy Concerns and Data Sharing
Many cashback apps need your shopping data, which can be a privacy issue. As a financial expert noted, “The use of personal data for targeted advertising has become a standard practice, but it also poses significant privacy risks.” – Financial Expert
Users need to be careful about what info they share and how it’s used.
To protect privacy, users should check the app’s privacy policy. They should know what data is collected and how it’s shared. Some apps might share data with advertisers, leading to targeted ads or data breaches.
Avoiding the Overspending Trap
Another big issue is overspending. Cashback apps might make you spend more to earn more. It’s key to stay within your budget and not buy things you don’t need, even for cashback.
To avoid overspending, set a budget and stick to it. Choose cashback apps that reward you on necessary purchases, not just on things you don’t need.
By knowing these drawbacks and taking steps to avoid them, users can enjoy cashback apps safely and wisely.
FAQ
What are cashback apps and how do they work?
Cashback apps give you a part of your purchase back as cash or credit. You get this when you shop through their partners or scan receipts.
Are cashback apps free to use?
Yes, most cashback apps don’t cost anything to download or use. Some might offer extra features for a fee.
How do I earn cashback on my purchases?
You can earn cashback by shopping through the app’s partners, scanning receipts, or using certain cards.
Can I use multiple cashback apps at once?
Yes, you can use many cashback apps at once. Just make sure to check their rules to avoid any issues.
How do cashback apps track my purchases?
Apps track your purchases through links, scanning receipts, or linking cards.
Are there any minimum payout thresholds for cashback apps?
Yes, many apps have a minimum amount you need to earn before you can get your cashback.
Can I redeem my cashback rewards for cash?
Yes, most apps let you cash out your rewards through PayPal, bank transfers, or gift cards.
Are cashback apps available for online shopping only?
No, many apps offer rewards for both online and in-store shopping. They also have special deals for things like groceries and dining.
How do I avoid overspending when using cashback apps?
To avoid overspending, set a budget and track your spending. Only buy what you need, and see cashback as a bonus.
Are there any security concerns with using cashback apps?
Yes, it’s important to check the app’s privacy policy and terms. This will help you understand how your data is used and protected.
Can I use cashback apps with other discounts or promotions?
Yes, many apps let you combine rewards with other discounts. But always check the app’s terms first.
How do I choose the best cashback app for my needs?
Think about how you shop, compare payout options and minimums, and look at the app’s features and rules. This will help you pick the best app for you.
Conclusion
Cashback apps have changed how we save money on daily buys. By knowing how they work and picking the best ones, you can get big rewards. We looked at the top cashback apps for this year, covering everything from grocery shopping to online deals.
To save the most, mix cashback apps that fit your shopping style. For example, Ibotta and Fetch Rewards give cashback on groceries. Rakuten and Top Cashback reward online shopping. Using several apps at once can really boost your earnings.
When using cashback apps, think about how you get paid, the minimum amount needed to cash out, and privacy issues. Being aware of these helps you get the most from your apps. With the right apps, saving money becomes easy and puts more cash in your pocket.
