Did you know the average American could save hundreds of dollars annually just by using cashback apps? That’s true. Today, these tools transform routine shopping into an opportunity to earn money back on purchases you’re already making.
Cashback apps offer a seamless way to maximize savings without changing your habits, whether you’re grabbing groceries, shopping online, or filling up your gas tank.
This detailed guide explores some of the highest-ranking cashback apps available today. We’ll also examine how these apps work and how they can help with debt management.
What Are Cashback Apps and How Do They Work?
Cashback apps are mobile applications that reward users with a percentage of their spending in cash, gift cards, or points redeemable for rewards.
The concept is simple: you shop through the app or link your purchases to it, and the app partners with retailers to return a portion of your money.
Some apps require scanning receipts after shopping, while others integrate directly with your credit or debit card for automatic cashback.
This effortless earning potential makes them a must-have for savvy spenders looking to stretch their budgets further.
The 10 Best Cashback Apps for Everyday Savings
Based on our extensive research, here’s a comprehensive rundown of the best cashback apps that can help you save money on everyday purchases.
1. Rakuten
Rakuten is a cashback powerhouse, particularly for online shoppers. Formerly known as Ebates, this app partners with over 2,500 retailers, including giants like Amazon, Walmart, and Macy’s, and offers cashback rates.
To use it, simply shop through the Rakuten app or website. Cashback accumulates in your account and is paid quarterly via PayPal or check.
It’s ideal for those who frequently shop online for clothing, electronics, or home goods. The browser extension ensures you never miss a deal. New users often snag a $10 welcome bonus after their first $25 purchase, further sweetening the deal.
2. Ibotta
Ibotta is a favorite for grocery shoppers, boasting partnerships with over 1,500 brands and retailers like Walmart, Target, and Kroger.
Unlike some apps, Ibotta requires some pre-planning. Before shopping, you select offers in the app and scan your receipt to redeem cashback, which typically ranges from $0.25 to $5 per offer.
It’s not limited to groceries. The app offers extend to clothing, electronics, and dining. With a low $20 threshold to cash out via PayPal, Venmo, or gift cards, Ibotta has paid out over $1.6 billion to users, proving its reliability.
The app’s “Any Brand” offers also let you earn on generic items, making it versatile for everyday use.
3. Dosh
Dosh delivers automatic cashback by linking your credit or debit card to the app for those who prefer a hands-off approach.
No receipt scanning or offer activation is needed—just shop at participating retailers like Walmart, Sephora, or Instacart, and cashback will be credited to your Dosh wallet.
It shines for travel-related purchases, offering up to 10% back at select hotels and restaurants. Once you reach $25, cash out to PayPal, Venmo, or your bank account. Dosh’s simplicity makes it perfect for busy individuals who want savings without extra effort.
4. Shopkick
Shopkick adds a gamified twist to cashback, rewarding you with “kicks” (points) for purchases and actions like walking into stores or scanning barcodes.
These kicks can be redeemed for gift cards to retailers like Amazon, Starbucks, or Target, with 250 kicks equaling $1. It’s partnered with brands like Walmart and Best Buy, making it great for in-store and online shopping.
While it doesn’t offer direct cash, the variety of earning methods—up to 15 kicks per dollar spent—keeps it engaging for deal hunters.
5. Fetch Rewards
Fetch Rewards simplifies grocery savings by letting you earn points on every receipt you scan, regardless of where you shop.
Partnered with hundreds of popular brands, such as Pepsi and Kraft, it awards points (around 25 per $1 spent on eligible items) that can be redeemed for gift cards to places like Amazon or Visa prepaid cards.
Special offers can significantly boost earnings, and its universal receipt acceptance makes it a go-to for anyone looking to save on household staples without chasing specific deals.
6. Honey
Honey, now part of PayPal, is best known for its browser extension that applies coupon codes at checkout, but its cashback feature, Honey Gold, is a hidden gem.
Earn points (redeemable for gift cards) on purchases at over 5,500 stores, including Target and Nordstrom.
Rates vary, often between 1% and 5%. While it’s not traditional cash, the seamless integration across desktop and mobile shopping makes it a no-brainer for online bargain seekers. The unpredictability of cashback percentages adds an element of surprise to each transaction.
7. Receipt Hog
Receipt Hog turns every purchase into a mini payday by rewarding you with coins for scanning receipts from virtually any store—grocery, gas, or fast food. Coins can be converted to cash via PayPal or gift cards, and 1,000 coins equals about $5.
It also offers bonus spins and surveys for extra earnings, making it a fun, low-effort option. While payouts are modest, their inclusivity across purchase types ensures you’re always earning, no matter how small you spend.
8. TopCashback
TopCashback claims to be “America’s most generous cashback site,” with no minimum payout threshold, it’s easy to see why. Shop at over 7,000 retailers and earn cashback paid via PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards with bonus incentives.
It’s purely online-focused and tailored for e-commerce enthusiasts who value flexibility and frequent payouts. The absence of a cashout limit means you can withdraw earnings as soon as they’re available.
9. Swagbucks
Swagbucks blends cashback with a multi-faceted rewards system. Earn SB points (100 SB = $1) by shopping at partners like Walmart or eBay, completing surveys, or watching videos. Cashback rates hover around 1% to 5%, redeemable for PayPal cash or gift cards once you reach $3.
Its versatility appeals to those who enjoy earning through various activities, though the shopping rewards alone make it a contender for everyday savings.
10. Checkout 51
Checkout 51 caters to grocery shoppers. It offers weekly updated offers you can claim before purchasing and verify by uploading your receipt. Available at any store, it features cashback on essentials like milk or bread, typically $0.25 to $1 per item.
You can cash out at $20 via check or PayPal. Its straightforward approach and broad applicability make it a reliable choice for cutting food costs, especially for families.
How Cashback Apps Tie Into Debt Management
Beyond everyday savings, cashback apps can be subtle yet effective tools for debt management. The money you earn back can be used to pay down credit card balances, student loans, or other debts.
For example, consistently using Ibotta and Rakuten could net you $200 annually. This method reduces principal and interest over time when applied to high-interest debt.
It’s not a cure-all but a practical way to stretch your budget and accelerate financial freedom without extra income sources.
Tips for Maximizing Your Cashback Earnings
To get the most out of these apps, combine them strategically. Use Rakuten for online purchases, Ibotta for groceries, and Dosh for dining out, ensuring you’re covered across spending categories.
Always check for limited-time offers or double-cashback events and link loyalty programs where possible. Many apps integrate with store rewards for stacked savings.
Consistency is key; even small earnings add up over months, turning routine buys into a mini savings account.
Conclusion
Cashback apps are an innovative trend, a modern way to save money on everyday purchases. From Rakuten’s online prowess to Ibotta’s grocery focus, these apps cater to diverse shopping needs, offering tangible rewards with minimal effort.
By integrating them into your routine, you pad your wallet and gain a tool for debt management, turning small savings into big financial wins.
Ready to start? Download one (or all!) of these apps today, and watch your everyday spending work harder for you.
FAQs
How Do Cashback Apps Make Money?
Cashback apps earn revenue through affiliate partnerships with retailers. When you shop via the app, the retailer pays a commission, a portion of which is passed on to you as cashback. It’s a win-win: retailers gain customers, and you save money.
Are Cashback Apps Safe to Use?
Yes, reputable apps like those listed use encryption to protect your data. Linking cards (e.g., with Dosh) involve secure protocols, and receipts are typically anonymized. Stick to well-reviewed apps and read privacy policies to ensure comfort.
How Much Can You Save with Cashback Apps?
Savings vary by spending habits. Casual users might earn $50–$100 yearly, while dedicated shoppers using multiple apps could see $200–$500 or more, especially during peak shopping seasons like Black Friday.
Do Cashback Apps Work Internationally?
Some, like Rakuten and TopCashback, offer deals with global retailers, but most are U.S.-centric. Check each app’s terms—Checkout 51, for instance, works in Canada, while others may limit offers by region.
Can You Use Multiple Cashback Apps Together?
Absolutely! There’s no rule against stacking apps as long as offers don’t overlap (e.g., claiming the same purchase twice). Pair a receipt-based app like Fetch with an online portal like Rakuten for maximum returns.
