You’ve probably heard the saying “every little bit helps.” When it comes to your budget, ain’t that the truth! Cash-back apps won’t make you a millionaire overnight, but they can put a surprising amount of money back in your pocket over time. Think of it as finding money you didn’t even know you lost.
So, how do they work? These apps partner with thousands of stores and brands to give you a rebate on your purchases. A few cents here, a dollar there—it all adds up. The key is finding an app that fits your lifestyle so you can save effortlessly on the things you already buy.
The Best Cash-Back Apps for Every Type of Spender
So, how do you find the right one for your unique habits? Different apps are built for different lifestyles. To help you find the right fit, we’ve broken down some of the top apps by what they do best.
For the Everyday Shopper: Fetch Rewards
Fetch is all about simplicity. You don’t need to clip coupons or activate offers. Just snap a picture of your receipt from almost any store, and you’ll earn points. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to save without a lot of hassle. You can cash in your points for gift cards to your favorite stores. It’s like magic—your regular shopping trips suddenly become a source of rewards.
For the Online Deal Hunter: Rakuten
If you do most of your shopping online, Rakuten is a game-changer. It partners with over 3,500 stores, including major brands you already know. Before you shop, just open the Rakuten app or browser extension, and you’ll get a percentage of your purchase back automatically. The best part? They send you a “Big Fat Check” every three months with your earnings.
For the Grocery Guru: Ibotta
Ibotta is a must-have for anyone who wants to save on groceries. Before you shop, you scroll through the app to find offers on specific products. Once you’re done shopping, you simply upload your receipt. Ibotta is great for a more targeted approach to saving, allowing you to earn cash back on the specific items you purchase most.
For the Person Always on the Go: Upside
Running errands? Commuting to work? Upside is your new best friend. This app helps you save on gas, groceries, and dining out at thousands of locations. Before you pay, simply claim an offer in the app. It’s a fantastic way to cut down on your biggest daily expenses without changing your routine.
For a Fun Way to Save: Receipt Hog
If you like the idea of saving but want to add a little fun to it, check out Receipt Hog. This app turns saving into a game. You upload receipts and earn coins, which you can redeem for cash. You can also get slot spins to win more coins. It’s an easy way to get a little something extra back from your shopping.
Maximize Your Savings
For an even bigger impact, use a cash-back credit card along with one of these apps. For example, if you use a card that gives you 3% back on groceries and you use an app that gives you 2% back, you’re now getting a total of 5% back on that one purchase. It’s a simple strategy that can significantly boost your savings over time.
