You already spend money on groceries, gas, and essentials—why not earn some of it back? Check out apps that offer real cashback on everyday purchases and look into how to maximize your rewards without changing your routine.
What Are Cashback Apps?
Cashback apps give you a percentage of your money back when you shop through them, scan receipts, or link your debit or credit card. Instead of relying on points or complicated reward systems, they pay you in real money—usually via PayPal, direct deposit, or gift cards.
Some apps require you to activate offers before shopping, while others automatically apply rewards once you check out. The key is to make them part of your regular routine so you’re always earning without extra effort.
1. Rakuten: Cashback for Online and In-Store Shopping
Rakuten (formerly Ebates) offers cashback at thousands of online stores, including Walmart, Target, Sephora, and Macy’s. You just start your shopping trip through the app or browser extension, and Rakuten tracks your purchase and deposits cashback into your account.
They also have in-store deals—just link your credit or debit card and activate offers before shopping. Cashback ranges from 1% to over 10%, and payouts come quarterly via check or PayPal.
2. Ibotta: Get Paid for Groceries, Online Orders, and More
Ibotta is one of the most popular apps for earning cashback on grocery store purchases. You browse available offers (like $1 back on cereal or $0.50 on yogurt), go shopping, then scan your receipt to get paid.
You can also link store loyalty cards or shop through the app at online retailers like Walmart, Best Buy, and Home Depot. Ibotta pays you in real cash and even offers bonus challenges to boost your earnings.
3. Fetch: Scan Receipts and Earn Gift Cards
Fetch takes a simpler approach—you scan any receipt, and the app gives you points. You earn more points for buying specific promoted brands, but every receipt earns something. Over time, your points can be redeemed for gift cards to places like Amazon, Starbucks, or Target.
Fetch doesn’t require you to activate offers ahead of time, making it one of the easiest cashback apps to use. Just keep your receipts and scan them within 14 days.
4. Upside: Cash Back on Gas, Groceries, and Restaurants
Upside focuses on cashback for everyday purchases like gas, food, and groceries. Just open the app, claim an offer near you, pay with a linked card, and earn cashback instantly.
It’s especially great for drivers—many gas stations offer $0.10–$0.25 back per gallon. Over time, that adds up to serious savings. Upside pays via PayPal, direct deposit, or gift cards.
5. Dosh: Automatic Cash Back When You Shop or Dine Out
Dosh links directly to your debit or credit card. When you shop or dine at participating stores, you earn cashback automatically—no scanning receipts or activating offers required.
Popular chains like Dunkin’, Wendy’s, and Costco participate. The app sends your rewards to your account as soon as the transaction is verified. Once you hit $15, you can cash out to your bank or PayPal.
6. TopCashback: High Rewards and Huge Retail List
TopCashback is similar to Rakuten but often offers slightly higher cashback rates. You shop through their app or browser extension, and they pass on the highest possible commission from the retailer back to you.
Their payout options include PayPal, direct deposit, and gift cards (with bonuses for some card options). It’s ideal if you do a lot of online shopping and want to maximize your returns.
How to Maximize Your Cashback
To make the most of cashback apps, try these tips:
Stack your savings. Use cashback apps and your credit card rewards together.
Save receipts. Even if you’re not sure you’ll use them, they might match an offer later.
Check offers before shopping. Activating deals in apps like Ibotta or Upside boosts your cashback potential.
Use browser extensions. Rakuten and TopCashback both alert you to deals while you shop online.
Set reminders. Make it a habit to scan receipts or check your app daily.
Are Cashback Apps Worth It?
Absolutely—especially if you’re using them on purchases you’d make anyway. If you’re shopping for groceries, filling up your tank, or grabbing lunch at a chain restaurant, cashback apps let you earn a few extra bucks without changing your routine.
While you won’t earn hundreds overnight, many users report cashing out $50–$100 every few months. It’s money you’d otherwise leave on the table.
Final Thoughts
Cashback apps make it easy to earn while you spend—without needing coupons, memberships, or complicated steps. Whether you’re scanning receipts, linking your card, or just clicking through an app before shopping online, these tools turn everyday spending into effortless savings. Try a few, find your favorites, and let your spending work for you.
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