Unveil the Ultimate Money-Saving Shopping Tips
Discovering ways to earn money through your purchases may seem too good to be true, but there are numerous mobile apps and websites that provide cash back on transactions and regularly payout to users. After testing numerous cashback apps, we have identified the top ones that offer substantial savings with minimal effort. Among the standout cashback apps are Rakuten, known for its extensive partner network and automated earning system; Capital One Shopping, praised for its automatic price comparisons and coupon testing; and PayPal Honey, which stands out for its price tracking feature.
The best part? You can continue shopping as you normally would, as these tools operate seamlessly in the background while you focus on finding the perfect item. Updated for 2025! 💡Expert tip: For quick access to the best cashback app for a specific purchase, visit Cashback Monitor and input the store or retailer’s name. This will display a comprehensive view of the cashback rates offered by each platform. Increase your savings further by using a cashback or rewards credit card when making purchases.
Best overall cashback app: Rakuten
Best for online shopping: Capital One Shopping
Best for groceries: Ibotta
Best for earning extra cash: Swagbucks
Best for paid tasks: InboxDollars
Best for in-store savings: RetailMeNot
1. Best overall cashback app: Rakuten
Rakuten
Earn cash back at over 3,500 stores with payouts every quarter
💰 The basics
• Free to use
• Sign up online or via the app
• Save money at Rakuten through the app or browser extension
• Receive cash back via check or PayPal every 3 months
⭐ User ratings
• App Store: 4.8 out of 5 stars (360,150 reviews)
• Google Play: 3.5 out of 5 stars (75,500 reviews)
Pros
– No need to upload receipts
– Browser extension alerts you of deals
– Numerous participating retailers
Cons
– Quarterly payouts for returns of $5+
– Limited in-store cashback options
– Complaints of delayed payouts and technical issues
Sign up at Rakuten
Why we like Rakuten
Rakuten, a popular free cashback app formerly known as Ebates, has earned its reputation for a reason. With a vast network of 3,500 partner stores spanning various categories such as clothing, electronics, housewares, automotive, restaurants, airlines, hotels, and more, Rakuten offers cash back on popular brands like Target, Walmart, Kohl’s, Macy’s, and even warehouse outlets like Sam’s Club, typically excluded from credit card rewards.
Signing up online or via the app is quick and easy, requiring only an email address and password or your Google, Apple, or Facebook account. After registration, download the Safari browser extension to receive deal notifications and compare prices whenever you shop online. You can also
Over the years, they have accumulated thousands of dollars by sharing tips on maximizing discounts through limited-time promotions and credit card bonuses. However, some Reddit and Google Play reviews mention delayed payments and app glitches, while others advise monitoring rewards closely to ensure Rakuten fulfills purchases.
Sign up at Rakuten
2. Capital One Shopping is Ideal for Online Shopping
Capital One Shopping automatically compares prices across various stores to present the best deals to users. It is free to use and available online or through the app. Users can take advantage of automatic price comparisons, coupon testing, and earn rewards in the form of gift cards from major retailers.
User Ratings:
– App Store: 4.9 out of 5 stars (1M+ reviews)
– Google Play: 4.8 out of 5 stars (66,500 reviews)
Pros:
– Automatically finds better prices and tests coupon codes
– Sends price drop alerts on watched items
– No Capital One account required
Cons:
– Rewards only as gift cards, not cash
– Some features may work better on desktop than mobile
Sign up at Capital One Shopping
Why Capital One Shopping is Recommended:
Capital One Shopping, available as a browser extension, mobile app, and website, streamlines the process of finding the best online deals. By shopping at major retailers like Amazon, Target, or Walmart, users can compare prices and potentially save money. The app’s coupon testing feature saves time and money by automatically applying valid codes at checkout. Additionally, the price drop alert system helps users avoid overpaying by notifying them of price reductions. This feature is particularly useful for big-ticket items like appliances and electronics.
Testimonials from Capital One Shopping users highlight the app’s convenience in testing coupon codes and providing automatic price comparisons. While users appreciate the savings, some mention that rewards can only be redeemed as gift cards, and the desktop browser extension may offer a smoother experience than the mobile app.
Sign up at Capital One Shopping
3. Ibotta is Great for Grocery Shopping
Ibotta allows users to earn money on groceries from local chains, national supermarkets, and warehouse stores. It is free to use, accessible online or through the app, and offers cash back to bank accounts, PayPal, or gift cards once earnings reach $20.
User Ratings:
– App Store: 4.8 out of 5 stars (1.8M+ reviews)
– Google Play: 4.5 out of 5 stars (697,000 reviews)
Pros:
– Wide selection of supermarkets and delivery options
I hope this rewrite is helpful to you.
Redemption Options, Bonuses, and Referral Rewards at Ibotta
Pros:
– Earn generous cash back at a wide range of stores, primarily focused on groceries and grocery delivery
– Supermarkets such as Albertsons, Giant, Kroger, and more, as well as warehouse stores like BJ’s Wholesale Club and Costco included
– Access cash back at gas stations, convenience stores, health and beauty retailers, and pet supply stores
– Free app and Chrome browser extension
– Easy to use and upload receipts
– Ability to earn cash back on everyday household items
– Redeem rewards to a linked bank account, PayPal, or gift cards
Cons:
– Reports of glitches and technical issues
– Takes some effort to plan and maximize savings
– Some users complain of disappearing offers, scanning issues, and customer support problems
– Need to plan shopping trips ahead of time to maximize benefits
Overall, Ibotta is a convenient way to stretch your budget and earn cash back on your regular purchases. Sign up online or download the app to start saving today!
Check Swagbucks’ rates before making a purchase to ensure it is worth it. The Swagbucks community on r/Swagbucks subreddit provides valuable tips and tricks. Members appreciate the flexibility of earning rewards at their own pace, with retirees finding surveys and games enjoyable while earning a nice bonus. Users value the diverse redemption options, such as PayPal cash and gift cards. However, some users note that surveys may screen them out after answering several questions, and some activities offer minimal points for time spent. Successful users recommend focusing on higher-paying activities and shopping rewards to maximize earnings. Sign up at Swagbucks for various ways to earn rewards.
InboxDollars is beneficial for tasks like shopping, reading emails, taking surveys, and watching videos. It is free to use and offers cash payments via PayPal or checks upon reaching $30. The platform is praised for displaying earnings in cash, providing multiple money-earning opportunities beyond shopping, and offering a $5 welcome bonus for new members. However, some users mention the high payout threshold and that some activities have small payouts. Sign up at InboxDollars for a straightforward approach to earning extra money online. Instead of converting points, it shows your earnings in dollars for each activity, helping you decide which tasks are worth your time. The variety of earning opportunities allows you to seamlessly incorporate InboxDollars into your daily routine. Shopping cashback rates typically range from 1.5% to 15%, with higher rates available through special promotions. While not always offering the highest rates, the platform’s variety of money-making activities compensates for it. Users appreciate earning tangible dollars instantly and find the paid email feature especially convenient. Some users report earning $20 to $30 monthly by combining email reading with surveys and videos. However, reaching the $30 payout threshold can be a drawback for some members.
It may take a few weeks to see results unless you are active on the platform. Many users suggest focusing on higher-paying market research surveys and cashback opportunities while avoiding lower-paying activities like watching videos, which typically only pay a few cents per view. Join InboxDollars for such opportunities.
For in-store savings, consider using RetailMeNot. It provides both online and in-store coupons for various stores. RetailMeNot is free to use and does not require an account for coupon codes. Users can access deals both online and in-store and redeem rewards via PayPal or Venmo. The platform has high user ratings and works at physical and online stores. However, it has limited coverage for grocery stores and some coupons may expire quickly. Cashback processing can also be slow. Sign up for RetailMeNot to benefit from its cashback platform, app, and browser extension.
RetailMeNot’s deal finder scans over 20,000 online stores and offers real-time coupon verification, saving users time during checkout. The platform clearly marks exclusions and restrictions for each coupon. RetailMeNot offers immediate discounts through coupon codes and cashback opportunities for online shopping. The cashback program occasionally provides increased rates during holiday shopping seasons. Users appreciate the reliable coupon verification system and combined online and in-store savings. However, RetailMeNot is less effective for grocery store shopping, and some users mention slow cashback processing.
PayPal Honey faced a class action lawsuit in January for deceptive practices, leading to its removal from the list of best cashback apps. The lawsuit alleged deceptive affiliate linking practices, prioritizing partner retailer coupons and stealing commissions. Stay updated on this issue for more information.
Consider various types of cashback apps to find the best deals and savings for your shopping needs.
A variety of apps are available to help you save money, with cashback apps generally falling into three main categories for earning rewards:
1. Cash back apps: These apps offer automatic rewards or coupons to online shoppers at checkout. Examples include Rakuten, Ibotta, Honey, and Capital One Shopping.
2. Receipt-scanning apps: By scanning or uploading photos of physical shopping receipts, users can earn cash back or points. Examples include Receipt Hog and Fetch.
3. Loyalty apps: These apps connect to credit cards, debit cards, or loyalty programs to reward eligible purchases automatically. Examples include apps for Starbucks and Chipotle.
When considering a cashback app, look for one that aligns with your lifestyle and spending habits. Factors to consider include the retailers it partners with, how rewards are earned, and the ease of redeeming rewards. Key features to look for in a cashback app include:
– Partnered with a wide range of retailers across various categories
– Competitive cashback rates, ideally between 2% to 10% or more
– Convenient payout options such as bank transfers, digital wallet deposits, or gift cards
– Frequent payouts to access earnings quickly
– User-friendly interface without excessive requirements
– Additional features like price comparisons, coupons integration, and referral programs
– Positive reputation and reviews, indicating reliability and customer satisfaction
By evaluating these aspects, you can choose a cashback app that best suits your needs and helps you maximize savings effectively.
Discover why it’s beneficial to compare your options:
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Find answers to common questions about cashback apps and saving money. Gain insights on how to save money with apps through our extensive library of personal finance guides, designed to help you generate income, save money, and build your wealth.
Learn how cashback apps generate revenue through affiliate marketing, offering you cash back on your purchases. Discover how these apps collect and analyze data to enhance marketing strategies.
Ensure the safety of your data with reputable cashback apps that utilize industry-standard security measures. Understand how to maximize your earnings by comparing rewards and savings across different platforms using websites like Cashback Monitor and Evreward.
Most apps have no earning limits, but some may require you to reach a certain threshold before cashing out. Research an app’s payout policies before joining to ensure you understand how and when you’ll receive your earnings.
Avoid cashback apps that charge membership fees upfront. Reputable apps do not require payment to start earning rewards. Stay vigilant against any app that requests payment before allowing you to earn rewards.
Meet our knowledgeable writers:
– Kat Aoki, an experienced finance writer, who has authored numerous articles on technology, fintech, banking, lending, and investments. Her work has been featured on well-known sites such as Forbes Advisor, Lifewire, and Finder.
– Yahia Barakah, a versatile writer specialising in various finance topics.
Yahia is a seasoned financial writer at AOL, boasting over ten years of experience in the realms of finance and investing. With a certification as a personal finance educator (CEPF), he effectively melds his expertise in economics with a fervent commitment to promoting financial literacy, particularly in the areas of retirement planning, banking, and credit management. His genuine passion lies in equipping individuals with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the complexities of financial decision-making, ultimately enhancing their day-to-day well-being and long-term financial health. Yahia’s wealth of knowledge has garnered recognition on prominent platforms such as FinanceBuzz, FX Empire, and EarnForex. Residing in sunny Florida, he strikes a harmonious balance between his professional pursuits in finance and his personal interests, which include freediving, hiking, and capturing the beauty of the underwater world through photography. The article was meticulously reviewed and edited by Kelly Suzan Waggoner.
