Cash back apps have become an essential tool for savvy shoppers. These apps offer a simple yet effective way to save money on everyday purchases, turning your shopping habits into a rewarding experience. Whether you’re buying groceries, filling up your gas tank, or shopping online, there’s likely a cash back app that can help you save some extra cash.
That’s where this blog post comes in. We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best cash back apps that you should be using to maximize your savings. Whether you’re a seasoned cash back enthusiast or new to the concept, these apps offer something for everyone. Let’s dive in and explore these top picks!
1. Rakuten
Rakuten, formerly known as Ebates, is one of the most popular and widely used cash back apps. It partners with over 2,500 retailers, offering users a percentage of their purchase back in the form of cash rebates. Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, Rakuten makes it easy to earn money on your purchases.
Key Features:
- Wide range of partner retailers
- User-friendly interface
- Seasonal double cash back offers
- In-store cash back with linked credit or debit cards
How It Works: To start earning cash back with Rakuten, simply sign up for a free account, browse through their list of partner retailers, and click on the store you want to shop at. Rakuten will redirect you to the retailer’s site, and you can shop as usual. After completing your purchase, Rakuten tracks your order and credits your account with the applicable cash back. You can also link your credit or debit card to earn cash back when shopping in-store.
User Experience: Rakuten is known for its seamless and user-friendly experience. The app and website are easy to navigate, making it simple to find deals and track earnings. Payments are made quarterly via PayPal or check, ensuring that you get your cash back without any hassle.
2. Ibotta
Ibotta is another top-rated cash back app that focuses on groceries, but it has expanded to include other categories such as clothing, electronics, and dining. With Ibotta, you can earn cash back on everyday purchases both in-store and online.
Key Features:
- Wide range of cash back offers on groceries and more
- Integration with major retailers and grocery stores
- Bonus offers and rewards for frequent users
- Real-time cash back when linked to loyalty cards
How It Works: To use Ibotta, download the app, create an account, and browse through the available offers. Add the offers you plan to use before shopping, and then either upload your receipt after making a purchase or link your loyalty card for automatic cash back. You can also shop directly through the app for certain online retailers.
User Experience: Ibotta is well-loved for its focus on groceries and everyday items, making it a go-to app for many shoppers. The app’s interface is intuitive, and the process of adding offers and redeeming cash back is straightforward. Earnings can be withdrawn via PayPal, Venmo, or gift cards, giving users flexibility in how they receive their money.
3. Honey
Honey is a browser extension and mobile app that helps users find the best deals and earn cash back while shopping online. It automatically applies coupon codes at checkout and offers cash back through its Honey Gold rewards program.
Key Features:
- Automatic coupon code application
- Honey Gold rewards program
- Wide range of partner retailers
- Price tracking feature
How It Works: After installing the Honey browser extension or mobile app, simply shop as you normally would. Honey will automatically search for and apply the best coupon codes at checkout. If you shop at a participating retailer, you’ll also earn Honey Gold, which can be redeemed for gift cards.
User Experience: Honey is incredibly easy to use, making it a favorite for online shoppers. The automatic coupon feature saves time, and the cash back through Honey Gold is a nice bonus. The app’s price tracking feature also helps users make informed purchasing decisions.
4. Dosh
Dosh is a cash back app that automatically gives you cash back when you shop, dine, or book hotels with linked credit or debit cards. There’s no need to scan receipts or enter promo codes, making it a hassle-free option for busy users.
Key Features:
- Automatic cash back on linked cards
- Partnered with a wide range of retailers, restaurants, and hotels
- Simple, user-friendly interface
- Referral bonuses for sharing with friends
How It Works: Once you link your credit or debit cards to the Dosh app, you’ll automatically earn cash back when you make qualifying purchases at participating merchants. The cash back is added to your Dosh wallet, and you can transfer it to your bank account, PayPal, or donate it to charity.
User Experience: Dosh’s appeal lies in its simplicity. The automatic cash back feature means you don’t have to think about it – just shop as usual, and Dosh handles the rest. The app is easy to navigate, and the ability to withdraw earnings in multiple ways adds to its convenience.
5. Fetch Rewards
Fetch Rewards is a receipt-scanning app that rewards users with points for their grocery purchases. These points can be redeemed for gift cards from a variety of retailers.
Key Features:
- Earn points on any grocery receipt
- Partnered with popular brands for bonus points
- Simple receipt-scanning process
- Variety of gift card redemption options
How It Works: After shopping, simply scan your grocery receipt with the Fetch Rewards app. The app will award you points based on the brands and items purchased. You can then redeem these points for gift cards from retailers like Amazon, Target, and others.
User Experience: Fetch Rewards is a favorite among grocery shoppers for its ease of use and the wide range of rewards. The receipt-scanning process is quick, and the points accumulate quickly, making it easy to earn gift cards regularly.
6. Checkout 51
Checkout 51 is another receipt-scanning app that offers cash back on groceries, household items, and even gas. The app features a weekly list of offers, which users can add to their accounts and redeem by uploading receipts.
Key Features:
- Weekly updated offers
- Cash back on groceries, household items, and gas
- Simple receipt-upload process
- Option to cash out via check or PayPal
How It Works: Browse the available offers in the Checkout 51 app, add the ones you want to use, and then shop as usual. After your purchase, upload your receipt to the app, and Checkout 51 will credit your account with the applicable cash back. Once you reach the minimum threshold, you can cash out via PayPal or request a check.
User Experience: Checkout 51 is popular for its variety of offers and ease of use. The app’s interface is straightforward, making it easy to find and redeem offers. The cash out options provide flexibility, and the weekly updates keep things fresh.
7. Shopkick
Shopkick is a unique cash back app that rewards users with points (called “kicks”) for both in-store and online activities. These kicks can be redeemed for gift cards to popular retailers.
Key Features:
- Earn kicks for walking into stores, scanning items, and making purchases
- Online shopping rewards
- Variety of gift card redemption options
- Fun and interactive experience
How It Works: Shopkick offers several ways to earn kicks, including walking into participating stores, scanning specific products, and making purchases with linked cards. You can also earn kicks by shopping online through the app. The kicks can then be redeemed for gift cards from retailers like Starbucks, Amazon, and more.
User Experience: Shopkick adds a fun element to shopping with its interactive earning options. The app is engaging and easy to use, making it a hit with users who enjoy gamified experiences. The wide range of gift card options is also a plus.
8. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a versatile rewards platform that offers multiple ways to earn cash back, including shopping online, taking surveys, watching videos, and more. It’s one of the most comprehensive cash back apps available.
Key Features:
- Multiple ways to earn rewards (shopping, surveys, etc.)
- Swagbucks points (SB) redeemable for gift cards or PayPal cash
- Large selection of partner retailers
- Daily bonuses and promotions
How It Works: Swagbucks offers users a variety of ways to earn SB points, which can be redeemed for gift cards or PayPal cash. Shopping through the Swagbucks portal is one of the most popular ways to earn, but you can also accumulate points by taking surveys, watching videos, and participating in other activities on the platform.
User Experience: Swagbucks stands out for its versatility and the sheer number of ways to earn rewards. The platform is user-friendly, and the ability to earn points through various activities keeps users engaged. The redemption options are extensive, making it easy to cash out your earnings in the way that suits you best.
9. TopCashback
TopCashback is known for offering some of the highest cash back rates in the industry. It partners with thousands of retailers, allowing users to earn significant cash back on their purchases.
Key Features:
- High cash back rates
- No minimum payout threshold
- Extensive list of partner retailers
- Option to receive payouts via PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards
How It Works: To earn cash back with TopCashback, simply create an account, browse through the list of partner retailers, and click on the store you want to shop at. TopCashback will track your purchase and credit your account with the applicable cash back. You can then choose how you want to receive your payout.
User Experience: TopCashback is favored by users who are serious about maximizing their cash back earnings. The high rates and lack of a minimum payout threshold make it an attractive option for many. The platform is easy to use, and the multiple payout options add to its convenience.
10. Drop
Drop is a cash back app that rewards users with points for shopping at their favorite brands. These points can be redeemed for gift cards to popular retailers.
Key Features:
- Earn points on purchases at popular brands
- Personalized offers based on shopping habits
- Gift card redemption options
- In-app shopping experience
How It Works: Link your credit or debit cards to the Drop app, and start earning points automatically when you make purchases at participating retailers. Drop offers personalized deals based on your shopping habits, making it easy to earn points on the things you already buy. The points can be redeemed for gift cards from retailers like Amazon, Starbucks, and more.
User Experience: Drop’s personalized approach to cash back makes it a favorite among users who prefer tailored offers. The app is easy to navigate, and the automatic points earning is convenient. The variety of gift card options ensures that there’s something for everyone.
11. Capital One Shopping
Capital One Shopping, formerly known as Wikibuy, is a browser extension and app that helps users save money by finding the best deals and applying coupon codes at checkout. It also offers cash back through its loyalty program.
Key Features:
- Automatic coupon code application
- Price comparison feature
- Capital One Shopping Credits (cash back) on purchases
- Price tracking and alerts
How It Works: After installing the Capital One Shopping extension or app, shop as usual. The tool will automatically search for and apply the best coupon codes at checkout. If you shop at a participating retailer, you’ll also earn Capital One Shopping Credits, which can be redeemed for gift cards.
User Experience: Capital One Shopping is highly regarded for its ability to find deals and apply coupons automatically. The cash back feature is an added bonus, making it a comprehensive tool for online shoppers. The price tracking and alert features also help users make informed decisions about when to buy.
12. MyPoints
MyPoints is a rewards platform that offers cash back, gift cards, and other rewards for shopping online, taking surveys, watching videos, and more. It’s a versatile option for those looking to earn rewards in multiple ways.
Key Features:
- Multiple ways to earn points (shopping, surveys, etc.)
- Redeem points for gift cards or PayPal cash
- Partnered with a wide range of retailers
- Daily bonus opportunities
How It Works: Like Swagbucks, MyPoints allows users to earn points through a variety of activities, including shopping through the MyPoints portal. Points can be redeemed for gift cards to popular retailers or for PayPal cash.
User Experience: MyPoints is a solid option for those who want to earn rewards in multiple ways. The platform is easy to use, and the variety of earning opportunities keeps users engaged. The redemption options are flexible, catering to a wide range of preferences.
13. Receipt Hog
Receipt Hog is a fun and straightforward app that allows users to earn cash back by uploading their receipts. The app turns your receipts into “coins,” which can be redeemed for cash or gift cards.
Key Features:
- Earn coins for uploading any receipt
- Bonus coins for regular users
- In-app surveys for additional earnings
- Redeem coins for PayPal cash or gift cards
How It Works: After making a purchase, simply snap a photo of your receipt and upload it to the Receipt Hog app. You’ll earn coins based on the receipt’s value and store type. These coins can be redeemed for PayPal cash or gift cards. The app also offers occasional surveys for additional earnings.
User Experience: Receipt Hog is loved for its simplicity and the fact that you can earn rewards on virtually any purchase. The receipt-upload process is quick and easy, and the app’s playful design adds a fun element to the experience.
14. BeFrugal
BeFrugal is another high-rate cash back app that partners with thousands of retailers. It’s known for its competitive cash back rates and extensive list of partner stores.
Key Features:
- High cash back rates
- Over 5,000 partner retailers
- Price comparison tool
- Option to cash out via PayPal, check, or gift cards
How It Works: To earn cash back with BeFrugal, create an account, browse the list of partner retailers, and click through to the store you want to shop at. BeFrugal tracks your purchase and credits your account with cash back, which can be withdrawn via PayPal, check, or gift cards.
User Experience: BeFrugal is popular for its high cash back rates and user-friendly interface. The app and website are easy to navigate, and the variety of payout options makes it convenient for users to receive their earnings. The price comparison tool is also a helpful feature for finding the best deals.
15. ReceiptPal
ReceiptPal is a straightforward receipt-scanning app that rewards users with points for uploading their receipts. The points can be redeemed for gift cards or entered into sweepstakes for a chance to win additional prizes.
Key Features:
- Earn points for uploading any receipt
- Weekly sweepstakes for bonus rewards
- Redeem points for gift cards
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
How It Works: Upload your receipts to ReceiptPal, and earn points based on the number of receipts uploaded. These points can be redeemed for gift cards or used to enter weekly sweepstakes for a chance to win additional prizes.
User Experience: ReceiptPal is favored for its simplicity and the ease of earning rewards. The app is user-friendly, and the points accumulate quickly, making it a reliable option for those who want to earn gift cards with minimal effort.
16. Pei
Pei is a cash back app that automatically rewards users with cash back when they make purchases with linked credit or debit cards. The app works with a wide range of retailers, restaurants, and more.
Key Features:
- Automatic cash back on linked cards
- No need to scan receipts or activate offers
- Partnered with popular brands and retailers
- Redeem cash back via PayPal, Bitcoin, or gift cards
How It Works: After linking your credit or debit cards to Pei, you’ll automatically earn cash back when you make purchases at participating retailers. The cash back is credited to your Pei account, and you can redeem it via PayPal, Bitcoin, or gift cards.
User Experience: Pei’s automatic cash back feature makes it a convenient option for busy users who don’t want to deal with scanning receipts or activating offers. The app is easy to use, and the option to redeem earnings in Bitcoin is a unique feature that appeals to cryptocurrency enthusiasts.
17. Fluz
Fluz is a cash back app with a unique twist: it allows users to earn cash back not only on their purchases but also on the purchases of others they refer to the app. This multi-level earning potential makes it stand out from other cash back apps.
Key Features:
- Earn cash back on your purchases and those of your referrals
- Purchase gift cards through the app to earn instant cash back
- Wide range of partner retailers
- User-friendly app interface
How It Works: To use Fluz, purchase gift cards through the app for the stores you plan to shop at. You’ll earn instant cash back on these purchases. Additionally, if you refer friends and they make purchases through Fluz, you’ll earn a percentage of their cash back as well.
User Experience: Fluz’s referral-based earning structure makes it an interesting option for those who enjoy sharing deals with friends. The app is straightforward and easy to use, and the instant cash back on gift card purchases is a great feature for those who frequently shop at the same stores.
18. Paribus
Paribus is a cash back app that helps users get refunds on price drops and late deliveries. It works by monitoring your online purchases and tracking price changes, ensuring you get the best deal even after you’ve made a purchase.
Key Features:
- Automatic price drop monitoring
- Refunds for late deliveries on eligible purchases
- Easy setup with email integration
- Works with major online retailers
How It Works: After signing up for Paribus and linking your email account, the app will monitor your online purchases and track price changes. If it detects a price drop on an item you purchased, Paribus will help you get a refund for the difference. The app also tracks deliveries and helps you get refunds for late deliveries.
User Experience: Paribus is a valuable tool for online shoppers who want to ensure they’re getting the best deal. The app is easy to set up, and its automated nature means you don’t have to actively monitor your purchases for price drops. The refund process is seamless, making it a favorite among users who shop frequently online.
19. TruNow
TruNow is a cash back app that focuses on gas purchases, allowing users to earn cash back when they fill up at participating gas stations. The app also offers cash back on in-store purchases at gas stations.
Key Features:
- Earn cash back on gas and in-store purchases
- Partnered with a wide range of gas stations
- Easy-to-use app interface
- Option to redeem cash back for gift cards or PayPal
How It Works: Download the TruNow app, find a participating gas station, and make your purchase. Afterward, upload your receipt to the app to earn cash back. You can also link your card for automatic cash back on eligible purchases.
User Experience: TruNow is ideal for drivers who want to save money on gas. The app is user-friendly, and the ability to earn cash back on in-store purchases is a nice bonus. The redemption options provide flexibility, making it easy to use your earnings.
20. CoinOut
CoinOut is a versatile cash back app that rewards users for uploading any type of receipt. Unlike other apps that focus on specific stores or categories, CoinOut accepts receipts from virtually any purchase.
Key Features:
- Earn cash back on any receipt
- No need to select offers or link cards
- Simple receipt-upload process
- Redeem cash back via PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards
How It Works: After making a purchase, simply upload your receipt to the CoinOut app. The app will credit your account with cash back, which you can redeem via PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards.
User Experience: CoinOut’s simplicity and versatility make it a favorite among users who want to earn cash back without the hassle of selecting offers or linking cards. The receipt-upload process is quick and easy, and the variety of redemption options ensures that you can access your earnings in the way that suits you best.
What's in it for you:
Cash back apps offer an incredible opportunity to save money on everyday purchases, and with so many options available, there’s something for everyone. Whether you prefer scanning receipts, linking cards, or shopping through an app, these 20 cash back apps provide a wide range of ways to earn money back on the things you already buy.
The key to maximizing your savings is to choose the apps that best align with your shopping habits and preferences. Start with a few of the apps mentioned above, and see how quickly your savings can add up. With consistent use, these apps can become a powerful tool in your financial toolkit, helping you save money with minimal effort.
So why wait? Start using these cash back apps today and watch your savings grow!