Whether you’re looking for creative ways to make ends meet or simply want to maximize your spending power, cashback programs are designed to help you save.
Top cashback programs help you spend less, giving shoppers perks on everyday purchases that translate to gift cards, discounts, and cold hard cash.
With this said, not all of these programs are worth your time.
Discover the best cashback rewards programs for your needs, with 11 free options for every shopper.
How Do Cashback Programs Work?
Simply put, cashback programs allow you to get paid to shop.
While each program is different, the basics are the same: you make a purchase, a program tracks your transactions, and you receive an incentive in return.
Some programs offer direct deposit to your debit card, Venmo, or PayPal account. Others have you cash out through free gift cards to top retailers.
The best part is that these programs don’t require you to spend exorbitantly to earn cashback.
Life is expensive as it is. Doing your regular shopping at grocery stores, gas stations, and supermarkets can quickly earn you some serious cashback rewards.
Check out this post on the best ways to save on groceries for even more savings!
Types of Cashback Programs
There are several types of rewards programs, each offering different earnings and ways to unlock them. For the purpose of this post, we’ll be focusing on the 100% free-to-use cashback programs.
But first, let’s explore a few major types you’ll likely encounter.
Free Cashback Programs
One of the most popular ways to earn cashback is through a free app or browser extension used to track your spending.
When you make eligible purchases through these platforms, you’ll collect points. These points can be cashed in through direct transfer or free gift cards to retailers, dining options, and more.
You can also earn points by scanning receipts, with these programs awarding you redeemable points for that data.
Read more about how to earn free Walmart gift cards and free Starbucks gift cards!
Credit Card Cashback Programs
Credit cards are notorious for offering lucrative cashback programs, both in cash rewards and gift card rewards.
Some cash-back credit cards will come with an annual fee, so be sure to do your research on the best credit card for your spending habits.
Many credit providers will also offer a sign-up bonus. AKA, sign up and get free money!
Finally, some providers like Discover will offer a cashback match; they will match the amount of cashback you earn during your first year with the service, doubling your rewards.
Popular programs include Walmart Rewards Mastercard, Discover Cashback, Blue Cash Everyday (American Express), and Capital One Savor.
Loyalty Programs
One of the most popular cashback incentives is to sign up for brand-specific loyalty programs. These programs are either free or with an annual payment, with higher rewards for paid programs.
Loyalty programs will offer various incentives, including bonus points, exclusive coupons, free shipping with no minimum, and free products with purchase.
Many of these programs will only offer cashback that can be spent at their store. However, if you’re a frequent shopper, these programs will likely pay off!
Check out these posts on the best coupon sites and how to get free stuff for more savings tips.
11 Cashback Programs to Save You Money
These free programs will pay you for spending. Scroll through to find the cashback solution that best fits your spending (and saving) needs!
1. Ibotta
Ibotta is one of the easiest ways to make money with your smartphone. The process is simple:
- Download the Ibotta app
- Load offers onto your account
- Shop for groceries in-store or online
- Scan your receipt and earn cashback!
This app can be used at thousands of retailers, including popular shops such as Walmart, Amazon, Uber, and CVS.
You’ll need to earn a minimum of $20 in cashback before redemption through gift cards or instant payout.
- Ibotta gets a 3.8-star rating out of 5 on Trustpilot.
2. Rakuten
Previously Ebates, Rakuten offers coupons, special offers, and cashback on qualifying purchases.
Use their app or browse categories directly on the website.
A big draw of Rakuten is its extensive partnerships with top retailers. No matter where you’re purchasing from, you’re almost guaranteed to receive cashback or money off your purchase.
Check out this full Rakuten review for more information.
- Rakuten gets a 4.5-star rating out of 5 on Trustpilot.
3. Capital One Shopping
Despite its name, Capital One Shopping is different from traditional credit card rewards; it’s free to use and you don’t need to hold a Capital One banking account to do so!
Simply install their browser extension and enjoy the perks!
You’ll receive coupon codes for your online shopping, along with cashback that can be redeemed through gift cards.
4. Fetch Rewards
Fetch Rewards also offers gift cards as cashback.
Similar to Ibotta, this platform gives you cashback for scanning receipts on in-store and online purchases. Fetch also allows you to earn “Fetch Points” for using mobile games and apps.
They even offer rotating bonus points for popular brands.
- Fetch Rewards gets a 3.9-star rating out of 5 on Trustpilot.
5. Receipt Hog
Receipt Hog offers rewards and cashback for in-store and online purchases. Scan your receipt, upload it to the app, and earn rewards.
As a bonus, you can complete in-app surveys for even more points.
Points can be redeemed through Amazon or Visa gift cards or directly to your PayPal account.
- Receipt Hog gets a 3-star rating out of 5 on Trustpilot.
6. MyPoints
MyPoints is a well-rounded cashback program offering free gift card rewards for groceries and online shopping. Plus, this platform gives easy access to the best coupons available.
You can also earn points through daily challenges, online surveys, and using mobile apps.
They even offer a $5 sign-up bonus.
- MyPoints gets a 4.4-star rating out of 5 on Trustpilot.
7. CoinOut
Much like Receipt Hog, CoinOut is a mobile phone app where you can earn coins (points) for each receipt that you upload to the app. It takes 3,000 coins to earn a $3 Amazon gift card. The more coins you earn, the more options you have for rewards, including PayPal, Venmo, Amazon, and gift cards from other retailers.
Most receipts have a value of 10 coins, but there are additional ways to earn coins and bonuses, like connecting your email, Amazon, Walmart, Target, and other accounts.
8. Honey
Honey is one of the most popular smartphone apps that pays real cash. They also offer a browser extension if you prefer.
When you shop through Honey, you’ll receive “Honey Gold,” which can be traded for gift cards.
They even integrate coupons into the extension for the best deals possible.
9. Payce Rewards
Payce Rewards can be used through a mobile app or its free browser extension. Either way, the process is straightforward – shop through their platform and receive cashback once you’ve reached a minimum of $10.
They’ll also notify you of upcoming deals at your favorite retailers.
Payout is easy and can be applied to your Venmo, bank account, PayPal, existing debt, or charity.
10. Checkout 51
Checkout51 is a specialty cashback program offering instant rewards and cashback at participating grocery stores and gas stations.
This app is great for those looking to earn cashback on just the essentials.
You can redeem your cashback once you’ve reached $20.
11. Swagbucks
Many know Swagbucks as a top survey site, but did you know it also offers a cashback extension?
Swagbucks offers coupons, promotions, and cashback when shopping with eligible retailers. You can cash out directly through PayPal or redeem for rewards like free Amazon gift cards.
You can also increase your rewards by linking your Swagbucks account with your existing credit card.
- Swagbucks gets a 4-star rating out of 5 on Trustpilot.
Cashback Programs FAQs
Here are a few questions I often get about using cashback programs.
Why do companies offer cashback?
You might be thinking, “What’s in it for the company?”
Cashback platforms, brands, and credit card companies all benefit from these programs. These benefits include:
- Valuable data: Your spending habits are worth money. Receipt scanning programs track and sell your data, providing them with a return on their investment.
- Customer loyalty: Offering brand-specific perks can increase customer engagement and retention for long-term customer loyalty. Why shop somewhere else when you could stick to one brand and profit?
- New customers: Your dollar matters! Cashback programs draw new customers attracted by rewards. A rewards program helps a brand stand out, giving them a competitive edge over similar brands.
Are cashback programs legit?
You’re right to question “free” money of any kind. But with the programs above, there isn’t a catch. As long as you’re shopping responsibly, you can benefit from all of the perks without overspending.
With that said, there are some deceptive cashback programs out there. Always do your research before adding your banking information to any platform, and watch for hidden fees.
Final Thoughts on Cashback Programs
At their best, cashback programs should seamlessly integrate into your day-to-day life. They will offer you rewards based on your existing spending, all with the snap of a photo or click of a button.
Signing up for one of these programs is a simple way to earn passive income (the best kind!).
Looking for more ways to add to your wallet? Check out these helpful posts on frugal living tips and creative ways to make $100 a day.
