In the age of savvy spending and smart shopping, cashback rewards have become an increasingly popular way to stretch your money. But while most people are familiar with using cashback credit cards or popular apps like Rakuten or Honey, there are lesser-known strategies that can help you maximize your cashback even further. These hacks are often overlooked, yet they can unlock surprising value—especially when used consistently. Here are five cashback hacks you’ve probably never tried.
1. Stack Cashback with Discount Gift Cards
One of the most effective and underutilized ways to boost your cashback is by combining it with discounted gift cards. Websites like Raise, CardCash, or Gift Card Granny allow users to purchase gift cards at a discount—often between 5% to 20% off. By using a cashback credit card to buy these cards, you earn cashback on top of the discount.
Let’s say you buy a $100 Target gift card for $90 and pay with a 2% cashback card. You effectively save $10 on the purchase and earn $1.80 in cashback, making your total benefit $11.80—nearly 12%. Use the gift card to shop during a sale or through a cashback portal, and you’ve just triple-stacked your savings.
Pro Tip: Always check the terms of the gift card and ensure it can be used online or in-store as needed.
2. Use Lesser-Known Cashback Portals
Most shoppers know about the major cashback websites like Rakuten or TopCashback, but there are many niche cashback portals that offer better rates for specific categories or retailers. Websites like RebatesMe, MaxRebates, and even crypto-backed platforms like StormX often provide higher cashback percentages than the big names.
These portals often feature limited-time offers or exclusive deals with brands looking to drive more traffic. Signing up for multiple cashback platforms and comparing rates before you make a purchase can lead to surprising gains.
Pro Tip: Use browser extensions like CashbackHolic or CashBack Monitor to compare cashback rates across different portals quickly.
3. Earn Cashback on Rent and Bills
It’s easy to forget that your biggest monthly expenses—like rent and utilitys bills—can also earn you cashback. Platforms like Bilt Rewards allow you to pay rent via a credit card without incurring transaction fees, and you earn rewards or cashback in return.
For other bills such as internet, phone, or streaming services, many allow payments via credit card. Using a high-rewards or category-optimized cashback card for these regular payments is a way to passively accumulate cashback without changing your routine.
Pro Tip: Set up autopay with your cashback card and monitor your statements to ensure payments go through correctly and are tracked for rewards.
4. Leverage Bank Account Cashback Offers
Some banks offer rotating cashback deals directly through their apps or online dashboards. These bank-linked offers are easy to activate and work when you use a linked debit or credit card. For example, Chase Offers, Bank of America BankAmeriDeals, or Wells Fargo’s Earn More Mall allow you to activate deals that give you between 5% to 20% cashback at certain retailers.
These deals often overlap with ongoing store promotions or other cashback programs, allowing you to double dip. Since these offers are less well-known and personalized based on your spending habits, they can be surprisingly rewarding.
Pro Tip: Regularly check your banking app for new offers and activate them before shopping, even for small purchases like coffee or food delivery.
Final Thoughts
Cashback isn’t just about swiping your card and collecting pennies—it’s a mindset. With a little strategy and awareness, you can multiply your savings by stacking offers, using lesser-known tools, and maximizing everyday spending. Try incorporating just one or two of these hacks into your routine, and you’ll likely notice a difference in your returns.
As the cost of living continues to rise, every extra dollar counts. So don’t leave cashback on the table—dig a little deeper, get creative, and let your money work harder for you.
