In today’s digital economy, getting the most value out of every dollar is more important than ever. One of the simplest ways to stretch your budget is by using cashback apps. These apps reward you with money or points for making purchases you were going to make anyway. Whether you’re grocery shopping, booking travel, or just buying everyday items online, there’s likely a cashback app that can help you save. Here are four of the best cashback apps you should download right now.
Rakuten: Earn While You Shop Online
Formerly known as Ebates, Rakutens is one of the most popular and user-friendly cashback apps on the market. It partners with over 3,500 retailers including big names like Walmart, Macy’s, and Amazon. After downloading the app and creating an account, all you have to do is shop through the Rakuten portal to earn a percentage of your purchase back in cash.
What sets Rakuten apart is its seamless integration. You can install a browser extension that automatically alerts you when a cashback opportunity is available. Rakuten also offers generous sign-up bonuses (often $10 or more after your first purchase) and pays out your earnings every quarter via PayPal or check. Whether you’re shopping for clothes, tech, or even travel, Rakuten makes it easy to save money passively.
Ibotta: Great for Grocery and In-Store Shopping
If you’re a frequent grocery shopper, Ibotta is a must-have. This app lets you earn cashback on purchases from major grocery chains like Kroger, Safeway, and Walmart, as well as online retailers. After selecting the offers you’re interested in (e.g., $0.50 back on milk), you upload your receipt after shopping or link your store loyalty account to automatically track eligible purchases.
Ibotta is unique in that it also offers “any brand” deals and bonus opportunities for completing certain challenges or buying in bundles. The app has also expanded into other categories like alcohol, pet supplies, and online shopping. Once you hit the $20 threshold, you can cash out via PayPal, Venmo, or gift cards.
Dosh: Set It and Forget It
If you want a cashback app that requires minimal effort, Dosh is perfect. Unlike apps that require scanning receipts or clicking through shopping portals, Dosh connects directly to your debit or credit card. When you make a qualifying purchase at a partner store or restaurant, you automatically get cashback—no action needed.
Dosh partners with both local businesses and major retailers, offering up to 10% cashback on purchases. It’s especially useful for dining out and hotel bookings. The app is secure and encrypted, so your personal information stays safe. You can withdraw your earnings via PayPal or direct deposit once you’ve earned at least $15.
Fetch Rewards: Turn Receipts Into Gift Cards
While not a traditional cashback app, Fetch Rewards deserves a spot on this list for its simplicity and usefulness. Instead of giving you cash back, Fetch lets you scan receipts to earn points, which you can redeem for gift cards to popular retailers like Target, Amazon, and Starbucks.
Fetch is incredibly easy to use. Just snap a photo of any grocery or retail receipt and the app will automatically award you points based on the brands and items purchased. There’s no need to select offers ahead of time. Fetch also regularly offers bonus points for specific products or brands, giving you more ways to maximize your rewards.
Because it accepts receipts from virtually any store and doesn’t require much effort, Fetch is a great complementary app to others like Ibotta or Dosh. Plus, you can submit digital receipts from online purchases by linking your email account, making it even more convenient.
In a world where every cent counts, cashback apps are a smart and easy way to earn rewards for your everyday spending. Whether you’re shopping online, buying groceries, or dining out, there’s an app that fits your lifestyle. Start with Rakuten for online purchases, use Ibotta and Fetch for grocery savings, and let Dosh work in the background for effortless rewards. Download a few of these today and watch your savings grow with every purchase.
