Cashback Apps That Are Actually Worth Your Time

Cashback apps can save you money, but some aren't worth the effort. Here's what's actually useful.

Worth it (minimal effort, real savings):

• Ibotta: Scan receipts for cashback on groceries. $20+ signup bonus usually available.
• Rakuten: Cashback on online shopping. Just click through before you buy. Quarterly checks.
• Fetch: Scan any receipt, earn points toward gift cards. Very easy.
• Upside: Gas cashback. Check prices before filling up.
• Target Circle / Store apps: If you shop there anyway, use their app.

Not worth it for most people:

• Apps requiring you to go to specific stores you wouldn't visit
• Survey apps that pay pennies per hour
• Anything requiring significant daily time

How to use them right:

1. Install 2-3 apps (not 10—that's a part-time job)
2. Only use them for purchases you'd make anyway
3. Stack them (Ibotta receipt + Rakuten purchase + credit card cashback)
4. Cash out regularly—don't let balances sit

The trap to avoid:

Don't buy something just because you get cashback. 10% back on something you don't need is still 90% wasted.

WHAT TO DO TODAY:

1. Download Ibotta and/or Fetch
2. Scan your next grocery receipt
3. Add the Rakuten browser extension if you shop online
4. That's it—let it work in the background