13 best cashback apps to maximize your savings in 2025

Looking for effortless ways to stretch your budget in 2025? The best cashback apps are changing the way savvy shoppers save, offering instant rewards, real cash back, and exclusive deals just for spending as usual. Whether you're buying groceries, booking flights, or shopping online, these apps give you back a portion of every dollar. 

Backed by legitimate partnerships with top retailers, cashback platforms like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Fetch not only simplify saving but also help users earn up to $100 or more each month. 

In this guide, H2T Funding has rounded up 13 of the best cashback apps based on user reviews, payout reliability, and everyday value, so you can start earning back without changing your lifestyle.

1. What are cashback apps, and how do they work?

Cashback apps are digital tools designed to help consumers earn rewards, usually in the form of cash, points, or gift cards, when they make purchases at participating retailers. These apps serve as a bridge between shoppers and brands, encouraging user loyalty while offering savings on everyday spending.

And, how do cashback apps work?

Step 1: Download and sign up

Start by downloading a cashback app like Rakuten, Ibotta, or Dosh. Create an account using your email and basic information. Some apps may ask for payment details upfront, especially if they offer automatic tracking.

Step 2: Link your card or activate offers

Depending on the app, you may need to:

• Link your credit or debit card so the app can automatically track your eligible purchases at partner stores.
• Or manually activate offers before shopping (common in apps like Ibotta).

Step 3: Shop through one of three methods

Cashback apps typically work through one of the following methods:

• Automatic detection: When you pay with your linked card at a participating store, the app tracks the purchase and applies cashback automatically.
• Receipt scanning: After shopping, take a photo of your receipt. The app scans it to verify eligible items and credits your cashback.
• In-app shopping portals: Some apps provide a shopping portal. You simply tap on the retailer through the app and complete your purchase—it tracks everything behind the scenes.

Step 4: Cashback is processed

Once the app confirms your purchase qualifies, it will credit your account with cashback. Processing times vary, some apps add cashback within hours, while others may take a few days.

Step 5: Get your money

After your cashback balance reaches a minimum threshold (often $5–$20), you can withdraw your earnings via PayPal, direct bank transfer, or choose from gift card options.

What happens behind the scenes? Cashback apps work through affiliate or promotional partnerships with brands. When you make a qualifying purchase, the retailer pays the app a small commission. The app then shares part of that commission with you as cashback. It’s a seamless way to save, with zero added cost to you.

2. Why should you use cashback apps to save money?

As living expenses continue to rise, more people, myself included, are turning to cashback apps as a simple, low-effort way to save. When I first downloaded Rakuten and later ShopBack, I was skeptical. But after a few months, I’d earned over $100 just by shopping as usual, groceries, flights, and even online courses. It felt like getting rewarded for spending smart.

Here’s why they’re worth using:

• Cost-saving made simple: You earn money back on everyday purchases: groceries, clothes, travel, or online orders just by using the app.
• No lifestyle changes needed: Keep shopping as usual. Cashback apps work in the background by tracking linked cards, scanning receipts, or redirecting through shopping portals.
• Accessible to everyone: Whether you prefer shopping online or in-store, these apps are designed for all types of shoppers.
• Not a scam: Many people assume cashback apps are too good to be true. They work through partnerships with retailers, so your rewards come from a real business model, not from hidden fees.
• Small savings add up: Even a few cents or dollars per purchase can grow into hundreds over time with regular use.

In short, cashback apps are an effortless way to save more in your daily life, perfect for anyone looking to stretch their budget without extra effort.

See more related articles:

• How to stop living paycheck to paycheck
• How to improve your personal cash flow
• Saving vs Investing Pros and Cons: How to make the smart decision?

3. A quick comparison best cashback apps

This table provides a concise overview of the best cashback apps for groceries, gas, travel, and online shopping. Each app is evaluated based on its key features, advantages, and limitations to help you choose the most suitable option for maximizing your savings.

3.1. Groceries cashback apps

3.2. Gas cashback apps

3.3. Travel cashback apps

3.4. Online shopping cashback apps

3.5. Other best cashback apps

Read more: 10 Best budgeting apps 2025 to save you thousands annually

4. Best cashback apps for groceries

Saving money on groceries has never been easier, thanks to a growing number of best cashback apps designed specifically for everyday shopping. These apps reward you for buying items you already need, helping you get a little something back every time you shop.

4.1. Ibotta

Ibotta is a popular cashback app that offers rewards for grocery shopping. Users can activate offers before shopping and then submit receipts or link loyalty accounts to earn cashback. Ibotta partners with major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Kroger, making it widely accessible.

Key Features:

• Offers cashback on a variety of grocery items.
• Supports both in-store and online shopping.
• Provides cash payouts via PayPal, gift cards, or bank deposit.

Pros:

• High cashback rates, especially on branded items.
• Frequent bonuses and promotions.
  Wide store coverage.

Cons:

• Requires selecting offers before shopping.
• Minimum $20 balance required to cash out.

4.2. Fetch rewards

Fetch Rewards simplifies the cashback process by allowing users to scan any grocery receipt to earn points, without the need to pre-select offers. Points can be redeemed for gift cards to popular retailers.

Key features:

• Accepts receipts from almost any store.
• Offers bonus points for specific brands or products.
• Supports e-receipts from linked email and Amazon accounts.

Pros:

• No need to activate offers in advance.
• User-friendly interface.
• Daily bonus opportunities.

Cons:

• Points-based system; it takes 1,000 points to equal $1.
• Slower accumulation of points compared to some other apps.

4.3. Bogo

Bogo is a newer cashback app that rewards you for sharing purchase data securely and browsing tailored offers. It’s ideal for grocery shopping and beyond, offering a mix of automatic tracking and personalized deals.

Key Features:

• Link your bank account or card for automatic purchase tracking.
• No need to scan receipts or activate offers manually.
• Earn cashback by sharing shopping data (used for market research).

Pros:

• Low-effort—just connect and shop as usual.
• Personalized offers based on your spending habits.
• Redeem rewards via Venmo, PayPal, or gift cards.

Cons:

• Requires access to financial account data.
• Minimum points threshold before cash-out (e.g., 3,000 points).

5. Best cashback apps for gas

Fuel expenses can add up quickly, especially for frequent drivers. Cashback apps like Upside and Trunow offer opportunities to save on gas purchases. Here's an overview of these two apps:

5.1. Upside

Upside is a cashback app that allows users to earn rewards on gas, dining, and grocery purchases at participating locations. Users can claim offers through the app and earn cashback by making purchases at partner establishments.

Key Features:

• Offers cashback at over 45,000 participating gas stations, restaurants, and grocery stores across the U.S.
• Users can link their credit or debit cards for automatic cashback tracking.
• Cashback can be redeemed via PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards.

Pros:

• High cashback rates, especially for gas purchases.
• User-friendly interface with location-based offers.
• Multiple cash-out options provide 

Cons:

• Limited to specific partner stations; may not include all local gas stations.
• Some users report issues with offer redemption and customer service responsiveness.
• Cashback amounts may vary and are sometimes lower than advertised.

5.2. Trunow

Trunow is a cashback app focused on gas purchases, allowing users to earn rewards by scanning receipts from gas stations. The app also provides local gas price comparisons to help users find the best deals.

Key Features:

• Users earn cashback by uploading gas station receipts.
• Provides real-time local gas price comparisons.
• Offers cash or cryptocurrency payouts.

Pros:

• Tailored specifically for drivers looking to save on fuel.
• Unique option to receive rewards in cryptocurrency.
• Helps users find the lowest gas prices in their area.

Cons:

• Requires manual receipt scanning, which may be less convenient.
• Smaller network of participating stations compared to other apps.
• Limited availability in certain regions.

6. Best cashback apps for travel

Planning a vacation doesn’t have to mean draining your bank account, especially when you can earn money back while booking flights, hotels, or even grabbing a coffee at the airport.

I started using cashback apps after a friend showed me how she saved nearly $80 on a single trip just by booking through a rewards platform. Whether you're a frequent traveler or just planning an occasional getaway, these cashback apps can make every mile and every dollar count. Here are two of the best I used to use for my trip for you to consider.

6.1. Dosh

Dosh is a user-friendly cashback app that automatically rewards users for purchases, including travel, made with linked credit or debit cards. When you book hotels or shop with participating brands, Dosh tracks your spending and gives you cash back without any effort on your part.

Key Features:

• Automatically earns cashback when using a linked card at partner hotels, restaurants, and retailers.
• No need to scan receipts or activate offers manually.
• Cashout options include bank transfer, PayPal, or donating to charity.

Pros:

• Seamless and hassle-free earning, especially ideal for hotel bookings.
• Frequent travel deals with competitive cashback percentages.
• A simple interface makes tracking rewards easy.

Cons:

• Cashback opportunities may be limited outside major cities or international locations.
• You must link a card, which may not appeal to users with privacy concerns.

6.2. Swagbucks

Swagbucks is a well-known rewards platform that lets users earn “SB points” for various online activities, including booking travel. Whether you're reserving a hotel or filling out a quick survey, Swagbucks offers flexible earning options.

Key Features:

• Earn SB points through travel bookings, surveys, watching videos, and shopping through the Swagbucks portal.
• Partnered with major travel sites like Expedia, Booking.com, and Priceline.
• Points can be redeemed for gift cards or PayPal cash.

Pros:

• High point rewards for travel-related spending.
• Versatile ways to earn beyond travel, making it ideal for everyday use.
• Frequent bonuses and promo codes to maximize earnings.

Cons:

• The points system (typically 100 SB = $1) can be confusing for new users.
• Some payouts take time to process, especially for travel bookings that require trip completion before reward confirmation.

7. Best cashback apps for online shopping

Online shopping has become a staple for many, and cashback apps make it even more rewarding by offering money back on purchases from a wide range of retailers. Whether you're buying clothes, electronics, or home goods, these apps help you save effortlessly. 

7.1. Rakuten

Rakuten is a leading cashback platform that partners with thousands of online retailers, making it a go-to choice for savvy shoppers. By shopping through Rakuten’s portal or using its browser extension, users can earn cashback on purchases from major brands like Amazon, Walmart, and Macy’s. 

Key features:

• Browser extension for seamless cashback activation.
• PayPal or check payouts for flexibility.
• Frequent double cashback events and promotional offers.
• Partners with over 3,500 retailers across categories.

Pros:

• Competitive cashback rates, often 5-10% or higher.
• Well-established brand with a trusted reputation.
• Easy-to-use interface for beginners and pros alike.

Cons:

• Payouts are issued quarterly, which may feel slow.
• Limited in-store cashback options compared to online.

7.2. TopCashback

TopCashback stands out for offering some of the highest cashback rates in the industry, particularly for online shopping in the US and UK. The app connects users with a vast network of retailers, from fashion to tech, and prides itself on passing 100% of commissions back to users. 

Key features:

• No minimum threshold for cashing out earnings.
• Supports both the US and UK markets with extensive retailer partnerships.
• Offers bonus cashback deals during seasonal sales.
• Payouts via PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards.

Pros:

• Industry-leading cashback rates, often surpassing competitors.
• Fast and reliable payout processing.
• Transparent model with no hidden fees.

Cons:

• The website and app interface can feel clunky for new users.
• Some deals require longer tracking periods.

7.3. Quidco

Quidco is a popular choice for UK-based shoppers, offering cashback on both online and in-store purchases. With a focus on exclusive deals, Quidco partners with major UK retailers like ASOS, Tesco, and Boots. Its premium account option unlocks higher cashback rates, making it appealing for those who shop frequently. 

Key features:

• Exclusive cashback deals with major UK retailers.
• Premium account option for boosted cashback rates.
• In-store cashback via linked payment cards.
• Mobile app for tracking deals on the go.

Pros:

• Strong focus on the UK market with tailored retailer partnerships.
• User-friendly app for managing cashback and deals.
• Regular promotions for extra savings.

Cons:

• Limited availability outside the UK.
• Premium account requires a small annual fee.

7.4. Receipt Hog

Receipt Hog takes a unique approach to cashback by rewarding users for uploading receipts from almost any purchase, including online shopping. Unlike traditional cashback apps, it uses a coin-based system that can be redeemed for cash or gift cards. 

It's a gamified experience, complete with slot machine spins, that adds a fun element, making it a great choice for casual users who want to earn rewards without much effort.

Key features:

• Accepts receipts from a wide range of online and in-store purchases.
• A gamified rewards system with spins and bonuses.
• Redeem coins for PayPal cash, Amazon gift cards, or other rewards.
• Simple app interface for quick receipt uploads.

Pros:

• No need to pre-select offers, making it low-effort.
• Flexible redemption options for various rewards.
• Ideal for users who shop across multiple categories.

Cons:

• Lower cashback rates compared to dedicated shopping apps.
• A coin system can make tracking earnings less straightforward.

8. Other cashback apps to consider

Beyond the best cashback apps, other options cater to unique shopping habits or offer creative ways to earn rewards. These apps may not be as widely known but can still provide value, especially for users looking for flexibility or alternative earning methods. 

8.1. Shopkick

Shopkick offers a unique approach to earning rewards, allowing users to gain "kicks" through activities like visiting stores, scanning product barcodes, or making purchases. Unlike traditional cashback apps, Shopkick emphasizes engagement with brick-and-mortar retailers, making it ideal for those who enjoy in-store shopping. 

Key features:

• Earn kicks by walking into partnered stores, no purchase required.
• Scan barcodes of specific products to earn additional kicks.
• Redeem kicks for gift cards at retailers like Amazon, Starbucks, or Walmart.
• Offers online shopping rewards through select partners.

Pros:

• Rewards for non-purchase actions make it accessible for budget-conscious users.
• Engaging interface with a game-like feel.
• Wide range of partner stores for in-store earning opportunities.

Cons:

• Earning enough kicks for significant rewards can take time.
• Limited to partnered retailers, reducing flexibility in some areas.
• Gift card redemptions may have high point thresholds.

8.2. CoinOut

CoinOut simplifies the cashback process by allowing users to earn rewards by scanning any receipt, regardless of the retailer. This app is perfect for those who want a low-effort way to earn extra cash without navigating complex offer systems. Users upload receipts, and CoinOut provides random cashback amounts, which are deposited directly into linked accounts. 

Key features:

• Accepts receipts from nearly any retailer, including small businesses.
• No need to select offers before shopping.
• Payouts via PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards.
• Quick receipt scanning with minimal app interaction.

Pros:

• Extremely easy to use, requiring no pre-planning.
• Flexible for users who shop at diverse or non-partnered stores.
• Fast payout process with low minimum thresholds.

Cons:

• Cashback amounts are unpredictable and often small.
• No guaranteed rewards for specific purchases.
• Limited earning potential compared to offer-based apps.

9. Tips to maximize your cashback earnings

With years of experience testing and analyzing cashback apps, I have compiled proven strategies to help you maximize savings effortlessly. These tips are drawn from real-world usage and insights from financial experts, ensuring you get practical, reliable advice. 

• Stack multiple savings methods: Combine cashback apps with retailer discounts, loyalty programs, or cashback credit cards to multiply rewards on a single purchase. For example, when I use a 5% cashback card with an app like Rakuten can double my savings on online shopping.
• Monitor seasonal and exclusive offers: Regularly check your apps for limited-time promotions, especially during major shopping events like Black Friday or back-to-school seasons, when cashback rates often spike. Subscribing to app newsletters can keep you informed about high-value deals.
• Capitalize on referral bonuses: Share your unique referral codes with friends or family to unlock signup bonuses, often worth $5-$20 per referral. This strategy, tested across apps like Ibotta and Fetch Rewards, can significantly boost your earnings.
• Act quickly to secure rewards: Scan receipts or activate offers immediately after shopping to avoid missing deadlines. Many apps, such as Receipt Hog, have time-sensitive requirements, and prompt action ensures you claim every dollar earned.

10. FAQs

10.1. Which cashback app offers the most savings?

No single app is best for all. Rakuten gives 1%-20% cashback for online shopping, with PayPal payouts but a $5.01 minimum. Upside offers up to 25¢/gallon on gas, no minimum, but limited to partners. Ibotta provides 1%-10% on groceries, requiring offer activation and a $20 minimum. TopCashback has up to 45% rates, no minimum, but a complex interface. Combine apps like Rakuten and Upside for max savings, despite occasional payout delays.

10.2. How much can you save with cashback apps?

With regular use, cashback apps can help you save $10–$100 per month, depending on your shopping habits and the app's reward rates. Users save more when stacking cashback with coupons or credit card rewards, sometimes up to 15% back. For example, booking flights through Rakuten saved me over $200 last year. Just note the minimum withdrawal limits and payout delays.

10.3. Are cash-back apps worth it?

Yes, cashback apps are worth it because they help you save money on everyday purchases with minimal effort. Many apps offer deals on groceries, gas, and online shopping, expenses you're already paying for. Over time, the savings can add up significantly. Plus, most apps are free and easy to use.

11. Conclusion: Start saving with cashback apps today

Cashback apps are a simple yet powerful tool to make your everyday spending work for you. From groceries to online shopping, they help you earn money back with minimal effort. By choosing the best cashback apps that match your shopping style, you can start saving up to hundreds of dollars each year without changing your routine.

Ready to get started? Download one or two top-rated apps today and watch your small savings add up over time. 

For more smart money tips, check out the Strategies section at H2T Funding and explore how the best cashback apps fit into a smarter financial plan.