In today’s digital age, getting rewarded for your shopping is easier than ever. Cashback apps help you earn money every time you make a purchase—whether you’re buying groceries, ordering takeout, or shopping online. As prices continue to rise in 2025, using cashback apps can be a smart, effortless way to stretch your budget and save hundreds of dollars each year.
This guide explores the best cashback apps available in 2025, how they work, and which ones give you the most bang for your buck.
What Are Cashback Apps?
Cashback apps are mobile or web-based platforms that return a small percentage of your purchases as cash, gift cards, or points. These apps partner with retailers and brands to offer incentives for shopping through their links or uploading receipts.
Some offer automatic cashback for online shopping, while others focus on in-store purchases, dining, or travel.
Benefits of Using Cashback Apps
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Earn money on everyday spending
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Stack rewards with other promos or coupons
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Access exclusive deals and discounts
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Withdraw earnings as cash or gift cards
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Track spending patterns and savings
Using multiple apps can significantly increase your cashback earnings when done strategically.
Best Cashback Apps for Shopping in 2025
1. Rakuten (formerly Ebates)
Rakuten is one of the most well-known cashback platforms, especially for online shopping.
Key features:
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Offers cashback at 3,500+ stores
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Categories: fashion, tech, beauty, travel, etc.
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Easy browser extension for automatic cashback
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Quarterly payments via PayPal or check
Best for: Online shoppers and frequent buyers from major retailers
2. Ibotta
Ibotta focuses on grocery and in-store shopping, making it a go-to for families.
Key features:
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Earn cashback by uploading receipts or linking loyalty cards
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Supports stores like Walmart, Target, Kroger
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Offers bonuses and team challenges for higher earnings
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Includes online retailers and delivery services
Best for: Grocery shoppers and families
3. Dosh
Dosh offers automatic cashback when you link your debit or credit card. No need to upload receipts.
Key features:
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Works in-store and online
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Cashback at restaurants, hotels, and retail stores
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Automatic payouts once you reach $15
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Runs background offers so you can earn passively
Best for: Set-it-and-forget-it shoppers
4. Fetch Rewards
Fetch Rewards is a points-based system where users scan receipts to earn gift card rewards.
Key features:
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Scan grocery receipts to earn points
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Extra rewards for specific brand purchases
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Easy-to-use app interface
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Redeem points for gift cards (Amazon, Target, etc.)
Best for: Casual users and brand-loyal shoppers
5. Upside (formerly GetUpside)
Upside specializes in cashback for gas, groceries, and restaurants.
Key features:
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Great savings on fuel at partner stations
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Scan receipts or link card for offers
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Cashback available at grocery stores and restaurants
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Withdraw via PayPal or gift cards
Best for: Drivers and commuters
6. TopCashback
TopCashback boasts some of the highest cashback rates among shopping apps.
Key features:
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Extensive list of retail partners
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No minimum payout
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Higher cashback percentages than competitors
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Offers browser extension
Best for: Savvy online shoppers who compare cashback rates
7. Swagbucks
Though better known for surveys, Swagbucks also offers cashback for shopping through its portal.
Key features:
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Earn “Swagbucks” (SB points) for shopping, searching, and more
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Redeem SB for PayPal or gift cards
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Offers shopping deals and coupons
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Add-on extension for easier use
Best for: All-in-one cashback and rewards seekers
How to Maximize Cashback Earnings
Use Multiple Apps
Many apps can be used together. For example, shop through Rakuten for online cashback, then scan the receipt with Ibotta or Fetch for extra points.
Stack with Credit Card Rewards
Pair cashback apps with cashback credit cards to double your rewards on the same purchase.
Watch for Bonus Offers
Apps often run seasonal or partner bonuses that give extra cashback or points for buying specific products.
Redeem Strategically
Some apps offer higher-value gift cards or better rates if you wait to redeem larger amounts.
Is It Safe to Use Cashback Apps?
Yes, major cashback apps are safe when used properly. Most use bank-level encryption and only access the data needed to confirm purchases. Always:
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Read app permissions before installing
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Link only trusted cards or accounts
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Withdraw earnings regularly
Conclusion
In 2025, saving money is not just about budgeting—it’s also about being smart with your purchases. Cashback apps offer a simple, effective way to earn rewards on things you already buy.
By choosing the right combination of apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, Dosh, and others, you can easily save hundreds of dollars each year with minimal effort.
Start small, be consistent, and enjoy getting paid to shop.