20 Best Cashback Apps to Save Money in 2025

In today’s fast-paced world, managing finances and saving money can be a daunting task. With the rising cost of living and the constant temptation to spend, many individuals find it challenging to keep their expenses in check.

Imagine constantly feeling the pressure of financial instability, struggling to make ends meet, and missing out on opportunities to save money on everyday purchases. This can lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of helplessness.

Fortunately, there is a solution that can help you take control of your finances and maximize your savings. Cashback apps have revolutionized the way we shop and save money. By using these apps, you can earn cashback on your purchases, making it easier to save money and achieve your financial goals. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the 20 best cashback apps to save money in 2025, providing you with all the information you need to make informed decisions and start saving today.

What Are Cashback Apps?

Cashback apps are mobile applications that allow users to earn a percentage of their spending back as cash rewards. These apps partner with various retailers, both online and offline, to offer cashback on purchases made through the app. The concept of cashback is not new, but the advent of mobile technology has made it more accessible and convenient for consumers.

Definition and Explanation of Cashback Apps

Cashback apps function as intermediaries between consumers and retailers. When a user makes a purchase through a cashback app, the retailer pays a commission to the app, which is then shared with the user in the form of cashback. This cashback can be redeemed as actual cash, gift cards, or other rewards, depending on the app’s policies.

Brief History and Evolution of Cashback Apps

The concept of cashback dates back to the early days of credit cards, where cardholders could earn a small percentage of their spending back as a reward. However, the rise of e-commerce and mobile technology has significantly transformed the cashback landscape. Today, cashback apps offer a wide range of features, including receipt scanning, automatic cashback, and personalized offers, making it easier than ever for consumers to save money on their purchases.

Types of Cashback Apps

There are several types of cashback apps available, each with its unique features and benefits. Some of the most common types include:

1. Receipt Scanning Apps: These apps require users to scan their receipts to earn cashback on eligible purchases. Examples include Ibotta and Fetch Rewards.
2. Automatic Cashback Apps: These apps automatically track purchases made through linked credit or debit cards and provide cashback without requiring any additional steps. Examples include Dosh and Drop.
3. Online Shopping Apps: These apps offer cashback on purchases made through their online shopping portals. Examples include Rakuten and Honey.
4. In-Store Cashback Apps: These apps provide cashback on in-store purchases made at partner retailers. Examples include Shopkick and Checkout 51.

How Cashback Apps Have Gained Popularity

The popularity of cashback apps has surged in recent years due to several factors:

1. Convenience: Cashback apps make it easy for users to earn rewards on their everyday purchases without requiring significant effort.
2. Variety of Options: With a wide range of cashback apps available, users can choose the ones that best suit their shopping habits and preferences.
3. Increased Awareness: As more consumers become aware of the benefits of cashback apps, their adoption continues to grow.
4. Technological Advancements: The integration of advanced technologies, such as AI and machine learning, has enhanced the functionality and user experience of cashback apps.

Types of Cashback Apps and Examples

Benefits of Using Cashback Apps

Using cashback apps offers numerous benefits, including:

1. Financial Savings: Cashback apps provide a simple way to save money on everyday purchases, helping users stretch their budgets further.
2. Convenience: With cashback apps, users can earn rewards effortlessly, whether they are shopping online or in-store.
3. Variety of Rewards: Many cashback apps offer a range of redemption options, including cash, gift cards, and discounts, allowing users to choose the rewards that best suit their needs.
4. Personalized Offers: Some cashback apps use advanced algorithms to provide personalized offers based on users’ shopping habits, maximizing their savings potential.
5. Increased Awareness of Spending: By using cashback apps, users become more mindful of their spending habits and can make more informed purchasing decisions.

Benefits of Using Cashback Apps

• Financial Savings
• Convenience
• Variety of Rewards
• Personalized Offers
• Increased Awareness of Spending

In conclusion, cashback apps have become an essential tool for savvy shoppers looking to save money on their everyday purchases. By understanding how these apps work and the benefits they offer, you can make the most of your shopping experience and achieve your financial goals. In the next section, we will delve deeper into how cashback apps work and the different types available.

How Do Cashback Apps Work?

Cashback apps operate on a simple yet effective principle: they act as intermediaries between consumers and retailers, facilitating transactions that result in cashback rewards for users. Understanding the mechanics of how these apps work can help you maximize your savings and make the most of your shopping experience.

Step-by-Step Guide on How Cashback Apps Function

1. Sign Up and Create an Account: To get started with a cashback app, you need to sign up and create an account. This typically involves providing basic information such as your name, email address, and payment details.
2. Browse Offers and Deals: Once you have an account, you can browse the available offers and deals on the app. These offers may include cashback on specific products, categories, or retailers.
3. Make a Purchase: To earn cashback, you need to make a purchase through the app. This can be done by clicking on the offer and following the link to the retailer’s website or by scanning your receipt after making an in-store purchase.
4. Earn Cashback: After completing the purchase, the cashback amount will be credited to your account. The time it takes for the cashback to appear in your account can vary depending on the app and the retailer.
5. Redeem Your Cashback: Once you have accumulated enough cashback, you can redeem it for cash, gift cards, or other rewards. The redemption process varies by app, but it typically involves selecting your preferred reward and following the instructions provided.

Examples of Different Types of Cashback Apps

As mentioned earlier, there are several types of cashback apps, each with its unique features and benefits. Here are some examples:

1. Receipt Scanning Apps: These apps require users to scan their receipts to earn cashback on eligible purchases. Examples include Ibotta and Fetch Rewards.
2. Automatic Cashback Apps: These apps automatically track purchases made through linked credit or debit cards and provide cashback without requiring any additional steps. Examples include Dosh and Drop.
3. Online Shopping Apps: These apps offer cashback on purchases made through their online shopping portals. Examples include Rakuten and Honey.
4. In-Store Cashback Apps: These apps provide cashback on in-store purchases made at partner retailers. Examples include Shopkick and Checkout 51.

Examples of Cashback Apps and Their Features

How Cashback Apps Track Purchases

Cashback apps use various methods to track purchases and ensure that users receive their rewards. Some common tracking methods include:

1. Affiliate Links: When you click on an offer in a cashback app, you are redirected to the retailer’s website through an affiliate link, which contains a unique tracking code. This code allows the retailer to identify that the purchase was made through the cashback app, ensuring that you receive your cashback reward.
2. Receipt Scanning: For receipt scanning apps, users need to upload a photo of their receipt after making a purchase. The app’s system then scans the receipt for eligible items and credits the cashback to the user’s account.
3. Linked Cards: Automatic cashback apps require users to link their credit or debit cards to the app. When a purchase is made using a linked card at a partner retailer, the app automatically tracks the transaction and credits the cashback to the user’s account.
4. Browser Extensions: Some online shopping cashback apps, like Rakuten and Honey, offer browser extensions that track purchases made through the app’s portal. The extension automatically applies any available cashback offers and credits the rewards to the user’s account.

Benefits of Using Cashback Apps

Using cashback apps offers numerous benefits, making them an attractive option for savvy shoppers looking to save money on their everyday purchases. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Financial Savings: Cashback apps provide a simple way to save money on everyday purchases, helping users stretch their budgets further. By earning cashback on items you already plan to buy, you can accumulate significant savings over time.
2. Convenience: With cashback apps, users can earn rewards effortlessly, whether they are shopping online or in-store. The process is straightforward, and many apps offer automatic tracking, eliminating the need for manual input.
3. Variety of Rewards: Many cashback apps offer a range of redemption options, including cash, gift cards, and discounts, allowing users to choose the rewards that best suit their needs. This flexibility makes it easy to use the rewards in a way that benefits you the most.
4. Personalized Offers: Some cashback apps use advanced algorithms to provide personalized offers based on users’ shopping habits, maximizing their savings potential. By tailoring offers to your preferences, these apps help you save more on the items you buy most frequently.
5. Increased Awareness of Spending: By using cashback apps, users become more mindful of their spending habits and can make more informed purchasing decisions. Tracking your cashback earnings can also motivate you to seek out the best deals and make smarter financial choices.

Benefits of Using Cashback Apps

• Financial Savings
• Convenience
• Variety of Rewards
• Personalized Offers
• Increased Awareness of Spending

In conclusion, cashback apps have become an essential tool for savvy shoppers looking to save money on their everyday purchases. By understanding how these apps work and the benefits they offer, you can make the most of your shopping experience and achieve your financial goals. In the next section, we will delve deeper into how cashback apps work and the different types available.

Criteria for Selecting the Best Cashback Apps

With so many cashback apps available, it can be challenging to determine which ones are worth your time and effort. To help you make an informed decision, here are some key criteria to consider when selecting the best cashback apps:

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cashback App

1. Cashback Rates: One of the most important factors to consider is the cashback rate offered by the app. Higher cashback rates mean more savings on your purchases. Be sure to compare the rates offered by different apps to find the best deals.
2. User Experience: A user-friendly interface and seamless experience are crucial for any cashback app. Look for apps that are easy to navigate, have clear instructions, and provide a smooth transaction process.
3. Additional Features: Some cashback apps offer additional features that can enhance your savings experience. These may include personalized offers, price comparison tools, and coupon codes. Consider the extra features that are important to you and choose an app that meets your needs.
4. Redemption Options: Different cashback apps offer various redemption options, such as cash, gift cards, or discounts. Choose an app that provides the redemption options that best suit your preferences.
5. User Reviews and Ratings: Checking user reviews and ratings can give you valuable insights into the app’s performance and reliability. Look for apps with high ratings and positive feedback from users.
6. Partner Retailers: The number and variety of partner retailers can impact the app’s usefulness. Choose an app that partners with retailers you frequently shop at to maximize your cashback earnings.

Importance of User Reviews and Ratings

User reviews and ratings play a crucial role in determining the quality and reliability of a cashback app. By reading reviews from other users, you can gain insights into their experiences, including any potential issues or drawbacks. High ratings and positive feedback are indicators of a trustworthy and effective app.

Criteria for Selecting the Best Cashback Apps

By considering these criteria, you can select the best cashback apps that align with your shopping habits and preferences, ensuring you get the most out of your savings.

Top 20 Cashback Apps to Save Money in 2025

Now that we have covered the basics of cashback apps and the criteria for selecting the best ones, let’s dive into the top 20 cashback apps to save money in 2025. Each app offers unique features and benefits, making it easier for you to find the perfect fit for your shopping needs.

1. Rakuten

Key Features:

• Cashback on online purchases
• Browser extension for automatic cashback
• Wide range of partner retailers

Cashback Rates: Up to 40%

User Experience: Rakuten offers a user-friendly interface and seamless experience, making it easy to earn cashback on your online purchases.

Pros:

• High cashback rates
• Extensive list of partner retailers
• Easy-to-use browser extension

Cons:

• Limited in-store cashback options

How to Get Started: Sign up for a free account on Rakuten’s website or app, browse available offers, and start shopping through the provided links to earn cashback.

2. Ibotta

Key Features:

• Receipt scanning for cashback on groceries
• In-app offers and bonuses
• Partnered with major retailers

Cashback Rates: Varies by offer

User Experience: Ibotta provides a straightforward process for earning cashback by scanning receipts and redeeming in-app offers.

Pros:

• Wide range of grocery offers
• Additional bonuses and rewards
• Partnered with major retailers

Cons:

• Requires manual receipt scanning

How to Get Started: Download the Ibotta app, create an account, browse available offers, and scan your receipts to earn cashback.

3. Fetch Rewards

Key Features:

• Receipt scanning for points
• Redeem points for gift cards
• Partnered with major brands

Cashback Rates: Varies by offer

User Experience: Fetch Rewards offers a simple and convenient way to earn points by scanning receipts, which can be redeemed for gift cards.

Pros:

• Easy-to-use interface
• Wide range of partner brands
• Flexible redemption options

Cons:

• Points system may be less appealing than direct cashback

How to Get Started: Download the Fetch Rewards app, create an account, scan your receipts, and start earning points to redeem for gift cards.

4. Upside

Key Features:

• Cashback on gas and restaurant purchases
• Partnered with major gas stations and restaurants
• Easy-to-use app

Cashback Rates: Varies by offer

User Experience: Upside provides a convenient way to earn cashback on gas and restaurant purchases, with a user-friendly app and straightforward process.

Pros:

• High cashback rates on gas and restaurant purchases
• Wide range of partner locations
• Easy-to-use app

Cons:

• Limited to gas and restaurant purchases

How to Get Started: Download the Upside app, create an account, browse available offers, and start earning cashback on your gas and restaurant purchases.

5. Dosh

Key Features:

• Automatic cashback on linked card purchases
• Partnered with major retailers and restaurants
• In-app offers and bonuses

Cashback Rates: Varies by offer

User Experience: Dosh offers a seamless experience with automatic cashback on purchases made with linked cards, eliminating the need for manual input.

Pros:

• Automatic cashback on linked card purchases
• Wide range of partner retailers and restaurants
• Additional in-app offers and bonuses

Cons:

• Limited to linked card purchases

How to Get Started: Download the Dosh app, create an account, link your credit or debit cards, and start earning automatic cashback on your purchases.

By exploring these top cashback apps, you can find the ones that best suit your shopping habits and preferences, ensuring you get the most out of your savings. In the next section, we will continue with more cashback apps and provide additional tips on how to maximize your savings.

How to Maximize Savings with Cashback Apps

Using cashback apps is a great way to save money, but there are strategies you can employ to maximize your savings even further. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your cashback apps:

Tips and Strategies for Getting the Most Out of Cashback Apps

1. Combine Multiple Apps: Use multiple cashback apps to maximize your savings. For example, you can use one app for grocery shopping and another for online purchases. This way, you can take advantage of the best offers from each app. This way, you can take advantage of the best offers from each app and maximize your overall savings.
2. Stay Updated with Promotions: Keep an eye on special promotions and limited-time offers provided by cashback apps. These promotions can offer higher cashback rates or additional bonuses, helping you save even more.
3. Link Multiple Cards: If the cashback app allows, link multiple credit or debit cards to ensure you earn cashback on all your purchases, regardless of which card you use.
4. Use Browser Extensions: For online shopping, use browser extensions provided by cashback apps like Rakuten and Honey. These extensions automatically apply cashback offers and coupon codes, ensuring you never miss out on savings.
5. Plan Your Purchases: Before making a purchase, check the cashback app for available offers. Planning your purchases around these offers can help you maximize your cashback earnings.
6. Refer Friends and Family: Many cashback apps offer referral bonuses for inviting friends and family to join. Take advantage of these referral programs to earn additional cashback.
7. Stack Cashback with Other Discounts: Combine cashback offers with other discounts, such as store sales, coupons, and loyalty programs, to maximize your savings. This strategy allows you to save money in multiple ways on a single purchase.
8. Redeem Cashback Wisely: Choose the redemption options that provide the most value for your needs. For example, if you frequently shop at a particular retailer, redeeming your cashback for a gift card to that store may offer more value than cash.

Tips to Maximize Savings with Cashback Apps

• Combine Multiple Apps
• Stay Updated with Promotions
• Link Multiple Cards
• Use Browser Extensions
• Plan Your Purchases
• Refer Friends and Family
• Stack Cashback with Other Discounts
• Redeem Cashback Wisely

By following these tips and strategies, you can make the most of your cashback apps and maximize your savings on everyday purchases.

Common Questions About Cashback Apps

As cashback apps continue to gain popularity, many users have questions about how they work and how to get the most out of them. Here are some common questions and answers about cashback apps:

Are Cashback Apps Safe to Use?

Yes, most cashback apps are safe to use. Reputable cashback apps use secure encryption methods to protect your personal and financial information. However, it’s essential to choose well-known and trusted apps with positive user reviews and high ratings.

How Do I Redeem My Cashback?

The redemption process varies by app, but it typically involves selecting your preferred reward (cash, gift cards, etc.) and following the instructions provided. Some apps may require you to reach a minimum cashback balance before you can redeem your rewards.

Can I Use Multiple Cashback Apps for the Same Purchase?

Yes, you can use multiple cashback apps for the same purchase, provided the apps do not have exclusive agreements with the retailer. For example, you can use a receipt scanning app and an automatic cashback app to earn rewards from both.

What Are the Best Cashback Apps for Specific Categories?

Different cashback apps excel in various categories. Here are some recommendations:

• Groceries: Ibotta, Fetch Rewards, Checkout 51
• Gas: Upside, GetUpside
• Online Shopping: Rakuten, Honey
• Restaurants: Dosh, Upside
• Retail: Shopkick, RetailMeNot

How Do Cashback Apps Make Money?

Cashback apps make money through affiliate commissions paid by partner retailers. When you make a purchase through the app, the retailer pays a commission to the app, which is then shared with you as cashback.

Common Questions About Cashback Apps

By addressing these common questions, you can better understand how cashback apps work and how to make the most of them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cashback apps offer a valuable opportunity to save money on everyday purchases. By understanding how these apps work, selecting the best ones, and employing strategies to maximize your savings, you can achieve your financial goals and enjoy the benefits of cashback rewards. Whether you’re shopping for groceries, gas, online purchases, or dining out, there’s a cashback app that can help you save money in 2025.

Remember to stay updated with promotions, combine multiple apps, and plan your purchases to make the most of your cashback earnings. With the right approach, you can turn your everyday spending into significant savings and enjoy a more financially secure future.

Happy saving! 🚀