What is Cashback and Why Should You Care?

Published: 25/03/2025 and written by P Smith

Lady in a restaurant paying with cashback, and a cashback total board hanging from the ceiling.

Saving money doesn’t mean you have to stop buying your favourite things, with cashback apps and websites, you can get some of your money back when you shop for groceries, clothes, trips, and so much more. It’s like getting paid to shop.

HOW CASHBACK HELPS YOU SAVE MONEY

Money going into a piggy bank

Cashback is a great way to spend less because even small amounts add up over time. Some apps even let you combine savings by using coupons, promo codes, loyalty cards, and cashback at the same time. After you sign up, cashback works in the background while you shop. Cashback is usually paid in real money through PayPal, direct bank deposits, or gift cards. If cashback is through a gift card, make sure you keep track of the expiry date!

HOW TO EARN CASHBACK

Till scanner and a laptop

  • You can earn cashback in different ways: 

    Online Shopping: Use cashback websites that work with lots of stores or upload a code when it comes to checkout. 

    In-Store Shopping: Some apps let you use QR codes at the till or let you upload your receipts to get cashback on things you already bought. 

    Referrals: Invite friends and family to join, and you’ll get extra cashback when they shop.

TIPS TO GET THE MOST CASHBACK

A loyalty card being used as well as the cashback

Want to get as much cashback as possible? Here are some tips:

Compare Rates: Different apps offer different cashback amounts, so check a few before you shop.

Use More Than One App: Some purchases might qualify for cashback on multiple platforms.

Stack Savings: Use coupons and promo codes along with cashback for bigger savings.

Look for Bonuses: Some apps offer special deals for first-time users or during certain seasons. Some even pump up the cashback rates at different times to get even more than usual.

INSTANT VS DELAYED CASHBACK

One phone receiving money, another phone with a sand timer waiting for the payment to process.

Some companies offer instant cashback, meaning you’ll see your money quickly, either straight after making a purchase but often within a day or two. Others offer delayed cashback, which means you’ll have to wait a bit while they confirm your purchase. This can take a few days to a few weeks possibly a month or two. It falls to if you want to see your rewards straight away or have a savings pot you access at a later date.

GIVING BACK WITH CASHBACK

Money going from a phone into a donations box

If you’re feeling generous, some cashback programs let you donate your cashback to charity. You can support causes like helping the environment, funding schools, or supporting medical research. It’s a nice way to help others without spending extra money.

CASHBACK AND BUDGETING

Thought bubbles of Christmas and holidays

Cashback can be a great way to help manage your money. You can keep track of how much cashback you earn each month and treat it like bonus savings. Some people use cashback to lower their grocery bills or save up for something special. Others let their cashback grow throughout the year and use it for big expenses like holidays, gifts or birthday presents. Having a little extra money from cashback can make these events more fun without stressing about money. Plus, watching your cashback grow can motivate you to shop smarter!
A savings jar full of money from all of the cashback saved up.

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