Saving money on groceries is high on everyone’s list, especially as food prices continue to rise. While clipping coupons may feel like a thing of the past, cashback apps have made saving money easier and more convenient than ever before. Among the most popular is Ibotta, a user-friendly app that rewards you with cashback on everyday grocery purchases. Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, Ibotta and similar platforms like Fetch Rewards and Rakuten can help you stretch your budget further.

Here’s how cashback apps work, why they’re worth trying, and practical tips to maximize your grocery savings.

How Cashback Apps Like Ibotta Work

Cashback apps reward you for making purchases by giving you a small percentage of your money back. While each app operates a little differently, the basic process is the same:

Download the App

Start by downloading a cashback app like Ibotta onto your smartphone. These apps are free to use, so there’s no upfront cost involved.

Browse Offers

Before heading to the store, scroll through the app to see what products are eligible for cashback. Offers may include grocery staples like milk, eggs, and bread, as well as snacks, beverages, and household items.

Activate Deals

Most apps require you to activate deals before making a purchase. Tap on the items you plan to buy to "unlock" the offer.

Make Your Purchase

Shop as you normally would, either online or in-store. Ensure you stick to the brands or products listed in the app to qualify for cashback.

Submit Receipts or Link Accounts

To claim your cashback, upload a photo of your receipt to the app or link your store loyalty account for automatic savings. Within a few days, your account will be credited with the cashback amount.

Withdraw Your Earnings

Once you reach a certain threshold, typically $10–20, you can transfer your cashback to your bank account, PayPal, or redeem it for gift cards.

Why Use Cashback Apps for Groceries?

Wondering if cashback apps are worth the effort? Here are some key benefits that make them a smart choice for anyone looking to save on household essentials:

Extra Savings on Top of Sales

Cashback apps allow you to save money on items that may already be on sale at your grocery store. Combined with store loyalty discounts, this can lead to significant savings on everyday purchases.

Ease of Use

Apps like Ibotta are designed to be user-friendly, so it only takes a few minutes to browse offers and upload receipts. Some even integrate with store loyalty cards, making the process completely seamless.

No Need to Clip Coupons

Unlike traditional coupons, which require cutting, organizing, and presenting at checkout, cashback apps do all the heavy lifting digitally.

Flexible Redemption Options

Once you’ve earned cashback, you can choose how to use it. Whether you prefer gift cards, direct deposits, or PayPal, you’re in control of your rewards.

Available Anywhere

Cashback apps work at a variety of stores, including major grocery chains, discount retailers, and even online grocery delivery services.

Features of Popular Cashback Apps

1. Ibotta

Ibotta is one of the most popular cashback apps for groceries, and for good reason. It offers hundreds of deals on grocery items, personal care products, and household essentials.

Key Features:

  • Cashback on both brand-name and generic items (e.g., “Any Brand Milk”).
  • Offers at major retailers including Walmart, Target, Costco, and Kroger.
  • A referral program where you can earn bonuses by inviting friends to use the app.
  • A minimum payout threshold of $20, with redemption options like PayPal and gift cards.

Unique Perk: Ibotta partners with several online grocery delivery platforms, so you can earn cashback even if you prefer services like Instacart or Shipt.

Pro Tip: Stack Ibotta offers with coupons or store sales for even bigger savings.

2. Fetch Rewards

Fetch Rewards keeps things simple. Instead of browsing for individual offers, you earn points just by scanning receipts from any grocery store.

Key Features:

  • Earn points on every receipt, no matter where you shop.
  • Bonus points for specific brands and special promotions.
  • Redeem points for gift cards to major retailers or restaurants.

Unique Perk: You can earn points from a wide range of purchases beyond groceries, including receipts from gas stations, convenience stores, and pharmacies.

Pro Tip: Use Fetch Rewards in conjunction with other apps like Ibotta to double your savings on eligible items.

3. Rakuten (formerly Ebates)

Rakuten isn’t just for groceries but works well for online grocery shopping at retailers like Walmart, Sam’s Club, and Target.

Key Features:

  • Access to exclusive cashback offers for online grocery purchases.
  • A browser extension that alerts you to deals while shopping online.
  • Quarterly payout via PayPal or check.

Unique Perk: Rakuten frequently runs promotions that offer higher cashback percentages during peak shopping seasons.

Pro Tip: Sign up for Rakuten’s email alerts to stay informed about special cash bonuses and multipliers.

Tips for Maximizing Cashback Savings

To make the most of cashback apps, follow these simple tips:

1. Combine Apps and Rewards

Don’t be afraid to use multiple cashback apps to maximize earnings. For example, you could scan the same receipt with both Fetch Rewards and Ibotta to double your benefits.

2. Stick to Items You Actually Need

The goal is to save money, not spend more. Avoid buying items you don’t need just to earn cashback. Focus on deals for products you already plan to buy.

3. Use Store Loyalty Accounts

If an app allows you to link your loyalty account, take full advantage of this feature. It automates the process, so you never miss out on savings.

4. Plan Ahead

Before heading to the store, spend a few minutes browsing app offers and making a list. This approach ensures you maximize your cashback potential without overspending.

5. Watch for Bonuses

Many apps offer extra bonuses for completing certain tasks, like redeeming a specific number of offers in a month or referring friends. Keep an eye on these opportunities to boost your earnings.

6. Stack Savings Where Possible

For maximum savings, combine cashback app offers with store sales, manufacturer coupons, or credit card rewards. The more layers of discounts you can stack, the more you’ll save.