I don’t love shopping online. Said no one ever!
Especially now, shopping online is probably a mainstay in your routine to stay socially distant but not miss out on necessities and great deals. If you’re super organized, you may even have a head start on your Christmas list.
But if you’re not getting paid to shop online, you’re literally leaving cash on the table. Here are the top 5 sites and apps that help you earn cold, hard cash for your shopping skills.
Rakuten (Formerly eBates)
How it works:
Sign up with an account at Rakuten and search for your favorite store (more than 2,500 online stores). Each store will list the current cashback percentage you can earn. Click that “Shop Now” button, and you’ll be forwarded to the online retailer’s site. Shop as normal and earn cashback on your purchase. It really is that easy! Plus, if you’re worried about forgetting to visit Rakuten first, install the simple browser extension. Next time you’re on a participating retailer’s website, the browser will notify you of potential cashback you could earn. Win-win!
Bonus: New members will earn a $10 Welcome Bonus to sign up and make a minimum qualifying purchase of $25 in the first 90 days.
Earn In Stores: You can even earn cashback on purchases in brick and mortar locations! Just search for offers in the app or online before heading to your favorite store.
Get Paid: Your cashback accumulates in your balance, and you’ll get a quarterly payment via Big Fat Check or PayPal.
Mobile App: Available for iOS and Android devices
BeFrugal
How it works:
Similar to Rakuten, you’ll sign up for an account with BeFrugal. Search for your favorite online store (they boast more than 5,000) to be forwarded to the retailer’s website. Shop as normal and earn cashback on your purchase. You can also install the browser extension so you’ll never miss earning. With BeFrugal, you have more payout options, including Check, Direct Deposit to your bank account, Venmo, Zelle, or an eGift Card.
Bonus: New members will earn a $10 Sign-Up Bonus upon joining and meeting requirements.
Cash Back Rate Guarantee: BeFrugal offers a rate guarantee for peace of mind. If you like to shop and compare, this may be great for you. If you make a cashback eligible purchase with BeFrugal and find a higher rate elsewhere, BeFrugal will match it 125%.
Mobile App: Available for iOS and Android devices
Jewel
How it works:
Jewel works similarly to Rakuten and BeFrugal. However, Jewel partners with premium and luxury brands so you can earn cash back on the finer things on your wish list. If this is more your speed, take advantage of their browser extension to remind you about cash back opportunities.
Bonus: New members earn $5 by signing up.
Get Paid: You can get paid every 60 days with Jewel. Choose PayPal, Check, or Gift Card to receive your earnings.
Mobile App: Not available at this time
Bonus Ways to Save & Earn
Honey
How it works:
Honey is a browser extension that will test millions of promo codes to ensure you always get the best price. Honey Gold also allows you to earn “gold” or points while you shop, which you can then redeem for gift cards to your favorite stores. Every 1,000 points equal a $10 gift card. That can add up quickly while you’re checking off your Christmas list!
Bonus Features: Activate their Droplist feature, add items you want to watch, and get price drop alerts on the stuff you want.
Mobile App: Available for iOS and Android devices
Ibotta
How it works:
With Ibotta, you earn cash back every time you shop online or in-store. Everything from groceries to travel. Simply check Ibotta before you shop online or in-store, travel, dine out, or make a purchase in your favorite apps, and you’ll earn cold hard cash. No points, no coupons, just cash.
Bonus: Sign up and earn $20 in welcome bonuses.
Pro Tip: When making your weekly grocery list, open Ibotta, and check their offers for items you need. You can even use it with grocery pickup services! After making groceries, upload a picture of your receipt to collect your cash.
Mobile App: Available for iOS and Android devices
