It all started over a cup of coffee with an old friend. We hadn’t seen each other since college, which feels like a lifetime ago now. Sitting there in a buzzing Starbucks, catching up on our lives, our kids, and everything in between, I was struck by how much we’d grown — and how much we still had in common. We laughed, reminisced, and yes, even talked about our days as broke college students clipping coupons to save a buck.
That conversation got me thinking about the evolution of saving money. Back in the day, I was all about Ebates (now known as Rakuten), which was my go-to app for earning cash back on online purchases. While I’ll always have a soft spot for it, I’ve since discovered a few newer apps that take saving money to the next level. Today, I’m sharing the top three cash back apps like Ebates that have been game-changers for my budget — and that I think you’ll love too.
A Quick Look at Cash Back Apps Similar to Rakuten
Cash back apps have revolutionized the way we save money. Instead of clipping paper coupons or chasing sales, these apps simplify the process by offering rewards for shopping online or in-store. Rakuten, for instance, became famous for providing cash back at over 1,800 online retailers. The concept is simple: shop through the app, find deals, and earn cash back.
Why are they so effective? They eliminate the hassle of traditional couponing methods. I still remember scanning newspapers for store ads or hunting down paper coupons in college. Today, cash back apps do the work for you. They aggregate deals and rewards in one place, making it easier than ever to stretch your dollars further.
But as great as Rakuten is, I found myself wanting more. I wanted apps that could work both online and in stores, provide unique features, and make saving money feel more interactive. Enter these three standout cash back apps: Honey, TopCashback, and my personal favorite, Shopkick.
Honey (PayPal Honey)
Honey makes saving effortless by automatically finding and applying coupon codes at checkout. On top of that, its PayPal Rewards program lets you earn cash back from thousands of retailers. Once installed, Honey works quietly in the background, making sure you never miss a deal.
Why it’s great: If you’re someone who shops online often, Honey is a true set-it-and-forget-it app. You’ll save on everything from everyday essentials to big-ticket items without lifting a finger.
TopCashback
If maximizing rewards is your goal, TopCashback is hard to beat. Unlike many platforms, TopCashback passes nearly all of its affiliate commission earnings back to users, which often means higher cashback rates than competitors. With thousands of participating retailers, you’ll find opportunities to save on almost any purchase.
Why it’s great: Frequent sales and seasonal bonuses make this app especially valuable during the holidays or big shopping events. It’s a must for bargain hunters who want the absolute most from their spending.
Shopkick
Why Shopkick Stands Out
Honey and TopCashback both make saving simple and rewarding. But Shopkick adds something extra: fun. Its interactive, community-driven features transform shopping from a chore into something you look forward to. For me, that gamified experience makes all the difference.
If you’re ready to start turning your everyday activities into rewards, download Shopkick today. Join thousands of savvy shoppers already earning gift cards and follow along on Facebook and Instagram (@shopkick) for tips and inspiration.