Cashback is a type of discount or rebate that is given to a consumer in the form of cash when they make a purchase using a credit card or other form of payment. It is typically offered as a percentage of the purchase price and can be redeemed in a number of ways, such as by receiving a check or direct deposit, or by applying the cashback amount to the consumer’s account balance.

Some credit cards and other financial products offer cashback as a reward for using the product, while others may offer cashback as part of a promotional offer or as a way to encourage consumer loyalty. Some retailers also offer cashback to incentivize customers to shop with them.

The Critical Points to Take About Cashback

  • Credit card holders can receive a percentage of their purchases back in the form of cash through a benefit called money back.
  • This Cashback can be applied to the credit card bill, received as a check, or deposited into a bank account.
  • The amount of Cashback received typically varies from 1-5% depending on the type of purchase made.
  • You can get cash back by charging more than the purchase price on a debit card and collecting the overage as cash at checkout.
  • It’s important to note that some cashback programs may come with annual fees or high annual percentage rates, so these should be considered before signing up.
  • By using a cashback credit card wisely, individuals can receive additional funds on their regular purchases.
  • With proper administration, cashback cards allow savvy shoppers to gather additional funds when making regular purchases.
StoreCashback Details
CVS2% back via ExtraBucks Rewards
KrogerReward via Shopper’s Card
Walmart5% back via Walmart Rewards

How Cashback Works?

Cashback allows users to earn a percentage of their purchase through cash or rewards points. When a user purchases at a participating retailer, the cashback app or website will track the purchase and apply the Cashback to the user’s account. The Cashback can then be redeemed for cash or used to offset future purchases.

Here’s an example of how Cashback works in 4 steps:

  • Step 1: A user signs up for a cashback app or website and links their credit or debit card to their account.
  • Step 2: The user shops at a participating retailer and pays with their linked card.
  • Step 3:The cashback app or website tracks the purchase and applies a certain percentage of the purchase amount to the user’s cashback account.
  • Step 4: The user can then exchange the Cashback for money or use it to reduce the cost of subsequent purchases.
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Note: Some cashback apps and websites also offer coupons and deals to help users save money on purchases. These offers may be applied automatically at checkout or require the user to enter a promo code.

It’s important to note that cashback offers may have restrictions, such as minimum purchase amounts or exclusions for specific products or categories. Users should always read the terms and conditions of cashback offers before purchasing to ensure they are eligible to receive Cashback.

Cashback Websites and Apps Pros & Cons

The Pros 👍

  • Save money: Cashback deals can assist users in money-saving endeavors by providing a portion of their purchase as cash or rewards points.
  • Easy to use: Cashback apps and websites are generally easy to use, with simple sign-up processes and automatic tracking of purchases.
  • Wide variety of retailers: Many cashback apps and websites offer Cashback at various retailers, including online and brick-and-mortar stores.
  • Extra discounts: Besides Cashback, many cashback apps and websites offer coupons and deals to help users save even more money on their purchases.

The Cons 👎

  • The minimum threshold for redemption: Some cashback apps and websites have a minimum threshold for redemption, meaning that users must accumulate a certain amount of cash before redeeming it for cash or using it to offset future purchases.
  • Exclusions and restrictions: Cashback offers may have exclusions and conditions, such as minimum purchase amounts or exclusions for specific products or categories.
  • Time lag: It can take some time for Cashback to be applied to a user’s account and for the user to be able to redeem it. Cashback programs may take a few days to a few weeks to process and deposit the Cashback into the customer’s account.
  • Limited earning potential: Cashback earned is typically limited to a certain percentage of the purchase price. This means that users may be unable to make significant amounts of Cashback on larger purchases.
  • Risk of identity theft: Linking a credit or debit card to a cashback app or website carries an identity theft risk. Users should ensure that they are using a secure and reputable cashback app or website and take steps to protect their personal and financial information.

Types of Credit Cards with Cashback Rewards

1. Cashback Credit Cards

Cashback credit cards offer cash back on all or most purchases made with the card. The amount of cash back earned may vary based on the type of purchase, with some categories earning more cashback than others.

2. Rewards Credit Cards

Rewards credit cards give you rewards points or miles that can be exchanged for cash back, among other prizes. How much cash back you get may depend on your collection of points or miles and the exchange rate.

3. Store Credit Cards

Some retailers offer store credit cards that offer cash back on purchases made at their stores. The amount of cash back earned may vary based on the type of purchase and the specific terms of the store’s credit card program.

4. Gas Credit Cards

Gas credit cards offer cash back on purchases made at gas stations. The amount of cash back earned may depend on the type of gas purchased and the specific terms of the credit card program.

5. Travel Credit Cards

Travel credit cards offer rewards when you buy flights, hotel stays, and car rentals. The amount of cashback you get could vary depending on the kind of purchase and the credit card program’s rules.

Cashback FAQs

How Does a Cashback Credit Card Work?

A cashback credit card rewards the cardholder with a percentage of their purchases back in cash. The cash can be applied to the credit card bill, received as a check, or deposited into a bank account. The amount of cash back earned may vary based on the type of purchase and the specific terms of the credit card program.

Is It Possible to Receive Cashback When Using Apple Pay for Purchases?

Yes. Some merchants and payment apps may offer cashback rewards for purchases made with Apple Pay. However, it is essential to note that the availability and terms of cashback rewards for Apple Pay purchases may vary. It is a good idea to check with the merchant or payment app to see if cashback is offered and the specific terms and conditions.

Is It Possible to Receive Cashback When Using Google Pay for Purchases?

Yes, you can receive cashback for purchases made from your Android phone with Google Pay. You need to pay attention to the availability and terms.

Are Cashback Rewards Essentially Free Money?

Cashback rewards are not necessarily “free money,” as they are typically earned through spending and may be subject to specific terms and conditions.