Small savings add up. With the cost of living higher in 2025, cash-back apps and money-saving tools have become a powerful way to stretch every dollar. The trick is knowing which ones truly deliver value and which ones are just hype. Below are the best apps and tools that consistently help people save money.
- Rakuten (Formerly Ebates)
Rakuten remains one of the most reliable cash-back apps. Shoppers earn up to 10% cash back at popular stores like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy. Payments are made quarterly via PayPal or check.
Use a budget-friendly credit card organizer to keep track of your savings.
- Honey (Now Part of PayPal)
Honey automatically finds and applies coupon codes during online checkout. It also has a rewards program where “Honey Gold” can be redeemed for gift cards. Great for frequent online shoppers who want effortless discounts.
- Ibotta
Perfect for grocery shopping, Ibotta gives cash back when you scan receipts from major supermarkets. Many offers include fresh produce and pantry staples, not just packaged goods.
- Fetch Rewards
Fetch Rewards is an easy-to-use receipt scanning app. You earn points for almost any purchase, then redeem them for gift cards. Unlike Ibotta, you don’t have to select offers ahead of time just scan and earn.
- Upside (Gas and Restaurants)
Upside is a money-saver for drivers and foodies. You earn cash back on gas purchases, groceries, and even restaurant meals. It’s especially popular in U.S. cities with higher fuel prices.
- Mint (Budget and Tracking)
While not strictly a cash-back app, Mint remains one of the best free budgeting tools. It helps track spending, set savings goals, and spot wasteful habits. Pairing Mint with a high-yield savings account can make your emergency fund grow faster.
A monthly budgeting planner can also help you stay consistent.
- Dosh
Dosh automatically gives you cash back when you pay with a linked debit or credit card at participating stores and restaurants. No scanning or coupon clipping required.
- Capital One Shopping
Similar to Honey, this extension helps you compare prices, find coupons, and earn credits on purchases. Even if you don’t bank with Capital One, you can use the tool.
Pro Tips for Maximizing Cash-Back Savings
Stack rewards by using a cash-back app plus a rewards credit card.
Plan purchases so you only buy what you need, not just to get rewards.
Automate tracking with apps that run in the background so you don’t forget to claim savings.
Conclusion
Cash-back apps are not a path to riches, but they are a practical way to reduce expenses in 2025. Even small savings $10 here, $25 there can add up to hundreds of dollars by the end of the year. With the right mix of apps, you’ll spend smarter and save consistently.