A Beginner's Guide to Earning Cash Back on Every Purchase

What if you could get paid for shopping? Cash-back programs return a percentage of your purchase as a rebate—simple and powerful.

What is Cash Back?

It's not an upfront discount. You pay full price, then later receive a portion back via statement credit, deposit, or gift card after the store confirms the order.

The Two Main Types

1. Cash-Back Credit Cards: Flat-rate (e.g., 1.5%) or tiered (e.g., 3% groceries, 2% gas). Works best if you always pay in full to avoid interest.
2. Cash-Back Websites/Apps (Portals): Start at a portal (e.g., major cash-back sites), click through to the store, and earn a posted % back once the purchase tracks.

How to Get Started in 3 Steps

1. Pick your tools: One good cash-back card + one portal is enough to begin.
2. Create a ritual: Before any online purchase, check your portal, click through, then buy.
3. Be patient: Payouts can take weeks after the return window closes—treat them as delayed savings.

Pro Tip: Stack for More

Use your cash-back card to pay for a purchase initiated via a cash-back portal. You'll earn from both—often doubling your return.