How to Make Money with Cashback & Rewards Apps in 2025

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Want to earn extra money without changing your routine? Cashback and rewards apps like Swagbucks, SurveyJunkie, and Rakuten make it easy to get paid for everyday shopping, surveys, and online…

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If you shop online, browse the web, or even take surveys, you could be leaving money on the table. Cashback and rewards apps have become one of the easiest ways to earn extra income in 2025—and the best part is, you can do it without changing your daily habits.

In this guide, we’ll cover the top cashback and rewards apps, how they work, and simple ways to maximize your earnings.


Why Use Cashback & Rewards Apps?

  • Free Money on Purchases: Earn cash or points for shopping you already do.
  • No Risk: Unlike investing, cashback doesn’t cost you anything extra.
  • Flexible Rewards: Redeem earnings for PayPal cash, gift cards, or even crypto.
  • Stackable: Combine cashback apps with coupons, sales, or credit card rewards for even more savings.

Best Cashback & Rewards Apps in 2025

1. Swagbucks – Get Paid for Everyday Activities

Sign up for Swagbucks here

Swagbucks is one of the most popular ways to earn online. You can make money by:

  • Taking surveys
  • Watching short videos
  • Playing games
  • Shopping through their portal

Why It’s Great: Swagbucks is incredibly versatile. You can earn points (called “SB”) and redeem them for PayPal cash or gift cards. Many users earn hundreds per year just in their spare time.


2. SurveyJunkie – Turn Opinions into Cash

Start earning with SurveyJunkie

SurveyJunkie connects you with companies who need your feedback. Each survey pays you points that can be redeemed for PayPal or gift cards.

Why It’s Great:

  • High payout rates compared to other survey sites
  • Straightforward platform with reliable payments
  • A great way to monetize downtime

3. Rakuten (formerly Ebates) – Cashback on Shopping

Rakuten gives you cashback when you shop at over 3,500 stores online. Simply click through their app or browser extension before making a purchase, and you’ll earn money back.

Why It’s Great:

  • Huge range of retailers (Amazon, Walmart, Target, etc.)
  • Quarterly “Big Fat Check” payments
  • Often stacks with coupons and credit card rewards

4. Honey (PayPal Honey) – Automatic Coupons + Rewards

Honey automatically finds coupons at checkout and gives you “Honey Gold,” which you can redeem for gift cards.

Why It’s Great:

  • Saves money instantly at checkout
  • Earns passive rewards just for shopping
  • Free browser extension takes seconds to install

5. Ibotta – Grocery & Everyday Shopping Rewards

Ibotta focuses on groceries and everyday purchases. Upload a receipt, and you’ll get cash back on eligible items.

Why It’s Great:

  • Perfect for everyday essentials
  • Partnered with major grocery chains
  • Real cash payouts, not just gift cards

How to Maximize Cashback Earnings

  • Stack Rewards: Use Swagbucks or Rakuten in combination with a cashback credit card.
  • Check Before Shopping: Always see if a retailer is listed in Rakuten before buying.
  • Consistency is Key: Small amounts add up quickly if you make it a habit.
  • Diversify Apps: Use multiple platforms for different types of purchases.

Internal Link: Want more ways to earn passively? Check out our guide on the Top 5 Apps to Earn Passive Income in 2025.


Final Thoughts

Cashback and rewards apps are one of the easiest side hustles in 2025. Whether it’s through surveys, shopping, or everyday activities, you can earn hundreds of extra dollars a year without any special skills.

Start with these two reader favorites:

These small, consistent earnings can be redirected into savings or even beginner-friendly investments like Coinbase, helping you grow your wealth even faster.

About the Author

Stephen is the creator of Money Mending. After navigating his own journey of overcoming debt and financial stress through years of experimenting with side hustles, Stephen is now passionate about sharing those hard-won lessons. The goal is simple: to provide honest, practical, and relatable financial guidance to help you mend your money and build a better life.

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