I was recently doing a story with NBC 12’s “Diva of Discounts”, Jennifer Warnick, in Richmond, Virginia, and after our Skype interview she asked me about the smartphone apps that I like to use to save money when shopping. I rattled off a couple and it quickly became quite apparent that she knew way more about the subject than I. So being the smart blogger that I am, I just shut my mouth and simply listened. She was even gracious enough to send me an email that listed all of her favs and it is the sole inspiration for this post. Thanks for the great tips Jennifer and I hope everyone reading this can use these apps to keep more of your own money.

1. iBotta App (Full Ibotta Review Here)

The folks at Ibotta claim their app is “Better Than Coupons.” Is there such a thing? The ibotta app is pretty darn cool though. Here’s how it works:

• Basically, the app unlocks a bunch of “secret” rebates on products you’ll probably be buying anyways.
• You pick the products and items you are going to buy on your next shopping trip and earn money by completing small tasks associated with those products.
• Tasks include things like unlocking a $4.00 rebate for watching a short video or earn $1.25 for reading one fact about the product.
• A few that I grabbed recently include $1 back on a pack of Oreos at Target, 25 cents back on a gallon of milk at ANY grocery store, and $1 back on Wheat Thins at Walmart. They take only a few seconds to complete.
• Next, go do your shopping at one of the 50+ participating national retailers. New retailers are being added weekly.
• Then just verify your purchase by using the app to snap a quick picture of your receipt, along with the corresponding product bar-code. If you’re using the same receipt for multiple product rebates, you only have to verify your receipt once which saves a lot of time. The app walks you through the whole “rebate redemption” process and it really is a breeze.
• Every large grocery store in my area was on the app, including one-offs like Costco, Dollar Tree, and even drugstores like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid.
• iBotta then adds money to your account once they verify your purchase (usually within 24 hours).
• You can withdraw money via PayPal or Venmo. You can also get paid via a gift card from Starbucks, Amazon, Best Buy, iTunes, Walmart, and others.
• Top stores where you can use the app include: Walmart, Target, Kroger, Safeway, Rite Aid, CVS, Walgreens, Publix, Meijer, H-E-B, Stop & Shop, Winco, ShopRite, Pavilions, Tom Thumb, Dominick’s, Fry’s, Dillons, Vons, Ralphs, Fred Meyer, Smith’s, Duane Reade, King Soopers, and Pick ‘n Save.
• Bonus Tip #1: Be sure to stack your savings. Combine your Ibotta savings with manufacturer coupons, store coupons, and SavingStar.com e-coupons to stack up your coupon savings.
• The app won’t make you rich, but if you’re going to buy the products anyways, why not earn a few extra bucks every week. I’ve been using it for a few weeks and I’m already up to over $30 in cash back rebates. Not too shabby for just a few minutes worth of work.

Jennifer is a big fan, “Lots more than just food..just verify the product barcode and take a picture of your receipt plus if you connect with Facebook, you can be part of a Facebook team (your FB friends who are also using Ibotta) which can net you even bigger bonuses. (My team just got an extra $10 each for our redemption’s as a group)” Pretty cool.

Bonus Tip #2: Sign-up today by clicking here and get a free $10 credit added to your account once you redeem your first rebate. Not too shabby.

– Available for FREE at the iOS in App Store and Android on Google Play.

2. Checkout 51

The Checkout 51 app and website is also gaining a lot of traction recently and works like this:

• The app lets you buy groceries, scan your receipt, and easily get cash back.
• Let’s let them do the talking, “All you have to do is pick the ones (offers) you like, purchase them at any store, and upload a photo of your receipt through our mobile app or website. When your account reaches $20, we send you a check.”
• It is also worth noting that the folks at checkout 51 update the app with fresh offers every Thursday morning.
• I love the fact that is doesn’t matter what store you purchase the items from. This feature really helps those that live in rural areas with Ma & Pa grocery stores.

Jennifer also chimes in on this one, “Checkout 51..more random deals on groceries when you upload receipts.”

– Available for iOS in App Store and Android on Google Play

3. Snap from Groupon

Here is how the free Snap App works:

• Download it to your Apple or Android device for free.
• Search and find this weeks cash back offers and shop accordingly.
• Just snap a photo of your receipt. No coupons required. No mail-in rebates required. No shopping point scheme.
• The app will then verify your purchase and credit your account.
• Get your account to at least $20 and you can request a payment in the form of a mailed check.

Jennifer’s short and sweet spot-on review, “Groupon’s cash back app that has higher payouts and multiple, to unlimited, redemptions on certain products.”

– Available for iOS in App Store and Android on Google Play

4. Saving Star

Saving Star is a bit different in that it is a stand-alone website and app that allows you to get cash back on grocery shopping and online shopping. Here are the nuts and bolts:

• When shopping at the grocery store you simply select grocery offers, buy those items, scan your receipt into the app (or sync with your store card), then get cash back added directly to your Saving Star account.
• When shopping online you simply shop via the Saving Star website, make a purchase from a website listed on Saving Star (they listed thousands), get cash added to your account. The amount of cash back depends on the online retailer. Typically 1.5% to 5% of your purchase.
• Once your Saving Star account reaches $5, you can request a withdrawal via PayPal, direct deposit to a bank account, or donation to a charity.
• The ability to link your loyalty card is what sets the app apart and makes it very easy to use.

Jennifer’s synopsis of Saving Star, “Link your loyalty cards and check the coupons you like…you get cash back once you’ve bought the item.”

– Available for iOS in App Store and Android on Google Play

5. ShopKick App

Download the ShopKick app on your smartphone and start earning “Kicks” for doing things you’ll be doing anyways. Here’s what I mean.

• Earn “Kicks” for just walking into stores.
• Earn “Kicks” for scanning products.
• Earn “Kicks” for making purchases.
• Earn “Kicks” for submitting your receipts.
• Cash in your “Kicks” for gift cards at stores like Target, Starbucks, Amazon, Walmart, and dozens more.
• Best Feature: The app will actually tell you what kicks are available based on your location. It’s kinda fun and if you get your kids turned onto the app it gives them something fun (and profitable) to do while you do your shopping. Think of it like a scavenger hunt to find products and earn kicks.
• Before you know it, you’ll have enough kicks to swap out for a $25 gift card at dozens of popular retailers.

– ShopKick is Available for iOS or Android.

And the Honorable Mentions….

– Shopmium (iOS, Android)

The folks at Shopmium have created an App with a pretty cool future. You buy products, scan you receipt, and get cash back on certain items you bought. You’ll get paid via PayPal or a direct deposit to your bank account.

The cool thing about the app is the offers they give their users are exclusive to them. This makes the Shopmium app a nice companion to the iBotta app, use them in conjunction with one another and you expand your possible rebates significantly.

– BerryCart (iOS, Android)

BerryCart uses a similar model to many of the apps listed above with one big exception. They have a strong bend towards healthy and organic foods along with gluten-free foods. You simply pick the product offers and deals that you hopefully would be buying anyways, and get some money back after you verify your purchase with the app. Your account balance can then be redeemed via PayPal or through various store gift cards.

– Cartsmart (iOS, Android)

Cartsmart is pretty darn clever. Essentially it allows you to build a grocery list then it helps you find the best deals and coupons on those items at stores in your area. So the cool thing is that it helps you stay organized and save money in the process.

Then when you are done shopping you simply snap a pic of your receipt for proof of purchase and then get paid within 48 hours. Your earnings are saved to your “SmartAccount” and get added to your linked bank account at your request.

Ask the Reader: Any apps that I may have missed that you think deserve to be on my list? Let me know in the comments below, thanks.

By Kyle James

Surprisingly, I’ve written very few articles about Macy’s over the years. As one of the long standing department stores in the country, they were founded WAY back in 1858, this needs to change. So it’s with this in mind that I wanted to talk about the price protection policy at Macy’s and some insider tips that’ll help you save some money. Here’s everything you need to know to get a Macy’s price adjustment and some hard earned money back in your wallet.

So…Does Macy’s Offer Price Protection?

Yes.

Macy’s gives you 10 days from the date of purchase to get price protection, also known as a “Price Adjustment”, if they lower the price of something you previously bought.

You can get a price adjustment on BOTH online and in-store purchases.

Be aware that Macys.com and Macy’s brick and mortar locations often have different prices on the same exact items which presents great opportunities to get a price adjustment (more on this later).

Do They Also Price Match Competitor Pricing?

No.

Back in 2022, Macy’s stopped matching the lower price of competitors.

Since Macy’s carries mainly their own in-house brands this wasn’t too big of a deal.

See Also: Macy’s Return Policy: Finally Explained In a Way That Makes Sense

How Do I Get Macy’s Price Protection?

In-Store: Simply bring the item and receipt back into the Macy’s store of purchase and they’ll verify the lower price and refund you back to your original form of payment. You should be able to get this done at any checkout register in the store.

Online: Macy’s asks that you start a Live Chat session with them by clicking on the Chat Online link located at the bottom of this page. and tell them you’d like to get a price adjustment and they’ll gladly help you out.

Are There Any Product Exclusions?

Yes.

The exclusions list is very small and only includes items sold on the Macy’s Digital Marketplace or come directly from Vendor partners.

See Also: Target Price Match Policy: Here’s EXACTLY How It Works

Can I Buy Online and Get an In-Store Price Adjustment?

Yes.

This is actually a really cool shopping hack at Macy’s that was brought to my attention by a loyal reader.

Here’s the FULL scenario:

She was shopping at her local Macy’s and well, why don’t I just let her explain it in her own words…

“Wanted to let you know of a great deal I scored at Macy’s this week. I got a pair of Silver brand jeans, regular retail price of $85, for $4.99! They were special priced as they were the last pair in the store (on a mannequin), and not my size. I had a very helpful sales clerk inform me that I could order them online in my size for around $76, then come into the store and get them returned (and exchanged) for the in-store special price. They were $16.99 in-store, by the time I got them ordered and back in to return, the in-store price went down to $4.99! They even credited my shopping costs! Crazy!! Best deal I’ve ever gotten!”

Awesome. So let’s break this down a bit so you can give it a try.

Here are some IMPORTANT details to look for:

1. Look for Clearance Items

• By only looking at the clearance rack you’re much more likely to find items that will fit the “buy online and return to store” criteria.
• Look for items that are darn near out of stock which they don’t have in your size. This should not be that difficult.

TIP: The only way this works is if the store’s website is selling the item for more than the in-store price. This actually happens all the time as brick & mortar stores are constantly slashing prices in an effort to clear out inventory to make room for new styles.

2. How To Return and Re-Buy

• Once you find an item you want that is a screaming deal, just order from the website, return in-store, and get a price adjustment to the lower price.
• If the store you are shopping at has a smartphone app, and most big department stores do, make sure you download it and have it available when shopping in-store. You’ll be able to quickly see what the stores website is selling the item for and find some great “deal opportunities”.

Here is a list of popular store apps where this would work, including Macy’s, to help facilitate this clever shopping hack:

– Macy’s (Android, iOS)

– American Eagle Outfitters (Android, iOS)

– Nordstrom (iOS)

– Kohl’s (Android, iOS)

– JCPenney (Android, iOS)

– Old Navy (Android, iOS)

3. Being Friendly Goes a LONG Way

Because this hack requires you knowing if the store will let you return items in-store that were bought from their website, start up a friendly conversation with an employee and ask if this is an option.

By being upfront with what you’re trying to accomplish it will take the stigma out of it. After-all, it is nothing more than smart shopping.

While this hack is not something you can take advantage of during every shopping trip, it certainly is something to be aware of, especially at Macy’s where in-store and online pricing can very wildly.

See Also: Kohl’s Price Match Policy: Hint, It’s Better Than Macy’s

What Happens If I Originally Paid Cash?

You’ll get money back in your original form of payment, so you can expect to get cash back on a cash purchase at Macy’s.

What If I Used a Coupon on the Original Purchase?

This gets a little tricky.

You CANNOT use a previously applied Macy’s coupon code when getting a price adjustment.

So be sure to do the math and figure out if the price adjustment is actually a better price when removing the coupon code from the equation.

Can I Use a 3rd Party to Get Price Protection?

No.

Citing privacy issues, Macy’s does NOT allow you to use a service like EARNY and Capital One Shopping that automatically asks for price protection on your behalf.

So the bottom-line is that Macy’s will ONLY take price protection requests directly from the customer.

Ask the Reader: Have you ever gotten a price adjustment at Macy’s? Was it an easy deal or did you run into hassles?

By Kyle James

Fetch, formerly known as Fetch Rewards, is a smartphone app that allows you to scan and upload receipts in exchange for gift cards. All you have to do is upload qualifying receipts of various stores you shop at, and then the app will reward you with points that you can eventually redeem for free gift cards. Sound too good to be true? Read on to learn if Fetch Rewards is a safe and legit app that can be used to earn free gift cards as a clever side hustle.

How Does the Fetch App Work?

Fetch Rewards is an app that allows you to scan any receipt to earn points that you can then redeem for things like free gift cards.

Here is a specific breakdown of how the Fetch Rewards app works:

1. Download the Fetch Rewards app.

2. Scan Receipts to Earn Rewards.

3. Redeem Your Fetch Rewards points for gift cards, sweepstakes entries, and pre-paid Visa cards.

BONUS 2,000 Points:

Get 2,000 Free Bonus Points when you first open the app and sign-up and use our referral code.

Simply enter the Exclusive Code RATHER and get your free 2,000 points immediately after you scan your first receipt.

When uploading receipts, here’s a list of stores that Fetch accepts receipts from:

– Grocery store

– Fast-food restaurant

– Clothing retailers

– Convenience Stores

– Drugstores

– Big-Box Retailers

– Department stores

See Also: Fetch FULL Review: Is It an Ibotta Killer?

Does Fetch Collect My Bank Information?

No.

The Fetch app does NOT collect any of your bank OR credit card information.

However, when you sign-up on the app, you’re required to provide the following personal details:

– Full Name

– Birth Date

– Email Address

– Home Address

– Phone Number

So…Is Fetch Legit and Safe?

Yes.

The Fetch Rewards app is a legitimate and safe app that can help you earn gift cards by uploading your grocery receipts.

First, as mentioned above, the Fetch app doesn’t collect any bank or credit card information so you don’t have to worry about that being stolen.

Also, the Fetch app has a security measure where you have to verify your phone, or device, to be able to use the app.

The Fetch app stresses the importance of using a high-quality password to keep hackers from getting into your account.

They recommend creating a VERY strong password with at least 12 characters, including at least one capital letter, one number and one special character.

See Also: The 12 Best Cashback Sites and Apps You Should Be Using

Does Fetch Sell My Information?

Yes.

Fetch does collect and sell data/ information; however, this is done safely and ethically by ensuring your identity is anonymous.

Fetch then compensates you for the data you share (i.e. your uploaded receipts) in the form of gift cards.

What Information Do They Collect?

Fetch collects and sells all the data from the scanned receipts you upload.

However, the personal information that you provide is ABSOLUTELY kept private.

This includes your name, email address, phone number, and mailing address.

So by using the Fetch app, you essentially agree to trade your receipt data for rewards.

The data is then used by companies to figure out consumer buying habits and what types of promotions shoppers would like to see in the future.

Be aware that you’re also giving up the following information when you sign-up:

– IP Address

– Unique Device ID

– Details about the products you’ve purchased

– Time spent on the app

– Location of your App use

– Discounts and coupons you’ve used via the App

Best Practices to Keep Hackers Out?

With virtually anything online these days, hackers are always an ever-present threat.

This includes when it comes to gaining access to your Fetch account.

Luckily, there are ways to keep your Fetch account safe from hackers.

This includes practicing the following TWO important measures:

1. Create a Strong Password: Try to create a longer password (12+ characters) with at least one number, special character, and capital letter.

And, always make sure your passwords are unique.

2. Delete and NEVER Click On Suspicious Emails: Never click on suspicious emails that appear to be from Fetch.

An easy way to spot spam emails is if they contain a suspicious linking, odd phrasing, spelling errors, or come from an email that doesn’t end with @fetch.com.

Also, Fetch will never email you to verify your password or mailing address.

So NEVER click on an email from Fetch, instead visit the app directly and see if you have any notifications that you need to take care of.

Ask the Reader: Are you a longtime Fetch user? How many reward points have you redeemed over the years?

By Kyle James