Why do we feel so satisfied when we score a great deal? Behavioral economists say it’s because of the “pain of paying” — the psychological discomfort of spending money. Coupon apps help soften that pain, making savings feel effortless. But how much can they really save you?
Research shows that consumers who use digital coupons save an average of $1,465 per year, and with cash-back rewards and automatic discounts, those savings can add up even more.
Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, coupon apps help you spend smarter and turn everyday purchases into opportunities to save. Here’s a look at the best ones available today and how to use them to maximize every purchase.
What are coupon apps?
Coupon apps are online services that give you access to digital discounts, cash-back incentives and other rewards for various products and services. These apps can help you save on groceries, clothing, household items and virtually any other purchases without the need to carry physical coupons.
Why use coupon apps?
Using coupon apps is just one step in making smarter financial decisions. When used with tools like cash-back credit cards and budgeting apps like YNAB, coupon apps can help you manage your money more effectively.
By combining multiple strategies, such as using apps for coupons, tracking spending with budgeting tools and earning cash back with credit cards, you can make a sizable difference to your financial health.
Coupon apps offer several benefits, including:
- Convenience: There is no need to carry or clip physical coupons — all your savings are available digitally on your phone or web browser while making purchases.
- Instant savings: Many apps apply discounts at checkout, simplifying the process.
- Exclusive offers: Some apps provide deals you won’t find anywhere else.
- Cash-back options: Apps like Rakuten and Ibotta offer cash back on purchases, helping you earn money while you shop.
Top coupon apps to save money
While many coupon apps are available on the market, here are the most popular and well-liked options today.
1. Fetch
Fetch Rewards is a popular coupon app that makes earning rewards easy. Users scan their receipts and collect points on eligible purchases, which can be redeemed for gift cards, merchandise or charitable donations.
The app has a highly engaged user base and stands out for its simple interface, personalized recommendations and integration with store loyalty programs. Many users online say Fetch offers one of the best experiences among reward apps.
Key features:
- Upload paper or e-receipts from any store, gas station or restaurant, and Fetch will process them to identify eligible purchases.
- New users can get 4,000 points after scanning their first receipt with a referral code.
- Every receipt earns at least 25 points, with extra rewards for certain brands and special offers.
- Points can be exchanged for gift cards from retailers like Amazon, Target and Starbucks or converted into Visa Cash Cards.
How to use it:
- Download the Fetch Rewards app from the App Store or Google Play, then sign up with your email, Facebook or Google account. Using a referral code at signup earns bonus points.
- Scan your receipts by tapping the camera icon in the app. You can also upload e-receipts by linking your email or Amazon account. Every receipt earns at least 25 points.
- Redeem your rewards by tapping your point balance and selecting a reward. Points can be used for gift cards, donations or sweepstakes entries.
Fetch Rewards is simple and rewarding for users who want to earn points on everyday purchases, no matter where they shop. However, users who want direct cash rewards may want to look elsewhere.
2. Rakuten
Rakuten is one of the most popular coupon apps, thanks to its cash-back program, which offers up to 40 percent back at over 3,500 stores. Since its launch in 1998, Rakuten has paid over $1 billion in cash back.
Its browser extension makes it easy to apply coupons automatically, and its wide network of retailers — from Walmart and Petsmart to CVS and Walgreens — means there are plenty of opportunities to save.
Unlike some rewards programs, Rakuten pays in cash via PayPal or check — no points or gift cards. And Rakuten coupons can also be stacked with other discounts or rewards.
Key features:
- Rakuten is free to use, and it’s available as a mobile app on both iOS and Android (and as a browser extension).
- Rakuten offers coupons and discount codes that can be stacked with cash-back rewards for even bigger savings.
- You can find deals easily. The “Hot Deals” section on Rakuten’s app or website highlights promo codes, coupons and discounts.
- Get real-time notifications through “Cash Back Activation Alerts” when you’re shopping on a site that offers cash back or additional savings.
How to use it:
- Download the Rakuten app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android) or go through the website. Sign up with your email or use Google, Facebook or Apple.
- Browse cash-back offers from over 3,500 stores.
- Shop through Rakuten by clicking on a store to be redirected to its website or app. Complete your purchase in the same session to ensure it tracks your cash back.
Rakuten is a solid all-around choice for those looking to dip their toes into coupon apps. The wide range of shops and the ability to receive rewards via check make it a highly intuitive experience that can fit into your life, regardless of where you shop.
3. Ibotta
Ibotta is a popular cash-back app known for its easy-to-use interface and partnerships with major retailers— and brands like Costco and Macy’s. Users can browse and redeem offers on groceries and other purchases, earning cash back along the way.
Its personalized deals, multiple cash-back options and straightforward redemption process make it a go-to for many shoppers. On average, Ibotta users earn $256 a year, and the app has paid out over $2 billion in cash back. Most users find it a reliable way to save on everyday spending.
Key features:
- Ibotta partners with a wide range of grocery stores, clothing brands, electronics retailers and travel companies.
- Personalized offers as deals are tailored based on shopping habits, increasing your chances of finding relevant savings.
- There are multiple ways to earn as users can scan receipts or link loyalty accounts with participating retailers for automatic cash back.
- Ibotta processes your receipt details to track eligible purchases and apply savings.
How to use it:
- Download the Ibotta app or visit the website and create an account.
- Browse cash-back offers in the app and add them to your account before shopping.
- After shopping, upload your receipt or link your loyalty card to get cash back.
While Ibotta can be used for a wide range of stores, the ability to upload receipts and link store loyalty cards makes it a solid fit for those who want to lower their grocery bills.
4. Upside
Upside has paid out over $800 million in cash back to consumers so far, helping users save on everyday expenses like gas, groceries and dining. Unlike points-based rewards programs, Upside pays out real cash that can be transferred instantly to PayPal or a bank account. Over 35 million consumers use Upside, especially by stacking coupon savings with other loyalty programs.
The app’s offers are personalized based on location and spending habits, making it easier to find relevant deals.
Key features:
- You can get up to 25 cents per gallon on gas, up to 30 percent on groceries and up to 45 percent on dining.
- Upside works with over 30,000 partners, like gas stations, grocery stores and restaurants, including both major chains and local businesses.
- Users can earn extra cash by inviting friends and family to join the app.
- You can withdraw earnings anytime via bank transfer or PayPal, or redeem them for e-gift cards from retailers like Amazon, Starbucks and Walmart.
How to use it:
- Download the Upside app or sign up on the website.
- Browse available coupons and claim offers.
- Complete your purchase and upload the receipt.
With no minimum cash-out requirement and extra earnings available through referrals, Upside is a practical option for anyone looking to cut costs on daily expenses.
5. PayPal Honey
PayPal Honey is a browser extension and mobile app that automatically applies coupon codes at checkout, finding the best available discounts.
The app works with thousands of online retailers, including Amazon, eBay and Target, and also offers a rewards program that can offer up to 5 percent back while shopping at select retailers.
Key features:
- Automatically finds and applies coupon codes at checkout
- Integration with PayPal
- Available as both a browser extension and a mobile app
How to use it:
- Download the Honey browser extension or app.
- Shop at participating stores online.
- PayPal Honey will automatically search for valid coupon codes and apply the best one at checkout.
PayPal Honey is ideal for frequent online shoppers who want to save time by skipping manual coupon searches. It’s a PayPal product and integrates with the company’s other offerings, making it a good choice for those already deep in that ecosystem.
6. RetailMeNot
RetailMeNot is a popular coupon app offering various deals, coupon codes and cash-back offers. You can search for discounts by category, such as clothing or travel, or by retailer.
All you need to do is copy the promo codes you find on the site and paste them onto the partner site’s checkout page. RetailMeNot offers generous cash-back rewards with select retailers. At the time of writing, users can get up to 20 percent cash back at retailers like Chewy and Dick’s.
Key features:
- Offers coupon codes and cash-back deals
- Search by retailer or category for discounts
- In-app notifications for local deals
How to use it:
- Download the RetailMeNot app or visit the website.
- Browse or search for deals at your favorite stores.
- Use coupon codes for online purchases or show the in-store offers to cashiers at checkout.
RetailMeNot is a versatile app that works for online and in-store shopping, making it a go-to for many bargain hunters. It’s also easy to use, and you don’t have to sign up to receive the promo codes.
How to use coupon apps to maximize your savings
Keeping up with coupons can be challenging, even when you do it digitally. Here are some tips to get the most out of coupon apps.
1. Use multiple apps
Don’t rely on just one app. Stacking savings with coupon and cash-back apps combined can help you maximize value. For example, you can use Ibotta for cash back on groceries and Rakuten to get additional cash back on the same purchase.
2. Check apps before shopping
Always check your coupon apps before heading to the store or completing an online order. For example, you could try doing a Google search for the store where you’re shopping and adding “promo codes” to the search term. This helps ensure you’re not missing out on available discounts or cash-back offers.
3. Stack offers
Many apps allow you to stack multiple savings options. Use store sales, cash-back offers and coupons simultaneously to maximize your discounts. These savings can add up significantly over time.
4. Set up alerts
Many apps, such as RetailMeNot, offer notifications for new deals and promotions. Enable notifications on your mobile device or web browser to stay informed about savings opportunities.
5. Refer friends
Apps like Rakuten and Fetch Rewards offer referral bonuses. Sharing your referral code with friends and family can earn you extra cash back or points. Additionally, many of these apps give you rewards without your referred friend having to make a purchase.
The bottom line
Coupon apps aren’t just about scoring discounts; they’re about shifting the way you think about spending. The best savers don’t chase deals. Instead, they build habits that make saving money automatic. Whether it’s stacking cash-back offers, timing purchases around retailer promotions or using multiple apps strategically, the key is making them work for you.
The more intentional you are, the more those small savings add up — transforming everyday purchases into long-term financial wins.
Frequently asked questions
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