Are you taking advantage of cashback deals? If not, you could be missing out on a lot of extra money! Cashback deals tend to give you money back on everyday expenses, meaning that you can make money without having to put any extra effort in. Here’s how it works, and how you can get the most from it.
There are a few different ways of getting cashback. Many bank accounts will often cashback if you use your debit card in certain stores (there are often a limited number, and they may be updated each month). You could also choose a cashback credit card – again, these typically work by letting you claim cashback if you shop with certain retailers. There are also cashback websites, such as Topcashback and Quidco. These operate slightly differently, allowing you to get cashback when shopping online by following the links that are on their websites. Be aware that the money isn’t guaranteed until it has actually been paid into your account.
Don’t let cashback deals tempt you to buy things you wouldn’t get otherwise
Cashback is great, but once you start browsing cashback websites, it’s easy to start getting carried away. If you start buying things that you don’t actually need just to claim back a small percentage of cash, you’ll actually end up losing money (and filling your cupboards with more unwanted clutter). Be disciplined, and look for deals that make the most of your current spending habits.
Get cashback for high ticket items
You might not feel the need to look for cashback on smaller purchases, but when it comes to bigger expenses you can actually start making some serious savings. This can include travel and holiday costs, but also bills and utilities. Some comparison sites will show you the cashback deals available, so you can weigh the money that you get back against the ongoing cost of the plan.
If you’re using a cashback site, make sure you use the right process
The links on cashback sites work through cookies. This means that you won’t necessarily receive the cash if you aren’t careful with your browsing habits. You need to make sure you go through the links on the cashback site and then complete your transaction in the same visit – if you go away and return to the site later, you might not get your reward.
Make sure you’re not paying over the odds
With cashback cards and bank accounts there may be a monthly fee. Usually this is only a few pounds, so for many people it will still make sense to use the account – just make sure that it is right for you. Cashback sites may also charge for premium membership. We recommend sticking with the free options, but if you do decide to pay just make sure that you’re earning more than you’re paying.