Top 10 Cashback Apps for PayPal Rewards (2025): Get Paid for Shopping!
Want to get paid for shopping? These 10 cashback apps for PayPal rewards offer a simple way to earn PayPal rewards on everyday purchases. Whether you’re buying groceries, clothing, electronics, or even booking travel, there’s no reason to leave money on the table when these apps can put cash back in your digital wallet.
In an era where every dollar counts, savvy shoppers are turning to cashback apps that pay PayPal to maximize their purchasing power. These platforms have revolutionized how we shop by creating win-win relationships between consumers, retailers, and advertisers—with PayPal making the reward redemption process seamless and flexible.
What are Cashback Apps and How Do They Work?
Cashback apps for PayPal rewards are mobile applications or browser extensions that give you a percentage of your purchase amount back when you shop through their platform. These apps partner with thousands of retailers who pay commissions for directing customers their way. The apps then share a portion of these commissions with you as cashback.
The process typically works in one of three ways:
- Link your credit/debit cards to the app and earn automatically when shopping at participating stores
- Shop through the app’s portal or use their browser extension for online purchases
- Upload receipts from eligible in-store purchases to claim rewards after shopping
Once you’ve accumulated enough cashback, you can transfer your earnings directly to your PayPal account, making these PayPal cashback apps particularly convenient for accessing your rewards.
The Benefits of Using Cashback Apps
Using the best cashback apps for earning PayPal gift cards provides several advantages:
- Free money for purchases you’d make anyway: Earn while buying essentials
- Double-dipping opportunities: Stack with credit card rewards and store loyalty programs
- Special promotions and bonuses: Access exclusive deals and increased cashback rates
- Flexible redemption: PayPal rewards can be transferred to your bank or used for online shopping
- Purchase tracking: Keep better records of your shopping habits
- Discover new retailers: Find new stores offering competitive prices and cashback
Criteria Used for Selection
Our rankings of the top cashback app for online shopping PayPal options are based on thorough research and the following criteria:
Payout Method
All apps on our list offer PayPal as a primary redemption option, with most featuring direct transfers to your PayPal account.
Cashback Percentages
We’ve analyzed typical cashback rates across various shopping categories, focusing on apps that consistently offer competitive returns.
Variety of Stores
The more participating retailers, the more opportunities to earn, so we prioritized apps with extensive merchant networks.
Ease of Use
User-friendly interfaces, straightforward redemption processes, and reliable tracking systems were key considerations.
Fees/Hidden Costs
We eliminated apps with excessive fees or deceptive practices that diminish the value of cashback earned.
Let’s explore the 10 best cashback apps for earning PayPal gift cards available in 2025:
#1: Rakuten (formerly Ebates)
Brief Overview
Rakuten has established itself as the industry leader among cashback apps that pay PayPal, with over 15 years of market presence and millions of satisfied users. This platform partners with over 3,500 stores, including major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Macy’s.
Why It Made the List
Rakuten claims the top spot for its combination of high cashback rates, extensive store selection, and rock-solid reliability. Their quarterly payment schedule via PayPal is consistent and dependable, with users reporting virtually no payment issues.
Key Features
- In-store and online cashback: Earn whether shopping digitally or physically
- Browser extension: Automatic coupon application and cashback activation
- Deal alerts: Notifications when favorite stores offer increased cashback
- Double cashback events: Periodic promotions with doubled cashback rates
- Price comparison tool: Find the best deals while shopping online
Cashback Rates
- Average cashback: 2-10%
- Specialty categories: Up to 40% during promotions
- Travel bookings: 4-8% on hotels and rental cars
Payout Methods
- PayPal: Direct transfers (primary method)
- Check: Physical check mailed quarterly
- Gift cards: Limited selection available
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Highest average cashback rates in the industry | Quarterly payment schedule (rather than on-demand) |
| Excellent user interface and browser extension | $5 minimum payout threshold |
| Established reputation and payment reliability | Some exclusions apply to certain retailers |
| Regular bonuses and promotional events | |
| $30 sign-up bonus (with qualifying purchase) |
User Reviews (Summary)
Rakuten maintains a 4.8/5 star rating across major app stores with over 100,000 reviews. Users consistently praise the ease of earning and reliability of payments, with many reporting thousands of dollars earned over time.
“I’ve earned over $2,000 with Rakuten in the past two years alone. The quarterly payments to my PayPal account are like getting a bonus four times a year!”
– Sarah T., verified user
Rakuten Review | Download Rakuten today and receive a $30 bonus after making your first qualifying purchase of $30 or more within 90 days.
#2: Ibotta
Brief Overview
Ibotta stands out among PayPal cashback apps by specializing in grocery and in-store retail purchases. Unlike most competitors that focus primarily on online shopping, Ibotta’s strength lies in helping users earn on everyday essentials and in-person transactions.
Why It Made the List
Ibotta earns its high ranking by offering something unique: substantial cashback on groceries and everyday purchases that most other apps don’t cover. With over $1 billion paid to users since its founding, Ibotta’s reliability and focus on essential shopping make it invaluable in a comprehensive cashback strategy.
Key Features
- Receipt scanning: Upload receipts after shopping for verification
- Retailer integration: Link loyalty accounts for automatic redemption
- Product-specific offers: Select items before shopping to unlock rewards
- Pay with Ibotta: Instant cashback when paying through the app
- Team challenges: Earn bonuses by completing group tasks
Cashback Rates
- Grocery items: $0.25-$5 per product
- Retail purchases: 2-10% at major retailers
- Welcome offers: Often $20+ for new users completing tasks
Payout Methods
- PayPal: Direct transfers once threshold is reached
- Venmo: Alternative digital wallet option
- Gift cards: Various merchant options available
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional for grocery shopping rewards | $20 minimum withdrawal threshold |
| Quick approval on receipt submissions (usually within 24 hours) | Some offers expire quickly |
| Generous welcome bonuses for new users | Requires pre-selecting offers before shopping for many items |
| Regular “bonus streak” opportunities | |
| Excellent mobile app user experience |
User Reviews (Summary)
With a 4.7/5 star rating from over 80,000 reviews, Ibotta users highlight the app’s ease of use for grocery shopping and the satisfaction of earning on essential purchases that rarely qualify for cashback elsewhere.
“As a parent buying groceries weekly, Ibotta has been a game-changer. I average $20-30 monthly in PayPal cashback just on necessities I’d buy anyway.”
– Marcus J., long-term user
Ibotta Review | Download Ibotta and receive up to $20 in welcome bonuses when you redeem your first offers within 30 days.
#3: Dosh
Brief Overview
Dosh revolutionized the cashback apps for PayPal rewards space with its “set it and forget it” approach. By simply linking your credit and debit cards once, you’ll automatically earn cashback when shopping at participating locations—no scanning, clicking, or pre-selecting required.
Why It Made the List
Dosh’s frictionless earning process makes it exceptionally valuable for busy users who want rewards without the hassle of remembering to activate offers or scan receipts. Its strong focus on local businesses alongside major retailers creates unique earning opportunities not found on other platforms.
Key Features
- Automatic card-linked offers: No need to clip or activate deals
- Local business focus: Support and earn from nearby establishments
- Travel bookings: Enhanced rewards on hotel reservations
- Instant notifications: Alerts when cashback is earned
- Refer-a-friend: $5 bonus for each new user who joins and links a card
Cashback Rates
- Restaurants: 5-10% at participating locations
- Retail: 2-7% at major chains
- Hotels: Up to 15% through the booking portal
- Local businesses: Often higher rates to encourage discovery
Payout Methods
- PayPal: Direct transfers with no fees
- Venmo: Alternative digital wallet option
- Charitable donation: Option to donate earnings
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| True “passive” earning once cards are linked | $25 minimum payout threshold |
| Excellent for dining and local shopping | More limited merchant selection than some competitors |
| No receipt scanning or offer activation needed | Occasional tracking issues with linked cards |
| Strong privacy protection measures | |
| Clean, intuitive interface |
User Reviews (Summary)
Dosh maintains a 4.6/5 star rating across app stores, with users particularly appreciating the automatic nature of the cashback and the surprise of receiving notifications after making eligible purchases they weren’t actively tracking.
“I love that Dosh works in the background. I’ve received over $200 in PayPal cashback this year from purchases I would have completely forgotten to claim rewards on with other apps.”
– Jennifer P., verified user
Get Dosh now and link your first card to start earning passive cashback that transfers seamlessly to PayPal.
#4: Honey
Brief Overview
Honey began as a coupon-finding browser extension but has evolved into one of the most powerful cashback apps that pay PayPal, especially after being acquired by PayPal itself in 2020. This integration created a seamlessly connected ecosystem for earning and redeeming rewards.
Why It Made the List
As a PayPal company, Honey offers unprecedented integration with the payment platform, making it perhaps the most frictionless PayPal cashback app for online shoppers. Its price tracking and automatic coupon testing features add value beyond traditional cashback, creating a comprehensive shopping tool.
Key Features
- Gold rewards: Earn points on eligible purchases
- Price history tool: See if current prices are high or low
- Automatic coupon testing: Tries all available promo codes at checkout
- Droplist: Notifications when items you want drop in price
- Amazon best price finder: Identifies the best sellers for specific products
Cashback Rates
- Average cashback: 1-5% in Honey Gold points
- Featured stores: Up to 10% during promotions
- Bonus categories: Rotating enhanced rewards
Payout Methods
- PayPal: Direct transfers (primary method)
- Gift cards: Various merchant options
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Perfect PayPal integration (same company) | Points system can be less transparent than direct percentage cashback |
| Combines cashback with automatic coupon application | $10 minimum redemption threshold |
| Excellent price tracking and alerts | Primarily focused on online shopping rather than in-store |
| No minimum purchase amounts for most offers | |
| Works with 30,000+ online retailers |
User Reviews (Summary)
Honey averages 4.7/5 stars across browser extension stores and app platforms. Users particularly value the coupon-finding capabilities alongside the cashback, creating a double-saving opportunity.
“The combination of finding me the best coupon code AND giving me PayPal cashback makes Honey twice as valuable as other shopping apps. I saved over $430 last year.”
– Tyrone M., power user
Add Honey to your browser or download the app to start saving with automatic coupons and earning cashback directly to your PayPal account.
#5: Fetch Rewards
Brief Overview
Fetch Rewards has rapidly grown to become one of the most popular best cashback app for groceries PayPal options by focusing on simplicity and universal compatibility. Unlike apps requiring pre-selected offers, Fetch awards points for virtually any receipt, with bonus points for specific brands and products.
Why It Made the List
Fetch earned its spot in our top five by democratizing cashback on grocery shopping. While other apps limit earning to specific items or stores, Fetch allows users to earn from any receipt, making it accessible regardless of where you shop or what brands you prefer, with easy PayPal redemption options.
Key Features
- Universal receipt scanning: Points for any grocery, retail, or e-receipt
- Special brand offers: Enhanced points for participating products
- No pre-selection required: Scan after purchase with no planning
- E-receipt connection: Link email for automatic digital receipt import
- Weekly special offers: Rotating high-value opportunities
Cashback Rates
- Base points: 25-100 points per receipt (100 points ≈ $0.10)
- Special offers: 500-5,000 points for specific products
- Bonus categories: Rotating enhanced points opportunities
Payout Methods
- PayPal: Direct transfers (minimum $10)
- Gift cards: Wide variety of options, sometimes with discounts
- Charity donations: Option to donate rewards
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely easy to use with minimal effort | Lower base earning rate than some competitors |
| Works at any store with a receipt | Points conversion can seem less valuable than direct cashback |
| No planning or pre-selection required | $10 minimum for PayPal redemption |
| Fast receipt processing (usually under 24 hours) | |
| Regular special offers and bonuses |
User Reviews (Summary)
Fetch maintains a 4.8/5 star rating with over 1 million reviews. Users consistently praise the simplicity and universal nature of the app, especially appreciating the ability to earn from any grocery trip regardless of store.
“I’ve tried all the grocery cashback apps, and Fetch is the only one I still use daily. The ability to scan any receipt and transfer rewards to PayPal makes it effortless.”
– Chelsea R., verified user
Fetch Rewards Review | Download Fetch Rewards today and use referral code “PAYPAL2025” for 2,000 bonus points ($2) when you scan your first receipt.
#6: TopCashback
Brief Overview
TopCashback differentiates itself in the cashback apps for PayPal rewards marketplace with its “100% of the commission” business model. While most platforms keep a portion of the affiliate commission they receive, TopCashback passes the entire amount to users, instead generating revenue through advertising and merchant bonuses.
Why It Made the List
TopCashback’s business model results in consistently higher cashback percentages than almost any competitor. Combined with no minimum payout threshold for PayPal transfers, this creates exceptional value for users seeking to maximize their return on everyday online shopping.
Key Features
- 100% commission pass-through: Highest average rates in the industry
- No minimum payout: Cash out to PayPal at any amount
- Price comparison tool: Find the best deals while shopping
- Missing cashback claim service: Help when tracking fails
- Free cashback booster: Option to increase rates by taking payouts as gift cards
Cashback Rates
- Average cashback: 3-15% (typically 1-5% higher than competitors)
- Special categories: Up to 40% on select services
- Seasonal promotions: Enhanced rates during shopping events
Payout Methods
- PayPal: Direct transfers with no minimum threshold
- ACH: Direct bank deposit option
- Gift cards: Various options with bonus value
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Consistently highest cashback percentages | Less intuitive interface than some competitors |
| No minimum payout requirement | Slower tracking confirmation (sometimes 1-7 days) |
| Excellent customer service for missing cashback claims | Limited in-store options compared to online |
| Thorough merchant rating system | No dedicated mobile app (mobile website only) |
| Tell-a-friend bonus of $10 per referral |
User Reviews (Summary)
TopCashback averages 4.5/5 stars on review platforms with users frequently commenting on the higher rates compared to other services and appreciating the no-minimum PayPal transfers.
“I compared identical purchases across five different cashback sites, and TopCashback consistently gave 2-3% more than the others. The PayPal transfers are quick and reliable.”
– Amir K., comparison shopper
Join TopCashback today and receive a $10 bonus after earning your first $10 in cashback that can be transferred directly to PayPal.
#7: Swagbucks
Brief Overview
Swagbucks stands out among cashback apps that pay PayPal by offering multiple earning methods beyond shopping. This versatile platform allows users to earn through surveys, watching videos, playing games, searching the web, and more—all redeemable through PayPal.
Why It Made the List
Swagbucks earns its place by providing the most diverse earning options of any app on our list. For users who want to maximize PayPal earnings beyond just shopping, Swagbucks offers unique opportunities to earn rewards during downtime or when not actively making purchases.
Key Features
- Multiple earning methods: Shopping, surveys, videos, games, search
- Daily goals: Bonus points for meeting daily targets
- Swagbucks Live: Trivia game app with cash prizes
- Local deals: Cashback on restaurant and service purchases
- Referral program: Earn 10% of friends’ earnings for life
Cashback Rates
- Shopping: 1-10% at thousands of retailers
- Surveys: 40-200 SB points ($0.40-$2.00) each
- Videos and games: 1-5 SB points per activity
- Special offers: Up to 5,000 SB points ($50) for service signups
Payout Methods
- PayPal: Direct transfers starting at $3 (300 SB)
- Gift cards: Wide variety with occasional discounts
- Charitable donations: Option to donate rewards
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Most diverse earning opportunities | Lower shopping cashback rates than pure cashback sites |
| Low minimum cashout threshold ($3 for PayPal) | Point system can be confusing (100 SB = $1) |
| Daily bonuses for active users | Some activities have low time-to-reward ratio |
| Mobile app and browser extension available | Occasional disqualification from surveys mid-completion |
| Regular promotional offers and codes |
User Reviews (Summary)
Swagbucks maintains a 4.3/5 star rating across platforms with users particularly appreciating the variety of earning options and the ability to generate PayPal cash even when not shopping.
“I love that I can earn with Swagbucks even when I’m not spending money. Between surveys during lunch breaks and cashback when I do shop, I cash out $25-50 to PayPal monthly.”
– Rebecca T., daily user
Swagbucks Review | Create a Swagbucks account now and receive a $10 bonus when you earn 2,500 SB within your first 30 days, redeemable directly to PayPal.
#8: GetUpside (Now Upside)
Brief Overview
Upside (formerly GetUpside) has created a niche as the premier cashback app for PayPal rewards focused on everyday essentials like gas, groceries, and restaurants. Its location-based service provides substantial savings on necessary purchases that most other cashback platforms don’t adequately cover.
Why It Made the List
Upside earned its spot by dominating a category most other cashback apps neglect: gas purchases. With fuel costs representing a significant expense for most households, Upside’s consistent 5-25¢ per gallon cashback creates meaningful savings on an unavoidable expense, all redeemable via PayPal.
Key Features
- Gas station cashback: Savings at major and independent stations
- Restaurant offers: Both fast food and sit-down dining
- Grocery rewards: Participating supermarkets and stores
- Check-in verification: Simple GPS-based purchase confirmation
- Friend referrals: $0.15/gallon bonus on friends’ first tank
Cashback Rates
- Gas: 5-25¢ per gallon
- Restaurants: 10-35% cashback
- Groceries: 2-10% at participating stores
- New user bonus: Up to 25¢ additional per gallon
Payout Methods
- PayPal: Direct transfers ($1 minimum)
- Bank deposit: Direct ACH transfer
- Gift cards: Various digital options
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Unique focus on gas savings | Limited to specific geographic areas for some offers |
| Very low $1 minimum for PayPal cashout | Cannot combine with other gas station rewards programs |
| Simple check-in process (no receipt scanning required) | Requires location services to be enabled |
| Works with any payment method | Partner coverage varies significantly by region |
| Stacks with credit card rewards |
User Reviews (Summary)
Upside averages 4.7/5 stars with over 300,000 reviews, with users particularly valuing the gas savings and simple verification process compared to receipt-scanning alternatives.
“I save about $7-10 per tank with Upside, which adds up to around $40 monthly transferred to my PayPal account. For something I have to buy anyway, it’s a no-brainer.”
– Daniel M., commuter
Download Upside today and use code “PAYPAL25” for a 25¢/gallon bonus on your first gas purchase, redeemable to PayPal once you reach just $1 in earnings.
#9: Checkout 51
Brief Overview
Checkout 51 focuses on grocery savings with a simple receipt-scanning model that works at virtually any store. Each Thursday, the app updates with new offers that users can claim by purchasing qualifying items and uploading their receipt for verification.
Why It Made the List
Checkout 51 earned its position among the best cashback apps for earning PayPal gift cards by offering higher-value individual item rewards compared to percentage-based grocery apps. The weekly rotating offers encourage regular engagement, while the universal store compatibility makes it accessible to all shoppers.
Key Features
- Weekly updated offers: New savings every Thursday
- Any store compatibility: Works wherever you shop
- Receipt scanning: Simple upload process
- Favorite offers: Save deals for your next shopping trip
- Bonus offers: Additional rewards for purchasing multiple items
Cashback Rates
- Product-specific rewards: $0.50-$5 per item
- Fresh produce offers: Unusual cashback on fruits and vegetables
- Welcome bonuses: Typically $5 for new users
- Friend referrals: $5 per friend who signs up and redeems offers
Payout Methods
- PayPal: Direct transfers once minimum reached
- Check: Physical check mailed upon request
- Mobile wallet options: Various digital payment services
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Works at any store that provides itemized receipts | $20 minimum withdrawal threshold |
| Higher per-item rewards than percentage-based apps | Limited non-grocery categories |
| Often features fresh produce (unlike many competitors) | Popular offers can expire quickly |
| Simple, straightforward upload process | Fewer offers than some competing apps |
| Pairs well with other grocery cashback apps |
User Reviews (Summary)
Checkout 51 maintains a 4.5/5 star rating with users appreciating the higher-value individual offers and the ability to use the app at any grocery store, from national chains to local markets.
“I combine Checkout 51 with other apps for maximum savings. The PayPal cashout is reliable, and I like that they often have offers for fresh foods that other apps ignore.”
– Melissa T., budget shopper
Download Checkout 51 and receive a $5 welcome bonus after redeeming your first offer, withdrawable to PayPal once you reach the $20 minimum.
#10: Mr. Rebates
Brief Overview
Mr. Rebates rounds out our list of top cashback app for online shopping PayPal options with its straightforward approach and longstanding reliability. Operating since 2002, it’s one of the oldest cashback services still thriving, with a reputation for consistent payments and competitive rates.
Why It Made the List
Mr. Rebates earned the final spot on our list through its combination of longevity, reliability, and competitive rates. While lacking some of the bells and whistles of newer apps, its 20+ year track record of timely PayPal payments and extensive merchant coverage makes it a trustworthy addition to any cashback strategy.
Key Features
- Over 3,000 participating stores: Extensive merchant coverage
- Search and browser toolbar: Easy access to cashback while shopping
- Quick approval times: Faster pending-to-approved conversion than many competitors
- Hot deals section: Curated high-value opportunities
- Referral program: 20% of friends’ earnings for life
Cashback Rates
- Average cashback: 2-10% across most retailers
- Special categories: Up to 30% on select services
- Seasonal promotions: Enhanced rates during shopping events
Payout Methods
- PayPal: Direct transfers once minimum reached
- Check: Physical check mailed upon request
- Direct deposit: ACH transfer to bank account
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Established company with long payment history | $10 minimum withdrawal threshold |
| Competitive cashback rates | Less modern interface than newer competitors |
| Clear tracking and reporting systems | No dedicated mobile app (mobile website only) |
| No complicated points systems (straight percentage cashback) | Limited in-store options |
| Generous referral structure |
User Reviews (Summary)
Mr. Rebates averages 4.2/5 stars on review platforms, with long-term users particularly commenting on the reliability of tracking and payment processing compared to newer services.
“I’ve used Mr. Rebates for over 10 years now, and while it’s not as flashy as newer apps, it’s the most reliable for actually tracking purchases correctly and paying promptly to PayPal.”
– William J., veteran user
Join Mr. Rebates today and receive a $5 welcome bonus after your first purchase, withdrawable to PayPal once you reach the $10 minimum.
Comparison Table: At-a-Glance Summary of the Top 10
| Cashback App | Avg Cashback Rate | Participating Stores | Payout Methods | User Rating (5★) | Special Features | Sign-Up Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rakuten | 2-10% | 3,500+ | PayPal, Check | 4.8 | Browser Extension, In-store | $30 |
| Ibotta | $0.25-$5/item | 1,500+ | PayPal, Venmo | 4.7 | Receipt Scanning | Up to $20 |
| Dosh | 2-10% | 1,000+ | PayPal, Venmo | 4.6 | Automatic Card-linking | None |
| Honey | 1-5% | 30,000+ | PayPal, Gift Cards | 4.7 | Coupon Testing | None |
| Fetch | Points System | Any with receipt | PayPal, Gift Cards | 4.8 | Universal Receipts | 2,000 pts ($2) |
| TopCashback | 3-15% | 4,500+ | PayPal, ACH | 4.5 | No Minimum Payout | $10 |
| Swagbucks | 1-10% | 1,500+ | PayPal, Gift Cards | 4.3 | Multiple Activities | $10 |
| Upside | 5-25¢/gallon | Gas/Grocery/Food | PayPal, Bank | 4.7 | Gas Specialization | 25¢/gallon |
| Checkout 51 | $0.50-$5/item | Any with receipt | PayPal, Check | 4.5 | Weekly Offers | $5 |
| Mr. Rebates | 2-10% | 3,000+ | PayPal, Check | 4.2 | Longevity/Reliability | $5 |
Maximizing Your Cashback Earnings
To get the most from these cashback apps for PayPal rewards, implement these proven strategies:
Shop Through the App Regularly
Make it a habit to check cashback apps before making any purchase. Just a few seconds of preparation can lead to significant savings over time. Consider adding app shortcuts to your home screen or bookmarking their websites for easy access.
Activate In-Store Offers
Don’t forget to activate offers before shopping in physical stores. Many users miss out on rewards simply by forgetting this crucial step. Set reminders if necessary, especially for apps like Ibotta that require pre-selection.
Combine Cashback with Coupons and Discounts
Stack your savings by using:
- Store coupons and promotions
- Credit card rewards programs
- Store loyalty programs
- Sale prices and clearance items
Most cashback apps allow these combinations, multiplying your effective discount.
Refer Friends
Nearly every app offers referral bonuses, sometimes worth $5-30 per friend. If you genuinely find value in an app, sharing it provides a win-win:
- Your friends save money
- You earn bonus rewards
- The platform grows its user base
Read All the Fine Print
Cashback offers often come with specific terms:
- Minimum purchase requirements
- Excluded products or categories
- Time limitations
- Special tracking requirements
Taking a moment to understand these details can prevent disappointment when rewards don’t track as expected.
Choosing the Right Cashback App for Your Needs
With so many PayPal cashback apps available, finding your perfect match depends on your shopping habits:
Consider Your Favorite Stores
Review where you shop most frequently and choose apps with strong partnerships in those areas:
- Frequent online shopper? Rakuten, TopCashback, and Honey offer the broadest e-commerce coverage
- Regular grocery buyer? Ibotta, Fetch, and Checkout 51 specialize in supermarket savings
- Daily commuter? Upside delivers unmatched gas station rewards
- Restaurant enthusiast? Dosh and Upside offer strong dining cashback
Compare Cashback Rates
Don’t just look at advertised “up to X%” rates—investigate typical rates for your common purchases:
- Electronics often have lower rates (1-3%)
- Clothing frequently offers higher percentages (5-15%)
- Subscription services can provide exceptional values (15-40%)
Evaluate Payout Methods and Thresholds
Consider how quickly you want to access your earnings:
- Need immediate access? TopCashback has no minimum for PayPal transfers
- Regular shopper? Apps with $5-10 minimums provide a good balance
- Patient saver? Higher threshold apps often provide bonus amounts for waiting
Read User Reviews
Focus on reviews that address specific concerns:
- Payment reliability
- Customer service quality
- Tracking accuracy
- App stability and performance
Conclusion
The landscape of cashback apps for PayPal rewards continues to evolve in 2025, with each platform offering unique advantages for different shopping habits. From Rakuten’s extensive online coverage to Ibotta’s grocery focus, from Dosh’s automatic card-linking to Upside’s gas savings, there’s a cashback solution for every spending category.
Our top recommendations include:
- Rakuten for general online shopping
- Ibotta for grocery purchases
- Dosh for passive card-linked rewards
- Honey for combined coupon and cashback savings
- Fetch for universal receipt rewards
For maximum benefit, consider using 2-3 complementary apps rather than trying to juggle all ten. This focused approach will help you develop consistent habits without becoming overwhelmed by too many platforms.
Remember that even modest cashback percentages add up significantly over time. A family spending $1,000 monthly on eligible purchases could reasonably earn $300-600 annually through strategic use of these best cashback apps for earning PayPal gift cards—essentially creating a “found money” fund for treats, emergencies, or savings goals.
For a more comprehensive list of earning opportunities, don’t miss our article on Legitimate Ways to Earn PayPal Gift Cards.
