I have shared with people how I save money while keeping within a budget, and I thought I would pass some tips over to you, too! By no means am I an expert, and I am not getting paid to share this. But, it has helped us save a little money on the side and who doesn't like that??
To start, I mainly use two awesome apps. The first is Ibotta, and the second is the Walmart app (yep, love it). Now before you go and quickly download each of these, stay with me! I give you some steps at the end to help you easily earn money from the start. So in this instance, patience is key :)
I always start with Ibotta. I'll give you some visuals to help guide you through my thinking process. This app gives you rebates for things you buy. Best part? Some are not brand specific. Now, most are. If you stay on top of it (it only takes 2 minutes every few days) you will easily be able to plan your trips. Here's how:
You first open the app you will be prompted to select what type of shopping you are doing. There are so many options! For our purposes, we'll stick with grocery shopping. Once you click on Grocery, you will pick where you want to shop. Now keep in mind, many rebates apply at multiple stores. Walmart has the most, and I will show you later on why I chose Walmart, too. Next, you will be able to view all the rebates, sorted by category. And all the Type A's said AMEN!
I make sure I go through and 'unlock' each rebate before I head to the store. It helps me see what brands I should look for, and what I could potentially get now that I may need later (because I'm getting money back). Unlocking means you may read something (let's be real, I don't read it thoroughly), or watch a 30 second video. It's super easy! I do it before I leave so I am in and out, and I don't waste time.
See that 'Verify Purchases' bubble? That means you will need to scan the barcodes of your items to make sure it matches the rebates. I do it while I shop! Some people check out and take their stuff home and scan. It's up to you!
Your last step will be to scan your receipt, or take a picture of your receipt. And you're done!
It seems like a lot of steps, but once you do it once you'll be hooked. I use it ALL the time. The best part? You can earn bonuses through various ways that Ibotta posts, or from certain brands. You can also team up with others to earn rebates for shopping, which is what you are already doing. I'm telling you, it's awesome.
When you want to cash out, you have tons of options. Anything from sending it to Paypal to getting Starbucks, Regal Movie Theatre, Walmart, iTunes, and Express giftcards. My husband goes to the movies weekly with his friends, so I feel so much more comfortable knowing I can save for something fun and we don't have to break the bank.
I don't always use Walmart, but usually I do. Why? Because of the Walmart Savings Catcher. That's the next app you need. Anytime you shop at Walmart, you can scan your receipt and they will pay you the difference if your stuff is cheaper in another store. First, open the app and find Savings Catcher.
Next, all you have to do it scan your receipt and they will let you know (usually within 3 days) if they found a difference. If they do, BOOM. More money!
Okay, so how can you start out with easy money? Well, Ibotta has a great deal. If you use a referral link and use just one rebate, you get $10! Here is my referral link if you would want to join! You can also download the app and type in my referral code: rbqwtek
So easy, you have to try it. If you have any questions at all, don't hesitate to email me or comment below. Now let's save some money!
