Couponing to Disney

There are so many ways to save money. Which is a plus. But it can be hard to determine which apps are for you, and which apps won’t fit your needs. Which is a bummer.

One of the questions often fielded in the SavEars is, “What do you guys think of _____ app?” Or, its popular cousin, “What are you favorite apps for earning?” In the spirit of filling our savings lives with more pluses and less bummers, I’m going on an app investigation! Every two weeks, I’ll be reviewing a new app here, in the App Spotlight. What will I be doing during those two weeks? Trying out the app, of course! I want to make sure that I learn the ins and outs of the app before I report back here to ya’ll.

This week’s app is….

Ibotta

What is it?: A cash back app for shopping, mostly grocery but expanding to other areas (over 300 chain/retail stores are accepted by Ibotta!)
Before you shop, add rebates to your account. To add a rebate, you have to do a simple task, like answer a question or watch a super short video. Buy the products you selected at a participating store. Redeem your rebates by taking a photo of the receipt and (if applicable) scanning the item’s barcode. Ibotta will match the items you bought to the rebates you selected. Then you rake in the cash back. Easy as pie.

It’s an incredibly simple process that the app will walk you through once you begin.

Who is it for?: Everyone! This app is for anyone who goes grocery shopping. The rebates change on a weekly basis and there are a variety available in a range of categories, such as produce, pantry, meat & seafood, breakfast, etc. Those categories also include Personal Care, Household Items, and Beauty, giving you a wide range of products to earn money on. Far and away, though, my favorite is the “Any Item” Rebate. Sometimes the “Any Item” shows up as “Any Brand Cereal” or “Any Brand Milk,” but the best is when it just shows up as “Any Item” where you get money back for literally any item you bought. Doesn’t get easier than that.

Where do I use it?: On your smart phone. Available in the app store.

When do I use it?: Receipts are valid for seven days from the day of purchase.

Why do I use it?: To earn cashback on your groceries. Your earning speed will depend on the type of products you buy. If you stock up on shelf stable or popular brands, you could see a quick return. But even for produce and veg heavy shoppers, like me, this is a simple, if slow, way to earn money towards your Disney fund. You can redeem your cash back in the form of gift cards or a Paypal or Venmo deposit.

Final Verdict: Highly recommended. This app is user friendly and offers bonsues for teamwork and multiple rebates, as well as a wide selection of redemption options. Use Kristin’s referral and start off ahead of the game!

Think you’ll give Ibotta a try? Have you already? What is your reaction so far? Tell me all about it in the comments.

Kristen B. is wife to the best Prince around, mama to the spunkiest little princesses, and lover of all things Disney. She started her savings journey three years ago and is now dedicated to making her family’s wishes come true one coupon at a time. She is so excited to take her love of saving to the next level and share her journey with you! Click here to catch up on Kristen’s Savings and join in on your own savings adventure!