WAYS TO STRETCH YOUR BUDGET
by Contributor
(Apr. 22, 2020) — Want to save money? Want to become a frugal shopper? Part of extending the value of your purchase is by looking out for sales and coupons. Apart from that, cashback rebates give you another way to save money! From Amazon to Mr. Rebates, BeFrugal, and RetailMeNot, you have many ways to make cash-in using online portals. In many cases, you’d need to sign up, and it’s usually free, plus most sites offer a signup bonus, usually around $5-$10.
What’s a cashback portal?
Each time a user clicks on an offer on a cashback portal and purchases something on the site, the affiliated retailer will pay a commission to the cashback portals. In a way, it’s like affiliate marketing. Credit cards, airlines, and even some hotels have portals that enable their customers to obtain better value through loyalty programs. However, through cashback portals, users have more variety of products and services due to the merchant affiliations.
The Basics of Cashback Portals
These types of portals offer rebates on a variety of merchandise such as MAC Cosmetics rebate, Nike cashback rebate, pet supply rebates, jewelry, Bed, Bath & Beyond rebates, Kohls rebate, automotive goods, and so much more. Some even offer cashback on mobile phone services, gift cards, and movie tickets.
The affiliates, retailers, and the deals often vary on these portals, and if your intention is to stretch your budget, then joining a few rebate and cashback sites would be worth your while as it will allow you to compare options and deals.
Most portals nowadays have a browser extension, as well as mobile apps that make it easier to spot a deal. All you need to do is to shop online as you normally would, and you’d get notified when there’s a cashback or rebate offer on the items you’ve been looking at.
Payments on Cashback Portals
Payment frequency depends on the portals. Each of them has its own payment procedures, but typically, it’s usually on a monthly or quarterly basis. However, most sites only do payouts once you’ve reached a minimum amount on your account.
Payments also differ according to the site, and it’s either in the form of a cheque in the mail or a direct deposit to your checking account or a PayPal account. Some sites also provide e-gift cards or credit card points.
If you’ve signed up on a rebate or cashback portal, expect to get emails and a lot of them regularly with special discounts and offers. This is something expected, of course, so be sure to anticipate an increase of emails from the various portals you’ve signed up for.
A Few Things to Remember
You need to provide your email address, as well as your number when you sign up on various sites. You’d also need to link your PayPal account or bank account (depending on the payment method you choose). Keep in mind that portals also use cookies. These cookies track your transactions, so unfortunately, you need to accept and agree. Knowing the basics will help you get the most out of your rebates and also prevent you from making any minor mistakes.