Cashback is one of the easiest ways to save money on your everyday purchases — but there’s a catch: you only get paid if you follow the rules. And unfortunately, it’s surprisingly easy to mess it up.
Here are 7 common cashback mistakes to avoid so you can actually receive the rewards you’re promised.
1. Forgetting to Click Through the Cashback Site
If you don’t start your shopping journey on the cashback site and click through to the store, you won’t earn a dime. That click is what tracks your visit and earns your rebate.
✅ Fix: Always visit the cashback site first, find your store, and click through from there.
2. Using Coupon Codes That Aren’t Listed on the Cashback Site
Using an unapproved coupon — like one from a random website — can invalidate your cashback. Cashback sites typically only allow codes they’ve listed themselves.
✅ Fix: Stick to promo codes found directly on the cashback site’s offer page.
3. Not Disabling Ad Blockers or Privacy Extensions
Ad blockers and privacy tools (like VPNs or browser extensions) can block the tracking cookies that are essential for cashback to work.
✅ Fix: Whitelist your cashback site or disable ad blockers before shopping.
4. Switching Tabs or Opening New Windows
If you click away after starting your cashback session — especially if you use another cashback site or comparison engine — it can overwrite the tracking cookie.
✅ Fix: Complete your purchase in the same tab you used to click through the cashback link.
5. Using a Store’s App Instead of Their Website
Most cashback sites only track purchases made through a desktop or mobile browser, not through retailer apps.
✅ Fix: Shop via browser, not the app — even on mobile.
6. Returning or Canceling Your Order
Cashback is only paid on completed, non-returned purchases. If you cancel, change, or return an item, the cashback will likely be voided.
✅ Fix: Make sure you’re committed to the purchase before checking out.
7. Not Following Up on Missing Cashback
Even if you do everything right, tracking errors happen. If you don’t monitor your cashback and file a claim when needed, you could miss out.
✅ Fix: Check your account regularly and don’t hesitate to contact support if a cashback doesn’t post.
Final Tip: Track Your Purchases Like a Pro
Cashback is a game of small wins — and consistency is key. Keep a simple spreadsheet or notes app where you record:
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Date of purchase
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Store
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Expected cashback
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Cashback portal used
This way, you’ll always know what to expect — and when to follow up.
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