Wait, What Even Is 100%+ Cashback?
Imagine buying a VPN or web hosting plan for $50… and then getting $55 back. Does that sound like a scam to anyone else or just me? Well as it turns out, it’s a legit marketing move called “over-incentivized cashback,” and it’s becoming more common — especially on platforms like VPN cashback deals or web hosting cashback offers.
We’ve seen offers like 101% back on FastestVPN and a wild 270% cashback for Liquid Web hosting. And no, these aren’t typos. They’re part of a surprisingly clever strategy.
The Cashback Economy: Where Everyone’s (Sort Of) Winning
So here’s the behind-the-scenes scoop. When you click a link from a cashback site, the cashback site earns a referral commission from the company you buy from. A piece of that commission gets kicked back to you as cashback.
But when the cashback site gives you all of that commission (and sometimes more), you get 100%+ cashback. That “more” often comes out of the site’s pocket — but only temporarily. Why?
1. They’re Playing the Long Game
Cashback platforms like TopCashback or MaxRebates are in it for repeat business. Giving away more than they earn on a single deal is a calculated risk. If they hook you once, there’s a good chance you’ll come back, refer your friends, and use them for bigger purchases (think flights, insurance, or home decor).
Plus, cashback sites often get a slice of your future purchases with that retailer if you return through their link. That’s recurring affiliate revenue — even sweeter than the first click.
2. Brands Want You in Their Ecosystem
Web hosting companies and VPNs especially love high-lifetime-value customers. Once you’re locked in, the odds are you’ll renew — and renew again — without shopping around.
Offering 100% cashback on year-one plans is like saying, “We’ll eat the cost now to make bank later.” A Bluehost customer sticking around for five years? That’s gold. And VPNs? With their sweet auto-renew policies, they make their money back — and then some.
3. Promo Stackers Are Rare (But Feared)
You, dear reader, might be savvy enough to stack a cashback offer with a promo code and a holiday sale. That’s the trifecta of savings. But most buyers? They don’t dig that deep. Brands know that, so they can afford to be generous upfront.
Still, when you do stack — say 100% cashback + a 20% coupon — you’re basically doing cartwheels through the system. Respect.
4. It’s a Battle for Attention
Look, we’re all drowning in ads. Standing out is expensive. Offering “free money” is one way to rise above the noise. A 270% cashback banner doesn’t just get clicks — it gets curiosity, shares, and screenshots.
And let’s be honest: Wouldn’t you check out a hosting plan if someone promised to pay you to sign up?
But Is It Really Free Money?
Kind of. But also, not quite.
- You still pay upfront — cashback is reimbursed later, sometimes after 30–90 days.
- You may need to use specific plans — often the longest or most expensive ones.
- You’ll need to avoid cancellations or refunds — those void your cashback.
- It takes patience — this isn’t Amazon Prime-speed payout.
So yes, it’s real money, but only if you’re willing to wait and follow the rules. Think of it like planting a cashback seed and watching it grow… slowly.
Real Talk: I Tried It Myself
A few months ago, I grabbed a 100% cashback offer on Private Internet Access VPN via TopCashback. Paid $39.95. Got $40 back a month later. Easy win. I used the VPN on vacation to stream Netflix, check banking apps on hotel Wi-Fi, and — bonus — saved on a flight by booking with a European IP. Thanks, VPN magic.
Would I have bought the VPN anyway? Yup. But getting paid for it? Chef’s kiss.
Pro Tips for Snagging These Deals
- Use a trusted cashback portal: We vet BestCashbackRates.com because of their live rate tracking and transparency.
- Stack with promo codes whenever possible — many retailers allow it.
- Read the fine print — some deals exclude monthly plans or have geo restrictions.
- Set calendar reminders to follow up on your cashback — don’t let it slip.
Final Thought: Is This Sustainable?
Honestly? Maybe not forever. These offers are often seasonal or tied to promotional budgets. So if you see a 100%+ cashback deal, it’s worth pouncing on while it’s live. Like all great internet hacks, the window might not stay open for long.
So next time someone side-eyes your “free” VPN or hosting plan, just smile and say, “Yeah, I got paid to protect my data.” Because you actually did.
