Ebates Announcements – user's Blog!

June 16, 2017

Everything You Need to Know About In-Store Cash Back

This post has been updated to reflect minor changes in the In-Store Cash Back program.

Millions of Ebates members have discovered how easy it is to earn Cash Back for shopping online. But what if you’re shopping at your favorites stores in person? Maybe you need to try on a few sizes, swipe on some makeup swatches or pick up a last-minute gift on the way home from work. Great news: With In-Store Cash Back, you can start getting paid for those shopping trips you make in real life as well as online. Here’s how.

Step 1: Tap on the “In-Store” tab in the Ebates App.

No app? No problem! You can also do everything you need on the In-Store Cash Back page on Ebates.com. Or get the app here.

Step 2: Find the store you’re shopping at, and hit the “Link” button.

In much the same way that you activate Cash Back online, you can turn on your In-Store Cash Back offer by hitting the “Link” button in the Ebates app. If it’s the first time you’re linking an offer, you’ll need to add a credit or debit card to your account.

Rest assured, your private information is safely stored in a secure, encrypted environment. Learn more about that here. You’ll know Cash Back is turned on when the button now says “Linked.”

Step 3: Shop!

Shop with your linked card at the selected store and earn Cash Back. Boom! There’s no need to tell your salesperson and no forms to fill out — just the magic of Cash Back. Why can’t everything be this easy?

Now that you’ve got the hang of it, here are some more tips & tricks to shop like a boss with In-Store Cash Back:

Stick to Our Accepted Cards

We currently accept credit and debit cards from Visa or American Express. Add as many cards as you like to your account; there are no limits.

Use It Like a Credit Card

To unlock the magic of In-Store Cash Back, pay the credit way. Yep, that includes debit cards. If you pay with your debit card and use your PIN, we won’t be able to track it. So when you’re ready to check out, remember: “Credit, please!”

Link Before Shopping

Always link before you leap. If you shop at a store before linking an In-Store Cash Back offer to your card, you’ll miss out on that Cash Back. Don’t do this. We hate to see you upset.

Stand by for Confirmation

The suspense must be killing you, but never fear. The wheels to deliver that sweet Cash Back to your Ebates account are a-turnin’. We will email you or send you a push notification as soon as the store lets us know you shopped with an offer.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

Treat It Like a Secret

In-Store Cash Back offers are exclusive to Ebates members, so your savings secret is just between us. Store employees probably won’t know anything about these offers. Lucky for you, once you’ve linked an offer to your card you can just shop and pay. Everything happens behind the scenes, so you can just keep a look out for your confirmation email.

Stay Tuned for New Stores

If you love a store with all your heart and it’s not on this list, just wait. It could be soon! Make sure to check back as we continue to add more top stores. Trust us: Love is worth waiting for. Stack Your Rewards Link In-Store Cash Back offers to your store-branded credit cards to get both credit-card rewards and Cash Back!

Get an Extra 3% Cash Back

What’s better than In-Store Cash Back? An additional 3% Cash Back when you shop with the Ebates Visa Credit Card! Here’s a little math to break it down: If a store is offering 5% In-Store Cash Back, you’ll earn 8% Cash Back when you use the Ebates Credit Card. Learn more.

See the Deets

Click the “See Details” dropdown under each store to see the offer limits, exclusions and all the fine print. You must link and use the offer before it expires, or else the chance for In-Store Cash Back will disappear like a stealth ninja.

Make Sure to Relink Those Offers

Shopaholics, this one’s for you. Once you’ve earned your In-Store Cash Back, you can relink the offer from the store and shop again.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this crash course on earning Cash Back in stores. Check out our video to see how easy it is to earn In-Store Cash Back. Now go forth and turn window shopping into Cash Back shopping!

May 10, 2017

Download the Ebates Cash Back Button Today!

Attention Ebates lovers! We’re excited to announce we’ve developed a fabulous tool that will make sure you never miss Cash Back again: the Ebates Cash Back Button. This ingenious and easy-to-use browser extension alerts you every time you’re shopping at a store that offers Cash Back through Ebates. It also saves you time and money by finding coupon codes while you shop. Check out how it works, and learn about some of our favorite new features below!

How It Works

Step 1: Download and install the browser extension, available for free on Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox and Microsoft Edge.

Step 2: Shop online as you normally would. If you’re landing on a store page, the Button will alert you if Cash Back is available at that merchant. Just click “Activate,” and voilà! You’re ready to begin shopping and earning Cash Back.

Also, if you’re searching on Google, Yahoo or Bing, you’ll even start to see Cash Back amounts directly in the search results. This way, you can see which stores partner with Ebates without having to look for them on Ebates.com.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

Features We Love

Coupon Magic

This handy feature finds relevant coupons and promo codes at the store you’re browsing. During checkout, you’ll see an “Apply Coupon” alert at your shopping cart. Click it, and the Cash Back Button will automatically apply the best discounts. (This feature works with participating merchants. So far, that’s 700+ stores and counting. Bam!)

Groupon, Yelp and Google Maps Integration

Groupon customers, this feature is for you. Look up your favorite haunts on Yelp or Google Maps, and the Ebates Button will alert you if there is a Groupon available at that business. That way, you’re assured a great deal in addition to Cash Back.

So what are you waiting for? Get the official Ebates Cash Back Button and start saving time and money today!

April 23, 2017

Staff Secrets: Caitlin Longwood

In our “Staff Secrets” segment, we share faces and habits of the people who bring you Ebates and The Smart Shopper. For our first feature, we spoke with Caitlin Longwood, the voice of Ebates social media and ninja-level Ebates expert.

What’s your day job?

Social Media Manager at Ebates and instigator of office nerf gun wars. I take both extremely seriously.

Do you have a hidden talent?

I’d say crafting and DIY. I’m into decorating my home on a budget and pretending I’m on my own HGTV show.

How long have you been a member of Ebates?

3 ½ years.

How much Cash Back have you earned?

$1367.52. No judgement! I like shopping. 🙂

What’s the last thing you bought?

I treated myself to a delightful massage through Groupon. I couldn’t pass up such a good deal!

Do you have a favorite store?

ASOS is my everything.

Favorite article of clothing?

It sounds kind of gross, but I have a pair of white Converse sneakers that are at least 10 years old… I’m very attached to them, and I like the worn-in look.

What’s the most money you saved on a single thing?

There was a sale at Kohl’s where all Nike gear was 25% off. Kohl’s was also offering Double Cash Back that day. I was able to stack the sale, the Kohl’s Cash and the 6% Cash Back to save over $50. Whenever I get Cash Back I feel less guilty about splurging a little on myself.

What’s the one tip you’d tell people about using Ebates?

Use the Cash Back Button! We have so many stores, sometimes even I’m surprised when a store is available on Ebates, and I work here. I have the button installed on my browser, so when I shop, it lets me know if there’s Cash Back available. The other cool thing is that it automatically tries out coupon and promo codes and then adds them to my shopping cart without me doing anything. It takes away that FOMO when I see an empty “promo code” box on a website. I don’t have to Google forever to find one.

What something you wish you could get Cash Back on?

Groceries!

OK, last one. If you could have any one superpower, which would you choose?

Teleportation—think of all the money & time saved on travel!

February 28, 2017

Download the Ebates App Today!

If you thought Ebates couldn’t get any easier to use, you’re in for a surprise. We’ve just stepped up our game with a newly redesigned mobile app and a slew of cool features that make earning Cash Back on the go even more seamless. Check out the major updates below, including our recent feature as Apple’s Featured App of the Day!

Mobile Exclusive Flash Sales

Access mobile-exclusive sales and coupons with top stores.

In-Store Cash Back

Link your credit card to special in-store offers and get Cash Back on purchases made at participating brick-and-mortar stores! Find out more about this fabulous product here.

Geo-Push Notifications

Receive a notification when you’re within walking distance of a store offering In-Store Cash Back and never miss a good deal again.

Price Comparison Tool

Scan your favorite items to see which Ebates store offers the best price. Simply hit “Search” in the bottom panel and click the barcode icon in the top left corner.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

Refer-a-Friend

Now easier than ever. Text a friend your referral link through the app. When they sign up and make a qualifying purchase, you’ll make $25 and they’ll make $10!

Download the Ebates app today and let us know what you think! Available for iPhone in the App Store and for Android in Google Play.

February 17, 2017

17 Things That Happen When You Get Paid to Shop

It’s that time again. You’ve racked up Cash Back at Ebates for in-store and online shopping, and we’re sending out a Big Fat Check with your name on it. You, my friend, are about to get paid to shop.

1. First, you get the email from Ebates letting you know the check has been signed and sealed.

2. You think, “Oh great! A little extra moolah to look forward to. Maybe I’ll take myself out to lunch this week. Maybe I’ll even get sour cream on my burrito this time. What the heck! Let’s splurge for guac!”

3. Then you see the amount you’ve earned.

4. You think, “That can’t be right. I mean, I don’t shop that much!”

5. Your thought is interrupted by the doorbell and the thud of a package on your porch.

6. You remember all that shopping wasn’t just for you. You bought plenty of household essentials. Fido needed a new leash. The kids were busting out of their shoes.

7. You recall a lot of gift shopping for friends and family for holidays, birthdays and baby showers.

8. Thinking of all the good deeds you have done for others in the form of precious gifts reminds you that you are a caring and selfless individual.

9. As a selfless individual, you think everyone should get Cash Back at Ebates. So you make it your mission to get your friends to join. In the meantime, you remain patient, waiting for your Big Fat Check to arrive.

10. Then, before you know it, the check is in your hands.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

11. You take to the Internet to tell everyone!

12. You post a picture of your Big Fat Check on social media, being sure to include your referral link so you and your friends can earn a bonus once they complete their first purchase.

13. Your friends are in disbelief! How could you possibly get paid all that money to shop?

14. Now that you have spread the Cash Back gospel, it’s time to make some plans for that Big Fat Check. Will you pay bills, put it in savings or…

15. Really treat yourself?

16. After all, you can turn that Cash Back into even more Cash Back when you use it to shop through Ebates online and with In-Store Cash Back offers.

17. Whatever your plans, the moments of yearning for the Cash Back you’ve been earning while shopping through Ebates are behind you. Your Big Fat Check is finally in your hand. Indeed, dog days are over.

We want to know all about how you plan to use your Big Fat Check! Post a picture on Facebook or Twitter and use #BigFatPlans for a chance to be featured in our gallery. Until next check time, happy shopping from all of us at Ebates!

November 18, 2016

New Store Roundup: Lululemon, Jimmy Choo, and More

2016 is coming to an end, and we’re ready to usher in 2017 with a bounty of new stores you’re going to love. Allow us to introduce the newest members of the Ebates family. We’ll help you save with promo codes, free shipping offers and, of course, our personal favorite: Cash Back.

Lululemon

8% Cash Back

At the gym or on the go, your favorite Lululemon athletic wear now helps you earn more toward your next Big Fat Check. Be prepared for running, yoga and more with top-of-the-line apparel for men and women.

Jet.com

3% Cash Back

From food and personal care products to electronics and gifts, Jet.com helps you find the best deals. The bigger your shopping cart, the bigger the savings!

K-Swiss

3.5% Cash Back

Simple style says it all. Find your favorite footwear and fashion for the tennis court and beyond, with this iconic brand that now earns you Cash Back at Ebates.

La-Z-Boy

2.5% Cash Back

At La-Z-Boy, comfort always comes first. Lounge in one of their famous recliners, and discover everything from couches to tables from one of the most recognized names in furniture.

Bonobos

3% Cash Back

Look great and feel great from in menswear with a tailored fit. Whether you’re going for casual comfort or dressed to the nines, Bonobos has got you covered.

Rue La La

2% Cash Back

Shop the latest curated selections of hot deals at Rue La La. Choose from hot fashions and don’t-miss gifts for the whole family.

Neutrogena

5% Cash Back

Keep your skin beautiful and healthy with one of the biggest names in the skin care game. Shop the Neutrogena products created for your skin, with your budget in mind.

Jimmy Choo

4% Cash Back

Step into luxury, with the latest in handbags and footwear from iconic designer Jimmy Choo. Find styles that make you happy for any occasion, and earn Cash Back at Ebates.

Gifts.com

10% Cash Back

Find personalized gifts for everyone on your list at Gifts.com. Create one-of-a-kind items perfect for friends and family.

US Polo Assn.

2.5% Cash Back

They may be known for their polo shirts, but US Polo Assn. has much more to offer. Dress it up or dress it down in classic styles for men, women and boys.

Cotton On

3.5% Cash Back

Comfort meets fashion in the form of Cotton On. Shop your new favorite apparel, gifts and more at great prices.

boohooMan

5% Cash Back

Shop the latest trends and edgy styles for men at boohooMan, and earn Cash Back at Ebates for extra savings.

Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

October 7, 2016

12 Reasons You Should Not Join Ebates

You’ve probably heard of Ebates. Maybe you’ve been meaning to join or maybe you’re clinging to the old adage: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Well, we’re here to tell you that you’re right. There are many reasons not to become an Ebates member. If you agree with any of the statements below, Ebates probably isn’t for you.

1. I really don’t need any more money.

Sure, I shop quite a bit. But when I kiss that money goodbye, I don’t want any of it to come back. Even though Ebates offers up to 40% Cash Back on the things I already buy, I’m pretty content with 0%.

2. It’s just too complicated.

You mean I have to go to Ebates.com, type my favorite store into the search bar and click the “Shop Now” button before buying something online? That’s, like, three steps that take seven whole seconds. My time is precious, thank you. See How It Works.

3. It has to be a scam.

Where does the money come from? It can’t be as simple as stores paying Ebates and Ebates sharing the commission with me. Good day, sir.

4. Freedom of choice is overrated.

Ebates offers Cash Back at how many stores? More than 2,000? Having so many options is just overwhelming, even though it means I can get paid to shop for virtually anything.

5. Paying full price is my jam.

Ebates may put thousands of coupons, deals and promo codes from major stores at my fingertips, but I’m just not a deal-hunter. I mean, I know there’s not much hunting involved since I can easily see a store’s coupons on its Ebates page, but, you know, reading. Ugh.

6. My friends definitely don’t need any more money.

If I gave my three besties $10 for making their first purchases through Ebates, I’m pretty sure they would never speak to me again. And the $75 in Cash Back I would get for referring them to Ebates would just make matters worse. Learn More.

7. I love missing out on sales.

Following Ebates on Facebook and getting access to daily Double Cash Back offers sounds awful. And getting sales alerts from my favorite stores sent directly to my phone via the Ebates App will literally ruin my day.

8. I hate getting the best possible deal.

If there is a better price for the same item out there, I don’t want to know. I can easily compare prices and Cash Back amounts for those Steve Madden booties by searching for them at Ebates.com or through the Ebates app. I can even scan products with the app while physically shopping at stores to find the best price. But, really, I enjoy paying the most I possibly can.

9. I also hate shopping on the go.

Being able to shop on my phone or tablet with the Ebates App is just too convenient. I prefer to wait until I’m at a computer, even if it means missing out on a flash sale. What can I say? It’s all about severely delayed gratification and missed opportunities.

10. I only like shopping in stores.

Nothing beats a trip to a mall. I can try things on, catch up with my friends and top it all off with a pizza pretzel. There’s no way I could get Cash Back for doing all tha— Oh. There is? I just have to add my credit card to my Ebates account, link In-Store offers to my card and then use that card to shop in the store? Well, still. See reason No. 1. Free money just isn’t my thing. Learn More.

11. I’ll just forget to use Ebates.

I can’t even remember what I had for breakfast this morning. It’s not like there’s a magic Ebates Cash Back Button that I can add to my browser that would automatically let me know if the store I was visiting offered Cash Back.

12. I definitely don’t want to get Cash Back everywhere.

The Ebates Cash Back Visa Credit Card sounds like a terrible idea. Getting 1% Cash Back on gas, groceries and countless other things, plus 3% Cash Back at Ebates stores? Rewards, schmewards. I also get a $10 bonus after my first purchase on the Ebates credit card and that just isn’t necessary.

What’s that you say? None of this sounds like you? We didn’t think so! Who doesn’t like free money and more ways to get the most out of shopping? Have any other questions about Ebates? Leave us a comment below!

August 9, 2016

Ebates CARES: Back to School Backpack Drive

Back to School can be already be a stressful time of year for parents. Between the endless school supplies list and getting your kids out of summer mode, moms, dads and caregivers have their work cut out for them. But for those who are struggling to make ends meet, this is just another time of year where the need is great and help is most appreciated.

This is precisely why Ebates CARES decided to join forces with Cityteam San Francisco, a non-profit that provides real help and real hope to men, women, and at-risk youth in the Tenderloin and greater Bay Area. Cityteam provides family services, hot meals, job and housing placement and beyond. They gave Ebates CARES the goal of raising 75 backpacks full of essential school supplies for kids of all ages and we are so proud to say we met that goal with a gold star!

While shopping for and assembling the backpacks was certainly fun, the best part was this collection of happy little faces and knowing they had one less thing to worry about this school year. Plus, each backpack came with a hand-written note of encouragement from an Ebates team member on how to reach for the stars, both inside the classroom and outside.

We had so much fun getting together and giving to children in need. If you’re interested in volunteering with Cityteam, they have chapters in San Jose, Philadelphia, Oakland and Portland as well as overseas. And if you can’t donate time, you can always donate a few extra bucks. Everything helps!

June 1, 2016

#ICYMI: Our Top May Blog Posts

With spring in full swing and temperatures rising, we used May to focus on summer essentials from stylish espadrilles to must-have drugstore makeup. Tips on how to save at your favorite stores like Walmart and Expedia also showed you how to get a bigger bang for your buck while racking up Cash Back at Ebates. But these four blog posts really take the cake on featuring products that ranged from practical to downright magical. Take a look at these top blog posts from May to make sure you didn’t miss out on your next favorite wishlist item, shopping tip or time-saving checklist to make this the best spring and summer yet.

Floral Accessories to Brighten Your Look

Top off your spring OOTDs with festively floral accessories from bracelets to bags and everything in between. Read more >

The Ultimate Summer Camp Packing Checklist

Before the big send-off to summer camp, make sure you have everything your kids need for safe fun and adventure in the great outdoors. Read more >

11 Remakes of 90s Toys That Prove Your Childhood was Magic

Take a trip back in time with these amazing remakes of your favorite 90s toys. Grab one for your kids (or yourself) with Cash Back. Read more >

9 Cash Back Retailers That Price Match

Find the best price every time you shop at these retailers that price match and also offer Cash Back at Ebates. Read more >

Be sure to stay tuned for more to come in May. We’re always discovering new trends, adding new stores and coupons, and rounding up more ways to get paid to shop for the things you love. Whether you’re into fashion, tech, home and garden, travel or sports, we have the inside scoop on the best products and deals online and in-store. If you’re not an Ebates member, join today to free for access to thousands of coupons and promo codes in addition to Cash Back. Then download the Ebates App and add the Cash Back Button to your browser so you never miss out on Cash Back again. Ebates is where it pays to shop!

May 3, 2016

#ICYMI: Our Top April Blog Posts

This April, we welcomed spring with open arms and had a blast bringing you the best product guides, shopping tips and more. We covered everything from must-have electronics and home decor items to get your house updated easily for a new season while getting Cash Back at Ebates. Join us as we recap our four favorite blog posts from April and find out if you missed anything while you were busy getting ready to soak up the sun.

Style Spotlight: Mamafierce

Fashion blogger Mamafierce shows you how to get a stylish yet casual spring look with Cash Back at Ebates. Read more >