What Is Ibotta and How Does It Work? A Simple Guide for Beginners

Want to Save Money on Groceries Without Clipping Coupons?

Enter Ibotta—a free app that gives you real cash back on everyday purchases, from groceries to clothing to online shopping.

If you’ve ever wished you could earn money just for buying what you already need, Ibotta is about to become your new best friend. Seriously, it's my favorite rebate app!

So, What Exactly Is Ibotta?

Ibotta is a cashback and rewards app that lets you earn real money (not just points!) when you shop at participating stores—in person or online.

Think of it as digital coupons that pay you, rather than just save you a few cents.

It’s completely free, easy to use, and works with hundreds of major retailers like:

• Walmart

• Target

• Kroger

• Amazon

• Costco

• CVS

• Instacart

• Uber Eats

  
  

How Does Ibotta Work?

Using Ibotta is simple:

1. Download the App

• Available for iOS, Android, and Chrome

• Sign up with your email or Google account

• Use our referral code: fqbiqcc when you sign up and you will get an extra $5 when you submit your first receipt!

  
  

2. Choose Offers Before You Shop

• Open the app and browse offers (like “$1 back on milk” or “$2 back on cereal”)

• Tap “+” to add the offers to your account

  
  

3. Shop Like Normal

• Shop at the store or online retailer where the offer is valid

• Make sure to keep your receipt (or link your loyalty account, but ONLY link your account if you double check that you added ALL your offers BEFORE you check out of the store)

4. Submit Your Receipt or Link Your Account

• Take a photo of your receipt in the app OR

• Link store loyalty cards (like Walmart, Target, etc.) for automatic tracking

  
  

5. Get Real Cash Back

• Cashback usually shows up within 24–48 hours

• Once you reach $20, you can withdraw your money via:

  • PayPal

  • Venmo

  • Gift cards (Amazon, Starbucks, etc.)

    
    

Example: How You Can Earn $10 in One Grocery Trip

Let’s say you’re buying:

• Bread ($0.50 back)

• Eggs ($1 back)

• Yogurt ($0.75 back)

• Baby wipes ($2 back)

• Cereal ($1.50 back)

• Use a store loyalty card (automatically links)

You just earned $5.75 back for shopping like normal!

Pro Tips for Maximizing Ibotta

• Stack with coupons: Use manufacturer coupons + Ibotta = double savings (unless the Ibotta offer specifically says you can't use it with a coupon!)

  If you stack coupons, sometimes you can get the product for free plus make money just for buying it!

• Use in-store & online: Ibotta works with pickup and delivery too (like Walmart Grocery or Instacart)

• Refer friends: Get $5–$10 every time someone signs up with your code

• Check for bonuses: Look for extra cashback deals if you redeem multiple offers in a week

  
  

Is Ibotta Really Worth It?

Yes—especially if you regularly buy groceries or shop online.

We save $200–$500/year (we've received $25 back in just one shopping trip!) just by checking the app before we shop. It’s an effortless way to earn passive cash back with zero commitment.

Plus, Ibotta is legit and secure—it's partnered with major retailers and has paid out over $1.5 billion to users since launching.

FAQs About Ibotta

Do I have to shop in-store?

Nope! Ibotta works for online orders, grocery pickup, delivery, and curbside too.

Is there a fee?

Nope! It’s 100% free to use. Just don’t let your account go inactive for more than 180 days, or they’ll deduct $3/month.

What’s the catch?

No real catch—just remember to activate offers before you shop and submit receipts on time (within 7 days).

Final Thoughts: Free Cash for Shopping? Yes, Please.

If you’re buying groceries, ordering takeout, or shopping online anyway… why not earn real cash back while you’re at it?

Ibotta makes saving money simple, automatic, and kind of addictive. Download the app, check for offers before you shop, and watch the savings roll in.