All Things Cash Back

To go hand in hand with my theory of getting more bang for your buck, like I detail on the holiday tutorials each year, when shopping online, you must try cash back and online coupon codes. Note: the services referenced in this post are are services that I PERSONALLY approve of and use frequently. I think you know by now that if something is great, I’ll tell you and if it’s horrid, I’ll tell you.

I have to confess, I do a majority of my shopping online. I have no patience in bad customer service, annoying customers or crowds. I’d rather mill about enjoying the sights and sounds rather than worry about that “perfect” gift or product that I just *have* to have. SO – without further adieu – this is how your gal shops.

First of all, I have to have a game plan. For example, someone once disclosed to me that they were using bargain spices from Big Lots! Now, should I decide to cure them of this bad habit (because I’m a foodie snob and know that spices on the shelves that long seriously deteriorate), I know I’d need to replenish their spice cabinet with spices from one of my favorite culinary stores, Dean & Deluca. My theory is if the Barefoot Contessa uses it, then the product HAS to be top notch. Good vanilla and all!

First step: Research to see if there are any coupons on RetailMeNot.com, CouponCabin.com or UltimateCoupons.com. If there are, make note of the codes and maximize them for the ultimate savings.

Second Step: Research to see who has the highest cash back through EVReward.com (sometimes you get good coupons on here as well).

Third Step: Select your cash back portal to use. I primarily use four sites: Fat Wallet, Ebates, Mr. Rebates or CashBaq. There are others, but I’ve had the best luck with those four and, personally, I use Mr. Rebates and Ebates the most.

Update (6/8/11): There’s a new one on the scene, OFFERMATIC, and not only can you get cash back for AMAZON, but they have this fab. discounts that they provide to you with no hassle depending on what you buy – to quote someone on their site, OFFERMATIC is like if Groupon and Mint had a love child.. It’s safe, secure and – hello – cash back for AMAZON! Now how often do you see that?

Update (11/27/11): There is no more cash back for Amazon, sadly, but I still love Offermatic’s service and coupons. They are always a good backup plan.

Fourth Step:Find the item you are looking for, purchase and viola! You will get cash back, ultimate savings and a nice little somethin’ somethin’ for you in March because it takes about 90 days for the available funds to be posted.

So to recap: the Cash Back sites to bookmark/sign up at are: