If you enjoy saving money, there is a simple trick that can help you earn cash back every time you shop online.

It is called a shopping portal.

With just a few extra clicks, you can earn real money on purchases you were already planning to make.

A shopping portal is a website or app that rewards you for clicking through to your favorite stores. Think of it as a bridge between you and popular retailers like Macy’s, Walmart, and Nike.

When you go through the portal first, you get a percentage of your purchase back in cash, points, or gift cards.

These rewards can add up quickly – especially on larger purchases or during special promotions.

In this guide, you will learn exactly how shopping portals work, which ones offer the best cash back, and how to avoid common mistakes.

Whether you are a deal-hunter or just looking for easy savings, this step-by-step guide will help you get the most out of every dollar you spend online.

Let’s start by breaking down what a shopping portal actually is and why it can be one of the easiest ways to save money from your laptop or phone.

What Is A Shopping Portal

A cash back shopping portal is a website that rewards you for starting your online shopping there. It works by giving you a small percentage of your purchase price back after you shop through one of their retail partners.

These rewards are often paid out in cash, gift cards, or other perks.

How Do Shopping Portals Work

Here is how the process works:

• Visit A Shopping Portal Website. Start by going to the homepage of the portal.
• Search For Your Store. Type in the name of the store where you plan to shop.
• Click The Special Link. Click through to the store using the tracked portal link.
• Shop As Usual. Make your purchase just like normal.
• Get Rewarded. Once your order is confirmed, the portal tracks your visit and adds points, miles, or cash back to your account.

That is it.

You shop the same way you always do, but now you are earning extra rewards for each purchase.

Most shopping portals partner with hundreds of popular retailers, including Apple, Macy’s, Home Depot, Sephora, and Nike. So whether you are buying clothes, electronics, home goods, or gifts, there is a good chance your favorite store is already listed.

Why Do Shopping Portals Pay You

Retailers pay these portals a commission for sending them customers. The portal shares part of that commission with you in the form of cash back.

It is a win for the store, a win for the portal, and a win for you.

Why Use A Shopping Portal

Using a shopping portal is one of the easiest ways to save money.

There are no codes to remember, and no memberships required. You just need to remember to click through the portal first. Most of them also have browser extensions to make the process even easier.

Even if the cash back rate is only 2% or 3%, it is still free money for something you were already going to buy.

And during special promotions, those rates can go even higher – sometimes 10% or more.

Even better, these rewards are on top of what you earn from either your cash back credit card or travel rewards credit card.

Top Shopping Portals To Maximize Cash Back

There are many shopping portals available, but some stand out for their high cash back earning potential and ease of use.

Below are some of the top shopping portals that offer the best opportunities to maximize your cash back earnings.

Rakuten

Rakuten is one of the most popular and user-friendly cash back shopping portals available today. It has built a strong reputation for reliable payouts, a wide selection of stores, and a smooth user experience.

How It Works

Rakuten partners with over 3,500 stores across categories like fashion, electronics, travel, and beauty. You start by searching for a store on the Rakuten website or app, then click through the link to shop.

Once your purchase is tracked, your cash back is added to your account.

You can also install the Rakuten browser extension. It automatically alerts you when a store offers cash back, so you do not miss an opportunity to save.

Key Features

• Wide Variety Of Retailers. Includes Walmart, Target, Nike, and Best Buy
• Browser Extension. Easy reminders while shopping online
• Double Cash Back Events. Special promotions boost earnings
• Welcome Bonus. New users can earn a bonus (usually around $30) after making a qualifying purchase

Pros

• Easy to use with both web and app access
• Reliable tracking and clear payout timelines
• Option to get paid by check or PayPal
• Bonus offers for referring friends

Cons

• Payouts are only made quarterly, so you may need to wait
• Some stores may have exclusions on cash back eligibility

Best For

Rakuten is great for shoppers who want a reliable, set-it-and-forget-it way to earn cash back. It is especially helpful for anyone who likes to shop at major online retailers and wants a portal with a strong mobile app and browser extension.

Capital One Shopping

Capital One Shopping is more than just a cash back portal – it is a full savings tool designed to help you find the best deals while you shop online. While it started as a price comparison tool, it now includes cash back offers at hundreds of popular stores.

How It Works

To use Capital One Shopping for cash back, you need to install the browser extension or use the mobile app. When you visit a partner store, the tool will alert you if cash back is available.

You simply click the offer, shop as usual, and earn Shopping Credits based on your purchase.

These credits can later be redeemed for gift cards from stores like Walmart, Lowe’s, and Sephora.

Key Features

• Smart Shopping Alerts. Get price drop notifications and coupon codes
• Cash Back Offers At Major Retailers. Includes sites like eBay, Macy’s, and Dell
• Browser Extension. Easy reminders while shopping online
• No Capital One Account Needed. Anyone can sign up and use it
• Redemption Through Gift Cards. Credits are used for gift cards, not cash

Pros

• Automatic alerts while browsing
• Extra savings from coupons and price comparisons
• No need to click through a website – just shop and earn
• Easy sign-up process

Cons

• Cash back is paid in gift cards, not direct cash or Capital One Miles
• Fewer partner stores than some other portals
• You must use the browser extension or app to access deals

Best For

Capital One Shopping is ideal for shoppers who want an all-in-one tool for saving money. If you enjoy applying coupon codes, tracking price changes, and getting cash back without a lot of effort, this is a great option.

It is especially useful if you prefer gift card rewards over PayPal or direct deposits.

Active Junky

Active Junky is a niche cash back shopping portal built for outdoor lovers and active lifestyle shoppers. If you shop for gear from brands like Patagonia, REI, or Backcountry, this portal offers some of the highest cash back rates in that category.

How It Works

You start by signing up for a free Active Junky account. Then, search for your favorite outdoor gear retailer and click through the special tracking link to make your purchase.

After the sale is confirmed, your cash back is added to your Active Junky account. You can request a payout once you reach the minimum balance.

Active Junky is known for offering seasonal bonuses and limited-time increased cash back at partner stores.

Key Features

• Specialized In Outdoor And Adventure Gear. Includes REI, The North Face, Columbia, and more
• High Cash Back Rates. Some of the best rates for niche outdoor brands
• Bonus Cash Back Events. Extra earnings during gear sales and seasonal promotions
• Stackable with store promotions and credit card rewards

Pros

• Strong value for outdoor gear purchases
• Simple and easy-to-use platform
• Competitive rates compared to general portals
• No fees to join or use

Cons

• Payouts take longer – up to 90 days after purchase
• Limited selection outside of outdoor and sporting goods stores
• Minimum payout threshold of $10

Best For

Active Junky is best for outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, and travelers who regularly shop for gear. If you are planning a hiking trip, skiing adventure, or just looking to refresh your athletic wear, this portal helps you earn big on brands that rarely go on sale.

Swagbucks Shop

Swagbucks Shop is the cash back shopping section of Swagbucks, a popular rewards program that also lets you earn points for taking surveys, watching videos, and using coupons. With Swagbucks Shop, you earn points – called SB – for shopping at hundreds of well-known online retailers.

How It Works

To use Swagbucks Shop, start by logging into your free Swagbucks account. Search for the store you want to shop at, then click through the portal to make your purchase.

You will earn SB points based on how much you spend. These points can be redeemed for gift cards or PayPal cash.

The SwagButton browser extension can also alert you when SB points are available and help you apply coupons while shopping.

Key Features

• Points-Based System. Earn SB instead of direct cash back
• Large Retailer List. Includes stores like Walmart, Old Navy, and Kohl’s
• Browser Extension. Easy reminders while shopping online
• Multiple Earning Options. Earn SB from surveys, games, and videos in addition to shopping
• Daily And Weekly Bonuses. Extra SB opportunities for active users

Pros

• Flexible reward options (gift cards or PayPal)
• Combines shopping rewards with other activities
• Strong browser extension for coupon alerts and auto-activation
• Frequent promotions with bonus SB offers

Cons

• SB points require conversion (100 SB = $1), which can confuse new users
• Some offers require a long wait before SB is credited
• Occasional tracking issues reported by users

Best For

Swagbucks Shop is great for shoppers who want more than just cash back. If you enjoy earning rewards through different activities and want the flexibility to redeem points for various gift cards, this is a smart pick.

It works especially well for budget-conscious shoppers and frequent online buyers who are open to using different tools to save.

TopCashBack

TopCashBack is a high-earning shopping portal known for offering some of the best cash back rates across a wide range of online stores. Unlike many other portals, TopCashBack gives nearly 100% of the commission it earns back to its users, which often results in higher rewards.

How It Works

After creating a free account, you search for your store, click through the TopCashBack link, and shop as usual.

Once the retailer confirms your purchase, the cash back is added to your account. You can then cash out through PayPal, direct deposit, or gift cards.

The site also features a browser extension and mobile app to make earning easier.

Key Features

• Higher-Than-Average Cash Back Rates. Often beats competitors on major stores
• Over 4,000 Retailer Partners. Includes stores like Amazon, Walmart, and Expedia
• Browser Extension. Easy reminders while shopping online
• No Payout Minimum. You can cash out any amount
• Gift Card Bonuses. Earn extra when redeeming through certain gift cards

Pros

• Some of the highest cash back rates available
• Payout options include PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards
• No minimum balance to redeem rewards
• Frequent bonus events and increased cash back deals

Cons

• Website design can be a bit cluttered compared to others
• Some payouts take longer, depending on the store
• Fewer extra features like price tracking or coupon alerts

Best For

TopCashBack is best for savvy shoppers who want to maximize every dollar. If you compare rates across portals before each purchase, you will often find TopCashBack offering the best deal.

It is also great for users who want the flexibility to cash out quickly and often.

iBotta

iBotta is a popular cash back platform that focuses on groceries, everyday essentials, and select online retailers. Unlike most shopping portals that only work online, iBotta lets you earn cash back both in-store and online – making it a unique tool for everyday savings.

How It Works

To use iBotta, download the free app and create an account. You can then browse available offers before shopping.

For in-store purchases, you select your store, activate offers, and submit a photo of your receipt.

For online shopping, you access the retailer through the iBotta app or browser extension to earn automatic cash back.

Cash back is added to your account and can be withdrawn once you reach the minimum threshold.

Key Features

• In-Store And Online Cash Back. Covers groceries, household items, and more
• Major Retailer Support. Works with Walmart, Target, Instacart, and Walgreens
• Bonus Offers. Earn extra through streaks, team challenges, and brand promotions
• Redeem via PayPal, direct deposit, or gift cards

Pros

• Perfect for grocery and household purchases
• Easy to use for both in-store and online shopping
• Strong bonus opportunities for frequent users
• Works well with store loyalty cards

Cons

• Receipt uploads can be time-consuming
• Some online offers require exact purchase conditions
• Minimum cash out is $20

Best For

iBotta is perfect for people who want to save on everyday purchases, especially groceries. If you do most of your shopping in physical stores and want to earn rewards without changing your habits, iBotta is a top choice.

It also works well for families and bulk shoppers who can take advantage of frequent offers.

Upromise (Bonus Pick)

Upromise is a unique cash back shopping portal designed to help families save for college. Instead of focusing only on general savings, Upromise allows users to earn cash back that can be directly deposited into a 529 college savings plan.

This makes it a powerful tool for parents, grandparents, or students planning for future education costs.

How It Works

To use Upromise, create a free account and link it to a 529 college savings plan (optional but recommended). Then, shop through the Upromise portal just like you would with other portals.

You will earn cash back on your purchases, and those earnings can either be paid out as regular cash or automatically transferred into your linked 529 plan.

Upromise also offers bonus opportunities for dining, credit card use, and promotions.

Key Features

• 529 College Savings Integration. Cash back can go straight into your savings plan
• Partner Stores. Includes popular retailers like Old Navy, Staples, and Walgreens
• Extra Earning Options. Dining rewards and Upromise Mastercard bonuses
• Automatic Transfers To 529 Plans. Set it and forget it for long-term savings

Pros

• Great for families saving for college
• Multiple ways to earn beyond shopping
• Automatic 529 contributions simplify savings
• Still works as a regular cash back portal for those not saving for college

Cons

• Fewer retail partners compared to larger portals
• Some features require a linked 529 plan
• Lower cash back rates than portals focused on general savings

Best For

Upromise is perfect for families who want to turn everyday purchases into long-term education savings. If you are already contributing to a 529 plan – or want a simple way to start – this portal offers a low-effort way to grow those savings over time.

Tips For Maximizing Cash Back

Using a shopping portal is already a smart way to save money – but there are a few simple strategies that can help you earn even more.

These tips will help you stack your savings, avoid missed rewards, and make the most of every purchase.

Stack With A Rewards Credit Card

One of the easiest ways to boost your earnings is to use either a cash back rewards credit card or travel rewards credit card along with a shopping portal. If your card offers 2% or more in cash back or travel points, you are stacking that on top of what the portal gives you.

Example: If you earn 5% cash back from TopCashBack at Macy’s and pay with a credit card that gives 2% back, that is 7% total savings.

Compare Rates Before You Buy

Cash back rates can change daily. One portal might offer 3% at a store today, but another could be offering 8%. Before you make a big purchase, check a few portals to find the highest offer.

Use sites like Cashback Monitor to make this comparison easy.

Combine With Store Sales And Promo Codes

Using a shopping portal does not stop you from taking advantage of other deals. You can still apply store-wide sales, discount codes, or loyalty program offers to your order.

Just make sure the promo code comes from the shopping portal itself – outside codes may sometimes void your cash back.

Use Browser Extensions

Most top shopping portals – like Rakuten, Capital One Shopping, and Swagbucks – offer free browser extensions. These tools automatically alert you when you are on a site that offers cash back and allow you to activate it with one click.

This helps avoid a common mistake: forgetting to go through the portal before you shop.

Watch For Bonus Offers

Many portals run limited-time promotions where certain stores earn double or triple cash back. These usually appear during holidays, back-to-school sales, or shopping events like Black Friday.

Signing up for email alerts can help you catch these deals in time.

Know The Rules For In-Store vs. Online

Some portals, like iBotta and Upromise, offer both in-store and online earning.

Make sure you know how to track each one. In-store usually requires linking a loyalty card or submitting a receipt, while online needs you to click through a tracked link.

Using even two or three of these tips can make a big difference. Over time, these small boosts add up to serious savings – especially on larger purchases or during peak shopping seasons.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Shopping portals are a powerful way to earn cash back, but it is easy to miss out on rewards if you are not careful.

Many users lose potential savings due to small mistakes that can be easily avoided.

Here are the most common ones – and how you can make sure they do not happen to you.

Not Clicking Through The Portal First

The most important step in the process is clicking through the shopping portal link before you buy. If you go directly to the store website or switch tabs, the portal may not track your visit, and you will not earn cash back.

TPA Pro Tip: Always start your shopping trip at the portal or activate the browser extension before you begin adding items to your cart.

Using Unapproved Coupon Codes

It can be tempting to search for discount codes online, but using codes from outside the portal can cancel your cash back.

Many stores only allow cash back when you use codes listed directly on the portal’s site.

TPA Pro Tip: Stick to promo codes provided by the shopping portal to stay eligible for rewards.

Forgetting To Activate The Browser Extension

Browser extensions are there to help – but only if you use them.

Some shoppers visit a site, see the pop-up, and close it without activating the deal.

TPA Pro Tip: When the extension reminds you about a cash back opportunity, take one extra second to click “Activate.” Even if you do not eventually make a purchase, this is a good habit.

Ignoring Payout Minimums And Deadlines

Each portal has its own rules about when and how you get paid. Some require a minimum balance (like $10 or $20), and others only pay out on a set schedule.

If you do not meet the requirements, you may have to wait longer to receive your money.

TPA Pro Tip: Check the specific payout terms of a portal and make sure you know how often they pay and what you need to do to qualify.

Not Checking Cash Back Rates Regularly

Rates change often. You could be missing a better deal by sticking with just one portal. One site might offer 2% back while another is running a special 10% promotion at the same store.

TPA Pro Tip: Before making a big purchase, quickly compare cash back rates across multiple portals with Cashback Monitor.

Letting Points Or Credits Expire

Some portals have expiration dates on rewards if your account stays inactive for too long.

If you only shop a few times a year, you might risk losing unused earnings.

TPA Pro Tip: Set a reminder to log in or make a small qualifying purchase every few months to keep your account active.

Avoiding these mistakes can help you earn more and ensure you do not leave any money on the table. The process is simple, but a little attention to detail goes a long way.

Final Thoughts

Shopping portals make it easy to earn cash back on purchases you are already planning to make.

By simply clicking through a portal before you shop, you can collect rewards without changing your habits. Over time, these small savings can add up to a meaningful amount.

There is no single best portal for everyone.

Some, like Rakuten and TopCashBack, offer high cash back rates at major retailers. Others, like iBotta and Active Junky, focus on specific categories like groceries or outdoor gear. Upromise adds another layer by helping families save for college.

The right one for you depends on where and how you shop.

Thankfully, getting started is easy.

Pick one portal that fits your needs, create a free account, and use it the next time you shop online.

Once you see how simple it is to earn rewards, you can explore other options, compare rates, and start stacking your savings with credit card points or store discounts.

The key is to build the habit.

By making shopping portals part of your routine, you will turn everyday spending into an easy way to earn cash back, points, or even college savings – all with just a few extra clicks.

Share your favorite in our free community of travel reward and cash back enthusiasts like yourself. Join now and be part of the conversation.

Kevin Zanes