With grocery prices continuing to rise, more shoppers are turning to cashback apps to offset costs. But not all apps are created equal—some offer instant savings while others require you to wait weeks or scan receipts. If you’re looking to make your spending go further, it’s worth comparing the top grocery cashback platforms to see which ones deliver the best value, speed, and user experience.

Here’s a breakdown of how today’s leading apps perform when it comes to grocery savings.

1. Fluz – best for instant cashback with digital gift cards

Fluz offers a unique approach: you purchase digital gift cards for your grocery store through the app, then use those cards at checkout to pay and earn instant cashback.

What sets Fluz apart:

• Instant cashback on purchases (no waiting or receipt scanning)

• Supports exact-value purchases to avoid leftover gift card balances

• Works both in-store and online

• Frequently offers bonuses at grocery merchants like:
  • H-E-B gift card cashback

  • BJ’s Wholesale gift card savings

  • CVS gift card rewards

You can also use the Fluz virtual debit card via Apple Pay or Google Pay to earn up to 1.5% cashback at stores that don’t accept gift cards.

2. Ibotta – best for brand-specific grocery offers

Ibotta rewards users for purchasing specific products from partnered brands. You activate offers in advance, shop at participating stores, and either scan your receipt or link your store loyalty account.

Pros:

• High-value offers on name-brand items

• Frequent bonuses for redeeming multiple offers

• In-app grocery pickup and delivery integration with Walmart and Kroger

Cons:

• Cashback is limited to participating brands and items

• Requires offer activation before shopping

• Receipt upload or loyalty account linking is often necessary

3. Rakuten – best for online grocery cashback

Rakuten is most commonly associated with online shopping, but it also offers grocery cashback for stores with delivery or pickup options like Sam’s Club, Walmart, and Instacart.

Strengths:

• Simple browser extension for online orders

• No need to scan receipts

• Cash back posted quarterly via PayPal or check

Limitations:

• Not ideal for in-store grocery shopping

• Cashback payouts are delayed (paid every 3 months)

4. Checkout 51 – decent for gas and select groceries

Checkout 51 allows you to upload receipts and claim offers for groceries, personal care, and even gas.

Highlights:

• Includes gas discounts in addition to grocery savings

• Usable at any store (including local or independent markets)

• Offers update weekly

Trade-offs:

• Must remember to scan receipts within a time window

• Payout threshold is $20 via mailed check

Which app is right for you?

• Use Fluz if you want immediate cashback at checkout, especially at large retailers

• Use Ibotta if you’re focused on brand-based grocery deals

• Use Rakuten if you prefer ordering groceries online

• Use Checkout 51 if you shop at varied stores or want to earn on gas too

Many shoppers use a combination of apps to cover all types of purchases. The key is identifying which platforms best match your habits—whether that’s weekly grocery hauls, bulk buys at warehouse clubs, or frequent online orders.

Start with the one that pays fastest

If you’re just starting out, Fluz is one of the easiest ways to earn cashback instantly without adjusting how you shop. It’s seamless at the register, doesn’t require scanning receipts, and works for everyday grocery purchases. From there, you can expand your savings stack by layering in apps like Ibotta or Rakuten depending on your routine.