Now is an ideal time to do your holiday shopping. Many retailers are running big holiday sales that can help you keep more money in your checking account. But there are other ways to save money when you shop.
Here are a few tools that you can use to maximize your savings on Black Friday — and beyond.
1. Earn cash back with cash back apps
Take advantage of opportunities to earn cash back when you shop. Cash back apps like Rakuten will pay you money when you activate offers and make eligible purchases. You can earn cash back on in-store and online purchases and pay yourself back for your shopping trips.
I’ve been using Rakuten for years, and it’s a simple way to earn cash back rewards. Looking for an easy way to earn cash back? Check out our list of the best cash back apps.
2. Use coupon codes
Many people shop online because it’s convenient, but you’re likely overpaying if you’re not using coupon codes. Many retailers offer these to help you get a bigger discount at checkout.
You can easily find current coupon codes for your favorite retailers with one of the best coupon apps. Don’t ignore extra savings opportunities like this.
3. Earn rewards when you swipe your credit cards
Another way to maximize your savings when you shop in-store and online is to use rewards credit cards to pay for your purchases. You can earn points, miles, or cash back on your spending. When you redeem your credit card rewards, you can pay yourself back for previous purchases. It’ll feel like getting a delayed discount.
The more rewards you earn, the more money you save. Want to earn cash back when you shop? Click here to explore our list of top cash back credit cards with big rewards.
4. Access members-only discounts with retail rewards programs
Many retailers have free rewards programs that you can join. As a member, you may qualify for exclusive deals and discounts.
One such retailer is Target. The Target Circle Rewards program is free to join and offers bonus rewards and deal opportunities exclusively to members. Thanks to this loyalty program, I’ve gotten extra discounts and earned free gift cards. Sign up for and use programs like this to maximize your savings when you shop.
5. Earn a statement credit with credit card deal offers
Here’s another way to save money when you use a credit card as your payment method. Some credit card issuers promote offers you can activate to earn discounts with select retailers. One example is the Chase Offers program, which is available to select Chase cardholders.
You can earn a statement credit to your account when you activate offers and make eligible purchases with your card. Once applied, your upcoming credit card statement balance will be lower. This strategy provides yet another easy way to pay yourself back when you shop.
Check out our list of the best Chase credit cards and see why we rank these cards so highly.
Every dollar you save makes a difference
Shopping holiday deals is a smart money move. But make sure you’re strategizing to save as much as you can. If you’re willing to make a few small changes to your shopping habits, you can save more money and boost your rewards. This will stretch your shopping budget further, which can help to make the busy holiday season feel less stressful.
