What I'm Loving Lately: ibotta

I recently got a new app, ibotta, that I believe will revolutionize coupons.  I don't use the word "revolutionize" lightly, but this is one of those things that is at the same time so clever and so common sense. If you already coupon, this app is for you.  If you don't coupon because you don't have time, are confused by the process, etc., this app is especially for you.  

Here's how it works:

1. You open the app.  You will see many "offers" for difference grocery products.

2. If there are any products you are interested in (you usually buy them, would be interested in trying them, etc.), click on them.

3. There will be a variety of "tasks" to do to earn money off that product.  Some of the tasks include: watching a short video (usually a commercial for the product), taking a one question poll, posting about the product on Facebook, etc.  Most take only a few seconds, watching a video may take slightly longer.  From what I've done so far, it seems most tasks are worth $0.25 off and most items have 3 tasks (so $0.75 total off the product).

4. Once you complete the tasks, buy the product.  You can even scan the barcode with your phone while in the store to check to make sure the product qualifies for the offer.  

5. After you check out, you take a picture of your receipt through the app and scan the barcode of all the qualifying products.  

6. Within 24 hours (usually, it's only a few minutes) you will get a verification email telling you that your purchase was confirmed.  The money will go into your Ibotta account.  Once you earn at least $5, you can have it deposited to you Paypal account.

Why it's wonderful:

You don't even need to complete the tasks before you make your purchase! 
The other day, I bought shampoo on sale and when I got home checked Ibotta and realized it was one of the items on there.  I completed the tasks and uploaded my receipt.  I earned $1.25! You can't get money back for coupons that you left at home or found right after you got home from your shopping trip!

You don't need to bring anything with you.  
 If you want to check to make sure you're getting the right product, you might want to have your phone to scan the barcode, but you would probably already have your phone on hand anyway. (I don't, my husband has a smartphone and I do not, so I do all the "work" at home.)  You don't have to worry about clipping coupons or remembering to bring them.

The offers are personalized.
You have the option to give each offer your see a thumbs up or thumbs down.  As you use offers, they are replaced with new ones and the new ones are chosen based on your preference.

Can be used in addition to coupons.
Yep, even if you already have a coupon and/or the item is on sale, you can still earn with ibotta!  This might mean that after the money deposits in your account, some items could be free or very close to it!

It's free.
This isn't some kind of coupon program that you have to pay to join (if you didn't know those are out there, they are! What a ripoff, huh?).  Simply register here and then download the app on your phone for free.  There is an Apple and Android version. Then start earning!

If you are interested in signing up with ibotta, I would love if you would do so through my referral link.  I earn $1 for each new referral.  And guess what? Once you join, you can refer to your friends and earn that way as well!  (Two ways to earn, how lucky!)