Best Cashback App (2025): Upside Named Top Cash Back On Essential Purchases App by Expert Consumers

Expert Consumers has named Upside the Top Cash Back on Essential Purchases App for 2025

/EIN News/ -- NEW YORK CITY, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As inflation and high prices continue to shape consumer spending habits, cashback programs have become increasingly important in helping individuals save money on everyday essentials. In its latest annual review, Expert Consumers has named Upside the Top Cash Back on Essential Purchases App for 2025, recognizing the platform’s consistent performance in helping users earn real money back on gas, groceries, and dining.

Best Cashback App

• Upside - a free cash back app that lets users earn actual money on everyday essentials—especially fuel, groceries, and dining.

While many apps and credit cards offer cashback incentives, few are built around routine, in-person purchases—the kinds that make up most household budgets. Upside stands out in this space by offering users tangible cash back on everyday transactions at over 100,000 participating locations, including gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants.

“Upside isn’t just another cashback tool—it’s a practical savings solution for real-life spending,” said a spokesperson from Expert Consumers. “With strong coverage in essential categories and a streamlined, user-friendly interface, Upside makes it easier for consumers to regain purchasing power on things they already buy.”

Unlike many rewards systems that operate on point accumulation or restricted-use credits, Upside provides direct cash back, which users can transfer to their bank accounts, PayPal, or convert into digital gift cards. This flexibility contributes to its high user ratings—currently 4.8 stars on the App Store across more than 500,000 reviews.

The app’s design emphasizes ease and efficiency. After linking a debit or credit card, users can claim cash back offers in their area, make their purchases as usual, and earn rewards without scanning receipts or manually tracking transactions. Upside’s offers are stackable with credit card rewards, creating an added layer of savings for routine spending.

What differentiates Upside from many of its competitors is its direct partnerships with merchants. Each participating business works with the platform to determine their cashback offerings and terms, allowing Upside to deliver higher-than-average returns. According to the company, this structure enables users to earn up to 8% back at restaurants, 5% at grocery stores, and 10¢ per gallon on gas, with some promotions reaching even higher.

“Deals vary by location, but Upside consistently provides more generous rewards than traditional cashback cards,” noted Expert Consumers. “Its integration with brick-and-mortar commerce—rather than relying solely on e-commerce or niche retailers—makes it a relevant and valuable tool for today’s cost-conscious consumer.”

Beyond individual savings, Upside includes features that support broader adoption. A built-in referral system allows users to earn bonuses and commissions from sharing the app with friends and family. The app is also structured to work across local businesses, franchises, and enterprise-level partners, making it a scalable option for both consumers and merchants.

The recognition by Expert Consumers reflects broader trends in fintech and consumer behavior. As prices for fuel, food, and other necessities continue to rise, more people are turning to digital platforms to offset costs. Cashback apps, once seen as niche, have grown into essential financial tools for millions of households.

Upside’s reported $800 million in total user earnings underscores that shift. With a focus on in-person transactions and a straightforward payout process, the app positions itself as a reliable supplement to existing financial routines rather than a replacement or gimmick.

As economic uncertainty continues to affect purchasing decisions, Upside’s recognition by Expert Consumers reinforces the growing value of cashback platforms focused on everyday essentials. Whether fueling up, grabbing groceries, or dining out, users can benefit from a system that rewards regular habits rather than requiring major lifestyle changes.

To read the full review, check out the Expert Consumers website.

About Expert Consumers: Expert Consumers provides news and reviews of consumer products and services. As an affiliate, Expert Consumers may earn commissions from sales generated using links provided. 

Drew Thomas (press@expertconsumers.org)