Fuel prices may fluctuate, but your ability to save doesn’t have to. Even if you’re not earning cashback directly at the pump, tools like Ibotta and Rakuten can help offset fuel expenses by rewarding you for everyday purchases. Whether it’s groceries, household essentials, or online shopping, these apps can help you reclaim part of your gas budget—without changing your routine.
Here’s how to use Ibotta and Rakuten to reduce fuel spending and support more intentional, sustainable habits.
Use Ibotta to Save on Groceries and Essentials
Ibotta offers cashback on purchases at grocery stores, pharmacies, and major retailers. By activating offers before shopping and scanning your receipt (or linking a loyalty account), you can earn money back on items you were already planning to buy.
How this helps your fuel budget:
- Stores like Kroger, Albertsons, and Safeway offer both Ibotta cashback and fuel rewards
- Earning cashback on food, snacks, and household goods frees up cash that can be redirected toward gas
- You can track Ibotta earnings in the app and withdraw via PayPal or gift cards—ideal for offsetting fuel costs in real time
Pro tip: Combine Ibotta with your grocery store’s fuel points program for dual savings on both products and fuel per gallon.
Use Rakuten for Online and Bulk Purchases
Rakuten is best known for its browser extension and app that provide cashback on online purchases. Many of its retail partners include:
- AutoZone, Walmart, Target, and Sam’s Club for car care supplies
- Instacart and Grocery Outlet for food and essentials
- Hotel and travel platforms that can support efficient route planning for drivers
How this offsets fuel spending:
- Cashback earnings from Rakuten can be applied toward your monthly fuel budget
- By using Rakuten for bulk orders or car maintenance items, you free up cash for upcoming fill-ups
- Rakuten rewards can be deposited via PayPal or check, giving you full control over how they’re spent
It’s a passive way to earn back on purchases that support your driving needs—even if they’re not made at the pump.
Track Everything in One Place for Better Budgeting
Using multiple cashback apps can be powerful—but only if you can keep track of what you’re saving. Here’s how to stay organized:
- Create a monthly fuel log or digital spreadsheet to track how much cashback you’ve earned from Ibotta and Rakuten
- Label those earnings as “fuel offsets” so you can compare them to your actual gas expenses
- Use financial tracking apps like Mint or YNAB to pull in transaction history and see how savings align with fuel costs
- For Ibotta, monitor offer activity and total earnings through your account dashboard
- For Rakuten, use the quarterly payout tracker to log how much will be deposited and when
This system allows you to clearly see how much of your fuel spending is being reimbursed indirectly through cashback, turning everyday purchases into a personal rebate program for your car.
