I thought Ebates was a scam. After all, I’d seen ads on TV for it. And the logic didn’t work. Why would an outside company give me cash back for shopping? (Though I figured out now how they’re making they’re money).

Now- after using it for about six months- I can’t believe that everyone isn’t using it. I’ve gotten over $100 back. On stuff I already would have purchased. Free money.

Cash back from shopping at Amazon. Cash back from shopping at Wal-Mart. Cash back from shopping at Macys, Barnes and Noble, and from a hotel booked while traveling.

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And right now, they’re doing a bonus! Sign up & get $10!

How It works: (I’ll go into details with screenshots below in case you’re interested…but it’s really this easy).
1. Sign up
2. Go through E-bates (or use browser button)
3. Shop like normal.
4. Get cash back. That’s it!

If you’re interested in other ways to save money while shopping, check out “How to Get Cash Back for Shopping.” Or check out the “Coupons & Savings” page for more on using coupons and other ways to save money.

How It Works:

1. Sign Up

Click the “Join Now” button in the top right hand corner. A screen just like the one to the left will pop up.

You can join by connecting a Facebook account, Google account, or by putting in your e-mail and a password of your choice. Which ever you want.

1. Go through Ebates when you shop

There are two ways you can go through Ebates when you’re getting ready to shop.

Go to the Ebates page and choose your store. (The first image below)

-or-

Install the Ebates browser button. When you visit a site that works with Ebates, it will pop up. Just click the “Activate Cash Back” button and you’ll start earning cash back. (The second image below)

3. Shop like normal

4. Get Cash Back

A few days after you shop, your account will be credited. They send your money quarterly (as long as you have more than $5 balance…which you will, since they’re giving you $10 FREE) either via check or Paypal.

You can choose where to get your money by going to “Account Settings” (circled in red on image below).

So, no, Ebates is not a scam. Yes, Ebates is legit.

In case you’re curious, I have an idea of how they’re making money. I’ve noticed since I joined Ebates that I go there first when I shop. When I was looking for new shoes, I saw that Dillards didn’t participate. So I shopped at Macys instead (because they do participate). So I can completely understand why Macys would pay Ebates money to be a participant. The same with hotels and other businesses. Image millions of users (which Ebates has) choosing a company that works with Ebates over their competitor…that’s a lot of dollars that are getting spent at stores that might have been spent elsewhere.