I use a lot of receipt apps to get money back from everyday shopping trips. We’re on a tight budget right now to replace a leaking roof, so every little bit helps. I’m sharing my exact scan routine and the apps I use, so you can start getting extra money back too.
Step 1: My Receipt Stash
I don’t stash receipts — I scan them immediately. Some apps have time limits on how old a receipt can be, so I lay them out and run through my whole routine as soon as I get home.
I try not to wrinkle receipts so they scan better. Sometimes they live neatly folded in my shopping bag or pocket. A few creases are fine — they’re easier to flatten than a crumpled wad.
Step 2: Check Ibotta and Fetch deals
Ibotta works best if you select deals before shopping. I try to plan this while making my grocery list, so I know I’ll get money back on what I’m buying. If I forget, I’ll check after — sometimes I still catch a deal, but prepping first is better.
Fetch is similar — I check bonus offers ahead of time when I can.
Step 3: How I Scan Them
Here’s my exact scan order:
1️⃣ Google Rewards — it takes a while to upload.
2️⃣ Fetch — always first for base points + bonuses.
3️⃣ Ibotta — add the cash back.
4️⃣ Box Tops — if I’m scanning anyway, I help a local school.
5️⃣ Receipt Hog — coins and spins.
6️⃣ ReceiptPal — easy points.
7️⃣ Frisbee — same receipt, more points.
8️⃣ Receipt Jar — takes a bit longer but worth it.
9️⃣ Coin Out — quick snap, no offers. I do this last because they have a daily reward if you’re in the app for 60 seconds — so I wrap up my whole routine here.
I’m also testing Copper and Shopkick. Copper seems promising; Shopkick feels like a weaker version of Ibotta so far. I’ll post reviews once I have more experience!
Step 3: Little Tips to Save Time
- Scan immediately — no forgetting, no expired receipts.
- Flatten extra-crumpled receipts; take multiple photos if the app allows it.
- Long receipts? Snap in sections if needed.
- Toss receipts after scanning (or file big purchases like electronics for warranty).
Why It’s Worth It
You won’t get rich scanning receipts, but it adds up. So far this year I’ve gotten back $230 from these little apps. It’s a tiny habit that stacks up each month, and a lot of apps boost your earning as you level up.
If you only want to use one app I think Fetch is a good choice. It’s easy to use, offers a flat rate for every receipt you scan, has bonuses for certain items (most apps don’t do this), and if you’re into it you can earn points by playing games.
I’ve posted reviews for some of these apps already like Coin Out and Receipt Jar, so check those out if you’re curious. I’ll share more reviews for the rest of my stack soon, so keep an eye out!
Do you stack your receipts too? Tell me your favorite combo — I’ll test any new app you love!
– Laurel 🌿
[…] Receipt Jar: The Busy Shopper’s Receipt App […]
[…] Coin Out Review: How I Turn Receipts Into Spare Change […]
Earned While Busy 
Leave a comment