4 Tips to Maximize Your Cash Back Earnings This Holiday Season

We're in the midst of the busy holiday shopping season. One way to save money is to shop deals. Many retailers are slashing prices this time of year to help attract holiday shoppers.

If you're still tackling your shopping list, earning cash back while you shop is another smart way to save. You can pay yourself back for your shopping hauls.

Here are a few tips to maximize your cash back earnings this season.

1. Earn cash back from cash back shopping apps

One way you can earn cash back rewards is by using cash back apps. Many apps and browser extensions provide cash rewards to consumers. One example is Rakuten. I've earned hundreds of dollars over the last few years by using this popular cash back tool.

How does it work? You activate offers and shop like you usually would. You'll earn cash back to your account when you make eligible purchases. Using one of the best cash back apps makes for an easy way to maximize your cash back earnings during the holidays.

2. Use a cash back credit card to pay for your shopping trips

Another way to boost your cash back earnings is to use a cash back credit card. When you swipe your credit card, you'll earn cash back -- it's that simple. Ensure you're only using a credit card for purchases you can pay in full. This way, you can avoid interest charges. I've been using cash back cards for years and it has been a win for my checking account.

Ready to get rewarded for shopping? Click here to explore our curated list of the top cash back credit cards with big rewards.

3. Strategize when choosing which credit card to use

Not all rewards credit cards earn rewards in the same way. Some credit cards offer flat-rate rewards. When you swipe your card, you earn a flat rate for every purchase you make.

Meanwhile, other credit cards offer bonus rewards in select purchase categories. That means some purchase categories may earn a higher reward rate, but purchases outside those categories earn fewer rewards.

Ensure you're strategic when deciding which credit card (or cards) to use this holiday season. You can maximize your cash rewards by taking a few extra seconds to consider which card will yield the most cash back, depending on your purchase. Every dollar you earn adds up.

4. Review bonus offers from your credit card company

Another way to maximize your rewards potential is by taking advantage of bonus offer opportunities. Some credit card issuers have offers you can activate to earn discounts from participating retailers.

An example is the Chase Offers program. When you activate offers and use your credit card to make an eligible purchase, you can earn a statement credit to your credit card account. Before shopping, review these bonus rewards offers to see if you can save more.

Check out our list of the top Chase credit cards and see the valuable perks they provide.

Get rewarded as you check off your holiday shopping list

Save as much as you can! Finding ways to save more and boost your rewards can make the holiday shopping season less overwhelming. As you draft your shopping list, consider whether you're missing out on cash back rewards opportunities that could be a win for your wallet.