Cashback programs can help you save money when shopping online, but not all are the same. ShopSmarter claims you can earn cashback at most major stores. The key question is: Is ShopSmarter real and worth your money, or is it just hype? This detailed review explains how it works, how much you can actually earn, and whether the monthly fee is reasonable.
Table of Contents
What Is ShopSmarter?
ShopSmarter is a cashback website for online shoppers in the U.S. and Canada. It partners with over 1,000 online stores and offers 10% cashback to customers when they make purchases through their site. The service is legitimate and pays its members. Being real doesn’t automatically make it useful. You need to weigh its functionality against its biggest downside: an annual membership fee.
How ShopSmarter Works
ShopSmarter is a cashback shopping service only. It doesn’t include surveys, games, or other activities. Once you sign up, go to the member dashboard and browse partner stores. Clicking on a store link in ShopSmarter allows you to shop as you normally would. You earn cashback based on the order subtotal, excluding taxes, shipping costs, and fees.
If you use coupons or discounts, cashback is calculated based on the lower amount. There’s no need to submit receipts. Purchases are tracked once you start your shopping session with ShopSmarter, and cashback is credited to your account after the store’s return period ends.
Most shoppers will find eligible deals among thousands of stores with reputable brands. The 10% cashback rate is competitive among cashback sites, but the monthly membership fee affects your overall rates.
Payouts and Payment Methods
ShopSmarter pays automatically on the 15th of the month following your purchase. No minimum balance is required to get paid.
You can choose between:
- Fast and convenient PayPal.
- Slower, less practical check by mail.
The option for automatic PayPal payments is a plus; most other sites require you to request a payout and set a minimum threshold.
Earning Potential (And the Membership Fee Issue)
Here’s where it gets tricky. ShopSmarter costs $12.97 a month (price at the last check; this may change). With a 10% cashback rate, you need to spend about $130 monthly just to cover the fee. You only start to profit if you spend more.
This calculation suggests:
- Heavy online shoppers spending over $130 per month might benefit.
- Average or occasional shoppers will likely lose money or break even.
The free version of ShopSmarter offers the same 10% cashback, making it appealing. However, with a recurring fee, earning potential drops compared to free options like Rakuten or TopCashback.
Mobile User Experience and Access
ShopSmarter doesn’t have a mobile app, but its website is mobile-friendly. It allows easy browsing, shopping, and logging in on phones and tablets. Its clean, ad-free interface makes shopping easy whether at home or on the go.
Qualification and Sign-Up
ShopSmarter is only available in the U.S. and Canada. If you visit from outside these countries, the join button won’t be visible.
To sign up:
- Complete the online registration form.
- Enter payment information for the membership fee (credit or debit card).
- You can start with a 7-day free trial and cancel before billing to avoid charges.
- Once registered, you can shop immediately and start earning cashback.
Customer Support
ShopSmarter excels in customer service:
- The FAQ page answers common questions.
- A contact form and 24/7 hotline are available for account or payment issues.
- Response times are quick and helpful, which is encouraging if you need assistance.
Pros and Cons of ShopSmarter
Pros
Large network with thousands of stores.
10% cashback on all purchases.
Payments via PayPal or check.
No payout limit; monthly payments.
Cons
$12.97 monthly fee cuts into profits.
You need to spend about $130 per month just to break even.
No dedicated mobile app (mobile site works fine).
Only available in the U.S. and Canada.
Conclusion: Should You Join ShopSmarter?
ShopSmarter is a legitimate cashback site. Its automatic PayPal payouts and 10% cashback are good features. However, the mandatory monthly fee is a major drawback. Unless you’re a big spender over $130 monthly you probably won’t make enough to cover that cost.
Free cashback sites like Rakuten, TopCashback, or Honey offer better savings without subscription fees. If you’re just looking for easy ways to save money, these free options or reputable survey and GPT sites that pay cash without spending upfront can be better choices.
Bottom Line:
Legitimacy: Confirmed, ShopSmarter pays as promised.
Profitability: Only suitable for frequent, high-volume online shoppers.
Advice: For most users, ignore the fee and stick with free cashback services.
