Upside is free for consumers to use, so you might be wondering: how does Upside make money?

The short answer: Upside makes money when it brings new business to participating retailers, not from charging consumers fees. Businesses use Upside to reach nearby customers and encourage them to shop at their locations. When customers make eligible purchases through Upside, they earn cash back — creating a win-win where businesses grow and consumers earn.

Why do businesses pay for Upside?

Businesses are always looking for ways to attract customers. Instead of spending money on traditional advertising, participating retailers use Upside to connect with people who are deciding where to shop.

When Upside helps bring customers to their locations, retailers share part of that value back as cash back offers.

That means customers get rewarded for purchases they already make, while businesses get an opportunity to grow.

How do I use Upside?

Upside is a cash back app that helps consumers earn on everyday purchases like gas, groceries, and dining.

Here’s how it works:

1. Find nearby offers. Open the app to browse offers at participating gas stations, grocery stores, convenience stores, and restaurants near you.
2. Claim the offer you want. Select the offer that matches where you’re already planning to shop. Claiming the offer lets Upside know which purchase to track.
3. Pay as usual. Shop as you normally would and pay with your usual debit or credit card. There’s no need to change your routine or use a special payment method.
4. Receive cash back after the purchase is verified. Once the transaction is confirmed, cash back is added to your account.

Learn more about how to claim offers and earn cash back in our guide to how Upside works.

Does Upside cost money to use?

No. Upside is free for consumers to download and use.

There are no subscription fees or membership costs — just cash back on everyday purchases you already make.

Does Upside take any fees from my cash back?

No, Upside does not deduct fees from your cash back. The money you earn through Upside is yours. For certain withdrawal methods, we might charge a $1 fee for cash out amounts under $10.

Why do retailers partner with Upside?

Retailers are always looking for ways to reach new customers and encourage visits to their locations. 

Upside gives businesses a way to connect with nearby shoppers who are deciding where to go. Instead of offering a one-size-fits-all discount, retailers can provide personalized cash back offers through Upside.

Start earning with Upside 

Upside is a free app that helps consumers earn cash back on everyday purchases like gas, groceries, and dining. Retailers join Upside to attract more customers, and customers earn cash back in return.

Businesses grow while consumers earn.

Download the app to start earning cash back today