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A lot of apps that claim to save consumers money end up being a useless waste of space. That said, penny-pinching Redditors claim that these five free apps — all of which received numerous votes of approval — will truly help you save a few bucks. And don't worry. We can (almost) guarantee that you haven't heard of at least one of these programs, so you're bound to learn something new.
Related: Frugal Redditors Are in Love With This Money-Saving Recipe App
Free on the App Store and Google Play
Libby is helping public libraries go digital. Using a library card and the free app, users can borrow e-books, audiobooks, magazines, and more — directly on their phones. Over 90% of public libraries in the U.S. have Libby, so there's a high chance your local branch offers this service. When in doubt, ask your librarian, or search for participating locations here.
Related: 9 Memberships That Actually Save You Money, According to Redditors
Free on the App Store and Google Play
Get cash back on purchases from Lowe's, Dominos, REI, and other popular retailers and food chains with iBotta. All you have to do is select the store you'd like to shop from via the iBotta app, and it will calculate your cash back earnings. One Redditor says they save around $20 to $50 a month when they combine the app with online sales.
Related: Tight Grocery Budget? Redditors Say This App Is a ‘Tremendous Help’
Free on the App Store and Google Play
Like iBotta, Rakuten earns a commission — which it then shares with users — for sending buyers to retailers through its app. Sam's Club, Walmart, Macy's, and Glossier are just a few of the companies available on the platform, making it a great choice for everyday purchases or for holiday shopping, as one Redditor suggests.
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Free on the App Store and Google Play
GasBuddy makes it easier for drivers to find the most budget-friendly gasoline by pinpointing the cheapest nearby gas stations. The app also offers a trip planner and a free GasBuddy card, which can save users up to 25 cents per gallon on their fuel purchases. However, you should know that Gasbuddy has received criticism for how it sells user data.
Free on the App Store and Google Play
Flipp updates what might seem like an antiquated practice: couponing. The free app lets you browse weekly ads, search for items on sale, and add coupons directly to your store's loyalty card. "I use Flipp to see weekly grocery ads in one place and to watch for sales on things I can stock up on," one commenter writes.
