Save more, spend smarter: A senior’s guide to safe shopping apps

Rising costs hitting your budget? You're not alone. With more older adults now using smartphones than ever before, many are discovering that the device in their pocket can be a powerful money-saving tool. Older adults commonly access shopping apps and many are already familiar with online shopping, enjoying its convenience.

But before you dive into downloading deals, let's talk safety.

Phishing accounts for 80% of all internet security incidents, and shopping apps can be prime targets for scammers.

The good news? With the right approach, you can enjoy significant savings while keeping your information secure.

Start with safety first

Think of your smartphone like your wallet—you wouldn't hand it to a stranger, and the same caution applies to apps.

Research shows that difficult interface comprehension and time-consuming data entry are major reasons seniors stop using apps, so we'll focus on options that are both safe and user-friendly.

Before installing any app, check its rating in your phone's app store and read recent reviews.

Look for apps from established companies you recognize, and avoid anything with consistently poor ratings or complaints about customer service.

Also read: Are you missing out? Discover the best grocery receipt scanning apps to beat inflation and save big!

The money-saving apps that actually work

The easiest starters: Rakuten and Capital One Shopping

If you're new to money-saving apps, these two offer the smoothest experience.

Rakuten partners with about 3,500 retailers and offers up to 10% cash back on purchases.

Simply start your shopping session in the app or use its browser extension, and it automatically applies discounts.

What makes Rakuten senior-friendly: It works both online and in-store, has a generous referral program, and sends "Big Fat Check" payouts quarterly—no complicated point systems to track.

Capital One Shopping automatically hunts for better prices and coupon codes.

You don't need a Capital One account, and it works with major retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart.

The standout feature is its watchlist that alerts you when items drop in price.

Also read: Could online grocery shopping be the secret to healthier eating and saving money? Here's what new research says

The grocery specialists: Ibotta and apps that pay you back

Ibotta focuses on groceries and household items—perfect if you're looking to trim your weekly shopping bill.

Browse offers in the app, add them to your list, then submit a receipt or shop with a linked loyalty card to earn rewards.

The planning-ahead requirement works well for organized shoppers, and it partners with major chains like Walmart, Target, and Whole Foods.

Cash out after reaching $20 to PayPal or via gift cards.

Also read: Smart ways to save more on holiday shopping this year

Apps to approach with extra caution

Some apps in the original list require sharing more personal information than others.

Pogo, for example, pays users to share location and purchase data through linked bank accounts and credit cards.

Many apps track your location even when they're not in use, which could reveal your daily routines to advertisers.

Which apps offer the best customer support?

Research indicates that seniors value good customer support, as difficult interfaces and poor service cause many to stop using apps. Here's what to expect:

Strong support: Rakuten and Capital One Shopping offer multiple contact methods including phone support during business hours.

Limited support: Honey, Coupert, and Shopkick rely primarily on email support and FAQ sections, which can mean longer wait times for help.

Avoid entirely: Any app without clear contact information or customer service options listed in their app store description.

Beyond the basics: Advanced money-saving strategies

Stack your savings safely

You can often combine a coupon app like Capital One Shopping with a cash-back portal like Rakuten for double savings.

Just make sure you're not violating any terms of service—legitimate apps will allow this, while sketchy ones might have fine print prohibiting it.

Also read: Privacy warning: These popular apps may be tracking you right now

Seasonal opportunities worth watching

Many apps run limited-time promotions with higher cash-back rates.

Rakuten's double cash-back weeks and Groupon's flash sales can offer significant savings, but stick to retailers you know and trust.

The referral game—but play it smart

Apps like Drop and Rakuten offer bonuses for referring friends, but be selective.

Only recommend apps you've used successfully yourself, and never pressure friends or family to sign up.

Warning signs that should make you pause

Not every "money-saving" app is legitimate. Be especially wary of:

• Apps promising guaranteed income or "easy money"
• Requests for upfront fees or payments
• Apps that won't work unless you provide extensive personal information
• Pressure to recruit friends or family members
• Apps with no clear business model explaining how they make money

Getting started: Your first week plan

Day 1-2: Choose one app to start with (Rakuten or Capital One Shopping are good options)

Day 3: Install the app and set up your account using a strong, unique password

Day 4-5: Try the app with a small purchase from a retailer you know

Day 6-7: Check that your cash back or savings appeared as expected

Don't rush to install multiple apps at once. Master one before moving to the next.

When things go wrong: Getting help and reporting problems

Even legitimate apps sometimes have technical issues or payment delays.

Keep records of your transactions and screenshots of any problems.

Most apps have a help section with common solutions, but don't hesitate to contact customer service if something seems off.

For serious issues like unauthorized charges or suspected fraud, contact your bank immediately and consider reporting the problem to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Read next:

• One ChatGPT thrift shopping secret could save retirees over $100 a month
• The 7 digital skills every senior should know to stay safer and more independent
• Still paying for these hidden subscriptions? They could be draining $276 a year

Key Takeaways

• More older adults are turning to smartphone apps to save money, with 61% of adults 65+ now using mobile devices regularly.
• Safety should come first—avoid apps that request unnecessary permissions or make unrealistic promises about earnings.
• Trusted options like Rakuten, Capital One Shopping, and Ibotta help users save without requiring sensitive data sharing.
• Always review permissions, read recent reviews, and monitor bank statements for unauthorized charges.

What's your biggest concern about using money-saving apps? Have you tried any of these before, or do you have questions about getting started safely? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!