Upside, formerly GetUpside, is a U.S. app that pays cash back on gas, groceries and restaurant meals at participating locations. It’s run by Upside Services, Inc. of Washington, DC. You claim an offer in the app before you buy, pay with a linked card or upload your receipt, and the cash back lands in your Upside balance. Balances are in real dollars, not points.
At a glance
| What it is | Cash-back app for gas, groceries and dining |
| Country | U.S. |
| Operator | Upside Services, Inc. |
| Gas offers | Typically a few cents to around 25 cents per gallon |
| Cash-out | Bank transfer or gift cards; PayPal reportedly removed |
| Platforms | iPhone and Android only |
How it works
Open the app, check the map for nearby offers, and claim one before you buy. For card offers, pay with the card you linked and the purchase is matched automatically. For receipt offers, photograph your receipt after paying. Cash back appears in your balance once the purchase is confirmed.
Cashing out
Upside’s marketing says there’s no minimum to cash out. Finder reports a $1 fee on bank cash-outs under $10, and that the terms allow a minimum of up to $20. Gift cards are available from $10, according to another review. A 2026 review reports that PayPal is no longer a cash-out option, while earlier 2026 reviews still list it. Check the cash-out screen before you plan around a method.
Common problems
Some purchases don’t match their offer and get stuck in review, and receipts submitted for cash back can take time to clear. Payments in cash, checks, EBT, SNAP or WIC never earn cash back. Using a station’s own rewards card or a branded card can reduce your Upside cash back.
Rules to know
You’re allowed one account. The minimum age is 16, and users under 18 need a parent’s approval, per its terms. Terms also say rewards can expire after six months of inactivity.
What it’s worth
Savings depend on where you live and which stations and stores participate. Drivers who fill up at the same stations and buy groceries at partner stores get the most from it.
Your data
Linking a card lets Upside see purchases at participating locations. Read what the app collects and only link a card you’re comfortable sharing.
Owen’s take
Upside pays real money for purchases you’d make anyway. Let your balance build past the small-amount fee before cashing out, and claim every offer before you pay.
Who it suits
It suits U.S. drivers and shoppers near participating locations. It suits less well people in areas with few partners.
Similar options
- Ibotta pays cash back on groceries.
- Fetch gives points for scanning receipts.
- Rakuten pays cash back on online shopping.
- TopCashback pays cash back on online shopping.
More options are in Fast Money.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Real cash, not points
- Works on gas, groceries and dining
- Automatic matching with a linked card
Cons
- Fee on small bank cash-outs
- PayPal option reportedly removed
- Some purchases get stuck in review
FAQ
How does Upside work?
Claim an offer in the app, pay with your linked card or upload the receipt, and earn cash back.
Is there a minimum to cash out?
Upside advertises none, but there’s a $1 fee on bank cash-outs under $10, per Finder.
Can I cash out to PayPal?
A 2026 review says PayPal was removed; check the cash-out screen.
Where does Upside work?
At participating gas stations, grocery stores and restaurants in the U.S.
Do cash payments earn cash back?
No, only card or eligible purchases count.
