What is cashback, and how does it work?

Cashback is a reward system where the customer gets back a specific percentage of the amount they spend when they go shopping. This can take the form of a credit, credit balance, or points that can be used for future purchases.

Cashback schemes are often offered by credit card providers, banks or stores. They reward customers and encourage loyalty.

If you're thinking about trying out a cashback program, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First of all, it is important to compare different offers. Each program has different terms and percentages that you will receive. Some offer higher amounts back for certain categories such as food or travel, while others offer more general amounts.

Another point to note is how and when you will receive your cashback. Some programs pay out the cashback amount immediately, while others require you to reach a specific amount before it is paid out. Your cashback might take the form of vouchers or discounts. This may be useful for future purchases.

Furthermore, it is always a good idea to read the terms and conditions carefully. There might sometimes be rules or exceptions of which you need to be aware. This way, you can get the most out of your cashback.

If you go shopping frequently, cashback can be a great way to save money.

There are different types of programs, each offering different sets of benefits. Here are some of the most common:

1. Cashback credit card: Many providers such as Visa or American Express offer rewards for purchases. The percentage may vary depending on the category, e.g. 1% for all purchases, 2% for gas stations and 3% for restaurants.
2.  Online shopping portals: Shopping websites offer promotions for purchases made from a variety of online retailers. You sign up, make a purchase through the platform and receive a percentage of the purchase price back.
3. Cashback app: Bonus apps offer discounts on purchases. You simply scan the receipt after you have been shopping and receive cashback. 
4. Gas station discount: Separate apps offer cashback for purchases made at gas stations. You find a participating gas station via the app, fill up, and then get back a percentage of the amount you have spent.
5. Travel cashback: Some programs offer cashback for making travel bookings, e.g. hotels and flights. Well-known travel portals often have such offers.
6. Browser extensions: Browser extensions for shopping services automatically offer bonuses and discounts when you shop online.

BBVA Germany has launched a cashback promotion that can be accessed as soon as you open a free online current account.

New customers who open a BBVA checking account for the first time from June 26, 2025, can get up to €90 back on your purchases during the first 12 months.

The cashback is automatically activated when the BBVA debit card is used for the first time. The first transaction must be completed within 90 days of opening the account. From the first transaction, 3% of your debit card spending will be credited directly to your BBVA checking account – up to a maximum monthly purchase amount of €250.

Therefore, the maximum amount that can be refunded each month is €7.50. The cashback amount will be sent directly to your current account.

The cashback applies to most of the purchases you make using your physical or digital card. The following are excluded from cashback: charges from financial institutions or banks, cryptocurrencies, arcades or betting shops, payments to debt collection agencies, cash withdrawals from ATMs, fees from financial institutions (PayPal etc.).

There are no further restrictions on the type of purchases you can make. Valid purchases include spending in shops, bars, restaurants, supermarkets and in wholesalers.

To benefit from these advantages, it is important to actively use your BBVA debit card. This means that your card is not just a practical means of payment, but also an appealing way to save money.