You’ve probably heard the ads. In fact, I’m pretty sure we have them on Q105. I will tell you now that this review is not biased because of that. I downloaded the Upside app about 6 months ago and after using it occasionally, here are my thoughts.
Does it really work?
Yes. You really do get money back from gas station and restaurant visits.
Does it work for the gas station you go to?
Maybe. You have to check the app. Not all gas stations participate. The app will give you a list of nearby stations that participate along with the amount you’ll get credited to your account. If you have a membership to a club like Sam’s or Costco, you probably won’t use the Upside app much. But if you pay full price for gas, it can save you some money.
How much off a gallon of gas do you get?
I’ve seen offers as low as 5 cents a gallon off and as much as about 25 cents a gallon. Once you take into account the regular price the gas station charges and the discount, they all come out to around the same final cost per gallon honestly.
Do you get a lot of money back?
Not really. To me, it’s just enough to keep it on my phone. But don’t assume you’re going to get everything for free. You won’t. You get about 5 to 10% off most things at restaurants or dime or so off a gallon of gas. I don’t use it every time I fill up. But it does add up eventually.
What kind of restaurants give you money back?
It’s usually locally-owned places that I’d imagine are trying to attract new business. You won’t see a lot of big chain restaurants. For example, there’s a deli sandwich shop near Q105 where I go often and they give you 7% cash back… which pretty much means it covers the tip. Little Greek is another favorite of mine that gives customers a discount via the app.
Do you have to give them your bank account info?
No. That was my big concern. You can instead choose to get gift cards to places like Amazon or Target. But you get more flexibility on when you can cash out if you do decide to let them connect to your bank account.
Is it worth the effort?
If you’re rich, no. If you’re not, it’s worth at least having on your phone. It’s free. Even if you don’t use it often, if you’re in a part of town you’re unfamiliar with and need to fill up, this can save you a buck or two. Do that once a week and it could add up to about $100 a year.