Microsoft’s Cashback program, once a clunky afterthought for Bing users, has evolved into a surprisingly effective way to recoup a meaningful chunk of change on online purchases—no extra steps required.
The service, now integrated with Microsoft Rewards, automatically applies rebates (up to 32% in some cases) to qualifying purchases made through Bing. Unlike past iterations, users no longer need a PayPal account; instead, they can redeem cash back as Amazon gift cards, adding a layer of convenience that was previously missing.
For tech and privacy-conscious buyers, the program’s most compelling feature might be its support for VPN providers like NordVPN. A recent purchase of a $60 annual subscription yielded a $28 rebate—nearly half the cost—simply by using Bing as the search engine before checkout. Similar deals apply to other categories, including flowers, electronics, and groceries, with some retailers offering up to 12% back on select purchases.
The rebate game has changed
Cashback isn’t new—it’s been around in various forms since the early 2000s—but its ease of use has improved dramatically. The program now works seamlessly in the background, requiring only a Microsoft account and active Rewards membership. There’s no need to enter promo codes or manually trigger rebates; the system detects eligible purchases automatically.
While Amazon itself doesn’t participate, major retailers like Best Buy (8% back) and Walmart (a flat $8 rebate) are included, along with niche services like Instacart, which offers up to 12% back for new users. The catch? Processing takes 30 to 90 days to prevent fraud, but the redemption options—PayPal or Amazon gift cards—make the wait worthwhile for many.
Why it matters now
The real value lies in stacking rebates with existing credit card rewards. For example, a NordVPN purchase could net a discount from the provider itself, cash back from a credit card, and an additional rebate from Microsoft—effectively turning a $60 expense into a $32 effective cost. Even smaller rebates add up over time, particularly for frequent online shoppers.
Microsoft isn’t the only player in the cashback space, but its integration with Bing and Edge—along with the flexibility of Amazon gift cards—sets it apart. The program’s low effort requirement makes it an easy win for users who already rely on Microsoft’s ecosystem.
For those hesitant to try it, the worst-case scenario is minimal: a few extra clicks to confirm Cashback is active before checkout. For others, it’s a no-brainer way to squeeze extra value out of everyday purchases.
