Cash Back: Bing.com

Bing.com might be a new website to you, but the origins of its cashback program date back at least a few years.  The original concept for Bing's shopping "decision" engine was developed by a site known as Jellyfish.com which was purchased by Microsoft just a few years after launch.  Microsoft re-branded the cash back program as MS Live Cashback, and shortly thereafter as Bing Cashback with the launch of its newest search engine.

While relatively new to the cash back scene, Bing still manages to post some of the highest rates around as well as some pretty awesome promotions.  For instance, in August the site offered double cash back, sitewide (for many retailers as high as 50%).  Look at my savings on textbooks from Barnes & Noble alone! A current promotion gives members 25% at DrugStore.com, and Bing has even held 25% cash back promotions on EBay buy-it-now items. It is important to note that Bing doesn't allow the additional use of coupon codes with some merchants, so check with the vendor before trying to jointly use cash back AND a coupon (see my post on Ebates.com, which allows this universally).

Sign-up is free (free Windows Live ID required).  Bing pays your cash back balance on request via check or direct deposit to your bank account.

For those who sniff at cash back sites...here's your wake-up call.

DON'T FORGET!: If your plan is to buy something at your local brick-and-mortar store, see if the merchant has a "for in-store pickup" option on its website (many do).  You'll get all the benefits of a regular store (easy return policy, same-day receipt, etc.) and still get cash back!





Bing Cashback [website]