Key points:

• If you prefer to do your shopping online, you're not alone.
• There are steps you can take to maximize discounts and earn more rewards when placing an online order.
• Remember to compare prices, use a cash back app, and seek out coupon codes.

In today's busy world, it can be convenient to shop online. There's no need to sit in traffic or deal with crowds of people and long lines at the store. Instead, you can buy what you want quickly, and it'll arrive at your doorstep.

If you're into saving money, finding ways to maximize your savings potential when placing orders online is beneficial. Do you want to keep more money in your pocket without giving up your online shopping habit? Follow these steps to save more money and earn rewards.

1. Compare prices

Before placing an order online, you may want to compare prices at similar retailers. You may find a lower price elsewhere. Browser extensions like Capital One Shopping make it easy to compare prices before you buy. If you're making an expensive purchase, this is one easy way to save a significant amount of money.

2. Time your buy to score a better deal

If you have a purchase coming up that isn't timely, it may pay to wait to shop. If possible, time your purchase to take advantage of a sale. If you can shop during Black Friday or Prime Day, you can keep more money in your bank account and still get what you need.

3. Use a cash back app or browser extension to earn cash back rewards

Before loading up your cart, don't forget to check to see if you can earn cash back through a browser extension or by using cash back apps. These apps feature partnerships with many popular retailers, so it's a great way to get rewarded for doing the shopping you already plan to do.

4. Next, you should check if the retailer you're shopping with has promo codes available. Coupon apps can help you score extra discounts when shopping online. Since all you'll have to do is copy and paste a code before checking out, it's a simple way to save money.

5. Pay with a rewards credit card

Finally, don't forget to pay with a rewards credit card. You can earn rewards when shopping by using a card that earns rewards points or miles or cash back. Over time, your earnings will add up. Before entering your payment details, consider which card will offer the most rewards.

How I saved $40 and earned $8 in rewards on a recent purchase

Recently, I used the above methods to save money and earn rewards.

I purchased a $200 item and used a 20% off promo code that the retailer offered. Doing this allowed me to get the same product for a discounted price of $160 -- which is a great deal!

I also used the Rakuten browser extension to earn $6.40 in cash back. Finally, I used a rewards credit card to pay for my order and earned $1.60 in rewards.

By taking these steps, I got a $40 discount and earned $8 back in rewards. I consider that a win for my wallet.

Shopping online doesn't have to be a bad thing. If you prefer to shop in your pajamas, that's okay. If you're working towards personal finance goals, keep your budget in mind to avoid going into debt on your shopping.

Going through the above checklist can also be worthwhile to ensure you're not missing out on valuable discounts and rewards. Make a game out of it by taking the proper steps to maximize discounts and rewards instead of beating yourself up for spending money.

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