Spider-Man said it best when he said: “with great power comes great responsibility.” We have some of the most powerful tools in history at our fingertips and in our pockets, waiting to be utilized and make our lives better. The best rewards programs offer you, the customer, rebates, rewards, and other perks for your loyalty. They’re all incredibly easy to use as well, with some requiring you to do nothing but shop.

Plenti

Plenti is a plan launched a couple of years ago by American Express. You simply shop like you normally would and earn points. For every 1,000 points you accumulate, you’re rewarded with $10. Pretty easy huh? The best part is that it includes shopping at places like AT&T and Rite Aid, places you’ll probably end up spending money whether you want to or not, so you might as well put some of that scratch to work for you.

Perka

Perka is probably one of the most basic rewards programs, but it’s nice and convenient. Remember that punch card you used to get at the sub shop or deli? Punch the card ten times and get a free something-or-other? This is basically the same, but all of your punch cards are in one place. You’ll never miss out on your free sandwich again!

Shopkick

With Shopkick, the rewards come in the form of gift cards. It’s not quite as convenient, but it is easy. You earn points, or “Kicks,” for items you buy, stores you enter, or even items you’re just curious about. The app analyzes your habits and rewards you for participation. Kicks are then exchanged for gift cards. If you’re a Starbucks regular or a Best Buy junky, these can come in pretty handy.

Belly

Belly is one of the more popular programs on the list, and it couldn’t be easier. You simply swipe a card or your phone to check in at a business. You accumulate points when you frequent the participating merchants just like that. It’s definitely one of the best rewards programs, if not the absolute best. 

Amazon Prime

Not exactly one of the best rewards programs per se, but Amazon Prime has some pretty sweet benefits for saving money. The free shipping, for one, is pretty nice. You also sign up for a yearly subscription which, as long as you don’t forget about it, is a nice way to ease your monthly bills. You can also schedule delivery of certain items, so they won’t sneak up on you and upset the rest of your budget. It’s worth looking into if you’re feeling modern and thrifty.

LoyalTap

LoyalTap is one of the best rewards programs for local community business. It brings areas together and lets separate merchants work for you. They promote shopping at each other's businesses, and you’re rewarded for the experience. What could be better? 

Rewards programs like these are a great way to save money and even get some free stuff. Be careful to keep track of what you’re signing up for, and don’t forget to use them at your favorite shops to reap some pretty awesome benefits.