Black Friday, Cyber Monday & Boxing Day Week Deals Guide

A Complete Guide to Using Cashback and Reward Programs on Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Boxing Day Deals

When Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Boxing Day rolls around, millions of shoppers hunt for the best discounts to stretch their budgets. Beyond just snagging doorbuster prices and advertised deals, savvy shoppers know that combining cashback offers and reward programs can unlock even greater savings. This guide will walk you through how to effectively use cashback and reward programs to maximize your holiday shopping deals in 2025 and beyond.

Understanding Cashback and Reward Programs

Cashback and reward programs are incentives that retailers, credit card companies, and third-party platforms offer to encourage spending. While the names are sometimes used interchangeably, they work slightly differently:

  • Cashback: You receive a percentage of your purchase amount returned to you as cash or statement credit. For example, getting 5% cashback on purchases means earning $5 back for every $100 spent.
  • Reward Programs: Instead of direct cash, you earn points, miles, or credits that can be redeemed for discounts, free products, or gift cards.

During major shopping events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Boxing Day, these programs often increase their offers or add special bonuses, making them an essential tool to add on top of advertised sales.

How to Combine Cashback and Rewards with Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals

Stacking deals means layering one type of discount or benefit over another, for example using a cashback card during a store’s sales event. Here's how to do it right:

  • Use Cashback Credit Cards: Many credit cards offer bonus cashback percentages for purchases made at major retailers during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. For example, a card might offer 5% cashback at Walmart or Best Buy when shopping on these days. Make sure to check your card’s terms and activate any necessary promotions in advance.
  • Shop Through Cashback Portals: Websites like Rakuten, TopCashback, or Honey often provide additional cashback percentages if you start your shopping session through their links. This can be an excellent way to add 2-10% cashback on top of the Black Friday deals you find at stores like Kohl’s, Amazon, or Target.
  • Leverage Retailer Loyalty Programs: Stores like Kohl’s and Best Buy run reward schemes that give points or credits on purchases. These points can often be redeemed immediately or saved for future discounts. Signing up before the shopping event ensures you don’t miss out on these benefits.
  • Pay Attention to Special Boxing Day Sales: Boxing Day, particularly popular in Canada and the UK, features its own set of deals. Many retailers offer exclusive cashback or reward bonuses during this time as well. Combining Boxing Day sales with your reward points or cashback card offers can extend savings beyond the typical Black Friday and Cyber Monday frenzy.

Tips for Tracking and Redeeming Cashback and Rewards Efficiently

Successfully stacking cashback and rewards requires careful tracking and timing. Here are key tips to keep your savings on track:

  • Keep a Dedicated List: Maintain a list of your cashback portals, credit card offers, and retailer programs. Note any deadlines for activating offers or limits on cashback categories.
  • Check for Exclusions: Some deals might exclude certain product categories or only apply to online or in-store purchases. Read the fine print on Black Friday ads and Cyber Monday deals to avoid surprises.
  • Wait for Cashback Confirmation: Cashback earnings often take a few days to weeks to appear in your account. Save receipts and confirmation emails to reconcile if needed.
  • Redeem Rewards Promptly: Some retailer points or rewards may expire after a certain period. Plan your Boxing Day or post-holiday shopping around these expirations to squeeze out extra value.

Popular Cashback and Reward Programs to Watch for in 2025

While offers vary each year, here are some programs that historically deliver solid value during the holiday shopping season:

  • Credit Card Bonuses: Cards like the Chase Freedom Flex, Discover it, and Citi Double Cash often boost cashback on retail spending during Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
  • Rakuten and TopCashback: These portals frequently add limited-time bonuses for major retailers, including Walmart Black Friday deals and Amazon Cyber Monday deals.
  • Kohl’s Yes2You Rewards: Kohl’s often runs special promotions during Black Friday week where you earn extra points per dollar spent, which can translate into Kohl’s Cash for future purchases.
  • Best Buy My Best Buy Program: Members may gain early access to deals plus reward points during Black Friday and Cyber Monday events.
  • Amazon Prime Rewards: Amazon Prime members sometimes get exclusive cashback or credit offers paired with Cyber Monday sales.

Final Thoughts: Planning Your Cashback and Rewards Strategy for Maximum Holiday Savings

Holiday shopping deals on Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Boxing Day are about more than just the sticker price. By strategically using cashback and reward programs, you can multiply your savings and get a better return on your spending. Start by researching your available cards and reward memberships well ahead of the shopping season. Set reminders to activate time-sensitive offers and always shop through cashback portals when possible.

With this approach, you can confidently shop for everything on your holiday list—from the latest Nintendo Switch Black Friday deals to home essentials at Home Depot Black Friday sales—knowing you’ve locked in every possible dollar back. Happy shopping and saving in 2025!