Referral codes have become one of the simplest ways to save money—and in some cases, even make a little extra. Whether it’s a discount on your next Uber ride, cashback on online shopping, or free credits for trying out a new service, referral codes benefit both the person sharing and the person using them.

But how do referral codes actually work, which companies offer the best ones in 2025, and why are they so popular? This guide covers everything you need to know about referral codes, along with the best referral programs you can start using right away.

What Are Referral Codes?

A referral code is a unique link or code given to a customer that they can share with friends, family, or followers. When someone uses that code to sign up or make a purchase, both parties benefit.

Think of it as a modern word-of-mouth recommendation—but with a financial incentive built in. Businesses love referrals because they lower advertising costs, and customers love them because they get real, tangible rewards.

Why Businesses Love Referrals

Referral marketing taps into trust. People are far more likely to try something when it’s recommended by someone they know than when it’s pushed through ads. That’s why companies like Uber, Airbnb, and HelloFresh pour so much into their referral programs.

From a brand perspective, it’s cheaper than traditional advertising. From a customer perspective, it feels less like “being sold to” and more like being part of a win-win exchange.

(Related reading: The Future of App-Based Businesses)

The Best Referral Programs in 2025

Here are some of the top referral programs you can use this year, organized by category.

🛒 Shopping & Cashback

  • Rakuten – Perhaps the easiest cashback platform around. With Rakuten, you don’t need to provide your credit card to start saving—just sign up, click through their site, and shop as usual. Even better, their browser extension automatically activates cashback when you visit a participating store, so you never miss a deal. Whether you’re booking a hotel, buying clothes, or ordering from a retailer, Rakuten makes saving completely seamless.
    (Related reading: Smart Ways to Save on Everyday Purchases | Best Apps for Budgeting and Saving in 2025)
  • New users often get a bonus ($30 or more) just for signing up and making their first purchase.
  • Use my referral for Rakuten Canada
  • Use my referral for Rakuten US
  • Amazon Prime (Invite Only) – Some regions offer referral perks like discounts on memberships.

🚗 Travel & Transport

🥗 Lifestyle & Fitness

💳 Finance & Credit

  • Amex Gold – American Express has one of the most lucrative referral programs. You can invite friends to sign up for cards, and both sides earn points. Apply with my Amex referral link.
    (Related reading: Credit Card Rewards 101)
  • Wise – Great for anyone sending money internationally. Their referral program gives discounts on transfer fees, which can save a lot if you regularly send money abroad. It’s the cheapest way to send money abroad. Sign up with my Wise referral link.

💻 Tech & Cloud

How to Maximize Referral Codes

  • Use browser extensions. Services like Rakuten take the guesswork out by notifying you when cashback is available.
  • Stack with promo codes. Some platforms allow referral bonuses to combine with first-time user promotions.
  • Track your referrals. Many apps show you pending rewards, so you can nudge friends if they forget to complete signup.

My Favorite Referral Codes

Here’s a quick recap of the referral codes I personally recommend and use:

Final Thoughts

Referral codes aren’t just a marketing gimmick—they’re a practical way to save money and explore new products or services. Whether you’re signing up for a fitness class through ClassPass, getting cashback with Rakuten, or trying a meal kit from HelloFresh, there’s almost always a referral code that makes it cheaper.

As long as you’re mindful of what you actually need (and avoid signing up just for the sake of a discount), referral codes can become one of the smartest hacks for saving money in 2025.

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