Cost of cashback

 Title: The Cost of Cashback: A Reflection on Greed Disguised as Gain

By Sugyan Nanda

In a world increasingly driven by digital payments and marketing gimmicks, cashback offers have emerged as a new temptation. The idea is simple and catchy: spend a certain amount, and you’ll get a small percentage back. It seems like a win-win — but lately, I’ve realized that this so-called "gain" is silently draining my wallet, and more importantly, my sense of control.

I started using cashback schemes with the mindset of saving money. After all, if I was going to spend anyway, why not earn something back? But over time, I found myself spending just to get cashback, not because I needed to. I was transferring money unnecessarily, making purchases I didn't need, all in the hope of earning a small reward. The worst part? Often, the cashback amount I received didn’t even match the hype that pulled me in.

It became a habit — one that seemed harmless but was financially and psychologically harmful. What was I truly gaining? A few rupees here and there, but at the cost of spending much more than necessary. I realized I wasn’t saving money. I was wasting it, just more subtly. Cashback offers didn’t make me richer — they only made me greedier.

Even my elder brother noticed. He once stopped me and asked, “What’s this greed of yours for cashback?” His words hit me hard. It wasn’t just about the money anymore — it was about the mindset I had allowed myself to slip into. A mindset of chasing illusions. That one line made me question: Was I becoming the kind of person who risks ₹100 just to earn ₹10?

This is where many of us get caught: confusing value with illusion. The cashback ecosystem is built on the psychology of reward. It feels like a bonus, a treat, a smart financial move. But the truth is, unless cashback is coming from genuine, essential transactions, it's a clever marketing trap. The greed for a few rupees back makes us blind to how much we’re actually losing.

It’s time we redefine what real value means. Saving money doesn’t come from getting a few coins back after overspending — it comes from thoughtful spending, financial discipline, and resisting unnecessary temptations. There’s no harm in earning cashback — but only if it’s on top of mindful spending, not as an excuse to spend.

Today, I’m trying to step back from this mindset. I’ve started asking myself before every cashback offer: “Would I still spend this money if there were no reward?” If the answer is no, I don’t proceed. Because now, I understand that my peace of mind and financial security are worth far more than any flashy cashback deal.

Spend based on need...