App helps drivers get cash back on gas

Gas prices peaked a couple of weeks ago at prices not seen since 2014, according to AAA. But to offset the cost, some Long Island gas stations are getting savvy when it comes to competing for customers.

"The gas stations don't make out when gas prices are high because people are either buying less gas or using the money they would normally spend in the store towards their gas," said David Jaffe, the owner of three BP gas stations.

While the street sign in Hicksville advertises about $3 per gallon for regular, drivers with the GetUpside app can claim exclusive offers to receive up to 25 cents cash back per gallon.

How does it work? Download the app and find a participating gas station nearest you to see what discount is offered. To claim the deal, upload a picture of your receipt and see the money in your account within 24 hours.

"An average, people are saving about $80 to $100 a year using the app," GetUpside chief operating officer and co-founder Wayne Lin said. "Some of the top users we have, which are professional drivers and people that drive a lot, they save into the $2,000 or $3,000 range a year."

Lin launched the free app in Washington, D.C., in 2016. It's based on an algorithm to provide the gas stations with more customers. In turn, GetUpside takes a percentage of profit generated from each transaction.

"Gas stations love working with us because it offers them a way to directly work with consumers and their customers to give personal offers to bring your business into them," Lin said, "and for you to save some money along the way."

Many drivers we spoke to give it the green light but some are apprehensive about the app. 

Right now, the GetUpside app has about 150 stations on Long Island. The goal is to introduce another 200 to 300 by the end of the year.

"If they have a little change left over from pumping at the pumps, they'll come inside, buy a soda, candy," BP owner Jaffe said, "which is good for us as well as good for the customer."

The app plans to expand service to gas stations in New York City in the coming months.

Fox 5 Traffic Information