INDIANAPOLIS — Gas prices are a pain at the pump right now. According to AAA, the average price per gallon in Indiana is $2.99.
But there are ways to avoid paying list price for gas with phone apps and rewards programs.
Saving with phone apps
Saving a buck is important to Katie Beardslee.
"I was raised kind of that way — to stretch every dollar that you can," Beardlee said.
And regularly filling up a truck adds up quick. That's why Beardslee downloaded the app GetUpside.
"It just takes a couple extra seconds out of your day, but you can really save in the long run."
Participating gas stations offer users a special price lower than what's on the sign. Before filling up, users click the offer on their phone and have four hours to fill up.
The GetUpside app shows discounts of up to 28 cents per gallon, but Beardslee said her savings are usually closer to ten cents a gallon.
"Over the course of the year and a half, I've made back about $250."
App users can be paid via check, electronic payment or gift cards. Beardslee prefers gift cards, so that her Friday morning coffees don't come out of her regular budget.
Brian Kinard prefers the GasBuddy app.
"I've been using it for about, I say, close to three years," Kinard said.
GasBuddy works a little differently. It's a free card that members link to their checking account. Instead of getting cash back, members get the discounted price upfront. Like GetUpside, app users need to claim the offer on their phone prior to filling up.
"I saved this year alone $80," Kinard said.
Gas station owners previously said that they participate in app savings programs like these because of the foot traffic they bring to their convenience stores.
Loyalty programs
Kroger offers fuel points, earned by shopping for groceries, prescriptions, or gift cards.
Then, when you get to the pump, scan your Kroger shopper's card to redeem them. Keep in mind, the points expire. Balances can be found online or on a recent receipt.
There are other loyalty programs, but the goal is to narrow down your needs. Do you prefer to shop around, or go to one place?
Also, factor in what information you are comfortable offering in exchange for savings.