I don't know about you, but I do a decent portion of my shopping on the Internet.  I guess it's because I have weird hours and can't make it to the stores.

I recently came across the site Ebates.  I know it's been around for a few years, but I didn't really consider using it before.

Ebates is a website that gives you money back just for shopping online.  It gets commission from companies for referring you to their site.  Then you get a portion of that commission.  It's pretty cool because there are a lot of retailers that work with Ebates.

After three months, you'll get what Ebates calls a "big fat check."  You have to have more than $5.01 in rebates to get a check.  If you don't meet that criteria, then your money will be held until the next period.

I was skeptical because I had read some mixed reviews, but since I was already spending the money, I gave it a shot.  And low and behold, I got my first check in the mail this week.

Another cool thing is that you can get your payment in the form of a check, a credit in Paypal or a donation to your favorite charity.  I like getting a real-life check because it's just more fun to feel like I'm getting paid.

I'm going to talk a little more about Ebates today on WECT News at 6... you'll get to see how it actually works.  You'll also hear from Southern Savers founder Jenny... about all the great deals at the grocery store this week on Fox Wilmington News at 6:30.  We'll tell you why we can thank a little football game for giving us big savings!  Keep following on Facebook to see what's coming next!  And ask your questions about money, too!