My Real Experience Using KOHO in 2025 —A Simple Financial Tool That’s Helped Me Since 2018
Introduction
If you’ve been following me for a while, you already know I’ve been rebuilding my financial life slowly and gently — one small step at a time. Between being a mom, working, balancing life, and trying to stay consistent with my creative goals, I’ve learned the importance of keeping things simple where I can.
One tool I’ve been using on and off for years is KOHO — the prepaid Visa card and budgeting app made for Canadians.
I actually joined KOHO in 2018, long before it became as popular as it is now. Even when my routines fell apart or life got hectic, KOHO is one of the few financial tools I consistently found myself returning to.
Today, I’m sharing my honest experience — what I love, what I don’t, and how KOHO fits into real life as a mom trying to stay financially grounded.
And yes… the $52 in my KOHO right now is real cash back I earned just from buying everyday things.
What Is KOHO? (Simple Explanation)
KOHO is a Canadian prepaid Visa card + mobile app that works like a modern budget-friendly bank:
Load money → spend → earn cashback Track your spending easily Separate your money from your main bank Avoid credit card interest Enjoy a clean, simple app experience
It’s especially helpful if you want a spending card that doesn’t create debt.
Why I Signed Up (Back in 2018)
I first signed up in 2018 when KOHO was still fairly new. At that time, I wanted:
a way to separate my spending a break from credit card stress control over groceries, gas, and everyday purchases something simple, no fees, no pressure
Over the years, even when life got busy or stressful, KOHO has stayed in my toolkit.
It’s easy, safe, and doesn’t make my financial anxiety worse — which honestly is a blessing.
My Experience Using KOHO (2018–2025)
Here’s how KOHO naturally fit into my real life:
✔️ Kept my spending organized
Loading a set amount kept me accountable without feeling restricted.
✔️ Helped me avoid credit card temptation
No interest, no surprises, no guilt.
(Especially when juggling high CC payments…)
✔️ Let me separate categories
I mainly use it for:
groceries gas household items online shopping (virtual card feels safer)
✔️ Cashback added up quietly
$52 cash back may not seem like much, but it adds up without effort.
✔️ The app makes things simple
Every transaction updates instantly.
No confusing menus.
No surprises.
KOHO isn’t dramatic — it’s just quietly helpful.
What I LOVE About KOHO
1. Cashback on everyday purchases
No hoops to jump through. You just earn as you spend.
2. Great for budgeting
Perfect for anyone who wants spending boundaries without feeling restricted.
3. Virtual card = extra security
I use it for online shopping to protect my main card.
4. Easy to load money in or out
Interac e-Transfer or direct load — both are quick.
5. Helps you avoid debt
Because it’s prepaid, you can’t overspend.
6. Clean, modern, simple app
Perfect for people who get overwhelmed with banking apps.
What I Don’t Love (Honest Review)
1. Cashback varies by store
Some categories give more than others.
2. Not a full bank
You can’t do everything a traditional bank account does.
3. Some premium features cost money
I personally stick with the free plan and it’s enough.
Who KOHO Is Good For
In my opinion, KOHO works best for:
Moms managing multiple expenses Anyone trying to rebuild their finances People trying to reduce credit card use Students Budgeting beginners Those wanting to separate bills from spending Anyone who needs a “safe card” to avoid overdrafts
If you want simplicity and peace of mind, KOHO fits that lifestyle.
Final Thoughts: Is KOHO Worth It?
In my experience — yes.
KOHO won’t magically fix your finances, but it will help you stay organized, mindful, and more in control without pressure.
It’s a small tool that makes a big difference in how I manage everyday spending.
KOHO FAQ
Is KOHO safe?
Yes. KOHO is very safe for everyday spending.
Your money is held with Peoples Trust (a federally regulated institution), and your KOHO card uses Visa’s security network. I’ve personally used KOHO since 2018 without any issues.
Does KOHO help build credit?
Only if you choose one of KOHO’s paid “credit building” options.
The basic free plan does not affect your credit score. If you’re rebuilding your credit, KOHO’s credit-build feature could help — but it’s optional.
Does KOHO charge fees?
The standard KOHO spending account is free.
They do offer paid plans for extra perks (higher cashback, credit building, etc.), but you don’t have to upgrade. I personally stay on the free plan and it works for me.
Is KOHO good for budgeting?
Yes — this is actually where KOHO shines.
Because it’s prepaid, you load only what you want to spend. This helps avoid:
overspending impulse shopping dipping into money meant for bills
It’s one of the reasons I stuck with KOHO since 2018.
Is KOHO legit in 2025?
Absolutely. KOHO has grown a lot since its early days.
It’s widely used across Canada, recommended by many financial creators, and continues to improve its features.
Who is KOHO best for?
Based on my experience:
moms managing household expenses anyone avoiding credit card debt people trying to rebuild their financial habits students those who prefer simple money tools anyone who needs a “safe” spending card separate from their main bank
Who should NOT use KOHO?
KOHO may not be ideal if you need:
A full-service bank overdrafts loans business banking a primary account for all bills and deposits
It’s designed more as a smart spending + budgeting tool, not a replacement for a main bank.
How do you earn cashback with KOHO?
Cashback depends on the category and store.
Some purchases earn more than others, and certain bonuses pop up throughout the year. My $52 in cashback came from just normal day-to-day shopping.
KOHO worth it? (My honest answer)
If you want an easy, stress-free way to manage your spending, keep to a budget, and earn a little cashback — then yes, KOHO is absolutely worth it.
It’s been part of my financial routine since 2018, and it’s still a tool I trust in 2025.
My KOHO Referral Code (If You Want to Try It)
If you’re thinking about signing up, you can use my referral code:
👉 KOHO:https://referral.koho.ca/mzHmOWj Or use this code on sign-up: WH4ZAFB2G7
You’ll get a bonus once you make your first purchase, and I’ll earn a little too , a gentle way to support my blog.
Let’s Talk
Have you tried KOHO before?
Thinking about it?
Share your experience in the comments. I love hearing from people who are also on a journey toward gentler, healthier financial habits.
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