Do I need to checkout with Hello Clever to be eligible for Instant Cashback?

Eligible Cashback stores.

Yes, you must pay using Hello Clever at online stores to earn Instant Cashback. Look for stores with the ⚡️ symbol in the Hello Clever app to see which qualify. 

There are other stores in the Hello Clever app without this symbol where you can still earn Cashback. You do not need to pay with Hello Clever at these stores but your Cashback will take longer to arrive.