Do you feel like your online shopping sprees are no longer rewarding? Fed up with those tiny cashback returns from credit cards that barely make a dent?
That is why you need to check out Rakuten cash back. The savings are massive!
I’ve shifted all my shopping through Rakuten, where I’m pocketing cashback from a sweet 2.5% to an incredible 20%+ on every purchase!
Think about your monthly spending on the latest fashion, chic home decor, or even your food haul. Those expenses could turn into hundreds in savings.
Imagine beefing up your rainy-day fund with that. Or, what about jetting off on a dream vacation this year with the extra savings? Don’t let another checkout go by without reaping the rewards.
Jump on the Rakuten cashback train and picture yourself flicking through hot deals, with the sun warming your skin and the ocean breeze in your hair! 🌴
And if you’re on the fence about signing up or wondering how to get started – I got your back. I’ve crafted an easy and simple guide to walk you through it, right below:
How Does It Work?
Rakuten is a cash-back and shopping rewards website.
You shop through their links to various online stores, and in return, you get a percentage of your purchase back as cash or points.
They partner with a ton of retailers, so you’ve got plenty of choices. They often have extra deals and coupons.
It’s pretty straightforward, you just need to remember to use their portal when you’re shopping online to earn the rewards.
My Rakuten Rating
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
User Ratings: 4.8 on Apple & 3.7 on Android
Legit? Yes, verified company and payouts.
Company Info: Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Founded February 7, 1997. More Info here.
Visit them here: www.rakuten.com
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means I do receive compensation if you purchase or register through them. This is an article for your entertainment and knowledge.
Want to skip ahead? Check out how it works step-by-step here.
What is Rakuten Cash Back?
Rakuten is going to be your new best friend this year.
It’s really as simple as Rakuten putting cash back in your pocket every time you make a purchase online. Just like a credit card, but without the ridiculously low cash back percentages.
What’s the catch?
Nothing, just sign up and browse their thousands of partnership deals for something you already shop for!
Already convinced? Sign up through my affiliate link here! And can earn $30+ for every friend you refer!
Reasons You Need to Know How Cash Back Works
Cash back is a solid strategy for finding fresh ways to save cash. Given the rough economy and climbing inflation, it’s more than smart to expand your shopping horizons beyond Amazon and Walmart!
Here’s why cash back rewards are a game-changer:
- It maximizes your savings on purchases you were going to make anyway.
- Over time, these savings add up, allowing you to reallocate funds to other needs or wants like vacations or a new car.
- It encourages you to be financially savvy, enhancing your budgeting and spending habits.
Being aware of cash back deals can steer you towards smarter purchasing decisions, where you get more value for your money!
Step-by-Step Instructions on How Rakuten Cash Back Works
Below, I outlined step-by-step instructions for you to start saving some money.
Step 1: Download The Rakuten App or Signup Online
This one is pretty self-explanatory.
Sign up via their website or I recommend downloading their apps below:
They are also offering $10 for new users, so definitely jump on this quickly!
Step 2: Browse Rakuten Cash Back Partners
Take this scenario: you’re eyeing some kitchen knives at Macy’s, where they’re giving 10% cash back on those, plus cashback on 39 other deals.
The cool thing is, that these rewards often combine with other discounts, like additional coupons or email signup offers, so you end up saving even more!
Step 3: Order Your Items
Let’s say I bought a set of knives for $148. I’ll get $13.93 back in cashback.
This is calculated before adding shipping and estimated tax.
Now, if you compare this to what you’d earn with a credit card cashback, say $1.39, it’s clear that shopping through Rakuten is way more beneficial.
Here’s is my real-life example: I ordered Estee Lauder for my girlfriend and here’s the cashback I received from that purchase:
Step 4: Wait For Cash Back
The challenging part with Rakuten is the wait time for your cashback, which can be up to 90 days. That’s a bit of a downside since it takes a while, but it’s worth it in the end.
For instance, I bought a cool gaming chair from Dell for $324.74 and I’m still waiting for my 5% cashback.
Step 5: Refer Friends
While you’re waiting for your Rakuten cash back, it’s the perfect opportunity to refer friends to the platform.
You can earn an extra $30 for each person you refer.
If you have a partner, that’s an easy $30 right there! Or some friends? Sign them up!
Step 6: Cash In Your First Big Check!
Yes, it actually arrives in your mailbox, which is pretty awesome! (if you can’t wait Paypal is an option too).
Take a look at my first check from just signing up and referring my girlfriend:
And here’s proof of it being deposited into my Chase bank account.
Things To Consider For Successfully Claiming Rakuten Cash Back
Earning cash back is pretty straightforward as you can see but remember not every purchase will earn you rewards.
It’s important to read the fine print to avoid future frustrations. Also, be aware that combining certain offers might disqualify you from earning cash back.
It’s important to shop wisely and do some research before making a purchase.
Check out for example Groupon’s rules below. If you have a gift card or use a third party to purchase. You are out of luck with your cash back!
Taking it to the Next Level: How to Make Rakuten Cash Back Sustainable
To really maximize your cash back rewards, there are a few key strategies to remember.
First, you need to actively look for deals and use the app regularly. If you don’t, you might miss out on higher cash back percentages.
Most importantly, keep a list of items you purchase frequently and check Rakuten to see if you can get cash back on them. Whether it’s clothes, cleaning products, or dining out, you can save a substantial amount each month.
And when you do save that money, be smart and reinvest it in yourself. Remember, the goal is to use that saved money effectively, not just spend it on a whim!
Alternatives to Rakuten Cash Back
With so many apps and websites offering similar cash back services, it can be tricky to choose the right one.
As someone who’s pretty experienced in this area, I’ve compiled my top recommendations to help you get started.
And if you’re specifically looking for an alternative that caters more to in-store shopping and offers cash back, take a look at my comparison with Ibotta. It’s another great cash back app, but with some differences that might better suit your shopping style.
Wrapping Up and My Experience With Rakuten Cash Back
I discovered Rakuten when I was at a conference in San Francisco and saw their huge logo on a building, which initially piqued my interest enough to download the app. At first, I thought it was similar to Swagbucks, but I quickly fell for how straightforward and legitimate the shopping experience was.
I was so convinced of its benefits that I even got my girlfriend to download it using my referral code. Now, she actually shops more than I do on the app!
Just look at the rewards she’s racking up – that’s a lot of money that would’ve been missed out on without the app!
I highly recommend this app to anyone looking to start saving money or just getting into financial literacy. It might seem daunting to begin budgeting or exploring investments, but Rakuten is so user-friendly that even my parents can use it easily.
And who wouldn’t want to save on things they’re already buying? If you’re keen to start your cash back journey, I suggest giving Rakuten a try – I back it 100%.
FAQ On Rakuten Cash Back
Here are some common questions on Rakuten Cash Back.
What is the Rakuten Cash Back Limit?
There is no limit, but if you make any purchase over $500, Rakuten will be quite strict on valuing the cash back allowance.
What is the Rakuten Cash Back Extension?
It’s a Chrome extension you can download here, easy to use while you are shopping online!
Which Rakuten Cash Back Stores Can I Shop?
There are over 3,500 hundred stores you can dip into, so there is no excuse for you to save more money using Rakuten!
What is My Rakuten Cash Back History?
Your cash back history will be displayed under “My Account” online and in the app.
