Cashback Made Easy: How to Use Rakuten to Save Money Every Time You Shop Online

What if you could get paid every time you made a purchase online—without changing your shopping habits or using complicated coupon codes? That’s exactly what Rakuten offers. This free cashback service rewards you for buying from the same stores you already shop at, and when you join as a new user, you’ll receive a $30 bonus after your first qualifying purchase.

In this post, you’ll learn how Rakuten works, how to get started in minutes, and how to earn the most cashback possible.

What is Rakuten?

Rakuten is a cashback program that connects shoppers with over 3,500 well-known retailers. When you make a purchase through a Rakuten referral link, the retailer pays Rakuten a commission. Rakuten then shares a portion of that money with you, as cashback.

You’re not earning points or rewards—it’s actual money you can deposit into your bank account or receive by check.

Why Rakuten Is Worth Using

-Free to use

-Covers a wide range of retailers (including Walmart, Target, Sephora, and Nike)

-Easy to install and set up

-New members get a $30 sign-up bonus after spending $30

If you're already shopping online, using Rakuten is one of the easiest ways to start earning money back.

How to Start Using Rakuten: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Sign Up for a Free Account

Visit Rakuten through this special link to qualify for the $30 welcome bonus. Create your account using your email or social login. Make sure to use the same email address when you shop so your purchases are correctly tracked.

Step 2: Install the Browser Extension

Rakuten offers a browser extension for Chrome, Firefox, and Safari. It alerts you when cashback is available on a site and lets you activate it with a single click—making it almost impossible to forget.

Step 3: Shop Through Rakuten

You can earn cashback in two ways:

-Directly through the Rakuten website: Log in, search for a store, and click to shop through their referral link.

-Via the browser extension: It will notify you when you’re on a participating store’s website and give you the option to activate cashback right there.

Once you click through and make a purchase, Rakuten automatically tracks it.

Step 4: Qualify for the $30 Bonus

To receive your bonus, make a purchase of $30 or more through Rakuten within 90 days of signing up. This can be from almost any participating retailer. The bonus will be added to your Rakuten balance once the transaction is confirmed.

Step 5: Receive Your Cashback

Rakuten pays out earnings four times a year. You can choose to receive your money via PayPal or a physical check.

How to Maximize Your Earnings with Rakuten

-Use it on large purchases to get the most cashback

-Check cashback rates before shopping—some stores offer double or triple cashback during special events

-Use it for travel—Rakuten offers cashback at hotel and travel booking sites

-Refer friends to earn additional bonuses through Rakuten’s referral program

-Stack with credit card rewards—you can earn cashback from Rakuten and your card provider at the same time

Is Rakuten Reliable and Safe?

Yes. Rakuten is a legitimate company that has been operating since 1997 (formerly as Ebates) and is now a division of Rakuten Inc., a global e-commerce giant. The platform has paid out billions in cashback and has partnerships with thousands of trusted brands.

There’s no cost to use it, and no risk to your purchases.

Final Thoughts

If you’re shopping online and not using Rakuten, you’re missing a simple way to get money back on your everyday purchases. With thousands of retail partners and a no-strings-attached $30 bonus for new users, it’s a smart move for anyone who wants to save more without doing more.

Disclaimer:  This page contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Click here to sign up and claim your $30 cashback bonus → Join Rakuten Now

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