How to Use Rakuten to Earn Cashback and Save on Everyday Purchases
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If you shop online but aren’t using Rakuten, you’re likely leaving money on the table. Rakuten (formerly known as Ebates) allows users to earn real cashback simply by shopping through their platform at thousands of popular stores. It’s free, easy to use, and comes with a $30 welcome bonus for new users when they sign up and make their first qualifying purchase.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how Rakuten works, how to set it up, and how to maximize your earnings every time you shop.
What is Rakuten and How Does It Work?
Rakuten is an online cashback platform that partners with over 3,500 retailers including Walmart, Macy’s, Nike, Sephora, Best Buy, and many others. When you shop at these stores through Rakuten’s link, the retailer pays Rakuten a commission for referring you—and Rakuten shares part of that commission with you in the form of cashback.
This is not a rewards point system. It’s actual money, deposited into your account on a quarterly basis.
Why Rakuten is Worth Using
-Free to use: There’s no membership fee or subscription.
-Wide selection of stores: You can earn cashback at major brands, travel sites, and specialty retailers.
-Automatic earnings: Once you’re set up, earning cashback can become effortless.
-$30 sign-up bonus: Rakuten gives every new user a $30 bonus after they spend $30 or more through the platform.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Rakuten
1. Sign Up for a Free Account
Visit Rakuten through this link to access your $30 sign-up bonus. You’ll be prompted to enter your email or sign up through Google or Facebook.
Once your account is created, you’re ready to start earning.
2. Install the Rakuten Browser Extension
While you can shop directly through Rakuten’s website, the Chrome extension makes things much easier. When you visit a participating store, the extension will notify you if cashback is available and offer to activate it.
This ensures you never miss a cashback opportunity.
3. Shop Through Rakuten’s Portal or Extension
There are two primary ways to activate cashback:
-Through the Rakuten website: Log in, search for the store you want to shop at, and click the link to be redirected to that site. Cashback is activated automatically.
-Through the browser extension: When you land on a partner site, a small popup will prompt you to activate cashback with one click.
Shop as you normally would, and your cashback will be tracked in your account.
4. Make a Qualifying Purchase to Unlock Your $30 Bonus
To earn your $30 sign-up bonus, your first purchase must be at least $30 (before tax and shipping) and made within 90 days of signing up. Once your purchase is verified, the bonus will be added to your balance.
5. Get Paid
Rakuten sends out payments every quarter via check or PayPal. Here’s their typical payment schedule:
| Shopping Period | Payment Issued |
|---|---|
| January – March | May 15 |
| April – June | August 15 |
| July – September | November 15 |
| October – December | February 15 |
You can track your balance and pending cashback in your Rakuten dashboard at any time.
Tips to Maximize Your Rakuten Earnings
-Stack cashback with store promotions and coupons: Rakuten doesn’t interfere with store discounts—you can use both.
-Use cashback on travel: Rakuten offers cashback at Expedia, Hotels.com, and other major travel sites.
-Refer friends: Rakuten has a referral program where you can earn bonuses for inviting others.
-Check rates before large purchases: Some stores offer as much as 10% or more on big-ticket items.
Is Rakuten Legit?
Yes, Rakuten is a well-established, trustworthy company. Originally launched as Ebates in 1997, it has paid out billions of dollars to users and is owned by Rakuten, Inc., a major Japanese e-commerce company. Your earnings are not points—they're real dollars you can transfer to your PayPal or receive by check.
Final Thoughts
Rakuten is one of the simplest ways to save money on purchases you’re already making. Whether you're buying clothes, electronics, groceries, or booking a hotel, earning cashback takes little effort once you’re set up.
If you haven’t joined yet, you can use the link below to create your free account and claim your $30 bonus after your first $30 purchase.
Start using Rakuten and get your $30 bonus → Sign up here
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.
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