Rakuten Review: How to Earn Cash Back on Everyday Shopping

1. Introduction: Why Rakuten Is a Game-Changer

Hey there, fellow savvy shopper! Have you ever wished you could get paid just for doing something you already love—like shopping online? Well, guess what? That wish isn’t as far-fetched as it sounds. Thanks to Rakuten, earning cash back on your everyday purchases is as easy as clicking a button. No, seriously, it’s like having a magic genie who gives you a little reward every time you shop. (Okay, maybe without the actual genie, but you get the point.)

I’ve been using Rakuten for over a decade, way back when it was called Ebates. Back then, I thought, “There’s no way this could be legit.” But fast forward to now, and I’ve pocketed hundreds of dollars just by shopping through their portal. It’s kind of like getting a little thank-you card with money inside—except way cooler because, hello, who doesn’t like extra cash?

Whether it’s groceries, holiday gifts, or that impulse splurge from your favorite store, Rakuten makes it possible to save while you spend. It’s effortless, it’s free, and it’s downright addictive (in the best way possible). So, stick around because I’m about to spill all the secrets to earning money with Rakuten. Trust me, your wallet will thank you.

2. What Is Rakuten?

So, what exactly is Rakuten? If you’ve never heard of it, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Rakuten is like that super-smart friend who always knows where the best deals are and loves to share them. Basically, it’s a free online platform that gives you cash back on the things you already buy. Yes, you heard that right. They literally pay you to shop. Sounds too good to be true? I thought so too at first, but trust me, it’s legit.

Here’s how it works. Rakuten partners with over 2,000 stores—big names like Amazon, Macy’s, Target, and Nike, just to name a few. Whenever you shop through Rakuten’s website or app, they earn a commission from those stores for sending them business. And here’s the cool part: Rakuten shares a chunk of that commission with you as cash back. It’s like a high-five from your favorite store for choosing them.

If you’re wondering where the name “Rakuten” comes from, it’s actually a Japanese word that means “optimism.” And let me tell you, there’s nothing more optimistic than seeing money show up in your PayPal account after a shopping spree. The best part? It doesn’t require any complicated setup or tech wizardry. You just sign up, shop, and save. Easy-peasy.

Oh, and fun fact: Rakuten used to be called Ebates until 2019 when the company rebranded. I kind of miss the old name—it was snappy—but hey, as long as the cash keeps rolling in, they can call it whatever they want.

3. Is Rakuten Free to Use?

Okay, let’s cut straight to the chase. Yes, Rakuten is 100% free to use. No hidden fees, no sneaky fine print, and no “trial period” nonsense. It’s free like your neighbor’s Wi-Fi (but, you know, ethical). All you need is an email address to create an account, and boom—you’re in.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “There’s got to be a catch, right?” Nope! Rakuten makes its money from those commissions I mentioned earlier, so they don’t need to charge you a dime. That means every penny of cash back you earn goes straight to you. And let me tell you, those pennies can add up fast. I’ve personally earned enough cash back to cover my Christmas shopping some years, and I didn’t have to lift a finger. Well, except to click a few buttons, but that hardly counts.

Here’s an example. Let’s say you’re buying a $100 pair of sneakers from Nike. Rakuten is offering 10% cash back that day (and yes, those deals happen more often than you’d think). You click through Rakuten to shop at Nike’s site, make your purchase, and just like that, you’ve earned $10 in cash back. That’s lunch money—or, if you’re like me, coffee money. Either way, it’s free money.

And it gets better. You can stack your Rakuten cash back with other discounts, promo codes, and even credit card rewards. I once got 15% off a new laptop, earned 5% cash back through Rakuten, and used a credit card that gave me an extra 2% back on electronics. By the time I was done, I felt like I’d just won a game show.

So, to sum it up: Rakuten is free, easy to use, and ridiculously rewarding. If you’re not already signed up, what are you waiting for? Seriously, go do it right now. I’ll wait.

4. How Does Rakuten Work?

Let me tell you, using Rakuten is easier than deciding what toppings to put on your pizza. Seriously, the whole process is as simple as clicking a button. Here’s how it works.

Imagine you’re shopping for a new pair of headphones. You could just go straight to your favorite retailer’s website, but where’s the fun (or savings) in that? Instead, you start on Rakuten’s website or app. Type the store name in the search bar—let’s say Best Buy—and voila! You’ll see a link to the store along with the cash back percentage they’re offering that day. Click the link, shop as you normally would, and check out. That’s it! Rakuten tracks your purchase and credits your account with cash back.

Now, here’s the magical part: the money adds up faster than you’d think. I remember buying a stove online (adulting at its finest), and I got 2% cash back. That may not sound like much, but on an $800 purchase, I earned $16 just for clicking a link. It felt like finding a $20 bill in my pocket—but better, because this time, I didn’t have to do laundry to get it.

Oh, and here’s a little hack: if you’re like me and have the attention span of a goldfish, you might forget to visit Rakuten before you start shopping. No worries! Rakuten has a browser extension that saves the day. Once installed, it automatically pops up whenever you’re on a participating retailer’s site, reminding you to activate your cash back. It’s like having a little money-saving fairy on your shoulder.

And don’t forget: Rakuten lets you stack savings. Got a promo code? Use it. Got a store discount? Combine it. Got a credit card that offers rewards? Add those too. It’s like building a money-saving sandwich, and Rakuten is the delicious bread that holds it all together.

5. How to Make Money with Rakuten

Here’s where things get exciting. You know how I said Rakuten gives you cash back on purchases? Well, they also have a referral program that lets you earn extra cash just for being social. Think of it like this: Rakuten pays you to tell your friends how awesome they are. Honestly, if only pizza places did the same.

Here’s how it works. When you sign up for Rakuten, you’ll get your own referral link. Share it with your friends, family, coworkers, or even that random neighbor who’s always borrowing your lawn mower. As long as they use your link to sign up and make a purchase, Rakuten rewards you with a referral bonus. Last time I checked, it was $25 per referral. Oh, and your friend gets a $10 welcome bonus just for signing up. It’s a win-win.

I’ll never forget the time I convinced my best friend to try Rakuten. She signed up, made her first purchase, and I got a $25 bonus. She was thrilled with her cash back, and I treated myself to an extra-large caramel macchiato. It felt like we were both winning at life.

And don’t worry if you’re not the “shout it from the rooftops” type. You can quietly share your referral link via email, text, or social media. I once shared mine in a group chat, and a few days later, I had $50 in my account. Talk about easy money!

6. When Is the Best Time to Use Rakuten?

If you ask me, the best time to use Rakuten is always. I mean, if you’re going to shop anyway, why not earn cash back while you’re at it? But if we’re talking about prime time for Rakuten savings, it’s definitely during the holiday season. Think September through December, when kids are going back to school, Black Friday is around the corner, and Christmas shopping is in full swing.

I remember one year, I went all out for Christmas gifts. I used Rakuten for nearly every purchase, from toys for my niece to a fancy wine set for my best friend. By the end of the season, I had earned over $100 in cash back. It felt like getting a rebate on my entire holiday budget, which was perfect because I’d already overspent on eggnog and decorations.

Here’s the kicker: Rakuten often offers higher cash back rates during these months. I’ve seen deals as high as 15% or even 20% cash back around Black Friday and Cyber Monday. It’s like a secret weapon for savvy shoppers. I even used it to book a vacation once—yes, you can earn cash back on travel bookings too. I got 10% back on an Expedia reservation, which made lounging by the pool even sweeter.

But don’t think Rakuten is only for big-ticket items or special occasions. I use it year-round for everyday stuff, like groceries, home goods, and even cat food (because Mr. Whiskers deserves the best). Every little bit adds up, and before you know it, you’ve got enough cash back for a fun treat—or maybe even a mini shopping spree.

7. Is Rakuten Legit?

Let’s cut right to the chase because I know what you’re thinking: “This sounds great and all, but is Rakuten the real deal?” The short answer is yes—Rakuten is 100% legit. No scams, no smoke and mirrors, no shady business. It’s as real as the joy of finding an extra fry at the bottom of your takeout bag.

I get it. The idea of getting paid to shop can feel a little too good to be true. When I first stumbled across Rakuten (back when it was called Ebates), I was skeptical too. But over the years, I’ve cashed out hundreds of dollars in cashback payments, and every time that sweet little PayPal notification pops up, I do a tiny happy dance.

If you’re still unsure, let me hit you with some facts. Rakuten has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, and they’ve been around since 1997. That’s longer than some of the teenagers on TikTok have been alive! Plus, with over 12 million members, it’s safe to say they’ve earned their spot as one of the most trusted cashback platforms out there.

Here’s a quick story: a few years ago, my then-fiancé (now husband) bought me an engagement ring through Rakuten. It was a big purchase, and when the cashback didn’t show up right away, we panicked. But after a quick chat with Rakuten’s customer service, they resolved it the same day. Not only did we get the $200 cashback we were expecting, but we also got a nice reminder that their support team is super helpful. So yes, Rakuten is legit—and then some.

8. What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Rakuten?

Let’s talk about the pros and cons of Rakuten because, like every superhero, it has its strengths and a few quirks. Spoiler alert: the pros definitely outweigh the cons.

The biggest advantage? It’s ridiculously easy to use. You shop, you earn cash back, and you’re done. No complicated hoops to jump through, no need to remember passwords for a million accounts. It’s like having a rewards card that works at thousands of stores. Plus, the cashback rates can be super generous—sometimes as high as 40% during special promotions. I once got 15% cash back on a new laptop, and let me tell you, that felt like a mini lottery win.

Another perk is that Rakuten works with big-name retailers we all know and love, like Target, Amazon, and Walmart. You’re not stuck shopping at some obscure store called “Discount Widgets R Us.” And for those of us who love stacking savings, Rakuten lets you combine cashback with store sales, promo codes, and credit card rewards. It’s like a trifecta of savings magic.

Now, onto the quirks. Rakuten pays out quarterly, so you won’t get your cashback instantly. It’s kind of like waiting for your favorite show’s next season—it takes patience, but it’s worth it. And while most major retailers are on Rakuten, there are a few that aren’t. For example, I was bummed to find out that a local boutique I love wasn’t part of the program. But honestly, with over 2,000 stores available, there’s still plenty to choose from.

Another small downside is that cashback rates can fluctuate. One day it’s 10%, the next it’s 2%. But hey, that’s part of the fun! It’s like playing a shopping game where the prize is actual money.

9. My Personal Experience With Rakuten

Okay, now for the juicy part—my personal Rakuten success stories. One of my favorite memories was during last year’s holiday season. I decided to go all out on Christmas gifts for my family. I mean, I was buying everything from toys for my niece to fancy wine glasses for my mom. By the time I finished, I had earned over $150 in cashback. It felt like getting a cashback bonus just for spreading holiday cheer.

Another time, I booked a vacation through Rakuten. I snagged a deal on Expedia and earned 10% cash back on the entire trip. That meant a little extra spending money for cocktails by the beach. And let’s be real, there’s nothing better than sipping a piña colada while knowing you saved money doing it.

But it’s not just about the big wins. Even the small purchases add up. I’ve earned cashback on everything from dog food to birthday gifts, and every little bit counts. It’s like finding loose change in your couch cushions—except instead of a few coins, it’s enough to treat yourself to something fun.

So, is Rakuten worth it? Absolutely. It’s free, it’s easy, and it’s a simple way to make your shopping work for you. Whether you’re saving for a vacation, holiday gifts, or just some extra coffee money, Rakuten is your new best friend. Give it a try—you’ll thank me later!

10. How to Get Paid with Rakuten

So, you’ve shopped, you’ve earned cash back, and now you’re wondering, “How do I actually get my hands on this money?” Don’t worry, it’s easier than assembling IKEA furniture (and way more satisfying). Rakuten gives you three simple options to cash out: PayPal, a good old-fashioned check (or as they call it, a “Big Fat Check”), and an Amazon gift card. You just choose the one that makes you happiest, and Rakuten takes care of the rest.

Personally, I’m a PayPal fan because it feels like instant gratification. One minute, I’m sipping my morning coffee; the next, I’m getting a notification that my cash back has been deposited. It’s like a little surprise party in my bank account. But I have friends who swear by the Big Fat Check because there’s something satisfying about holding a physical reward in your hands. It’s like payday, but for your shopping habit.

To set it up, just log in to your Rakuten account, click on your name in the top corner, and select “My Account.” Scroll down to the section that says, “How would you like to get paid?” Pick your preferred method, and you’re good to go. Payments are sent out every three months, so you get a nice little chunk of change four times a year. It’s like getting a mini bonus, except you didn’t have to do any extra work to earn it.

One time, I used my Rakuten cash back to cover a fancy dinner out with my husband. As we clinked our glasses, I couldn’t help but think, “Thanks, Rakuten. This dessert tastes even better when it’s free.”

11. Tips for Maximizing Cashback with Rakuten

Let me tell you, if you’re going to use Rakuten, you might as well use it to its full potential. It’s like owning a Ferrari and only driving it in first gear. The key to maximizing your cashback is to plan ahead, stack savings, and, most importantly, never forget to activate your Rakuten account before you shop.

Here’s what I do: whenever I know I’m about to make a big purchase—like booking a trip or upgrading my gadgets—I check Rakuten first to see if there’s a deal. I also installed the Rakuten browser extension, which has saved me from my forgetful tendencies more times than I can count. The extension automatically reminds me to activate cash back whenever I visit a partner store. It’s like having a money-saving fairy watching over your shoulder.

Another pro tip is to time your purchases around Rakuten’s Double Cash Back promotions. These happen a few times a year and can double (or even triple) your usual cashback rates. One year, I snagged 15% cash back on a new TV during their Black Friday sale. By the time the cashback hit my account, I felt like I’d hacked the system.

Don’t forget to combine Rakuten with other discounts. For example, if your favorite store is having a sale and you’ve got a promo code, you can still earn Rakuten cash back on top of those savings. It’s like a triple-layer cake of discounts, and who doesn’t love cake?

12. Summary and Final Thoughts

So, here’s the deal: Rakuten is like the ultimate sidekick for your shopping adventures. It’s free, it’s easy, and it actually pays you to buy the things you were going to get anyway. Whether you’re a casual shopper or a deal-hunting ninja, Rakuten makes saving money feel effortless.

Over the years, I’ve used Rakuten to save on everything from Christmas gifts to vacations. Each time that cash back hits my account, it’s like finding a little pot of gold at the end of my shopping rainbow. And the best part? It doesn’t require any special skills or extra work. You just shop, earn, and enjoy.

If you’re still on the fence, let me ask you this: why leave free money on the table? Sign up, give it a try, and see how much you can save. Trust me, your wallet will thank you. And when you cash out for the first time, whether it’s through PayPal, a check, or an Amazon gift card, you’ll feel like a cashback champion.

So go ahead, join the Rakuten club, and start turning your shopping into saving. And when your next “Big Fat Check” arrives, don’t forget to treat yourself—you’ve earned it!

13. Summary and Final Thoughts

Let’s wrap this up with a cherry on top. If you’re anything like me, you probably love the idea of saving money without lifting a finger. Rakuten makes that dream a reality. It’s not complicated, it doesn’t cost a dime, and it rewards you for something you’re already doing—shopping. Seriously, it’s like getting a pat on the back (with cash) for buying that new gadget, stocking up on groceries, or finally upgrading your wardrobe.

I can’t tell you how many times Rakuten has saved me. One year, I used it for all my holiday shopping and earned over $200 in cash back. When that check arrived, I felt like I’d just won the lottery. Okay, maybe not the lottery, but it was enough to treat myself to a spa day, and trust me, that felt like a jackpot.

The best part about Rakuten is that it doesn’t just save you money—it makes you feel like a smart shopper. You know that smug satisfaction you get when you find the last item on clearance? That’s how I feel every time I see my cash back total go up. And don’t even get me started on their referral program. Sharing your love for Rakuten and getting paid for it? That’s next-level genius.

So here’s my advice: if you haven’t signed up yet, do it. Even if you’re skeptical, what’s the harm? It’s free, and the rewards are real. Once you start seeing those cash back notifications, you’ll wonder why you didn’t join sooner.

14. Call to Action

Alright, my fellow bargain hunters, now it’s your turn. If you’re ready to turn your shopping habits into a money-making machine, Rakuten is waiting for you. Sign up today, start exploring all those partner stores, and see how easy it is to earn cash back. Whether it’s for your daily essentials, big-ticket items, or even that random late-night online shopping spree, Rakuten’s got your back.

And don’t just keep the savings to yourself. Share the love! Tell your friends, your family, your coworker who always borrows your stapler—anyone who could use a little extra cash in their pocket. Remember, you’ll earn referral bonuses, and they’ll get a sweet welcome reward too. It’s a win-win.

I’d love to hear about your Rakuten wins too. Did you score big on a holiday sale? Save a ton on a last-minute vacation? Drop your stories in the comments because there’s nothing better than celebrating our shopping victories together.

So go ahead, click that sign-up link, and start cashing in on your purchases. Trust me, your future self (and your bank account) will thank you. Happy shopping, happy saving, and may your cash back totals always be as satisfying as finding free fries at the bottom of your bag!