How to Use Rakuten to Get Cash Back When Shopping Online

If you’re shopping online and not using Rakuten, you’re leaving money on the table - literally. Rakuten is one of the easiest ways to get cash back on stuff you’re already buying, and signing up takes just a few minutes. Whether you're shopping for clothes, tech, or groceries, Rakuten gives you a percentage of your purchase back as cash. Sounds good, right? Here’s how to get started and make the most of it.

Step 1: Sign Up for Rakuten

First, head over to Rakuten’s website or download their app (available on both iOS and Android). Use this link to get a $30 sign-up bonus with Rakuten. Creating an account is free and super simple. Here’s what to do:

  1. Click on "Join Now" on their homepage.

  2. Enter your email, create a password, and hit "Sign Up." Or, if you’re feeling lazy, use your Google or Facebook account to sign in.

  3. Once you’re signed up, you might even get a welcome bonus (like $20-$40) after your first purchase, depending on their current promotion. Easy money!

Step 2: Browse or Search for Stores

Rakuten partners with thousands of retailers—big names like Target, Amazon, Walmart, Sephora, and more. You can browse by category or search for a specific store using the search bar. They’ll show you the cash-back percentage each store is offering. This can range from 1% to 15%, and sometimes even more during special promotions.

Pro tip: Bookmark your favorite stores so you can check back easily to see if the cash-back rate changes.

Step 3: Activate Cash Back Before Shopping

Once you’ve found the store you want to shop at, click on the link provided by Rakuten. This link tracks your purchase and ensures you get your cash back. You’ll be redirected to the retailer’s website, and you can shop like normal.

Important: Make sure you click through Rakuten before adding items to your cart. If you add things to your cart first and then activate Rakuten, your cash back might not track properly.

Step 4: Use the Rakuten Browser Extension

If you’re someone who forgets to activate cash back (it happens to the best of us), the Rakuten browser extension is a lifesaver. It’s available for Chrome, Firefox, and Safari.

How to use the extension:

  1. Download and install the Rakuten extension from their website.

  2. When you visit a retailer’s site, the extension will automatically notify you if cash back is available.

  3. Click “Activate Cash Back,” and you’re good to go!

The extension also highlights coupon codes at checkout, so you can save even more.

Step 5: Shop and Earn Cash Back

Once you’re on the retailer’s website, shop as you normally would. After you complete your purchase, Rakuten will track your order. You’ll usually see the cash back pending in your Rakuten account within a few hours or days, depending on the retailer.

Things to keep in mind:

  • Make sure cookies are enabled in your browser; this is how Rakuten tracks your purchase.

  • If you’re using other coupon or cash-back sites, it might interfere with Rakuten’s tracking.

Step 6: Get Paid

This is the fun part. Rakuten pays out your cash back every three months via PayPal or check. Make sure you’ve entered your payment preferences in your account settings. You’ll need a minimum of $5.01 in your account to get paid, but that’s pretty easy to hit.

Pro tip: Time your shopping around Rakuten’s "Double Cash Back" events for even bigger payouts.

Bonus Tips to Maximize Your Cash Back

  1. Stack Deals: Use Rakuten with store sales, credit card rewards, or other discounts for maximum savings.

  2. Refer Friends: Rakuten offers referral bonuses. Share your unique link with friends, and you’ll both earn extra cash when they make their first purchase.

  3. Use the App for In-Store Cash Back: Some retailers allow you to link a credit card in the Rakuten app for in-store cash back. Check the app for participating stores.

  4. Keep an Eye on Promotions: Rakuten often runs limited-time deals with higher cash-back rates. Sign up for email alerts so you don’t miss out.

And that’s it! Using Rakuten is a no-brainer for anyone who shops online. It’s easy to set up, and the cash-back rewards can really add up over time. Start using Rakuten today, and enjoy the sweet feeling of saving money while you shop. Happy saving!

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