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Ready to turn your everyday shopping into real savings? You’re in the right place. Rakuten is more than just another cash back site—it’s your ticket to earning money on purchases you already make, both online and in-store. With over 15 million users and partnerships with 3,500+ retailers, Rakuten paid out more than $1 billion in cash back to shoppers last year alone. In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through the best ways to use Rakuten, including expert tips, app hacks, and bonus strategies that help you maximize every dollar spent. Whether you’re a beginner or a Rakuten pro, you’ll find everything you need here to make your shopping smarter and your wallet happier.

What is Rakuten and How Does It Work?

Rakuten is a cash-back and rewards platform that helps you save money every time you shop online or in-store. Partnering with over 3,500 stores—including Walmart, Macy’s, and Best Buy—Rakuten offers you cash back or Amex Membership Rewards points on your purchases.

How Does Rakuten Work?

The process is simple:

• Start from Rakuten: Begin your shopping trip on the Rakuten website, app, or browser extension.
• Click Through to a Store: Choose your favorite store and click through to be redirected.
• Shop as Usual: Make your purchase as you normally would.
• Earn Rewards: Once the store confirms your transaction, Rakuten credits your account with the appropriate cash back or points.

For in-store cash back, you can:

• Link your credit card to your Rakuten account.
• Activate an eligible in-store offer.
• Use your linked card to pay at participating stores.

Rakuten notifies you via email or push notification when your cash back is confirmed. You’ll receive payments every three months through a check or PayPal—once your balance reaches $5.01 or more.

Rakuten earns commissions from its partner stores for referring you and then shares a portion of that with you. To maximize your earnings, always start your shopping through Rakuten, enable the browser extension for instant alerts, and look for extra promo codes or bonus cash back offers.

Is Rakuten Legit and Safe to Use?

Absolutely. Rakuten is a legitimate and secure platform trusted by millions of users worldwide. It has been rated 4.5 stars with 33 thousand reviews on trustpilot. It’s been operating for years and has already paid out over $1 billion in cash back.

When you link a credit card for in-store cash back, your data is securely stored in a PCI-compliant system, which follows industry-standard security protocols. Rakuten doesn’t charge any membership fees—signing up is free, and using the service costs you nothing.

Its help center and FAQ section are comprehensive and regularly updated, making it easy to find support when needed. In short, Rakuten is a safe and rewarding way to get money back on purchases you’re already making—both online and in-store.

Getting Started with Rakuten

Starting with Rakuten is both easy and rewarding. To get the most out of the platform, it’s essential to set up your account correctly. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shopper, Rakuten makes the process simple. You can use it on your computer or mobile device, and the setup is quick. Let’s break down the steps to help you start earning cash back and rewards right away.

How to Sign Up and Set Up Your Rakuten Account

Setting up your Rakuten account is quick and easy:

1. Go to the Rakuten Website or App: Visit Rakuten’s website or download the app from your device’s store.
2. Click “Join Now”: Select the “Join Now” button and provide your email and a secure password.
3. Sign Up with Social Accounts: For faster access, you can sign up using your Google, Facebook, or Apple account.
4. Referral Bonus: If a friend referred you, be sure to use their link to earn a bonus for both of you.
5. Email Verification: After signing up, check your email for a verification link and confirm your account.

Once your account is verified, you're ready to shop and start earning cash back on your first purchase. Don’t forget about Rakuten’s referral program—it’s an easy way to earn extra rewards right from the start.

Changing Your Earning Preferences (Cash Back vs. Points)

Rakuten offers flexibility in how you earn your rewards:

1. Log into Your Account: Access your Rakuten account settings.
2. Choose Your Preference: Select whether you want to earn cash back or Amex Membership Rewards points.
3. Payout Options: For cash back, you can receive payments via PayPal or check.
4. Earn Amex Points: If you prefer points, simply link your American Express account, and you’ll start collecting points instead of cash.

Choosing the points option is ideal for those looking to maximize their Rakuten earnings for travel or other rewards.

Navigating the Rakuten Dashboard and Mobile App

The Rakuten dashboard is designed to be user-friendly and efficient:

• On the Website: Your dashboard shows your cash back balance, recent activity, special offers, referral bonuses, and payout history.
• On the Mobile App: The app mirrors these features and lets you activate in-store offers, scan for deals, and receive notifications about cash back events.
• Rakuten Browser Extension: This handy tool alerts you when you visit a store offering cash back and automatically applies Rakuten promo codes at checkout.

With these tools, you’ll never miss a chance to save while shopping.

How to Earn Money and Rewards with Rakuten

Unlocking the best ways to use Rakuten starts with understanding how to earn cash back and rewards every time you shop. Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, Rakuten makes it easy to save. Let’s break down each method so you can maximize your Rakuten earnings and never miss out on a bonus.

Shopping Online: Step-by-Step Process

Shopping online with Rakuten is easy and rewarding. Here’s how:

1. Log In to Your Rakuten Account: Access your account on the website or app.
2. Search for Your Favorite Store: Browse through featured deals or search for the store you want to shop at.
3. Click Through Rakuten’s Link: Clicking through Rakuten’s link to the retailer’s site tracks your purchase for cash back.
4. Add Items to Your Cart and Check Out: Shop as usual and complete your checkout.
5. Earn Cash Back: Once the store confirms your purchase, Rakuten credits your account with cash back.

For even more convenience, install the Rakuten browser extension. It will notify you of cash back opportunities and automatically apply Rakuten promo codes, ensuring you never miss out on savings.

Using Rakuten for In-Store Shopping

Rakuten’s benefits extend beyond online shopping. You can earn cash back in physical stores as well:

1. Open the Rakuten App: Find available in-store offers.
2. Link Your Credit Card: Add your preferred card to the Rakuten app.
3. Activate the Offer: Ensure the offer is activated before shopping.
4. Pay at Participating Stores: Use your linked card for in-store purchases.
5. Earn Cash Back: Rakuten tracks your purchase and sends you a notification once your rewards are confirmed.

This is a great way to earn rewards for everyday purchases, including groceries and retail shopping at participating stores.

Earning Bonus Cash Back and Amex Points

Rakuten regularly runs bonus events where you can earn double or even triple cash back at select stores. Keep an eye on the app or website for these limited-time promotions.

Additionally, you can choose to earn American Express Membership Rewards points instead of cash back. Simply link your Amex account in your Rakuten settings. This is a smart way to maximize Rakuten earnings if you're interested in travel rewards or prefer more flexibility with your points.

Does Everything Count Toward Cash Back?

While most regular items are eligible for cash back, certain categories may not be. Exclusions might apply to items like gift cards, taxes, or specific sale items. Always check the terms for each store on Rakuten before you shop to avoid surprises. The Rakuten FAQs section provides detailed explanations about exclusions.

Can I Use Any Credit Card or Promo Code?

You can use any major credit card for online or in-store purchases through Rakuten. If you use a rewards credit card, you can stack additional points or miles on top of your Rakuten cash back.

Rakuten also supports promo codes, but make sure to use the codes listed on Rakuten’s site. If you use codes from other sources, your cash back for that purchase may be voided.

Advanced Strategies to Maximize Rakuten Earnings

To unlock the full potential of Rakuten, you need to go beyond the basics. Rakuten offers several advanced strategies that can help you maximize every cash back opportunity and boost your rewards. Whether shopping online or in-store, these tips will help you grow your savings faster and smarter.

Stacking Coupons, Promo Codes, and Credit Card Offers

One of the most effective Rakuten shopping hacks is stacking Rakuten promo codes, store coupons, and credit card rewards for triple savings. Here's how to do it:

1. Activate Cash Back Through Rakuten: Start by activating cash back through Rakuten.
2. Apply Promo Codes: Then, apply any available promo codes at checkout.
3. Use a Rewards Credit Card: Pay with a rewards credit card to earn extra points or miles on top of your Rakuten cash back.

This method ensures you never leave money on the table and maximizes your Rakuten earnings in every transaction.

Combining Rewards with Referral Bonuses

Rakuten’s referral program is another excellent way to boost your earnings. Share your unique referral link with friends or family, and when they sign up and make their first purchase, both you and your friend will earn a bonus. This simple method can quickly grow your rewards without any extra spending. Many users see their rewards grow rapidly by simply inviting others to join Rakuten.

Timing Your Purchases for Maximum Cash Back

Timing your purchases around special events and holidays can help you earn more cash back. Rakuten often increases cash back rates during special promotions. Here are some examples:

• Black Friday
• Cyber Monday
• Back-to-school sales

By planning your major purchases during these events, you can double or even triple your cash back, maximizing your Rakuten earnings.

Leveraging the Rakuten Browser Extension

The Rakuten browser extension is an essential tool for all shoppers. It automatically alerts you when cash back is available and applies the best Rakuten promo codes at checkout. This means you’ll never miss a deal, and you’ll save time searching for offers.

The extension works on major browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, making it easy to use on any device.

Utilizing Limited-Time and Seasonal Promotions

Rakuten frequently offers limited-time deals and seasonal promotions that include higher cash back rates or extra bonuses for select stores. Keep an eye on the Rakuten app or website for flash sales and exclusive offers. Staying updated ensures you never miss an opportunity to maximize your Rakuten earnings.

Making the Most of Big-Ticket Purchases and Order Splitting

For large purchases, consider splitting your order if possible. Some stores impose cash back limits per transaction, and dividing your order can allow you to earn more rewards on each part. This strategy works especially well for electronics, appliances, or bulk shopping. During high cash back events, big-ticket purchases can lead to significant savings.

Automation and Tools for Effortless Savings on Rakuten

If you want to unlock the best ways to use Rakuten, automation is your secret weapon. Rakuten offers powerful tools that make earning cash back easy and hands-free. These features help you save time, never miss a deal, and maximize Rakuten earnings every time you shop.

Installing and Using the Rakuten Browser Extension

The Rakuten browser extension is a must-have for anyone serious about cash back. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Install the Extension: Add the Rakuten extension to your browser in just a few clicks. It’s compatible with Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Edge.
2. Pin It for Easy Access: Once installed, pin the extension to your browser’s toolbar for quick access.
3. Activate Cash Back: The extension alerts you when a site offers cash back, finds and applies the best Rakuten promo codes, and even highlights if another store has a better deal.
4. Use on Mobile: On iPhone, you can enable the Rakuten extension for Safari through the Rakuten app, making it easy to activate cash back on mobile devices too.

Exploring Rakuten Dining and Linked Offers

Rakuten isn’t just for online shopping—Rakuten Dining and linked offers let you earn cash back at restaurants and brick-and-mortar stores:

1. Link Your Credit Card: Add your credit card to the Rakuten app.
2. Activate Offers: Browse available offers and activate them before you head to participating locations.
3. Earn Cash Back: Pay with your linked card at participating stores, and Rakuten tracks your spending, automatically adding cash back to your account.

This is one of the best ways to use Rakuten for everyday purchases, from dining out to picking up essentials.

Setting Up Alerts for Cash Back Increases

Stay ahead with cash back alerts. Here’s how to ensure you never miss out:

1. Enable Push Notifications: Set up notifications in the Rakuten app to get alerts for higher cash back rates or limited-time promotions.
2. Never Miss Bonus Events: These alerts help you time your purchases for maximum rewards and ensure you always get the best value.

By staying updated, you can maximize your Rakuten earnings during seasonal offers or bonus events.

Responsible Cash Back Practices on Rakuten

Using Rakuten is all about smart shopping and responsible cash back habits. The best ways to use Rakuten go beyond just earning rewards—they help you make the most of every purchase while keeping your budget in check. Let’s explore how you can maximize value without falling into common traps.

Avoiding Impulse Purchases and Overspending

While it’s tempting to jump on cash back deals, not every offer is worth it if you don’t truly need the item. Here’s how to stay in control:

• Stick to Your Shopping List: Buy only what you planned to, and resist the temptation to buy just for the rewards.
• Earn Cash Back as a Bonus: The smartest Rakuten users stick to their budget and enjoy the extra rewards as a bonus for purchasing what they actually need.

This approach helps keep your spending in check and ensures your rewards are truly rewarding.

Understanding Return Policies and Their Impact on Rewards

Returns are a normal part of shopping, but they can affect your Rakuten cash back. Here’s what you need to know:

• Cash Back Deductions: If you return an item, Rakuten will usually deduct the cash back you earned from your balance.
• Check Store Exclusions: Some stores exclude certain items—like gift cards or specific departments—from cash back, so always read the offer details before purchasing.

By understanding Rakuten’s return policy and store-specific terms, you can avoid surprises and keep your account in good standing.

Aligning Cash Back with Your Budget and Needs

To get the most value from Rakuten, align your cash back opportunities with your budget and real needs:

• Set a Monthly Spending Limit: Use Rakuten to stretch your budget without overspending.
• Track Rewards and Payouts: Use your Rakuten dashboard to monitor rewards and payouts. Choose your preferred payout method, whether it's a cheque or PayPal.

By setting limits and tracking your rewards, you can maximize Rakuten earnings without straining your finances or chasing unnecessary deals.

Tips and Tricks for Beginners

Starting with Rakuten is exciting, especially when you realize how much you can save on everyday shopping. The best ways to use Rakuten are simple, but adopting a few smart habits can help you earn consistently and maximize rewards. Here’s how beginners can get the most out of Rakuten from day one.

Daily Shopping Habits for Consistent Earnings

Make Rakuten part of your daily shopping routine to earn cash back consistently:

1. Check for Rakuten Partnerships: Before you buy anything online, check if the store partners with Rakuten.
2. Start Your Shopping Through Rakuten: Always begin your shopping trip through the Rakuten website, app, or browser extension to ensure you earn cash back.
3. In-Store Shopping: For in-store purchases, open the Rakuten app, link your card, and activate available offers before paying.

Small, regular purchases add up over time, and your cash back balance will grow with each order. These simple tips help you earn rewards without changing your shopping habits.

Refer Friends and Family for Extra Rewards

Rakuten’s referral program is one of the easiest ways to boost your earnings:

1. Share Your Referral Link: Send your unique referral link to friends or family.
2. Earn Bonuses: When someone signs up with your link and makes a qualifying purchase, both of you earn a bonus—often $30 or more.

This is a quick and easy way to maximize Rakuten earnings without spending extra. The more people you refer, the more rewards you collect. Be sure to check the Rakuten FAQs for the latest referral bonus details.

Using the Rakuten Mobile App for On-the-Go Savings

The Rakuten mobile app is your best friend for cash back on the move:

1. Activate In-Store Offers: Use the app to activate in-store offers and get geo-push notifications about deals nearby.
2. Mobile-Exclusive Coupons: Access special coupons available only on the app.
3. Track Your Rewards: The app sends reminders so you never miss a reward, and you can scan receipts to redeem points easily.

Whether you use Rakuten on iPhone or Android, the app ensures you earn rewards wherever you shop.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Rakuten for Everyday Savings

Rakuten turns your regular shopping into real rewards. By using the website, app, and browser extension, you unlock cash back at over 3,500 stores. Stack promo codes, refer friends, and time your purchases for bonus events to maximize Rakuten earnings. Always check store policies and align cash back with your budget for smart savings. Whether you shop online or in-store, Rakuten makes it easy to earn on every purchase. Start today and watch your rewards grow—because the best way to use Rakuten is to make it part of your everyday routine.