Earning cashback with Rakuten (formerly known as Ebates) is a rewarding process that allows shoppers to save money on their everyday purchases. This guide provides detailed insights into signing up, shopping through the platform, maximizing cashback earnings, and cashing out your rewards.
Signing Up and Getting Started
The first step to earning cashback with Rakuten is creating an account. You can sign up on the Rakuten website or download the Rakuten app on your smartphone. The registration process is simple and typically requires providing basic information such as your name, email address, and creating a password. Upon signing up, new users often receive a welcome bonus, which serves as a nice incentive to start using the platform.
Once registered, it's beneficial to explore the platform. Rakuten partners with thousands of retailers across various categories, including fashion, electronics, travel, and groceries. Browsing through these categories helps users identify which stores offer cashback and the specific rates available. These rates can vary significantly, ranging from a few percent to sometimes over 10%, depending on the store and any ongoing promotions.
Shopping Through Rakuten
To earn cashback, it’s essential to shop through Rakuten’s platform. One of the most common methods is to visit the Rakuten website and search for the retailer you want to shop with. Once you find the store, click on the link provided. This action will redirect you to the retailer’s website while tracking your purchase. Ensuring that cookies are enabled in your browser is crucial, as this allows Rakuten to track your transaction and credit your account with cashback.
For convenience, Rakuten offers a browser extension that alerts you when you visit a retailer’s website that offers cashback through Rakuten. The extension provides a pop-up notification, allowing you to activate the cashback with a single click. This feature eliminates the need to visit the Rakuten website first, making the process more seamless. Additionally, the Rakuten app can be used for mobile shopping, offering the same cashback opportunities and ease of use.
Maximizing Cashback Earnings
Maximizing your cashback earnings on Rakuten involves a few strategies. One effective approach is to keep an eye on special promotions and double cashback events. Rakuten frequently offers increased cashback rates for a limited time, which can significantly boost your earnings. Signing up for the Rakuten newsletter or enabling notifications in the app ensures that you’re always informed about these opportunities.
Another tip is to utilize Rakuten's referral program. By referring friends and family to Rakuten, you can earn additional cashback when they sign up and make their first purchase. This not only helps you earn more but also introduces others to the benefits of Rakuten.
Stacking cashback with other discounts is another savvy strategy. Many retailers allow you to use discount codes or take advantage of sales while still earning cashback through Rakuten. Combining these savings methods can lead to substantial discounts on your purchases.
Cashing Out Your Rewards
Earning cashback is only beneficial if you can easily access your rewards. Rakuten makes this process straightforward. Cashback is accumulated in your Rakuten account and is paid out quarterly. Payments can be received via a check (referred to as "Big Fat Check") or through PayPal. To ensure you receive your cashback, make sure your account information is up to date, including your mailing address or PayPal account details.
Rakuten also offers the option to donate your cashback to a charity of your choice. This feature allows you to support causes you care about while still benefiting from your purchases.
Conclusion
Earning cashback with Rakuten is a simple and effective way to save money on your online shopping. By signing up, shopping through the platform, maximizing your earnings with promotions and referrals, and cashing out your rewards, you can make the most of your purchases. With its user-friendly interface, browser extension, and mobile app, Rakuten makes it easy for shoppers to earn cashback on a wide range of products and services. Whether you’re a frequent online shopper or just looking to save a bit on occasional purchases, Rakuten provides a valuable tool for enhancing your shopping experience.