How to Use Rakuten to Get Cashback When Shopping Online

Who doesn’t love free money? That’s basically what Rakuten gives you—cashback on stuff you were going to buy anyway. If you’re not using it yet, you’re leaving easy savings on the table. Don’t worry, though—I’ll walk you through exactly how to start earning cashback with Rakuten.

Step 1: Sign Up for a Free Rakuten Account

First things first, you need a Rakuten account. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Go to Rakuten's website or use this link to get a $30 bonus.
  2. Click on Sign Up (usually at the top right corner).
  3. Enter your email and create a password, or sign up using Google or Facebook.Bonus:
  4.  Rakuten often offers a welcome bonus ($10 or more) if you sign up and make a qualifying purchase.

Step 2: Browse or Search for Your Favorite Stores

Rakuten partners with thousands of retailers, from Amazon to Walmart to Nike. You can check which stores offer cashback by:

  • Browsing categories on the homepage
  • .Using the search bar to find specific stores.
  • Checking the “Hot Deals” section for extra discounts and cashback offers.

Step 3: Click Through to the Store and Shop Normally

This part is crucial: you have to click on the store’s link from Rakuten before making your purchase. Here’s how:

  1. Find your store on Rakuten and check the cashback percentage.
  2. Click the store’s link on Rakuten—this tracks your purchase.
  3. Shop as usual and complete your checkout.

Rakuten tracks your purchase, and after a few days, your cashback will show up in your account.

Step 4: Install the Rakuten Browser Extension (Optional but Recommended)

To make things even easier, install the Rakuten browser extension (available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge). This way, you’ll never miss a cashback opportunity.

How to Install:

  1. Go to the Rakuten browser extension page.
  2. Click “Add to Chrome” (or your browser of choice).
  3. Pin it to your toolbar so it’s always visible.

With this extension, Rakuten will automatically notify you if a site you’re shopping on has cashback available.

Step 5: Get Paid

Now the fun part—getting your money back!

Rakuten pays out cashback every three months via:

  • PayPal
  • Check (aka the “Big Fat Check”)

You’ll need at least $5 in cashback to receive a payout, so keep shopping smart to rack up your balance.

Bonus Tips to Maximize Your Cashback

  • Stack cashback with coupons. Rakuten often has extra promo codes for even bigger savings.
  • Use Rakuten for travel bookings. You can get cashback on flights, hotels, and rental cars.
  • Refer friends. Rakuten gives you bonus money for every friend who signs up and makes a purchase.

Final Thoughts

Using Rakuten is a no-brainer if you shop online. It’s free money for doing what you’re already doing. Sign up, start clicking through Rakuten before you shop, and watch your cashback grow.

Happy saving! 💰

Back to blog