Rakuten Review 2024: Pros, Cons & Tips to Boost Earnings

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We've kept tabs on Rakuten for nearly a decade, accumulating over $1,000 in total earnings in the process. Here's what we like and dislike about the app, tips for boosting your earnings, and whether or not the platform is worth it for you.

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I first downloaded Rakuten in August of 2016 and over the past several years, I’ve accumulated $984.08 in cashback.

At just over $123 each year, that’s good for a free $10 per month I’ve had the app installed. (The average member earned $90.16 in 2023, according to Rakuten).[1]

This review covers my ongoing experience, explores the platform’s advantages and limitations, and assesses how Rakuten compares to other popular cashback apps.

Rakuten Review Summary

Verdict: Comparatively low cashback rates and requires some manual input. Best for in-store shoppers, those likely to refer users, or international users lacking access to other cashback apps. 


How It Works: Earn cashback at 3,500+ retailers.

Earning Potential: Approximately $10 per month.

Withdrawal Minimum: $5

Cost: Free

How It Compares: Legitimate, but better options exist.

Our Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars (see methodology)

What Is Rakuten? 

rakuten homepage preview

Rakuten is a leading online and in-store cashback platform that offers users a percentage of their money back when they shop at participating retailers through the Rakuten website, app, or browser extension. 

Originally known as Ebates, the company rebranded to Rakuten in 2014 after being acquired by the Japanese e-commerce giant Rakuten Group. 

The platform is partnered with thousands of stores, including major brands across a wide range of categories such as electronics, clothing, and travel.

Rakuten boasts over 20 million members and has paid out over $3 billion to members since 1999. They currently hold a B rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and an Excellent 4.4-star rating with Trustpilot. 

App Ratings

  • Google Play: 3.7
    (71.4k reviews)
  • Apple App Store: 4.8
    (359k reviews)

Browser Extension Ratings 

  • Chrome Web Store: 4.9
    (43.7k reviews)
  • Mac App Store: 4.3
    (1k reviews)

How Rakuten Works

Rakuten provides a straightforward way for shoppers to earn cash back on their online and in-store purchases.

Users simply need to sign up for a free account and shop as they normally would through Rakuten’s links at partnered retailers. Qualifying purchases will net a user the advertised cash back amount. 

This cashback is then automatically paid out quarterly, provided the user has accumulated at least $5.

Main Features

For a closer look at these features and to hear about my experience with each, toggle through the tabs below. 

I’ve included practical insights and tips to help you maximize your earnings.

Cash Back on PurchasesMobile AppRakuten Cash Back ButtonIn-Store OffersRotating Special OffersReferral Program

Rakuten offers users a way to earn a percentage back on their spending, both online and in-store, at thousands of participating retailers.

my completed shopping trips through rakuten

Shoppers simply start their purchasing process through Rakuten’s website or app to automatically receive cash back, which is deposited into their Rakuten account.

The Rakuten mobile app allows you to shop and earn cash back directly from your smartphone, offering all the deals you’d find on the full website.

rakuten mobile app preview

It’s designed to make shopping on the go as rewarding as shopping online, complete with notifications for hot deals and special offers.

The Rakuten Cash Back Button is browser extension automates the process of earning cash back and applying coupon codes when you shop online.

rakuten cash back button browser extension preview

Once installed, the button discreetly sits in your browser toolbar, alerting you to available cash back and coupon offers on participating websites without the need to visit Rakuten first.

Rakuten also offers cash back for in-store purchases, broadening its appeal to those who prefer shopping at physical stores.

in-store locations for earning cash back

By linking your credit or debit card to your Rakuten account, you can activate offers before you shop and earn cash back automatically when paying with your linked card at checkout. 

Rakuten regularly introduces rotating special offers, including events like Double Cash Back, which can significantly boost the amount of money users earn. 

sneak peak at rakuten's double cash back offers

These promotions are often timed around major shopping periods such as the holidays, back-to-school season, or Black Friday, allowing users to maximize their savings when it’s most beneficial. 

Rakuten incentivizes users to introduce new members to the app by offering cash bonuses for each referral who signs up and makes a qualifying purchase.

rakuten referral program details

This feature can significantly increase the earnings of Rakuten users, adding an extra layer of benefit to using the platform. It’s an easy way to share the perks of Rakuten while also boosting your own cash back total.

+ Jump back to Features

Tips for Maximizing Earnings

Maximizing your earnings with Rakuten involves a strategic approach to shopping and making use of all the features the platform offers. Here are several effective ways to ensure you get the most out of your Rakuten experience:

  1. Shop During Special Promotions: Keep an eye on Rakuten’s special promotions, such as double cash back events or holiday specials, which can significantly increase the cash back rates at select retailers.
  2. Use the Browser Extension: Installing the Rakuten browser extension ensures you never miss cash back opportunities you’d otherwise have forgotten about. The extension alerts you to available coupons as well. 
  3. Activate In-Store Offers: Before you shop in person, check Rakuten for any in-store cash back offers. Link these offers to your card within the app to earn cash back on purchases made at physical stores.
  4. Shop Based on Need, Not Just Want: It’s easy to be tempted by high cash back rates, but to truly maximize the value of Rakuten, focus on purchasing items you need rather than those you simply want. This approach helps prevent overspending and ensures that your savings from cash back are not offset by unnecessary expenditures.
  5. Stack Coupons with Cash Back: Rakuten often offers coupons that can be used in conjunction with earning cash back. Make sure to apply both to maximize returns.
  6. Plan Major Purchases: For larger purchases like electronics or appliances, plan to buy during high cash back periods and from retailers that offer the highest rates. 
  7. Refer Friends and Family: Take advantage of the Rakuten referral program. Each successful referral who signs up and makes a qualifying purchase can earn you a substantial bonus, which adds to your total earnings.
  8. Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your Rakuten account to ensure all cash back credits are accurate and dispute any discrepancies promptly.

Related: How This Frugal Mom Earned $830 With Cash Back Apps

Withdrawing Your Earnings

Withdrawing your earnings from Rakuten is straightforward and is designed to be as convenient as possible for users. Once you’ve accumulated cash back in your Rakuten account, earnings are paid out every three months as long as your account balance is at least $5.

These payments are referred to as “Big Fat Checks” or can be sent as PayPal payments, depending on your selected preference in your account settings. It’s important to ensure your address or PayPal details are up to date to receive your payments without any delays.

Payment Period Purchases Made From Payment Sent On
Q1 January 1 – March 31 May 15
Q2 April 1 – June 30 August 15
Q3 July 1 – September 30 November 15
Q4 October 1 – December 31 February 15

To access your earnings, simply log into your Rakuten account and navigate to the ‘My Account’ section, where you can view your accumulated cash back and manage your payment settings. If you choose the check option, it will be mailed directly to the address you’ve provided in your profile.

my rakuten cashback balance

Alternatively, if you opt for PayPal, the payment will be transferred electronically to your linked PayPal account. Rakuten also provides the option to send your earnings to a family member, friend, or even a charity of your choice.

Related: 18 Best Passive Income Apps to Earn Extra Money

Alternatives to Rakuten

Rakuten faces competition from several well-regarded cashback and rewards platforms. Each offers unique features that appeal to different types of shoppers. Here are Rakuten’s closest competitors:

  1. Honey: Honey is best known for its automatic coupon-finding browser extension but also offers Honey Gold, a rewards program that can be redeemed for gift cards. Honey’s appeal lies in its ease of use and integration with the checkout process, automatically applying the best coupon to save users the most money.
  2. TopCashback: Praised for often offering the highest cash back rates due to its policy of returning 100% of the affiliate commission it receives back to its users. TopCashback also features a wide range of withdrawal options, including direct deposit, PayPal, and gift cards.
  3. Swagbucks: This platform is more than just a cash back site; it allows users to earn points (Swagbucks) for a variety of activities such as shopping online, completing surveys, watching videos, and playing games. Points can be redeemed for gift cards or cash back from PayPal.
  4. Ibotta: Initially focused on providing cash back for grocery shopping through receipt scanning, Ibotta has expanded to include cash back from online stores, travel, and dining. It’s particularly strong in providing instant rebates on everyday purchases.
  Rakuten Honey TopCashback Swagbucks Ibotta
Cash Back on Online Purchases  Yes Yes  Yes Yes Limited
Cash Back on In-store Purchase Yes No No Yes Yes
Browser Extension Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Referral Program Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Withdrawal Minimum $5 10 points $0.01 $25 $20
Withdrawal Methods Check, PayPal Gift cards, PayPal Direct deposit, Gift cards, PayPal Gift cards, PayPal Gift cards, PayPal
Payout Frequency Quarterly On-demand On-demand On-demand On-demand
Sign-Up Bonus Up to $50 None Up to $25 $10 $5

The Bottom Line

Rakuten shines for shoppers looking for a comprehensive cashback program that rewards both online and physical store shopping. It is a working solution for users who don’t mind the quarterly payments and want a seamless integration of cashback into their regular shopping habits at a wide array of retailers.

However, for those who prioritize higher percentage cashback rates, immediate payouts, or prefer not having a minimum payout threshold, online-only alternatives like TopCashback or Honey might be more appealing. TopCashback offers almost immediate access to your cash with no minimum payout, making it ideal for those who want to withdraw earnings at their convenience. 

In conclusion, while Rakuten offers easy-to-use features that cater to a broad shopping spectrum, the best platform for you depends on your specific needs such as payout frequency, minimum thresholds, and whether you do most of your shopping online or in-store.

Related: 20 Best Money Making Apps for Earning On the Go

FAQs

Who is eligible to join Rakuten?

Rakuten is available to anyone aged 18 and older. While it primarily serves users in the United States, Rakuten also operates in other countries, including Canada, France, Germany, Spain, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and more.

Does Rakuten work with every online store?

Rakuten partners with over 3,500 stores, including many popular retailers and brands. However, not all online stores are part of the Rakuten network. You can check the current list of participating stores on the Rakuten website or app.

How does Rakuten make money if the service is free for users?

Rakuten earns a commission from retailers when you make a purchase through their links. A portion of this commission is then shared with you as cash back, which is how both Rakuten and its users benefit financially.

Is there a limit to how much cash back I can earn with Rakuten?

There is no limit to the amount of cash back you can earn with Rakuten. The more you shop through Rakuten at participating retailers, the more cash back you will accumulate.

How does Rakuten handle my personal data?

Rakuten collects data to manage your account and track purchases for cash back. They implement security measures to protect your data and comply with privacy laws. For detailed information on how your data is used and protected, refer to Rakuten’s Privacy Policy.

Can I use Rakuten on multiple devices?

Yes, you can use your Rakuten account on multiple devices. You can install the Rakuten browser extension on different computers and sign in to the mobile app on both Android and iOS devices.

What happens if a cash back transaction is not tracked?

If a transaction does not appear in your account, you can submit a claim through Rakuten’s Help Center. You will need to provide details of the transaction for Rakuten to investigate with the retailer.

How does Rakuten ensure the security of my linked credit card information?

Rakuten uses advanced encryption and security protocols to protect all sensitive data, including linked credit card information. They comply with PCI standards to ensure that your credit card details are secure.

Rating Methodology

To ensure consistency and fairness in our reviews, we apply the same ranking methodology to all similar in-class cashback apps. This approach allows users to accurately compare scores across different platforms, ensuring you can make well-informed decisions based on standardized criteria. Here are the factors we consider essential for assessing Rakuten and its peers, each rated on a scale from 1 to 5.

References

[1] Rakuten. “Online Coupons & Cash Back | Shop 3,500+ Stores!” Rakuten, www.rakuten.com/#:~:text=%2490.16. Accessed 15 May 2024.

 
Author
Ben Huber

Hi! I’m Ben, a personal finance expert and co-founder of DollarSprout. A quoted contributor for NBC News, MarketWatch, Yahoo Finance, Forbes, Credit Karma, and more, I’ve spent my career helping people explore gig work, launch online businesses, and grow their careers to increase their income. Since 2017, DollarSprout has helped millions of readers find practical ways to take control of their finances and build a more secure future.

13 comments
Kerok
Kerok

Thanks for the great review, Jamaica. One question: Some of the individual retailer pages on Ebates note that using codes not listed on Ebates “may” result in cashback being voided. In your experience, how strict are they about this? Have you been able to use outside codes without losing cashback earnings?

Michelle
Michelle

I have a lot of apps on my phone. Since Ebates takes you to the retailer site (e.g. Walmart, Kroger, etc.), is it really necessary to have all of the individual retailer apps? I would certainly like to consolidate with Ebates and delete a lot of other apps.

Deborah
Deborah

This site was wonderful. It eased my mind about using Ebates. I made my first $8 purchase, and $0.45 showed in my account. Thanks for the review.

Jon Drew
Jon Drew

Thanks for the info DollarSprout! I tried and now love Ebates! I’ve already gotten $40 back from my first few shopping trips.

Tami
Tami

Now that Ebates has been bought out by Rakuten they’re dropping categories from which you can get cashback on eBay. So be very careful on eBay when you make a purchase or you’ll get no cashback.

Shelly Lynch
Shelly Lynch

Will this work if you decide to pay cash for your purchases?

Unfortunately, no. The item has to be purchased through the app.

Laura
Laura

Hi, I just tried making a purchase through Rakuten for a winter coat. When I go to the store that I want to purchase the item from, it charges me more to go through the Rakuten website than to just purchase directly through the retail store website. I’m not trying to say this happens with every store, but I know it happens with at least one. In this case, I’m going to make my purchase without using Rakuten because I can save more money.

Jaden
Jaden

Thank you for article! It’s really useful! Can you say where I can read more reviews for Rakuten?

Pat
Pat

Should I bother using Rakuten when shopping on Amazon as they are not doing cash back at the moment? Thanks!

Even if Rakuten isn’t offering cash back on a particular Amazon product/offer, it’s still worth it to use Rakuten because the Cash Back button “automatically applies all eligible coupons and triggers up to 5% Cash Back on Amazon purchases.” Even if the latter half isn’t the case at the moment, it can still find and apply working coupons!

Meredith
Meredith

In just the past few months, most of the stores I shop online with have dropped Rakuten. I was very surprised to find out that I will not be getting cash back on any of my online Christmas shopping through Rakuten! Amazon is no longer partnered with them. Walmart is, but isn’t offering any deals right now. Rakuten still has a lot of stores, but almost none of them are stores I shop online with.

Wendy
Wendy

Rakuten’s customer service is the worst. Even when I informed them my check had been stolen, and asked them to stop the payment, they still asked me to wait for 30 days so the thief could have time to cash the check…

Then, after 30 days they told me that the check has been cashed within that 30 days.

What kind of business does that.

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