Introducing Rakuten – a cash back shopping hub! If you’ve ventured into the world of online shopping (and let’s be honest, who hasn’t?), you might be missing out on cash back opportunities if you haven’t been using Rakuten.
Why Shop with Rakuten?
Rakuten, pronounced “rack-ah-ten”, is a platform that offers cash back on a plethora of online purchases. Born as Ebates in 1999, Rakuten was a trailblazer in the cash back industry.
Fast forward to today, Rakuten boasts a whopping 12 million members and has doled out $1 billion in cash back. With over 2500 stores, including some top-tier online retailers, it’s a must-visit before making any online purchases.
How to Join Rakuten:
Joining Rakuten is a breeze. Click a link here, and you’ll be directed to their signup process which takes hardly 15 seconds! You can sign in using your Facebook or Google credentials, or simply register with your email and a chosen password. I personally opted for the Facebook route. And here’s a tip – use our referral link, and you’ll get a $10 bonus after your first purchase.
The Mechanics of Rakuten:
Curious about how it operates? Let’s use an example. Say you’re eyeing a $10 Groupon voucher for a local eatery. Instead of buying directly on Groupon, access it via Rakuten. Buy that voucher and get 6% cash back on Rakuten – an additional 60 cents to your account! While this might not sound monumental, the cash back percentage varies among retailers. Some even offer up to 12%. Occasionally, you might even stumble upon double cash back offers.
The more you shop via Rakuten, especially during peak seasons like Christmas, the quicker your cash back adds up. For instance, Amazon purchases via Rakuten give me 1% cash back on toys and games. If I’m spending anyway, I’d rather have that cash back!
Brick-and-Mortar Stores with Rakuten:
Don’t just think of Rakuten for online shopping. They’ve now incorporated in-store cash back offers. To access this, link a qualifying card (American Express, Mastercard, or Visa) to your Rakuten account and activate the In-Store Cash Back offers. When you shop at partner stores using the linked card, cash back gets added to your Rakuten account within a week.
Rakuten’s Browser Extension:
Rakuten has amped up the convenience factor with their browser extension – the “cash back button.” This nifty tool alerts you of available cash back, prompts coupon codes, showcases Rakuten cash back in Google searches, and even identifies lower-priced alternatives with cash back from other stores. I strongly advocate installing this button; it’s a surefire way to maximize your cash back.
Rakuten’s Payment Cycle:
You’ll receive your Rakuten payments quarterly, provided you’ve accumulated over $5.01. Payment options are versatile: PayPal, mailed checks, or even charitable donations.
Spread the Word:
If Rakuten impresses you, refer friends using your unique link. For each referral who makes a qualifying purchase, you get $5!
Safety Concerns:
While absolute security is a myth, Rakuten was founded by two ex-Deputy District Attorneys from Silicon Valley who specialized in online fraud. The site is TRUSTe certified, McAfee secured, and has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. My personal experience? Smooth transactions and timely cash back.
Rakuten’s Business Model:
Ever wondered how Rakuten sustains while giving you cash back? They’ve partnered with over 2,500 online stores. These retailers reward Rakuten with affiliate bonuses for business referrals. Rakuten then shares a portion of this with users as cash back. It’s a win-win!
Triple Savings with Rakuten:
For maximum savings, I use Rakuten along with Honey (for coupon codes) and Gift Card Granny (for discounted gift cards). This trio guarantees triple savings on my purchases!
Any Caveats?
I’ve had a pleasant experience with Rakuten. However, occasionally, I forget to shop via their platform, missing out on potential cash back. The solution? Their browser extension – a constant reminder to earn back while you spend.
In Conclusion:
Now’s the time to embrace Rakuten, especially with the holiday season approaching. Who wouldn’t want some cash back? It’s a nifty tool, especially if you’re chipping away at debt.
