How the Rakuten: Cash Back and Deals App Works – A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Rakuten, formerly known as Ebates, is a leading cash-back and shopping rewards platform that allows users to earn money back on their online and in-store purchases. The Rakuten: Cash Back and Deals app (available for iOS and Android) simplifies the process of earning cash back by partnering with thousands of retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, Macy’s, and more.
This guide will provide an in-depth explanation of how the Rakuten app works, covering:
- Signing Up and Getting Started
- How Cash Back Works
- Shopping Online with Rakuten
- In-Store Cash Back Offers
- Rakuten’s Browser Extension
- Referral Program and Bonuses
- Payment Methods and Payouts
- Exclusive Deals and Promotions
- Rakuten Membership Tiers (Gold & Platinum)
- Tips to Maximize Earnings
- Common Issues and Troubleshooting
- Security and Privacy Considerations
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a complete understanding of how to use Rakuten to save money on every purchase.
1. Signing Up and Getting Started
Downloading the App
- The Rakuten app is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
- After downloading, users must create an account using an email address or by linking a Google/Facebook account.
Welcome Bonus
- New users often receive a $10–$30 sign-up bonus after making their first qualifying purchase (varies by promotion).
Linking Payment Methods (Optional)
- Users can link credit/debit cards to earn in-store cash back (more details in Section 4).
2. How Cash Back Works
Rakuten partners with retailers to offer a percentage of your purchase back as cash. The process involves:
Cash Back Rates
- Rates vary by store (e.g., 1% at Amazon, up to 15% at Sephora).
- Some stores offer temporary boosts (e.g., 10% cash back during Black Friday).
How Rakuten Makes Money
- Rakuten earns a commission from retailers for driving traffic to their websites.
- A portion of this commission is shared with users as cash back.
Exclusions
- Cash back does not apply to taxes, shipping fees, or gift card purchases (unless specified).
3. Shopping Online with Rakuten
Method 1: Using the Rakuten App
- Open the app and search for a retailer (e.g., Nike).
- Tap "Shop Now" to be redirected to the retailer’s website.
- Complete your purchase as usual.
- Cash back will be tracked and credited to your account within 1–7 days.
Method 2: Using the Rakuten Browser Extension
- The Rakuten Cash Back Button (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge) automatically activates cash back when shopping at partner stores.
- A notification confirms when cash back is applied.
Method 3: Manually Submitting Receipts (For In-Store Purchases)
- Some stores allow receipt uploads via the app for cash back.
4. In-Store Cash Back Offers
Linking a Credit/Debit Card
- Users can register eligible cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) in the app.
- When shopping in-store at participating retailers, cash back is automatically tracked.
Activating In-Store Offers
- Open the app and check for nearby in-store deals.
- Tap "Link Offer" to activate cash back before paying with a linked card.
Exclusions
- Some stores require minimum spending (e.g., $25 at Walgreens).
- Not all locations participate.
5. Rakuten’s Browser Extension
Features
- Automatically applies coupon codes at checkout.
- Shows cash back rates before purchasing.
- Alerts users if they’re on a non-cash-back retailer.
Installation
- Visit Rakuten.com and download the extension.
- Log in to your account.
- The extension will notify you when cash back is available.
6. Referral Program and Bonuses
Earning Referral Bonuses
- Users receive $25–$40 for every friend who signs up and makes a qualifying purchase.
- Some promotions offer extra bonuses (e.g., $10 per referral during holidays).
Sharing Referral Links
- Links can be shared via email, social media, or direct messages.
7. Payment Methods and Payouts
Payout Schedule
- Rakuten pays quarterly (February, May, August, November).
- Minimum payout is $5.01 (for check) or $0.01 (for PayPal).
Payment Options
- PayPal (instant transfer).
- Check (mailed).
- American Express Membership Rewards (for Amex cardholders).
8. Exclusive Deals and Promotions
Double Cash Back Events
- Some stores offer 2x or 3x cash back for limited periods.
Rakuten Coupons
- The app provides extra discount codes on top of cash back.
Bonus Cash Back for First-Time Purchases
- Some retailers offer extra $10–$20 for first-time buyers.
9. Rakuten Membership Tiers (Gold & Platinum)
Gold Status
- Earn $5–$10 extra per quarter if you refer friends.
Platinum Status
- Requires $500+ in cash back per year.
- Benefits include higher referral bonuses and exclusive deals.
10. Tips to Maximize Earnings
✅ Stack with Credit Card Rewards – Use a cash-back credit card for extra savings.
✅ Check for Seasonal Promotions – Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and holidays offer higher rates.
✅ Combine with Coupons – Rakuten allows coupon stacking.
✅ Use In-Store Offers – Activate deals before shopping.
11. Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Missing Cash Back?
- Submit a Missing Cash Back Request in the app (requires order confirmation).
- Ensure you clicked through Rakuten before purchasing.
Delayed Payouts?
- Some stores take up to 45 days to confirm purchases.
12. Security and Privacy Considerations
- Rakuten uses encryption to protect user data.
- The browser extension does not track sensitive payment details.
Final Thoughts
The Rakuten app is a powerful tool for earning cash back on everyday purchases. By shopping through Rakuten, activating in-store offers, and leveraging referral bonuses, users can save hundreds of dollars annually.
Would you like a step-by-step video tutorial on setting up Rakuten for maximum cash back? Let me know in the comments!