Rakuten - cashback service

Rakuten (formerly known as Ebates) is one of the largest and most popular cash back platforms, allowing users to earn rewards when shopping at thousands of retailers. With a user-friendly website, browser extension, and mobile app, Rakuten makes it easy for users to save money on a wide range of products, from everyday essentials to luxury items. Since its founding in 1999, Rakuten has built a strong reputation for providing reliable cash back, exclusive deals, and special offers, making it a favorite for millions of shoppers worldwide.

How Rakuten Works

Rakuten partners with thousands of retailers and earns a commission each time a user makes a purchase through its links. Instead of keeping the commission, Rakuten shares it with users in the form of cash back. The process is simple:

1. Sign Up for a Free Account: Users sign up for a free Rakuten account online or via the app.
2. Shop Through Rakuten’s Links: Users can browse through Rakuten’s list of partnered retailers, or search for a specific store. Clicking on the retailer’s link redirects them to the retailer’s website, where they can shop as usual.
3. Earn Cash Back: Once the purchase is verified, cash back is credited to the user’s Rakuten account.
4. Receive Cash Back Payment: Rakuten sends payments every month via PayPal or bank transfer once a user's cashback balance reaches a minimum threshold.

Key Features of Rakuten

1. User-Friendly Browser Extension
   Rakuten’s browser extension alerts users to cash back opportunities as they browse, making it easy to spot deals. The extension also automatically applies available coupons and discounts, helping users maximize savings without needing to search for promo codes manually.

2. Mobile App for On-the-Go Savings
   Rakuten’s mobile app offers the same features as its website, allowing users to shop, earn cash back, and find deals directly from their phones. The app also includes location-based notifications, alerting users to cash back opportunities at nearby stores.

3. In-Store Cash Back
   In addition to online shopping, Rakuten offers in-store cash back options at select retailers. Users simply link a payment card in the app, activate the in-store offer, and pay with the linked card at the physical store to earn cash back.

4. Special Deals and Double Cash Back Offers
   Rakuten frequently offers special promotions, such as “double cash back” days, where users can earn twice the usual cash back rate at certain stores. It also runs seasonal events and bonus offers, providing additional ways for users to increase their earnings.

5. Referral Program
   Rakuten’s referral program allows users to earn a bonus for every friend or family member they invite who signs up and makes a qualifying purchase. This program provides an easy way for users to increase their cash back balance by sharing the savings with others.

Benefits of Using Rakuten

• Easy to Use: Rakuten’s user-friendly website, extension, and app make it easy for anyone to start earning cash back, regardless of tech skills.
• Automatic Coupon Application: The browser extension automatically applies available coupons, ensuring users don’t miss out on extra savings.
• Flexible Payout Options: Users can choose between PayPal and bank transfer, offering flexibility in how they receive their earnings.

Potential Drawbacks

While Rakuten offers numerous advantages, there are some considerations to keep in mind:

• Monthly Payouts: Unlike some cash back services that offer immediate, Rakuten only distributes payments monthly, which may be inconvenient for users who want quicker access to their earnings.
• Limited In-Store Options: Although in-store cash back is available, the selection of participating retailers is limited compared to online options.
• Minimum Payout Threshold: Users must have at least £5.01 in their balance by the end of the month to receive a payout, so smaller earnings may carry over until they reach the threshold.

Tips for Maximizing Cash Back with Rakuten

1. Install the Browser Extension: This is the easiest way to get notified of cash back opportunities without having to visit the Rakuten website each time.
2. Shop During Double Cash Back Events: Rakuten’s double cash back promotions can significantly increase the amount users earn, especially during peak shopping seasons.
3. Take Advantage of In-Store Offers: Linking a payment card and using it at participating stores is a simple way to earn cash back on offline purchases.

Conclusion

Rakuten is a trusted and effective cash back platform that makes it easy for users to save money on everyday purchases. With a large network of retailers, a straightforward user experience, and additional perks like in-store cash back and coupon integration, Rakuten offers valuable tools for anyone looking to reduce their spending. For both occasional shoppers and frequent buyers, Rakuten’s combination of cash back, special deals, and reliable payouts makes it a standout choice in the cash back industry.