Have you ever heard of Ebates? Following the acquisition by Rakuten, Ebates is now formally known as Rakuten. Our Rakuten review will highlight everything you need to know about this favorable cashback rewards program.
This Rakuten review gives you insight into saving money while earning easy cashback.
Who wouldn't like to receive some cash and save money on almost anything they buy? Even if you go shopping only for holidays, why not get cashback? Well, Rakuten is a company that provides you with exactly that, plus some extra features.
If you are familiar with affiliate marketing, you will recognize the name eBates. Our Rakuten review will explain all the benefits of such purchases for those new in the online shopping market.
Keep reading and find answers to all the important questions… How does Rakuten work? Is it even a legit way of earning money? These are just some of the topics we'll be exploring.
In other words, if you think you can't save money with online shopping, here is a game-changer platform.
Table of Contents
What is Rakuten?
Rakuten is a large e-commerce and internet company based in Tokyo. Since its founding in 1997, it has shaped how people shop online. It offers cashback and various deals and rewards on a large selection of products and services.
Moreover, Rakuten is a browser extension and an app-based service. Their main goal is to help customers save money on the things they are already buying. That's why they have several ways to operate.
Furthermore, to get cashback, they give you an option of online shopping or in-store shopping. It's up to you to choose the option you like more.
However, when talking about Rakuten, it is necessary to mention the name eBates. This is one of the most popular cashback portals that has been around since 1998.
- Finally, in 2014, Rakuten acquired eBates.
- In early 2019, eBates officially changed the name to Rakuten, which means ‘optimism' in Japanese.
Except for the new name and logo, nothing else has changed. Therefore, those who have already created an account with eBates, don't have to worry because Rakuten is the same as eBates.
The account will remain the same, and you don't need to update anything or create a new account. The only (and the biggest) difference is a wider program with more offers. It remains one of the best apps to make money out there.
For those who are new to affiliate marketing, check out the numbers. To date, the platform's 17 million members in the US have earned more than $3.7 billion in cash back. The company gives its customers a cashback of between 1% and 40% on almost anything they buy.
Cashback | Payment Method | Min To Cash Out |
Next Steps | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Up to 40% | PayPal or Gift Cards | $5 | CLAIM BONUS | Read Full Review |
But how is that possible? Keep reading our Rakuten review and find out. Discover why Rakuten cashback is called the easy cashback app.
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Rakuten Review: How does Rakuten Work?
Not only does Rakuten have great deals, but also it's really easy to use. All you have to do is shop via a link through Rakuten.com and choose the store before making any purchase.
However, remember that if you go back to the shopping site directly without clicking the link, you won't earn Rakuten cashback. Each store link will show you the percentage of cashback you'll earn after the purchase.
Rakuten cash back percentage varies depending on the store and the things you buy. For example, one store can offer you 3% cash back on regular purchases and 20% back on home products.
The cashback percentage can also change from time to time, depending on store deals and offers. Sometimes, the store can even offer double cash back! To find these amazing deals, click the ‘Double Cashback Stores' button in the main menu bar.
Finally, if you are wondering how cashback is payable to Rakuten, here it is. Each store they collaborate with gives them money for referring you to shop with them. This way, it is a win-win situation for the company, the store, and you.
Some names that find Rakuten excellent to collaborate with are Walmart, Nike, Macy's, Kohl's, and Lowe's. So, if you love shopping in these stores and brands, you might as well enjoy some savings on your purchases through Rakuten.
They also work with several travel sites such as Qatar Airlines, Expedia, Air France, British Airways, Booking.com, Marriot Hotels & Resorts, TripAdvisor Hotels, and many others. In this case, too, you need to click through the Rakuten website to any of the travel sites and then complete your booking on the actual travel site.
How to Create an Account with Rakuten
First things first. To create an account, visit the Rakuten website and click the ‘Join Now button. Here, the sign-up process is a piece of cake.
The first option is to sign up using the email address and password you created. But you can also sign up using your Facebook or Google account. The next step is to agree to their Terms & Conditions, and you are part of the team!
The best part about creating an account with Rakuten is that you will get a sign-up cash bonus of $10 if you spend $25. But to qualify for a welcome bonus, you must make a minimum purchase of at least $25 within 90 days of becoming a member.
Similarly, Rakuten offers great referral programs where you can earn cash. The company will pay you $40 per person that you refer to. The only condition is they sign up via your referral link and use Rakuten at least once to buy something over $25. Another win-win situation.
Refer as many friends as you want. The more, the merrier!
How do I Start with Rakuten?
When it comes to finding the best cashback offers, the first option is to search their website.
Online purchase is becoming increasingly popular among customers, which is why Rakuten developed a user-friendly website.
Besides searching the offers on the web, you can use three more options on this cashback site. Let's explain each of them.
Rakuten Cash Back Button
The first option is to add a ‘Rakuten Cash back Button,' which is a browser extension for Google Chrome. When you visit a store with a cashback offer, the extension will notify you by sending you a pop-up in the right-hand corner of your screen. In the same way, it will alert you when it finds discounts or available coupon codes.
Moreover, the Rakuten browser extension will insert cashback percentages into your Google search results. This way, you will know which stores have the best cashback.
Finally, if the store doesn't offer cashback, Rakuten will try to direct you to a similar one that does. In other words, the extension will alert you if the product is available for a lower price at some other store. It is definitely a useful tool and the easiest way to use Rakuten.
Rakuten App
The other way to use Rakuten is to install the app. The Rakuten app is available for both Android and iPhone. It is a great option if you are always on the go and want to do quick shopping.
Using the app is much easier than using the coupons, as you can always click a retailer to see available offers. And just like using the website, you can search by a store's currently available cashback deals.
In-Store Cash Back
Earning Rakuten cashback is not only enabled for online shopping but also in-store shopping. Rakuten has created an ‘In-Store Cashback' option for those who prefer to shop in-store. But to use this option, you'll need to download the app or log in to your Rakuten account on a website.
After you log in, click the ‘In-Store Cash Back' button, and you will get various offers you can choose from. Find the store you're interested in and opt for ‘Get Deal.' The next step is to add your credit or debit card.
It should be an eligible Visa, American Express, or MasterCard! In other words, the card you usually use while shopping at stores.
After you add the card to your Rakuten account, you will need to link available In-Store Cashback offers to your card. This way, you will automatically earn cashback while purchasing in local stores.
However, don't be surprised if your Rakuten cashback balance is not changed immediately. Sometimes it can take a few hours to seven days to confirm the order.
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Rakuten Review: Is Rakuten Free?
Using Rakuten is completely free. You don't have to pay anything to create an account and join the team. But is it safe to use?
Well, Rakuten also promotes its services as safe and secure. As two District Attorneys who used to prosecute online fraud started the company, the whole situation about security is taken with a lot of seriousness here.
Therefore, the Rakuten website has TRUSTe certification and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Moreover, the site is tested daily by McAfee security.
When it comes to adding a credit card to Rakuten, all the information you provide is encrypted and secure. Also, your information is never shared with third parties.
Rakuten Review: Pros & Cons
Like any other platform, Rakuten also has several benefits and disadvantages. Our Rakuten review gives you a complete overview of this platform's important pros and cons.
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Rakuten Pros
There are various good things about Rakuten, such as:
1. Easy to Use
Using Rakuten is extremely easy, whether you opt for a website, browser extension, or app. All you have to do is create an account on their website, click on the store you're interested in, and shop as you usually do.
Simple as that!
However, using a browser extension is probably the easiest way to use Rakuten as it doesn't require you to search for deals manually.
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2. Cashback
Who doesn't like to save some money, especially if the process is not demanding? With Rakuten, you can save money at the stores you usually buy. The site has various cashback offers at many different stores.
You can get from 1% to 40% cash rebates for using Rakuten.
3. Variety of Deals
Rakuten provides cashback offers in more than 2,500 stores and companies. In other words, the chance you'll find a store where you already shop is enormous.
Furthermore, cashback offers are available for online and in-store shopping. Some of the most popular names the site collaborates with are Booking.com, Walmart, Target, Kohl's, etc.
4. Referral Programs
For all those who want to earn extra money, Rakuten has you covered. Besides paying you a welcome bonus of $10, they will also reward you for bringing in new members. They will pay you up to $40 per person who joins the team and purchases at least $40.
However, the referral bonus might sometimes be lower, depending on the current offer. It's, therefore, good to check the amount of bonus the platform offers at that particular time.
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5. Free and Safe
Creating an account is completely free. Furthermore, using the site is safe and secure. Rakuten is TRUSTe certified and tested daily by McAfee security.
Also, they undertake not to provide your personal and credit card information to third parties. This way, they protect customers from fraudulent issues and identity theft.
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6. Customer Service
Rakuten has great customer service. Communicate with them via a service ticket. After filling out the form and submitting your electronic receipt, they will get in touch as soon as possible.
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Rakuten Cons
The site has several things they might need to improve, such as:
1. Frequency of Payments
Rakuten payments are sent out four times yearly (every three months). Check out the table below for additional information.
In other words, you can't choose on your own to get your Rakuten cashback when you wish. Instead, they will email you a check each quarter.
2. Excluded Products
Almost every store featured on Rakuten has excluded products. These include cellular phone purchases, gift cards, and financial center transactions.
In other words, several things don't qualify for rebates, which might be discouraging.
3. Impulsive Shopping
Lots of sales and cashback offers can result in impulsive shopping. If you have a problem with overspending, self-control is needed when using Rakuten.
4. Limited Purchases
Using Rakuten is limited to the United States and Japan. Moreover, companies, legal entities, and partnerships are not allowed to make a purchase.
5. Order issues
Once you make an order, you cannot change it or cancel it. Also, orders may take longer to get delivered if you are not from Japan.
7. Account issues
You cannot purchase or sell products without creating an account. However, a created account can be disabled permanently without any prior notice.
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Rakuten Review: Is Rakuten Scam or Legit?
One of the most common questions is whether Rakuten is a scam or legit. As you will read in many other previous Rakuten reviews, using the site is safe and secure. Therefore, Rakuten is completely legit.
It gives you free money while purchasing your usual goods. And with more than 2,500 stores and companies to choose from, almost everyone can earn some cashback.
However, it is important to use Rakuten wisely if you want to save money and not break the bank.
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Rakuten Review: Conclusion
Rakuten is a legitimate way to earn cashback on purchasing products you usually buy. Even if you don't do a lot of retail shopping, you can still save money and earn some cash.
It doesn't cost any money to sign up (you will even get a welcome bonus!), so it's totally worth the try. Like any other platform, Rakuten also has several benefits and disadvantages. Probably the best part about it is earning cashback regularly by buying everyday products.
Moreover, if you are not a fan of online shopping, in-store shopping is also included.
The company collaborates with more than 2,500 stores and companies and has thousands of products of all shapes and sizes. Therefore, you will probably find the ones you usually buy.
Keep in mind that Rakuten will send you notifications about special deals unless you unsubscribe or turn them off.
Finally, to make the most of the Rakuten services, evaluate all the above-mentioned features and decide if those are right for you.
We can only tell you one thing. Earning easy cashback with a sign-up and referral bonus has never been so appealing!
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