What is Rakuten? We’ll Tell You How to Earn Cash Back

Updated September 17, 2019

You know it. You love it.

And, well, if you don’t, you’re missing out on free cash.

I’m talking about the cash-back site Rakuten, formerly Ebates.

The long-time Penny Hoarder favorite has gotten a new name. (You might’ve seen the commercials on Hulu.) But don’t worry. Everything looks and works the same — you’ll still get up to 40% cash back from more than 2,500 online stores, including up to 5% cash back on some Amazon purchases.

If you already have an account, you don’t have to worry about a thing. The name will change on July 31.

If you don’t have an account, well, here’s what you need to know.

How to Earn up to 40% Cash Back While Shopping Online

If you’re a frequent online shopper, Rakuten is a tool you need in your savings arsenal. It’s super easy to use. No points. No receipts. No surveys. No fees. Just automatic cash.

Here’s how to sign up:

1. Create a free Rakuten account in less than two minutes.
2. Shop online at more than 2,500 stores through the platform. You’ll find your classics — Amazon, Old Navy, Target and Walmart — but also discover some gems, like Postmates, Madewell, “The New Yorker” and Leesa.
3. Earn cash back automatically. As long as you earn more than $5, you’ll get a “Big Fat Check” in the mail quarterly.

Qualifying for your first check is super easy. If you sign up and make your first purchase of $25 or more within 90 days, you’ll get a free $10 bonus.

We’ve talked to a lot of Rakuten users who’ve gotten paid through the platform. Colleen Rice of Denver, Colorado, for example, has earned $526.44 in cash back.

Honestly, who doesn’t love getting free money in the mail?!

Carson Kohler ([email protected]) is a staff writer at Codetic.