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How I got $1,000 cash back!
When you shop online, do go straight to the retailer’s website? I hope not!
Many people have heard of Rakuten (Ebates) but have not signed up because they think it’s a scam. I’m doing this review to let you know the truth about the cash back service. And how just taking a few extra seconds to go to their website before shopping, has earned me about $1,000 cash back!
What is Rakuten?
Rakuten, formerly known as Ebates, is a website that gives shoppers cash back for doing their normal online shopping.
Is Rakuten legit?
Absolutely! I have been a user of Rakuten (Ebates) for over 10 years. So far, I have gotten nearly $1,000 cash back. Here is a screenshot of how much I have gotten back (it doesn’t count the additional money I had when I had a 2nd account):
How does it work?
Sign up for a free account by going on their website.
Set up how you prefer to get your payments (PayPal or check).
Online shopping:
1. Use the search bar in the app or website, or install the Rakuten (Ebates) toolbar on your browser (I use Google Chrome) to find your preferred retailer.
2. Rakuten will let you know if there are any promo codes and the percentage of cash back they will pay you to shop with that retailer.
3. Shop on the retailer’s website as normal.
You will get at least $10 cash back for your first purchase over $25.
In-store shopping:
1. Link a credit card to your Rakuten account.
2. Link offers to your card using their app/website.
How does Rakuten get paid?
They are affiliated with hundreds of retailers to provide promo codes and cash back. The retailers pay Rakuten (Ebates) to refer customers to their websites. And it’s free to sign up and use, so it’s a win-win for everyone.
How do shoppers get paid?
You have a choice if you want to receive your payments via PayPal or physical check. Payments are sent automatically, no need to request them.
When are payments sent?
Payments are sent every 3 months: February, May, August, and November. The payments will contain the amount of cash back the shopper accumulated up to the month prior. (Ie. The February payment will contain any money you accumulated in November, December, and January).
How can I make extra money with Rakuten?
There are a few things that can help you get more cash back for using Rakuten:
1. Shop during holidays- They often give bonus cash back during the holidays, especially Christmas.
2. Refer friends- The Rakuten referral program will pay $25 for each person you refer to their free service.
3. Use the browser plug-in- If you don’t, you may forget to use it and miss out on cash back, and great promo codes.
How to contact Rakuten (Ebates) customer service:
The Rakuten customer service number (U.S.) -1 (650) 383-1328
They can also be emailed by using their contact page.
Now that you have a better idea of Rakuten and how to use it, there are no more excuses. Head on over to the website and see how easy it is to use. You’ll want to kick yourself when you see how much money you missed out on. But when you know better, you do better. Happy shopping!
You can earn cash back, even when using a gift card. Click here to find out my hacks on how I get free gift cards.
