In today’s fast-paced world, saving money while shopping has become a top priority for many consumers. Thanks to the internet, there are numerous tools and platforms that can help you achieve this goal. One such platform that has gained popularity for its money-saving features is Rakuten. In this article, we will explore the many benefits of using Rakuten and how it can help you save money while shopping. Whether you’re an avid online shopper or prefer traditional in-store shopping, Rakuten can be a valuable addition to your money-saving toolkit.
What is Rakuten?
Before we delve into the benefits of using Rakuten, let’s start with a basic understanding of what Rakuten is. Rakuten, Inc. is a Japanese e-commerce and online retailing company that was founded in 1997. Over the years, it has grown into a global powerhouse, with operations in various countries, including the United States, where it operates under the name “Rakuten.” The company offers a wide range of services, including e-commerce, online travel, banking, and more. However, the focus of this article will be on Rakuten’s shopping and cashback features.
How Does Rakuten Work?
Rakuten offers a simple and user-friendly way to save money while shopping. Here’s how it works:
- Sign Up: To get started with Rakuten, you need to create a free account. This process is quick and straightforward, and you can do it through their website or mobile app.
- Browse Retailers: Once you have an account, you can start shopping at various online retailers through Rakuten’s platform. They have partnerships with thousands of stores, including major brands like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy.
- Activate Cashback: Before making a purchase, visit Rakuten’s website or app, and activate the cashback offer for the retailer you’re interested in. This usually involves clicking a button or link that redirects you to the retailer’s website.
- Shop as Usual: After activating the cashback offer, you can shop on the retailer’s website as you normally would. There’s no need to make any changes to your shopping routine.
- Earn Cashback: Once you complete your purchase, Rakuten will track your spending and reward you with cashback. This cashback can vary depending on the retailer and the specific offer at the time.
- Get Paid: Rakuten typically pays out your cashback every three months, as long as your account balance is $5 or more. You can receive your earnings via check or PayPal.
Now that we have a better understanding of how Rakuten works, let’s explore the numerous benefits of using this platform to save money while shopping.
1. Cashback Offers
The primary and most attractive feature of Rakuten is its cashback offers. When you shop through Rakuten, you can earn a percentage of your purchase back as cash. The cashback rates vary depending on the retailer and the specific offer, but it’s not uncommon to find offers ranging from 1% to 10% or even more. This means that for every $100 you spend, you could earn $1 to $10 in cashback, which can add up significantly over time.
For example, if you’re planning to purchase a new laptop for $800 and the retailer you choose offers a 5% cashback through Rakuten, you would earn $40 in cashback. That’s $40 you wouldn’t have received if you had simply shopped directly on the retailer’s website.
2. Wide Range of Retailers
One of the major advantages of Rakuten is its extensive network of partner retailers. You can find cashback offers for virtually any type of product or service, from clothing and electronics to travel bookings and hotel stays. This variety makes Rakuten a versatile tool for saving money on a wide range of purchases.
Whether you’re shopping for groceries, upgrading your home theater, or planning a vacation, you can find cashback offers for popular retailers in those categories. This versatility is especially helpful because it allows you to save money on both everyday essentials and big-ticket items.
3. Coupons and Promo Codes
In addition to cashback offers, Rakuten provides users with access to a treasure trove of coupons and promo codes. These discounts can help you save even more money on your purchases. When you visit a retailer’s page on Rakuten, you’ll often find a section dedicated to the latest coupons and deals. Simply apply these codes during checkout to enjoy additional savings.
Rakuten not only displays available promo codes but also provides information on the terms and conditions of each deal. This transparency ensures that you know exactly what you’re getting and how to make the most of each offer.
4. Double Dip on Savings
One of the unique features of Rakuten is the ability to “double dip” on savings. This means that you can combine cashback offers from Rakuten with credit card rewards or loyalty programs offered by the retailer. This can result in substantial savings, allowing you to maximize your benefits when shopping.
For example, if you have a credit card that offers 2% cashback on all purchases, and you use Rakuten to earn an additional 5% cashback on a purchase from a partner retailer, you effectively get a 7% cashback rate on your total purchase.
5. Seasonal Promotions
Rakuten often runs seasonal promotions and events that provide even more opportunities to save. During these events, cashback rates are boosted, and you may find special deals and discounts exclusive to Rakuten members. These promotions can be especially lucrative during major shopping seasons like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, where retailers offer significant discounts.
By using Rakuten during these peak shopping periods, you can take advantage of both the retailer’s sales and the platform’s increased cashback rates, allowing you to enjoy substantial savings.
6. Referral Program
Rakuten also offers a referral program that allows you to earn extra money by referring friends and family. When someone signs up for Rakuten using your referral link and makes their first purchase, both you and your friend can earn a cash bonus. This feature is an excellent way to share the benefits of Rakuten with your loved ones and earn some extra cash in the process.
Conclusion
In a world where every penny counts, Rakuten offers a fantastic opportunity to save money while shopping. With its user-friendly platform, extensive network of partner retailers, cashback offers, coupons, and the possibility to double dip on savings, Rakuten is a must-have tool for any savvy shopper. Whether you’re buying everyday essentials or splurging on a big-ticket item, Rakuten can help you keep more money in your wallet.