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How to Stack Rakuten with Cashback: The Ultimate Guide
July 1, 2025
In today's digital shopping landscape, savvy consumers are always looking for ways to maximize their savings. One of the most powerful strategies is stacking Rakuten (formerly Ebates) with other cashback opportunities. This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to combine multiple rewards programs to potentially earn up to 20% or more in total cashback on your purchases.
What Is Rakuten and How Does It Work?
Rakuten is a trustworthy resource and leading online shopping portal that partners with thousands of retailers to offer cashback on purchases. When you shop through Rakuten's platform, you earn a percentage of your purchase back as a reward. The service works through a commission-based model, where Rakuten shares a portion of their affiliate earnings with users.
Essential Tools for Cashback Stacking
Before diving into stacking strategies, ensure you have these tools ready:
- Rakuten Button Extension: This browser extension automatically alerts you to available cashback opportunities
- Mobile App: Access mobile-exclusive coupons and in-store offers
- Cashback Monitor: A comparison tool to find the highest rates across different portals
- Linked Credit Cards: Connect your preferred rewards credit cards to maximize earnings
Step-by-Step Guide to Stacking Rakuten Rewards
Start with Credit Card Rewards
Begin by choosing the right credit card for your purchase. Consider:
- Co-branded card offers
- Chase offers
- Credit card rewards multipliers
Activate Shopping Portal Rewards
- Enable the Rakuten cash back button
- Check cashback rates using the Rakuten search bar
- Verify tracking through shopping trip tracking
- Compare rates with alternative retailers
Layer Store-Specific Offers
- Check the deals section for limited-time offers
- Look for seasonal promotions
- Activate double cashback events
- Stack with store offers relink opportunities
Add Payment Platform Bonuses
- PayPal rewards
- Amex offers through Amex account integration
- Cash back for change program
- Digital wallet promotions
Advanced Stacking Strategies
Maximizing Travel Bookings
When booking travel, combine:
- Rakuten's travel and gift card offerings
- Credit card travel rewards
- Airline/hotel loyalty programs
- Amex transfer partners
In-Store Optimization
For physical shopping:
- Link credit card to Rakuten for in-store cashback
- Enable geo-push notifications
- Use mobile-exclusive coupons
- Stack with merchant agreements
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Gift card exclusions
- Promo code restrictions
- Cashback processing time delays
- Store offers relink errors
Maximizing Your Earnings
To ensure maximum rewards:
- Monitor your cashback balance regularly
- Check email notifications for special offers
- Participate in referral bonus programs
- Use the mobile-friendly website for additional offers
Consider Using Kudos to Enhance Your Stacking Strategy
While Rakuten offers excellent savings opportunities, combining it with Kudos can take your rewards to the next level. Kudos is a free AI-powered browser extension that automatically recommends the best credit card to use for each purchase, ensuring you're always maximizing your rewards. With integration across over 15,000 stores and exclusive Flash Boost events that multiply your rewards up to 5X, Kudos perfectly complements your Rakuten stacking strategy.
Currently, Kudos is offering $20 back after your first eligible purchase — just sign-up for free with code "GET20" and make a purchase at a Boost merchant.
Our Expert Takeaway
Stacking Rakuten with other cashback opportunities is a powerful way to maximize your savings on everyday purchases. By combining credit card rewards, shopping portal bonuses, and store-specific offers, you can significantly increase your return on spending. The key is to stay organized and understand each program's terms and conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for Rakuten cashback to process?
Typically, Rakuten processes cashback within 60-90 days after purchase, depending on the retailer's policies and return window.
Can I use coupon codes with Rakuten?
Yes, but only approved coupon codes. Using unauthorized codes may void your cashback earnings.
What are the best credit cards to use with Rakuten?
Cards that offer bonus points on online shopping or have strong rewards programs, particularly American Express cards that can convert Rakuten earnings to Membership Rewards points.
How do I ensure my purchase is tracking correctly?
Enable cookies, use the browser extension, and verify that the shopping trip appears in your Rakuten account activity.
What is the minimum payout for Rakuten?
Rakuten requires a minimum balance of $5.01 for quarterly payouts through PayPal or check.
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Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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