Kayla Solino/ZDNET
What if I told you that you can save on that purchase you were about to make via cash back, and that it's as easy as enabling a browser extension or using an app?
While it sounds questionable, I'm here to quell your concerns. I've been using Rakuten's cash back program for over a year, and I've saved around $450 so far. I began using the platform in early 2024 -- and now I'm a user for life.
Also: 3 ways Google Chrome and Wallet just made shopping a whole lot easier
But before I break down how I did it, let's cover some basics.
What is Rakuten?
If you're unfamiliar with Rakuten, it's a similar system to the cash back offered on many credit cards. But instead of getting say 2% cash back on gas or groceries, you can save with varying percentage amounts at over 3,500 stores, restaurants, and travel bookings, even in-store. The percentage amounts change frequently and are sometimes even tailored to you.
Rakuten might look too good to be true, but it's pretty simple. Cash back adds up in a Rakuten account as customers shop on store sites via Rakuten. Then, customers get paid out on what they've earned. How? Retail stores pay Rakuten for sending them shoppers, and Rakuten shares a cut of that cash with its customers.
My lifetime Rakuten earnings, so you know I'm telling the truth. Screenshot by Kayla Solino/ZDNET
It's primarily used for online shopping via a browser extension or the Rakuten app (or directly on Rakuten via desktop). It's an easy way to save on large and small purchases, and in this economy, every penny helps.
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