It’s starting to look a lot like the holiday shopping season.
One of the most popular online shopping sites offering cash back for online shopping is Rakuten, and it has already started increasing cash back payouts at some popular retailers ahead of the holiday season.
But don’t forget that Rakuten allows you to earn American Express Membership Rewards points instead of cash back. So instead of getting 15% cash back, you can choose to earn 15 Membership Rewards points per dollar, which can have a significantly higher value overall if you maximize points with travel partners.
Here’s what you need to know about the bigger cashback opportunities at Rakuten.
Increased cashback with Rakuten
To earn cash back rewards or membership rewards when you shop online, start shopping on the Rakuten website. Once there, search for the store you want and click to be redirected to the retailer’s website. After you make a qualifying purchase, Rakuten will track your transaction and add bonus rewards to your account – usually within a day or two.
Here are some of the stores we’re currently seeing with higher cashback:
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- Marriott: 4 points per dollar or 4% cash back
- Neiman Marcus: 8 points per dollar or 8% cash back
- Walmart: 10 points per dollar or 10% cash back
- ShopDisney: 10 points per dollar or 10% cash back
- Macy’s: 10 points per dollar or 10% cash back
- Dell: 10 points per dollar or 10% cash back
- Nike: 11 points per dollar or 11% cash back
- Adidas: 12 points per dollar or 12% cash back
- Bergdorf: 15 points per dollar or 15% cash back
The cashback is earned in addition to any income on the credit card you use. Most merchants participating in these promotions will want you to pay with a credit card that will earn you bonus points and miles on everyday purchases.
Related: How to Earn More Points and Maximize the Benefits of Elite Status by Double Dipping
In short
The holiday shopping season is just around the corner, and even if you’re just using this time of year to get better deals on the things you were going to buy anyway, keep in mind that the increased cashback deals have started. To ensure you choose the right option with the best rewards for your planned purchase, don’t forget to compare all the different cashback sites before making a purchase.
Also note that if you’re a new Rakuten shopper, you can earn a $40 cash bonus when you spend at least $40 on a qualifying purchase within the first 90 days.
Many merchants who qualify for these promotions also participate in credit card merchant offers. So it’s smart to check if a merchant has an offer through Amex Offers, Chase Offers, Citi Merchant Offers, and American Airlines AAdvantage’s SimplyMiles program before making your purchase.