Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.
It’s beginning to look a lot like holiday shopping deal time.
One of the most popular online shopping sites that awards cash back for shopping online is Rakuten, and it has already started increasing cash-back payouts on some popular retailers ahead of the holiday season.
But remember, with Rakuten, you can earn American Express Membership Rewards points instead of cash back. So, instead of getting 15% cash back, you could opt to earn 15 Membership Rewards points per dollar, which can have a significantly higher value overall if you maximize the points with travel partners.
Here’s what you need to know about increased cash-back opportunities with Rakuten.
Increased cash back with Rakuten
To earn cash-back rewards or Membership Rewards when shopping online, begin your shopping trip on the Rakuten website. Once there, search for your desired store 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 — generally within a day or two.
Here are some of the stores we see with increased cash back right now:
- 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 cash back will be earned in addition to any earnings on the credit card you swipe. At most merchants participating in these promotions, you’ll want to pay with a credit card that earns bonus points and miles on everyday purchases.
Related: How to earn more points and maximize elite status benefits by double dipping
Bottom line
The holiday shopping season is upon us, and even if you only use this time of year to get better deals on the things you would buy anyway, note that the increased cash-back deals have started. To ensure you choose the right option with the best rewards for your planned purchase, remember to compare all the different cash-back sites before you buy.
Note, too, that if you are 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 eligible merchants for these promotions also participate in credit card merchant offers. So, it’s smart to check whether a merchant has an offer through Amex Offers, Chase Offers, Citi Merchant Offers and American Airlines AAdvantage’s SimplyMiles program before making your purchase.
