Rakuten, a popular online shopping portal, is currently offering its highest-ever new member bonus: $50 cash back after spending just $50. This is a limited-time offer, expected to end in March 2026, and is available exclusively through referrals from existing members. If you don’t already use Rakuten, now is the best time to sign up.
Why This Matters: Maximizing Rewards
Online shopping portals like Rakuten let you earn extra rewards on purchases you’d make anyway. The real advantage comes from stacking these bonuses with credit card rewards. This $50 bonus is essentially free money, especially if you can combine it with a high-reward credit card.
The key benefit of Rakuten is its flexibility: you can choose to earn cash back or convert rewards into valuable points programs like American Express Membership Rewards or Bilt Rewards.
Converting Rewards: Amex vs. Bilt
Rakuten allows you to redeem cash back as either Amex or Bilt points at a 1:1 ratio. For many, this is a significant value-add. Amex points can be redeemed for high-value travel (potentially worth 1.7 cents each), while Bilt Rewards points are notoriously difficult to earn through other means.
- Amex: Best if you prioritize flexibility and high-value travel redemptions.
- Bilt: Ideal if you’re aiming to accumulate hard-to-get Bilt Rewards points.
The conversion option applies to all spending after the initial bonus, making Rakuten a long-term tool for maximizing rewards.
How to Get the Bonus
- Find a Referral Link: The $50 bonus is only available through select Rakuten members’ referral links.
- Spend $50: Make a $50 purchase through Rakuten to activate the bonus for both you and the referrer.
- Choose Your Reward: Decide whether you want cash back or points conversion (Amex or Bilt).
One easy way to trigger the bonus is by purchasing a $50 gift card.
This is a straightforward way to get $50 in free spending money or equivalent value in points. The offer is time-sensitive, so signing up now is advisable, even if you don’t usually use shopping portals.
