Why Cashback Apps Belong in Your Side Hustle Toolkit
If you’re freelancing or running a side hustle, every dollar you earn has to work harder. You’re already buying supplies, paying for software subscriptions, or covering business expenses — so why not get some of that money back? Cashback apps like Rakuten let you earn a percentage of your spending without changing where you shop. It’s not a get-rich scheme, but it’s one of the lowest-effort ways to add a few hundred dollars to your pocket each year. And when you’re building income streams, that kind of passive saving adds up fast.
What Actually Makes Rakuten Different
Rakuten launched back in 1997 under the name Ebates and has since grown into one of the most recognized cashback platforms in the US. With over 20 million members and more than $3.2 billion in rewards paid out, it’s not a fly-by-night app. What sets it apart from a regular rewards credit card is the rate — you can earn anywhere from 1.5% up to 90% cashback depending on the store and current promotions. The platform works with over 3,500 retailers including Amazon, Walmart, Nike, Target, Macy’s, and Instacart, so chances are you’re already spending money at places Rakuten partners with.
Setting It Up: Less Than Five Minutes
Getting started takes almost no time. Head to the Rakuten website or download the app on iOS or Android, then create a free account with your email or by connecting Facebook, Google, or Apple. Once you’re in, you’ll see categories like Hot Deals, Double Cash Back offers, In-Store Cash Back, Travel deals, and even a Food and Drink section. You can search for specific stores or browse by category — clothing, electronics, home and garden, subscription boxes, you name it. The interface is clean and makes it easy to see exactly what rate each store is offering before you click through.
Two Ways to Claim Your Cashback
The first method is manual: open the Rakuten app or website, find the store you want to shop at, and click through their link before making your purchase. Rakuten tracks the transaction and credits your account automatically. The second method is more hands-off — install the Rakuten browser extension. Once it’s active, it pops up whenever you visit a partner store and can apply the best coupon codes available while activating your cashback in one click. For freelancers who buy things like software, office supplies, or shipping materials regularly, the extension saves you from having to remember to check for deals every time.
Getting Paid and Referral Strategy
Rakuten pays out every quarter via check or PayPal — you choose. The minimum threshold is $5.01, so even small purchases can nudge you into payout territory. One overlooked strategy is the referral program: Rakuten currently offers a $30 bonus when someone you refer signs up and makes their first qualifying purchase. If you run a newsletter, have a blog audience, or post about your side hustle on social media, this referral link can turn into a nice secondary stream. Just share it naturally when talking about tools that help you save on business expenses.
Smart Tips to Maximize Your Earnings
Stack your savings by using a cashback credit card on top of Rakuten’s rate — there’s no rule against combining them. Check the app before any big purchase because rates fluctuate and some categories hit 10-15% during sales events. And don’t ignore the in-store cashback option: you can link a credit card to Rakuten and earn rewards on physical purchases too. For a side hustler, the real value is that this takes maybe two minutes of setup and then runs quietly in the background. It won’t replace a client or a gig, but it will put money back in your pocket for things you were already going to buy.
