In this economy, get something back every time you shop online. Make sure you're getting the best cashback deal between both Rakuten Rewards and TopCashback. Compare rates all in one place to save time.
America's largest cashback platform with 3,500+ partner stores. Pays quarterly via PayPal or check. Perfect for beginners and anyone who wants a big first bonus.
New members only. Create a free account, make one qualifying purchase, and the cash lands in your account.
Rakuten Rewards
💰 Cash Back + Welcome Bonus
$50Welcome Bonus
America's most popular cashback platform, trusted by over 15 million shoppers. New members earn a $50 bonus after their first qualifying purchase of $25 or more, on top of the regular cashback rate for that store.
TopCashback consistently beats Rakuten Rewards on rates at most major US retailers by 1 to 3 percentage points. Smaller welcome bonus but significantly higher ongoing earnings for regular shoppers.
Rates are indicative and subject to change. Certain categories, sale events and promotional periods may carry different rates. Always verify on the platform before purchasing.
How It Works
Earn Cash Back in 3 Steps
No subscription, no fees, no tricks. Cashback platforms earn a commission from retailers and share it directly with you.
1
Create a Free Account
Sign up to Rakuten Rewards or TopCashback using the links above. Both are free. Install the browser extension so cashback activates automatically at every participating store.
2
Shop Through the Portal
Before any online purchase, click through from the cashback platform to the store. Your session is tracked, the rate is locked in, and you pay the exact same price you always would.
3
Get Paid Real Cash
Once the retailer confirms your purchase (usually within 30 to 90 days) the cash lands in your account. Withdraw via PayPal, bank transfer or check whenever you like.
Side by Side
Rakuten Rewards vs TopCashback
Sign up to both. It's free and takes five minutes. Here's how they compare.
Feature
Rakuten
TopCashback
Welcome Bonus
$50
$10
Number of Stores
3,500+
7,000+
Cashback Rates
Competitive
Often highest
Browser Extension
✓ Yes
✓ Yes
Payout Methods
PayPal, Check
PayPal, Bank, Gift Card
Payout Frequency
Quarterly
On demand ($10 min)
In-Store Cash Back
✓ Yes
Limited
Best For
Big bonus + simplicity
Maximum ongoing rates
Common Questions
Everything You Need to Know About US Cashback
What is Rakuten Rewards and how does it work?
Rakuten Rewards (formerly Ebates) is the largest cashback platform in the US with over 15 million members. You earn a percentage of your purchase back as real cash whenever you shop through the Rakuten portal or browser extension. Rakuten pays out quarterly via PayPal or check. New members earn a $50 welcome bonus after their first qualifying purchase of $25 or more.
Is TopCashback legitimate?
Yes, TopCashback is fully legitimate and has been operating since 2005. It has millions of US members and is well-known for offering some of the highest cashback rates in the industry, often 1 to 3 percentage points above Rakuten Rewards at major US retailers. Payments are made via PayPal, bank transfer or gift card on demand once your balance reaches $10.
Can I use both Rakuten Rewards and TopCashback?
Yes, and most experienced cashback shoppers do exactly this. You hold active accounts on both platforms simultaneously and compare the current rate before each purchase. You can only earn cashback through one platform per transaction, so simply pick whichever is higher at the time.
Can I stack cashback with my credit card rewards?
Yes, this is one of the most effective strategies for US shoppers. Using a cashback credit card while shopping through Rakuten or TopCashback stacks both reward streams. A 2% card plus a 10% Rakuten rate at Macy's gives an effective 12% return on that purchase. The two programmes are completely independent.
Does cashback work on Black Friday and Cyber Monday?
Usually yes, but some retailers temporarily reduce or pause cashback rates during major sale events. Always check the current rate immediately before purchasing during sale periods. In many cases cashback still applies at normal or even elevated promotional rates during Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
How long does cashback take to pay out?
Most cashback takes 30 to 90 days to confirm while the retailer's return window is open. Rakuten Rewards pays out quarterly in February, May, August and November. TopCashback lets you withdraw on demand once your balance hits $10.
Start Earning Cash Back Today
Both platforms are free to join. Claim the $50 Rakuten Rewards bonus and the $10 TopCashback bonus while the offers are live.
