Saving 101

Saving 101

The basics of saving money that aren't taught in school, courtesy of The Smart Shopper.

The 7 Temu Categories With the Best Deals

The 7 Temu Categories With the Best Deals

TLDR   Temu’s lowest prices often appear in Home & Kitchen, Fashion, Electronics and Accessories. Rakuten members earn Cash Back while shopping Temu, adding another layer of savings. Always review product ratings and photos, especially for safety-sensitive categories. Start small when testing trends, then reorder from trusted sellers. Smart stacking (Rakuten + Temu deals) helps you make every purchase more rewarding.   Temu has quickly become a favorite for shoppers who love uncovering incredible bargains on everything from quirky gadgets […]

The Ultimate Guide to Affordable Shoes Using Rakuten

The Ultimate Guide to Affordable Shoes Using Rakuten

TLDR   Learn how to stack Rakuten Cash Back, verified coupons and loyalty rewards; time purchases around major sales; and use Rakuten’s tools to find authentic deals from top partner stores so you can upgrade your shoe game without overspending.   Finding the perfect pair of shoes doesn’t have to mean draining your wallet. With Rakuten, you can turn everyday shopping into a smart, rewarding experience. This guide walks you through exactly how to save big on footwear, from sneakers […]

10 Proven Ways to Cut Monthly Subscription Costs

10 Proven Ways to Cut Monthly Subscription Costs

TLDR   Learn how to cut monthly subscription costs by auditing, downgrading, rotating services, using Cash Back and leveraging group or bundled plans.   You’re not alone if you’ve ever looked at your bank statement and wondered, “When did I sign up for that?” The average consumer now juggles about 5.6 active subscriptions, from meal kits and coffee clubs to beauty and pet boxes. They add up fast, often slipping under the radar until they quietly drain your budget. The […]

How to Find the Best Budget-Friendly Banks That Offer Cash Back

How to Find the Best Budget-Friendly Banks That Offer Cash Back

  From apparel to travel, every purchase deserves Cash Back. But did you know your actual bank account could be earning you money too? If you are looking for ways to maximize your budget, switching to a bank that rewards you for everyday activities is one of the easiest wins out there. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding a rewarding place to park your hard-earned money. We will explore the free banking accounts […]

7 Trusted Ways to Find Macy’s Coupons, Deals and Cash Back in 2026

7 Trusted Ways to Find Macy’s Coupons, Deals and Cash Back in 2026

  Scoring great deals at Macy’s doesn’t need to be a marathon hunt. Whether you’re refreshing your wardrobe or shopping for home essentials, there are proven ways to save if you know where to look. From reliable coupon sources to rewards programs to Rakuten Cash Back, 2026 is shaping up to be another strong year for bargain hunters. This guide walks through seven trusted strategies backed by real shopper experiences to help you get more from every Macy’s spree. Let’s […]

Gift Card Redemption Boost – Up to 11%! [Limited Time]

Gift Card Redemption Boost – Up to 11%! [Limited Time]

  Hey Rakuten shoppers, Got an exciting update! Starting today for a limited time, redeem your confirmed Cash Back as a gift card and get a bonus of up to 11% extra value! What does that mean?Instead of waiting for your payment on 5/15, you can choose a gift card and Rakuten will boost your total. For example: $50 in Confirmed Cash Back → $55.50 gift card ($50 + an 11% boost) Sample Gift Card Boosts Confirmed Cash Back +2% […]

Mastering Kohl’s Cash and Rewards: Strategies for Maximum Savings

Mastering Kohl’s Cash and Rewards: Strategies for Maximum Savings

  Shopping at Kohl’s is already a gold mine for deals, from home essentials to a fresh wardrobe. But paying the sticker price? That’s just the beginning. The real fun starts when you combine rewards, discounts and special offers to lock in the absolute best value. Whether you’re sprucing up your kitchen, refreshing seasonal outfits or on the hunt for the perfect gift, knowing how to stack savings is your secret sauce for smart shopping at Kohl’s. This guide walks […]

8 Proven Ways to Score Nordstrom Coupons, Deals and Rewards in 2026

8 Proven Ways to Score Nordstrom Coupons, Deals and Rewards in 2026

  Nordstrom may be known for luxe labels and impeccable customer service, but it’s also a gold mine for deal-seekers who know where to look. In 2026, savvy shoppers are proving you don’t need to pay full price to enjoy top brands. From Rakuten Cash Back and loyalty rewards to strategic timing and smart stacking, there are countless ways to stretch your fashion dollars further. These seven tried-and-true strategies will help you score real savings on every Nordstrom purchase, whether […]

Rakuten’s Expert Guide to Finding Reliable Temu Promo Codes

Rakuten’s Expert Guide to Finding Reliable Temu Promo Codes

  Temu has exploded onto the online shopping scene, turning bargain-hunting into a full-blown lifestyle. The platform’s lightning-fast deals and unpredictable flash promos make scoring savings almost like winning a mini shopping lottery. But here’s the secret: The smartest Temu shoppers aren’t just chasing discounts, they’re stacking them. By combining trusted Temu promo codes with Rakuten Cash Back, you can multiply your savings and shop with confidence knowing your rewards are real. In this guide, Rakuten’s deal experts break down […]

2026 TurboTax Savings Guide

2026 TurboTax Savings Guide

  Tax season can feel like a blur of forms, deadlines and dollar signs. The cost of filing your return shouldn’t add to the stress, especially when there are proven ways to save. Whether you file a simple return or manage multiple jobs and investments, TurboTax offers tools and products designed to make filing smooth and efficient. In this guide, we’ll show you how to keep more of your money in 2026 using TurboTax promo codes, trusted discount strategies and […]

The Complete Guide to Saving Money on Crocs

The Complete Guide to Saving Money on Crocs

  Crocs are the go-to footwear for casual comfort, and their bold colors, easy slip-on style and practically indestructible, easy-to-clean design makes them a favorite for the whole family. The only downside? Keeping up with new pairs can get pricey fast, especially when everyone wants a fresh color or collab. The good news: You don’t have to pay full price to keep your rotation looking fun and fresh. With the right approach, it’s surprisingly easy to find trusted Crocs deals […]

10 Proven Ways to Save at Old Navy in 2026

10 Proven Ways to Save at Old Navy in 2026

  Old Navy has built its reputation on budget-friendly styles, from easy everyday denim to workout-worthy activewear to kids’ essentials that won’t break the bank. But the most trusted ways to save money at Old Navy go beyond the sticker price. Between the Navyist rewards program, sitewide seasonal sales and Super Cash, there are plenty of reliable ways to save at Old Navy. Whether you’re refreshing your summer wardrobe or stocking up on back-to-school styles for the whole family, a […]

5 Ways to Save Money on Tires With Rakuten

5 Ways to Save Money on Tires With Rakuten

5 Ways to Save Money on Tires With Rakuten Smart drivers know that saving money on tires requires more than just chasing the lowest price. You also need to know where to look, when to shop and how to stack the right deals. From timing your purchase around major sales to combining rebates, promo codes and Rakuten Cash Back, there are plenty of smart ways to cut costs on tires without cutting corners on safety. Where can you find the […]

12 Proven Ways to Earn Cash Back at Walgreens (2026)

12 Proven Ways to Earn Cash Back at Walgreens (2026)

  Shopping at Walgreens is already convenient, but what if every run for toothpaste, vitamins or last-minute essentials could earn you a little extra back? If you’ve ever wondered how to earn rewards on Walgreens purchases while still saving money, the answer is simple: Stack your savings. By combining store rewards, Walgreens coupons and promo codes, and Rakuten Cash Back, every purchase you make can work a bit harder for you. In this guide, we’ll walk through 12 practical, easy-to-stack […]

Earn Extra Rewards on Every Nike Purchase Through Rakuten

Earn Extra Rewards on Every Nike Purchase Through Rakuten

  Want trusted Nike deals and promo codes, plus extra savings on top? Rakuten has you covered. With a free Rakuten membership, you can score Nike coupons and earn Cash Back on all your Nike purchases. With over 3,500 brand partners, over 17 million members and over $4.6 billion Cash Back paid out, Rakuten’s scale and reliability are well documented. And since Nike is one of those 3,500 Rakuten partners, you’ll find a stockpile of verified Nike promo codes, curated […]

How to Get the Best Temu Deals in 2026 Using Rakuten Cash Back

How to Get the Best Temu Deals in 2026 Using Rakuten Cash Back

  Savvy shoppers can turn everyday Temu buys into a consistent stream of rewards by combining Temu perks with Rakuten Cash Back. How can you earn rewards on Temu purchases? The short answer is to always shop through Rakuten to activate Cash Back before you shop, and then layer on Temu app deals, Temu Lightning Deals and Temu promo codes to stack your savings.  Rakuten’s Cash Back rate at Temu varies, so you’ll want to check the Temu page for […]

7 Proven Ways to Slash Grocery Delivery Costs With Rakuten

7 Proven Ways to Slash Grocery Delivery Costs With Rakuten

Delivering dinner shouldn’t devour your budget. Whether you’re using Instacart to stock up on the ingredients for your world-famous chili or filling your weekly DoorDash cart with staples and snacks, Rakuten makes it simple to stack Cash Back, coupons and membership perks so your grocery delivery won’t break the bank. Below you’ll find seven proven strategies to save money on grocery delivery with Instacart and other major delivery platforms. Put them together and you’ll consistently beat markups, trim delivery fees […]

Best Presidents Day Deals Under $25, $50 and $100

Best Presidents Day Deals Under $25, $50 and $100

TLDR Under $25: Search for steals on small upgrades such as kitchen tools, self-care items, phone accessories, organizational tools and socks. Under $50: Aim a little higher with small appliances, bedding basics, skin-care bundles and smart-home add-ons. Under $100: Look for bigger wins, such as headphones, air fryers, premium bedding, shoes, luggage and fitness gear. Best strategy: Shop by category, compare prices, and stack promo codes and Cash Back. It may not rise to the level of Black Friday or […]

Rakuten Explained: How It Works + Every Way You Can Shop

Rakuten Explained: How It Works + Every Way You Can Shop

TLDR Rakuten is a free way to earn Cash Back by starting your shopping through Rakuten’s site, app, or extension before you checkout. You can shop through Rakuten on desktop, mobile, and in-store (plus dining) using official Rakuten tools and linked-card offers. Most reliable setup: install the browser extension on desktop and the mobile app on your phone so you don’t forget to activate Cash Back. Dependability comes from scale + clear policies: Rakuten partners with thousands of stores, has […]

How to Identify Fake Coupons and Protect Your Money

How to Identify Fake Coupons and Protect Your Money

TL;DR Pause if it seems too good to be true: It’s a giant red flag if a deal offers outrageous discounts, such as 90% off + free shipping + no restrictions. Check the source: Use coupons only from an official brand site or app, verified brand social accounts or trusted partners. Look for branding details: Real coupons usually include consistent logos, terms and redemption rules. Never enter sensitive info for a coupon: A legit coupon will not make you pay […]

How to Combine Coupons and Cash Back (Without Missing the Savings)

How to Combine Coupons and Cash Back (Without Missing the Savings)

TL;DR Start with cash back by activating the offer and clicking through to the retailer before you shop or check out. Apply your coupon code (preferably a store-provided or sitewide code that’s more likely to stack) at checkout. Avoid common blockers, including excluded items, such as gift cards, subscriptions and some entire categories, and anything that disrupts tracking, such as redirected checkout flows and switching tabs or devices. Maximize your savings by triple stacking when possible: coupon + cash back […]

Cash Back vs. Coupons vs. Promo Codes: What’s the Difference?

Cash Back vs. Coupons vs. Promo Codes: What’s the Difference?

TL;DR Cash back earns you money after you shop, making it one of the easiest ways to save long-term, especially when stacked with sales or promo codes. Coupons and promo codes lower your price instantly at checkout, but often come with rules, exclusions, or expiration dates. Discounts and sales automatically reduce prices with no extra steps, making them ideal for quick, hassle-free savings. Rebates offer delayed savings after you submit proof of purchase, which works best for larger purchases where […]

The Ultimate Holiday Gift Roundup for 2025

The Ultimate Holiday Gift Roundup for 2025

Shopping for the perfect gift just got easier. These curated suggestions highlight the top trending items for every person on your list, from viral finds and eco-friendly picks to budget favorites and personalized gifts. Whether you’re buying for your dad, a coworker or someone who seemingly has everything, you’ll find fresh ideas that real shoppers are loving right now. For mom: Comfort-enhancing gifts, top-tier skin-care products, kitchen upgrades and stylish accessories are standout gifts for moms. For dad: Compact smart […]

The Hottest AI-Ready Devices to Buy for Holiday 2025

The Hottest AI-Ready Devices to Buy for Holiday 2025

TL;DR The 2025 holiday season will be dominated by AI-ready tech: smartphones, tablets, home appliances, wearables, drones, and especially AI glasses. Consumers are upgrading for real on-device AI features like translation, scene recognition, predictive automation, and creative tools. The hottest gift picks include the Galaxy S25 series, Pixel 9, iPad Air M2, Samsung AI Family Hub fridge, smart drones, translation earbuds, and the fast-rising category of AI smart glasses. The 2025 holiday shopping season is shaping up to be one […]

Cyber Monday 2025 Explained: When It Starts and How to Save

Cyber Monday 2025 Explained: When It Starts and How to Save

What Is Cyber Monday? “Cyber Monday” is a marketing term for the online shopping surge that happens on the Monday after Thanksgiving in the United States. It was coined by Shop.org in 2005, when retailers noticed that online sales spiked dramatically that day. The idea: Many consumers were back at work after the Thanksgiving holiday using faster internet connections, and retailers wanted to encourage them to shop online. Black Friday (the Friday after Thanksgiving) traditionally emphasizes in-store and early morning […]

Tech Gifts That Wow: Trending Gadgets to Give (and Get) in 2025

Tech Gifts That Wow: Trending Gadgets to Give (and Get) in 2025

Finding the perfect gadget gift is easier than ever, thanks to Rakuten’s Tech and Gadget Gifts collection, a curated lineup of smart devices, wireless accessories and cool innovations that fit every budget and lifestyle. Whether you’re shopping for a tech lover, gamer or someone who just wants life to run a little smoother, these gift ideas combine function, fun and unbeatable value. Plus, you’ll earn Cash Back when you shop through Rakuten! Must-Have Gadgets for Tech Enthusiasts From smart-home systems […]

$50 or Less: Thoughtful Gifts That Feel Pricier Than They Are

$50 or Less: Thoughtful Gifts That Feel Pricier Than They Are

$50 or Less: Thoughtful Gifts That Feel Pricier Than They Are Finding the perfect present doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. With a $50 budget, you can surprise your friends, family or coworkers with high-quality gifts under $50 that look and feel premium. Whether you’re shopping for birthdays, holidays or just because, there are endless ways to make someone’s day and still save money when you shop through Rakuten to earn Cash Back on every purchase. Top Picks for […]

Big Deal Reveal – Holiday 2025

Big Deal Reveal – Holiday 2025

10 Bigs Days – 10 Big Brands – 10 Big Deals The Big Deal Reveal Holiday edition begins on the first 10 days of November. This holiday season, one store will offer a BIG Cash Back deal for that day.  And if you’re a Rakuten Amex® Cardholder, you’ll get an even bigger deal at 30% Cash Back for each of these Big Deal Reveals above if you use your Rakuten Amex® card!  Mark your calendars and we’ll see you on […]

Black Friday 2025 – Key Dates, Start Times & More

Black Friday 2025 – Key Dates, Start Times & More

What Is Black Friday? Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving in the United States, and in retail, it is considered the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season. On Black Friday, many retailers offer steep discounts, extended store hours, doorbuster deals and special promotions to draw in shoppers. Over time, it has expanded beyond just one day. Many sales now begin before Thanksgiving (sometimes even in October), extend through the weekend and tie into Cyber Monday and Cyber Week. […]

Thoughtful Gifts Under $100 That Feel Luxurious

Thoughtful Gifts Under $100 That Feel Luxurious

Thoughtful Gifts Under $100 That Feel Luxurious You don’t need a big budget to impress. With less than $100, you can find gifts that are functional, stylish and memorable. Rakuten’s Best Gifts Under $100 collection is full of gems that strike this balance. Below is a curated guide, with examples and ideas, to help you choose gifts that both delight and feel more upscale than the price tag suggests. Why the Under-$100 Tier Works This is the sweet spot between […]

The Hottest Gift Cards for 2025

The Hottest Gift Cards for 2025

  The Hottest Gift Cards for 2025 Gift cards are back in the spotlight in 2025, and they’ve leveled up. No longer just a last-minute fallback, today’s cards are personalized, digital-first and loaded with flexibility. Whether you’re shopping for birthdays, holidays or just because, the hottest gift cards this year give recipients freedom, convenience and memorable experiences. Why Gift Cards Are Trending in 2025 Digital-first convenience: E-gift cards can be sent instantly via email or SMS. Multibrand flexibility: “Choice cards” […]

Best Gifts Under $25 That Look Way More Expensive

Best Gifts Under $25 That Look Way More Expensive

Best Gifts Under $25 That Look Way More Expensive Finding the perfect gift doesn’t mean spending a fortune. With a little creativity (and some smart shopping) you can surprise your friends, family or coworkers with thoughtful presents that feel premium, even though they cost less than $25. Thanks to Rakuten’s Best Gifts Under $25 collection, there are dozens of affordable finds that combine quality, style and function. Here are some of the best ideas to inspire your next round of […]

Ultimate Black Friday Shopping Trends for 2025

Ultimate Black Friday Shopping Trends for 2025

Ultimate Guide to Black Friday Shopping 2025 Black Friday has become the most anticipated shopping event of the year, with millions of shoppers hunting for the best deals both online and in stores. Whether you’re a seasoned bargain-hunter or planning your very first Black Friday shopping spree, this guide will help you maximize savings, avoid overspending and take advantage of exclusive Rakuten promotions. Understanding Black Friday Black Friday is the Friday following Thanksgiving in the United States, traditionally marking the […]

Big Deal Reveal – New Drop every Wed

Big Deal Reveal – New Drop every Wed

Big Deal Reveal – Summer 2025 The Big Deal Reveal is on all Summer 2025! This summer, starting 5/21, one store will offer a BIG Cash Back deal for that day.  Be sure to check back every Wednesday on the site or app to see what store is part of that week’s Big Deal Reveal.  Happy Shopping! https://tk.apphost.top/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/big-deal-reveal.mp4         5/28/2025 Skechers 25% 6/4/2025 Victoria’s Secret 15% 6/11/2025 LG 21% 6/18/2025 AliExpress 25% 6/25/2025 DermStore 23% 7/2/2025 PetSmart […]

The Big Stack – Stack 10% Cash Back on Top of Deals

The Big Stack – Stack 10% Cash Back on Top of Deals

  The Big Stack is live! Stack 10% Cash Back on top of the season’s best deals right now through July 11. You can shop brands you know and love such as Macy’s, Levi’s, Athleta, Petsmart, Expedia, Dell, Ray-Ban, Carter’s and many, many more! See here for more details on The Big Stack: https://tk.apphost.top/f/bigstack

Saving 101

Money saving tips aren’t taught in school, so that’s where Rakuten comes in. We’ll teach you the basics of saving money so you can make your online purchases knowing you’re getting the best prices at all of your favorite stores. Whether you’ve been locking in savings for years or you’re new to the online shopping scene, Rakuten offers plenty of tips and guides to help you find the best offers around.

Your first lesson includes promo codes. This money saving technique can save you big bucks on your purchase. Retailers issue promo codes for special occasions and we spread the word to offer the latest and current codes to Rakuten users. These codes can be for specific merchandise or even for storewide savings. Enter a promo code or coupon code and you’ll be well on your way to saving on your purchase.

The savings don’t stop there. Rakuten wants you to make the most of your shopping experience. Start at Ebates.com or get the Rakuten Cash Back Button so you can start earning money back on your online purchases. Choose from our wide selection of stores and earn a percentage of your purchase back in actual cash! Yes, you’ll actually get a real check in the mail with all of your Cash Back earnings. You can even maximize your earnings by shopping at select stores during Double Cash Back events.

Our Savings 101 tips will save you money on your orders with your favorite stores and on hot purchases like electronics or travel. Make the most of every shopping experience with the latest deals on the things you need and want most. The Smart Shopper constantly offers special savings and tips for every aspect of your life. Take your savings knowledge and go forth into the world with the experience you need to showcase your ultimate money saving potential. No item is ever too small or too big for the money saving lessons at Rakuten!