How I Accidentally Became That Person Who Gets Paid to Shop

I used to roll my eyes at the whole “cashback” thing.

You know the type — influencers screaming “GET PAID TO SHOP!!!” like it’s some kind of magic spell.
I thought it was a gimmick. A scam. Or just… not for me.

Until one day, broke and deep in a late-night shopping spiral (you know the ones — sad, sleepy, triggered by one too many things in your cart), I saw it:

“Earn up to 15% cashback on this purchase with Rakuten.”
And I was like… Wait. For real?

So I clicked.
Signed up (free, of course).
Checked out like normal.
And boom — two weeks later, money appeared in my account like a little “thanks for shopping” hug from the universe.

That’s when I realized: I’ve been missing out on free money this whole time.
And if you're anything like me — shopping online for everything from makeup to skate shoes, beats, dog food, therapy candles, or last-minute gifts — you are too.

What is Rakuten?

Rakuten is a legit cashback platform that gives you real money back when you shop at your favorite stores — no catch, no points, no weird tasks.
Just shop like usual, and they split the commission with you.

Think:

• ASOS

• Nike

• Adidas

• Ulta

• Urban Outfitters

• Etsy

• Amazon (select categories)

• and even DoorDash and Walmart.

Over 3,500 stores.
That’s not ”“cute”—that’s crazy.

Cashback is Climbing

According to Statista, over 72% of online shoppers say they're more likely to complete a purchase when cashback is offered.
People are becoming more mindful of spending, but still want to enjoy life.
That’s why tools like Rakuten are blowing up, especially among Gen Z, creatives, and deal-hunters who love discounts without drama.

Daily Coupons, Flash Sales & “Friends & Family” Deals

This is the part I didn't expect:
Rakuten isn’t just cashback — it’s also live coupon codes, promo alerts, and secret sales you don’t see on a store’s front page.

• One day it’s 20% off Urban Outfitters + 10% cash back

• Next, it’s extra savings during Sephora’s Friends & Family sale

• Or a flash deal on sneakers that would’ve charged you full price without Rakuten catching it

You just click, activate, and check out.
It’s giving "main character energy, but frugal."

The Referral Link That Keeps on Giving

Now here’s where it gets sweet for you:
If you’re down to try Rakuten and get a bonus, you can use my referral link here.
We both get a reward when you make your first qualifying purchase.
It’s like splitting the plug.

No pressure. Just vibes and cashback.

How I Use It (Like, For Real)

• Before I shop, I search “store name + Rakuten.” If it’s there? I click through and activate cashback.

• I have the browser extension, so Rakuten pops up automatically when I’m on a site that’s eligible — lifesaver.

• I check daily offers before I buy stuff I need anyway (birthday gifts, restocks, skincare, etc.)

• I stack coupons + cashback for max savings.

I’m not saying Rakuten’s gonna pay your rent.
But if you're gonna spend money anyway, you might as well get a lil piece of it back, right?

It’s literally free money for doing nothing different.

So if you’re someone who shops online — even occasionally — do yourself a favor and stop leaving coins on the table.

👉 Join Rakuten here and get your bag started:
www.rakuten.com/r/ITSAPU8?eeid=28187

You’ll thank me when you get your first “Big Fat Check.” 💌