As a leading online retailer, Rakuten has reached millions of customers worldwide. It now operates an affiliate program called Refer-A-Friend program letting publishers monetize their content.
In this article, we delve into detailed information about the Rakuten affiliate program. Read on to explore whether it’s for you.
Overview of Rakuten
Rakuten, formerly known as Buy.com, is a leading e-commerce company based in Japan. Founded in 1997, Rakuten has helped shape the way people shop online. It offers Cash Back, deals, and shopping rewards as the world’s largest sections of products and services.
Rakuten has expanded globally through acquisitions of companies like Ebates, Viki, and Kobo. To date, it has reached over 1.2 billion members across 30 countries. Its cash-back program also partners with top brands like eBay, Kohl’s, Petco, etc.
Overview of Rakuten Affiliate Program
The Rakuten affiliate program allows publishers to earn commissions by referring customers. Affiliates get paid a flat commission for a new member they refer and a bonus if the referral number reaches 10.
As long as you are a publisher with a target audience interested in online shopping, this program is for you. Itworks well for bloggers, deal sites, influencers, and publishers in niches like shopping, fashion, travel, finance, and more.
Rakuten provides approved affiliates with unique affiliate links to share on their promotional channels. As a Rakuten affiliate, you can access exclusive cash bonuses, sponsorship opportunities, newsletters, giveaways, etc.
Rakuten Affiliate Commission Rates and Payment Details
Rakuten offers a flat commission of $30 for each qualified referral. In addition, after you make 10 qualified referrals, you will get a $50 bonus.
There is no cookie duration applied to your referral activities. Yet, your referred members must make a purchase within 90 days so that you can receive a commission.
Rakuten pays affiliates monthly when their account reaches the $5 minimum payout threshold. Your payment is processed via PayPal or check.
Benefits and Drawbacks of the Rakuten Affiliate Program
The Rakuten affiliate program can bring you both benefits and drawbacks.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
| High flat commission ($30 per referral) | Highly competitive market |
| High commission bonus ($50 per 10 referrals) | Limited payment methods |
| No cookie for referral activities | |
| Low minimum payout balance ($5) |
In fact, the program is much more lucrative than you may think. Rakuten does not only pay a high fixed commission of up to $30 per qualified referral but also a bonus of $50 when affiliates attract 10 customers.
What’s more, there is no time constraint for affiliate activities. Yet, your referral must make an order within 90 days for your referral to be qualified. Also, the minimum payout balance is set at only $5. Thus, affiliates can receive their revenue soon.
In contrast, market competition is a serious thing to consider. Affiliates have to make extra efforts to stand out and increase conversion rates. Besides, Rakuten only applies two payment options including PayPal and check. This could be a big inconvenience.
How to Join the Rakuten Affiliate Program?
Here is a step-by-step Rakuten affiliate program sign-up guide for publishers.
Step 1: Visit Rakuten affiliate homepage
Go to Rakuten affiliate site at: https://www.rakuten.com/m/influencers. Here you can find the information about the program
Step 2: Complete application form
In the “Apply Now” section on its homepage, fill in every required information. Then, click the “Submit” button.
Step 3: Wait for approval and start promoting
Wait 1-2 business days for your application to be reviewed and approved by Rakuten.
Once approved, you can access affiliate dashboard and get affiliate links to share.
How to Maximize Your Earnings with the Affiliate Program
To increase your earnings, affiliates should consider different strategies.
Affiliates can diversify their your promotional efforts across various channels, including social media, email marketing, blogs, and more. This expands their customer reach and increases the conversion rate.
Also, publishers should regularly check for new promotions or incentives offered by Rakuten or its merchants. Promoting these special offers to your audience can urge them to join and make purchases.
Furthermore, it’s necessary to use deep linking to direct your audience to specific product pages rather than just the homepage. This increases the likelihood of conversions by providing a more tailored and user-friendly experience.
By combining these strategies and continually refining your approach, you create a successful affiliate marketing strategy.
Is the Rakuten Affiliate Program Right for You?
The Rakuten affiliate program can provide substantial earning potential for publishers that are able to consistently promote a high volume of buyers across multiple channels.
For bloggers and publishers already engaged in creating deal, coupon and cashback content, or those with a large multi-niche audience, Rakuten’s program aligns well. Just be prepared for the administrative workload.
For niche publishers or those lacking promotional resources, other affiliate programs may provide a better return on time invested. But as part of a wider affiliate monetization strategy, Rakuten’s reach is appealing.
FAQs
Does Rakuten have an affiliate program?
Yes. Rakuten operates an affiliate program allowing publishers to earn commission by attracting new customers.
What are Rakuten affiliate program requirements?
Rakuten requires affiliates to have a website, blog, or social media profile with unique content to promote their merchant offers. Some traffic and an engaged audience are recommended.
Who should join as a Rakuten affiliate?
The Rakuten affiliate program works well for bloggers, deal sites, influencers, and publishers in niches like shopping, fashion, travel, finance, and more. Any website with an audience that makes online purchases can participate.
Is there a fee to join the Rakuten affiliate program?
No, there is no fee to join the Rakuten affiliate program. Registration and account approval is free.
What products can I promote as a Rakuten affiliate?
You can promote a variety of products offered by Rakuten and its merchants like household devices, fashion, and technological products, etc.
What products are not allowed for the Rakuten affiliate program?
The products available for commission through the affiliate program will vary according to its merchants’ guidelines. Remember to dive into its guides before starting to promote.
What marketing materials are available for Rakuten affiliates?
As a Rakuten affiliate, you can access exclusive cash bonuses, sponsorship opportunities, newsletters, giveaways, etc.
Is the Rakute affiliate program legit?
Yes. The program is totally legitimate. It also provides a Refer-A-Friend Program Terms and Conditions for affiliates to read on.
How many customers can affiliates refer?
There is no limit to the number of referrals. Try to make as many as you can.
What does a new customer have to do for an affiliate to get commissioned?
Referred customers have to make a purchase within 90 days since they join via affiliate links. Thereafter, affiliate marketers can be paid.
Can the Rakuten program be combined with other affiliate programs?
The Rakuten program can be combined with other shopping, cashback, coupon, and affiliate programs. There are no exclusivity restrictions.
What are the best Rakuten affiliate program alternatives?
Some alternatives are LinkShare, eBay, Viki, Sephora, ShareAsale, Lego, Awin, Amazon, etc.
