How to Earn American Express Membership Rewards Points with Rakuten
When it comes to earning American Express Membership Rewards points, most people focus on welcome offers from new credit cards and every day spending. While both strategies are incredibly valuable, there’s a lesser-known yet equally powerful strategy to quickly rack up points—using Rakuten. This method is especially useful given AMEX’s stricter rules on new card sign-ups. Here’s how you can earn a substantial amount of Membership Rewards points without applying for a new card.
What Is Rakuten?
Rakuten is an online shopping portal that rewards users with cash back for shopping at thousands of participating retailers. However, if you hold an American Express card that earns Membership Rewards points, you can switch your Rakuten rewards from cash back to Membership Rewards points at a 1:1 ratio.
This means every dollar of cash back you earn on Rakuten can instead be converted into one Membership Rewards point—a valuable way to multiply your rewards.
Why Use Rakuten for Earning Membership Rewards?
Using Rakuten offers a consistent way to earn Membership Rewards points, even without relying on new credit card welcome offers. Here’s why it’s such a game-changer:
Bypass Amex’s Restrictions
American Express limits how frequently you can apply for new cards and earn welcome bonuses due to their “once in a lifetime” rule. Additionally, there are restrictions on how many Amex cards you can hold at once. Rakuten allows you to sidestep these limitations by providing a steady stream of Membership Rewards points.Earn on Everyday Purchases
Whether you’re booking travel, shopping for groceries, or treating yourself to something special, Rakuten lets you earn points on purchases you’re already making. It’s a no-brainer way to increase your points balance.
How to Use Rakuten with American Express
Ready to start earning Membership Rewards points through Rakuten? Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Sign Up for Rakuten
If you don’t already have an account, sign up on Rakuten’s website. When you use my link, you’ll get $30 on on me!
In your account settings, choose Membership Rewards points as your payout method.
2. Link Your Amex Card
Connect a U.S.-based American Express card enrolled in the Membership Rewards program.
Once linked, your Rakuten cash back will automatically convert to Membership Rewards points.
3. Shop Through Rakuten
Use Rakuten’s website or browser extension to shop at participating retailers.
You don’t need to pay with your Amex card—simply having it linked is enough to earn points.
Why Rakuten Points Add Up Quickly
Rakuten helps you earn points faster than you might expect. Here’s why:
High Cash Back Rates: If a retailer offers 10% cash back, you’ll earn 10 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent. To give you some context, welcome offers are usually around 50-20 points per dollar when you do the math.
Promotional Rates: Rakuten frequently offers promotions where retailers provide even higher cash back rates, multiplying your rewards.
Quarterly Payouts: Points are transferred to your Amex account every three months, providing a regular boost to your rewards balance.
Best Amex Cards to Use with Rakuten
You can find all my favorite cards on this page
Conclusion: Build Membership Rewards Effortlessly with Rakuten
If you want to maximize your Membership Rewards points without signing up for new credit cards, Rakuten is a fantastic tool. By converting cash back into Amex points, you can steadily grow your points balance and unlock more opportunities for travel, statement credits, and other valuable redemptions.
Start using Rakuten today to make every online purchase work harder for you—and turn everyday shopping into extraordinary rewards.
FAQ: Maximizing Membership Rewards with Rakuten
Q: Do I have to pay with my Amex card to earn Membership Rewards through Rakuten?
A: No, you don’t have to use your Amex card to pay. As long as the card is linked to Rakuten, you’ll earn Membership Rewards points.
Q: Can I switch back to cash back rewards later?
A: Yes, Rakuten allows you to adjust your payout preferences in your account settings at any time.
Q: Are there any fees for using Rakuten?
A: No, Rakuten is free to use, making it an easy and cost-effective way to earn rewards.
Final Thoughts
Optimizing your everyday purchases through Rakuten is a simple yet effective strategy to click here to sign up and get $30 on me.
