ebates

Ebates is a shopping rewards service that pays users cash back for online purchases made through its website, browser extension, or mobile apps. It operates as part of Rakuten Rewards, the rewards division of Rakuten, a Japanese e-commerce and technology company. Through a network of participating retailers, users earn a percentage of their purchase price back in cash and may also access exclusive coupons and promotions.

History and branding: Ebates was established as a cash-back portal in the late 1990s. In 2014, Rakuten acquired Ebates for about $1 billion, integrating it into its global affiliate and rewards ecosystem. Since then, the brand has been largely folded into Rakuten Rewards, with retail partners and technology shared across Rakuten’s rewards platforms. The Ebates name has persisted in some markets and marketing efforts during the transition.

How it works: Users sign up for free, then begin online shopping by clicking through from Ebates to a retailer’s site. Purchases completed during the session earn cash back credited to the user’s Ebates account after the transaction is confirmed. Cash back is paid out when a minimum balance is reached, through methods such as PayPal or check, according to Rakuten’s terms.

Business model: Ebates/Rakuten Rewards earns revenue from affiliate commissions paid by retailers for referrals and sales generated through the platform. A portion of these commissions is shared with users as cash back, while the remainder supports platform operations and marketing. The service also provides additional coupons and deals.

Availability and reach: The service operates primarily in North America, with a presence in the United States and Canada, and maintains browser extensions and mobile apps for iOS and Android. It is one of the largest cash-back platforms and serves as a common entry point for online shoppers seeking savings.