Rakuten has launched its annual Big Stack Event, which elevates cash-back rates at a range of retailers for a short period. The promotion runs through Oct. 7 and covers stores such as PetSmart and Gap, among others. Shoppers who route purchases through the platform during this window can capture the higher rates before the offer concludes. ([1])
How the Promotion Works
Participants start by visiting the Rakuten site and selecting a participating retailer. The platform then redirects the user to the merchant’s website, where any qualifying purchase triggers tracking. Rewards typically post to the account within a few days. Users have the option to receive cash back or convert the earnings into American Express Membership Rewards points or Bilt Points. The latter choice can increase overall value when those points are redeemed through premium travel partners. Some offers during the event reach 15% or 20%, exceeding the advertised 10% baseline.
Retailers Offering Elevated Rates
A broad selection of merchants participates in the higher cash-back tiers. Travel-related options include Expedia, Hotels.com, IHG Hotels and Resorts, Samsonite, Viator and Vrbo. General retail partners feature Macy’s, Land’s End, Carter’s, Crocs, Dermstore, DSW, Dyson, Hoka, Gap, Lego, PetSmart and Zappos. Target remains available through Rakuten but does not carry an increased Big Stack bonus during its own sale period ending the same day. Even so, routing Target purchases through the platform still yields the standard 1% cash back on top of any sale prices.
Stacking With Credit Cards and Other Offers
Rewards from Rakuten combine with earnings from credit cards used at checkout. Cards that provide bonus categories on online or everyday spending, such as the Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express or the Citi Double Cash Card, add another layer of returns. The Rakuten American Express Card itself supplies additional points on top of the event rates, reaching 14 points per dollar at participating merchants during the promotion. Merchants in the event often appear in credit-card issuer portals as well. Checking Amex Offers, Chase Offers, Citi Merchant Offers or similar programs before purchase can uncover further discounts or statement credits. New Rakuten members who spend at least $50 at an eligible retailer within the first 90 days qualify for a $50 sign-up bonus, an increase over the standard referral amount.
Practical Steps Before the Deadline
Compare rates across cash-back sites for any given purchase, since Rakuten does not always lead. The event’s short duration means planning purchases at the listed retailers now can lock in the higher returns.
The limited-time nature of the Big Stack Event underscores the value of timing routine or holiday shopping to coincide with these elevated rates.
