The Rakuten earns 3.0X on online_shopping, 1.0X on all_purchases with a $0 annual fee.
Our Verdict
The Rakuten is a points rewards card from American Express that carries a no annual fee on the visa network. At its core it earns 1.0X cash back on everyday purchases, making it straightforward for cardholders who want predictable, consistent returns.
Points enthusiasts will find the most flexibility with the Rakuten. cash back can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, statement credits, or transferred to loyalty partners. Cardholders who maximize transfer partners often extract 1.5–2+ cents per point, well above face value.
With no annual fee, there is virtually no downside to keeping this card long-term even as a backup. It adds to your credit history and earns rewards at zero ongoing cost.
Apply for the Rakuten →Rewards Structure
Fee Analysis
The Rakuten has no annual fee, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants rewards without a yearly cost. There is no break-even spending threshold to worry about — every dollar of rewards is pure value.
Where This Card Earns Bonus Rewards
| Category | MCC Code | Bonus Rate | Example Merchants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online_Shopping | 5999 Miscellaneous and Specialty Retail Stores | 3x | AliExpress, Amazon, Amazon.com, Boxed |
Click any MCC code or merchant name to see all cards that earn bonus rewards there.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- 3X top earn rate on bonus categories
- No foreign transaction fees
- No annual fee
Weaknesses
- 1X base rate on non-bonus spending
How to Apply
You can apply for the Rakuten directly through American Express's website. The application takes about 5 minutes and requires your Social Security number, annual income, and housing payment information. Most applicants receive an instant decision.
Before applying, check if you are pre-approved on American Express's website — a pre-approval uses a soft pull and does not affect your credit score.