If you’re serious about affiliate marketing and want to work with trusted global brands, Rakuten Affiliate Network is one of the best platforms to consider. With decades of experience, a wide selection of advertisers, and competitive payouts, Rakuten is a strong choice for publishers at any level. This comprehensive review explains what makes Rakuten stand out, how to join the program, and how it compares to other affiliate networks worldwide.
What is Rakuten Affiliate Network?
The Rakuten Affiliate Network (RAN) is one of the oldest and most prestigious affiliate marketing platforms in the world, with a history dating back to 1996, when it was originally launched in the United States under the name LinkShare. In 2005, LinkShare was acquired by Rakuten Group, a major Japanese multinational corporation known for its dominance in e-commerce and financial services. It was officially rebranded as the Rakuten Affiliate Network in 2014, reflecting its global ambitions and integration into the Rakuten brand ecosystem.
Over nearly three decades, Rakuten has established itself as a trusted intermediary between publishers (affiliates) and advertisers, providing a professional, transparent, and secure platform. Today, it serves thousands of advertisers and millions of affiliates worldwide. This longevity speaks to the company’s strong reputation and ongoing commitment to innovation in affiliate marketing.
Unlike smaller or newer networks that may offer only niche products or low-quality brands, Rakuten specializes in premium, global brands affiliate programs. As an affiliate, you’ll find opportunities to promote household names in retail, electronics, travel, and finance. For marketers, this translates into higher trust and higher conversion rates, since you’re recommending products and services your audience already recognizes and values.
On top of the vast selection of advertisers, Rakuten provides advanced tracking, reporting, and analytics tools that ensure your hard-earned commissions are accurately recorded and paid out. Their emphasis on quality over quantity is what makes Rakuten a go-to network for serious, professional affiliate marketers who want to build sustainable, long-term businesses in this competitive industry. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale your affiliate revenue, Rakuten offers the history, technology, and credibility you need to succeed.
Why Choose Rakuten for Affiliate Marketing?
There are plenty of affiliate networks out there, but Rakuten Affiliate Network offers unique advantages. The biggest draw is its advertiser roster, which includes some of the most recognizable and trusted brands worldwide. This allows affiliates to promote products and services that already have strong customer trust, making conversions easier.
The platform is also known for its reliability and transparency. Earnings are clearly reported, and payouts are processed on time each month once you meet the minimum threshold. Additionally, Rakuten offers helpful features like deep linking, banner ads, and seasonal promotional materials. Compared to smaller networks, the scale and professionalism of Rakuten stand out. For anyone interested in long-term affiliate success, Rakuten provides the right tools, brands, and payments you can count on.
Features of Rakuten Affiliate Network
- Established Since 1996 – One of the oldest and most reputable affiliate networks, with nearly 30 years of experience in the industry.
- Access to Global Brands – Work with top-tier advertisers such as Macy’s, Walmart, Lenovo, and luxury fashion brands.
- Advanced Tracking Technology – Accurate click and conversion tracking ensures you get credit for all your sales and leads.
- User-Friendly Dashboard – Clean, intuitive interface with real-time performance reporting and analytics.
- Diverse Promotional Tools – Banners, text links, product feeds, deep links, and seasonal promotions at your disposal.
- Multiple Payment Options – Get paid via direct deposit, check, or PayPal in select regions, with reliable monthly payouts.
- Dedicated Support – Access to professional account managers and helpful resources to grow your campaigns.
- International Reach – Programs and advertisers available across North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond.
Benefits of Joining Rakuten Affiliate Network
- Promote Trusted Brands – Higher conversion rates thanks to consumer confidence in well-known brands.
- Professional Network – A serious platform with high standards, ideal for committed marketers looking for long-term growth.
- Higher Earnings Potential – Premium advertisers often pay better commissions compared to lesser-known networks.
- Reliability and Trustworthiness – Decades of proven track record and on-time payments make Rakuten a safe choice.
- Scalable for All Levels – Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned affiliate, the platform supports your growth at every stage.
- Customizable Campaigns – Tools like deep links and product feeds let you tailor promotions to your audience’s interests.
- Seasonal and Exclusive Deals – Take advantage of limited-time promotions and offers to boost conversions.
- Global Opportunities – Ability to target multiple markets around the world thanks to Rakuten’s international advertiser base.
Rakuten Affiliate Network How to Join?
Many new publishers ask: Rakuten affiliate network how to join? The process is straightforward and accessible to anyone with a website, blog, or social media presence. To get started, visit the Rakuten Affiliate Network signup page and register as a publisher. You’ll be asked to enter information about your promotional channels, your audience demographics, and your preferred payout method.
Once your account is created, you can log in and browse through Rakuten’s directory of advertisers. Each advertiser has its own terms and criteria, so you’ll need to apply to join individual programs within the network. Most approvals take anywhere from 2–7 business days, though some are instant. After being approved, you can generate affiliate links and banners and start promoting the products on your website or channels. Below is a simple table summarizing the steps:
Step |
Action |
| 1 | Register on Rakuten as a publisher |
| 2 | Complete your profile and site details |
| 3 | Browse advertisers and apply |
| 4 | Wait for approval from each advertiser |
| 5 | Start promoting and earning |
By following this process carefully, you can join Rakuten’s global affiliate program and begin earning commissions with trusted brands.
Global Brands You Can Promote on Rakuten
One of the most appealing aspects of Rakuten is its wide selection of global brands. Unlike some networks that only offer small or niche advertisers, Rakuten partners with well-established names in multiple industries. From luxury fashion labels and electronics manufacturers to travel agencies and household goods, there’s something for every audience.
Some of the popular brands you may find on Rakuten include Macy’s, Walmart, Lenovo, Samsung, and many more. This makes it much easier for you as a publisher to find offers that resonate with your audience. Promoting brands your readers already know and trust can significantly increase your conversion rates. The variety also means you can diversify your income streams by joining programs in multiple niches at once. For affiliates targeting a global audience, Rakuten’s brand roster is one of its strongest selling points.
Affiliate Payouts on Rakuten
Getting paid on time and with ease is crucial for any affiliate marketer. Rakuten stands out in this area thanks to its reliable affiliate payouts. Payments are issued monthly, typically around the 20th of each month, as long as you’ve met the minimum payout threshold set by the platform. The exact threshold and payout currency may vary depending on your region and preferred method.
You can choose to receive your earnings via direct deposit, check (where available), or PayPal in some regions. Rakuten ensures that all approved commissions are paid out promptly and transparently. Below is a table showing common payout options:
Payout Method |
Availability |
| Direct Deposit | Most regions |
| Check | Limited, select countries |
| PayPal | Available in some regions |
This dependable payment system makes Rakuten a trustworthy choice for affiliates who want consistency and clarity in their earnings.
Rakuten Affiliate Network vs Other Affiliate Networks
How does Rakuten Affiliate Network compare to other popular platforms like CJ Affiliate, ShareASale, and Impact? While all these networks provide access to global affiliate programs, Rakuten stands out for its reliability, premium brand selection, and focus on long-term partnerships. It’s a professional platform designed for affiliates who want stable, sustainable growth rather than just quick campaigns.
Another key strength of Rakuten is its platform technology. The user interface is clean and intuitive, offering advanced dashboards and in-depth analytics to track and optimize performance. Unlike many newer or smaller networks, Rakuten combines strong brand partnerships, professional support, and global reach in one trusted platform. If you value trust, transparency, and long-term potential, Rakuten remains one of the best choices for affiliates.
Feature |
Rakuten Affiliate Network |
Other Networks (CJ, ShareASale, Impact) |
| Reputation & History | Established in 1996, highly trusted, decades of reliability | Well-known but some newer players lack longevity |
| Advertiser Quality | Focuses on premium, global brands and long-term campaigns | Mix of premium and lower-tier brands, more one-off campaigns |
| Platform Technology | Clean, intuitive interface with advanced analytics | Varies by network; some dashboards are less user-friendly |
| Support & Resources | Professional support, dedicated account managers, robust help docs | Generally good support, but varies and can be less personal |
| Global Reach | Strong international presence and advertiser base | Some networks are more US-centric or region-limited |
| Payout Reliability | Consistent, on-time monthly payments | Generally reliable but can depend on advertiser |
| Best For | Affiliates who value trust, transparency, and long-term growth | Affiliates looking for variety and quick-start options |
Tips to Succeed with Rakuten Affiliate Network
Succeeding with Rakuten Affiliate Network requires strategy and consistency. Start by selecting advertisers whose products align with your audience’s needs and interests. Use Rakuten’s promotional tools like banners and deep links to create appealing content.
Be sure to monitor your analytics regularly to see which offers perform best and adjust your campaigns accordingly. It’s also helpful to stay updated on seasonal promotions and special deals from advertisers, as these can boost conversions. Finally, diversify your advertisers and niches to minimize risk and maximize your income streams. With persistence and smart planning, you can build a solid affiliate income through Rakuten.
Pros and Cons of Rakuten Affiliate Network
Like any platform, Rakuten has its strengths and weaknesses. Below is a quick table summarizing them to help you decide if it’s right for you:
Pros |
Cons |
| Access to global brands | Some advertiser approvals take time |
| Reliable monthly payouts | Minimum payout threshold required |
| User-friendly reporting tools | Fewer instant-approval programs |
| Strong reputation and trust | Some regions have limited options |
For most publishers, the pros far outweigh the cons — especially if you’re looking for long-term affiliate partnerships with reliable payouts and support.
Final Thoughts
The Rakuten Affiliate Network review shows why it remains one of the most respected names in affiliate marketing. With its wide selection of global brands, dependable affiliate payouts, and professional-grade tools, it’s a great platform for publishers who want to grow their business sustainably.
Whether you’re just learning Rakuten affiliate network how to join or looking to expand your portfolio of affiliate programs, Rakuten offers everything you need to succeed. Its global reach, quality advertisers, and transparent processes make it a top choice for anyone serious about affiliate marketing. Start today and take your affiliate earnings to the next level with Rakuten.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I join the Rakuten Affiliate Network?
Joining Rakuten is simple and free for publishers. You just need to sign up on their official website and fill in your details. Once approved, you can browse and apply to advertiser programs. Approval for each advertiser may take a few days.
Is Rakuten Affiliate Network free for affiliates?
Yes, the platform is completely free for affiliates to join and use. Advertisers pay commissions and fees directly to Rakuten. As an affiliate, you only earn money and never have to pay to participate.
How long does it take to get approved?
Approval to the Rakuten network itself is quick, often within 1–2 business days. However, individual advertisers you apply for can take 2–7 days. Some may require additional details or a review of your site.
How and when are payments issued?
Rakuten pays affiliates monthly, usually around the 20th of each month. Payments are sent after you reach the minimum payout threshold. You can choose from direct deposit, check, or PayPal in supported regions.
Can I use Rakuten if I’m outside the US?
Yes, Rakuten operates globally and welcomes affiliates from many countries. Keep in mind that some advertisers may have geographic restrictions. Check the terms of each advertiser before promoting their offers.
