Amex cardholder earns nearly 30k reward points through strategic use of Rakuten offer

In a recent transaction, an individual was able to accumulate nearly 30,000 American Express Membership Rewards points with the assistance of Rakuten. This opportunity arose from Rakuten's Cash Back Unwrap calendar for 2024, which coincided with a planned TV purchase. On November 20, 2024, Rakuten offered a special bonus of 20% cash back or 20 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent on LG products.

The offer allowed the individual to earn substantial rewards by purchasing a discounted 65-inch LG C3 television priced at $1,299.99 during Black Friday. By using The Platinum Card from American Express and leveraging the Rakuten offer, they earned 26,000 Membership Rewards points. According to TPG's December 2024 valuations, these points are valued at approximately $520 when used with Amex's hotel and airline transfer partners.

To benefit from Rakuten offers like this one, shoppers should start their shopping trip on Rakuten's site or use the Rakuten Chrome extension to activate applicable offers. It's important to connect an Amex Membership Rewards account if one prefers earning points instead of cash back. However, it can take up to 100 days for rewards to be confirmed and payouts occur every three months.