Flat dollar cashback vs percentage cashback
A fixed reward and a percentage reward can be compared only after you match their eligibility and calculate the result for your order.
Use the eligible subtotal
Multiply the qualifying amount by the percentage. A fixed-dollar promotion instead needs its own spend or action threshold. Do not apply a flat signup payout to every order from the same retailer.
Find the break-even point
Divide the fixed reward by the percentage as a decimal. This gives a comparison point if the same spend qualifies for both offers and there are no caps. Restrictions can make the simple break-even calculation unsuitable.
Account for extra spending
If the fixed reward requires a larger order than you planned, subtract the extra purchase cost from the benefit of choosing it. A larger rebate can still leave you paying more overall.
Illustration: $15 flat cashback equals 10% of $150. Below $150, the flat reward is larger if both routes qualify; above that, an uncapped 10% reward is larger.
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Catalogue examples, not verified current payout promises. Confirm the reward and full conditions in your account.
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Before you commit
Eligible subtotal
Multiply the qualifying amount by the percentage. A fixed-dollar promotion instead needs its own spend or action threshold. Do not apply a flat signup payout to every order from the same retailer.
Fixed reward threshold
Divide the fixed reward by the percentage as a decimal. This gives a comparison point if the same spend qualifies for both offers and there are no caps. Restrictions can make the simple break-even calculation unsuitable.
Extra spend and caps
If the fixed reward requires a larger order than you planned, subtract the extra purchase cost from the benefit of choosing it. A larger rebate can still leave you paying more overall.
Sources and terms: TopCashback explanation · Rakuten tracking guidance · CFPB bank account guidance. Advertiser-specific conditions take precedence.