Samsung Wallet Introduces New Virtual Cash Back Card via Rakuten

Samsung Wallet has rolled out a virtual “Cash Card” feature, allowing users to earn cash back on purchases and spend those rewards directly from their digital wallet. Though it shares part of its name with Samsung’s Galaxy Card credit product, this new Cash Card is a distinct virtual account centered around earned cash back rather than credit lines. It is powered by a partnership with Rakuten, enabling users to access deals across both online and physical stores through a “Nearby” feature within Samsung Wallet on eligible Galaxy phones. Samsung’s new Cash Card is now live in the U.S. market.

What the Cash Card Offers

Users who opt in will see offers from more than 3,500 brands and over 25,000 in-store and dining locations, thanks to Rakuten’s expansive network of partners. New users can enjoy a 10% cash back rate initially, with this rate subject to change at various times throughout the year. All rewards earned accumulate in the Samsung Cash Card, which operates as a payment method right within Samsung Wallet, usable both online and in stores.

Money Flow & Transfers

Beyond spending, the system supports peer-to-peer transfers between Samsung Wallet accounts. Users can send and receive money within the Samsung ecosystem—this includes quick transfers by tapping another Galaxy or Android device, complete with built-in safety features to protect the users. Though it’s branded under Samsung, the Cash Card functions similarly to other virtual payment methods rather than mimicking the structure of a credit card.

This launch is not Samsung’s first foray into cash back; the company previously introduced a cash back program in 2018. However, the latest initiative leverages new partnerships and updates to both structure and reach. Crucially, this Cash Card is separate from the Galaxy Card—a Visa credit card introduced earlier—so users should be aware they’re dealing with rewards funds, not borrowed credit.

The rollout of this virtual Cash Card, along with Rakuten deal integrations, is underway now in the United States.

Why this matters: Samsung’s move to embed a cash back rewards system directly into Wallet highlights a growing trend toward digital-first financial incentives. As users increasingly demand rewards that are seamless and integrated into their existing devices, this offering answers the call. What to watch for: the longevity and variations of the cash back rates, the safety and ease of peer-to-peer transfers, and whether this approach becomes a model for Wallets across Android or even iOS platforms.