Rakuten Loans offer a fast and flexible way to borrow money directly through your Rakuten account.
Whether you’re covering personal expenses or need quick funds, understanding how to apply correctly makes all the difference.
This guide breaks down the entire process so you can confidently apply and avoid hidden setbacks.
The Loan in Focus: What Rakuten Offers
Rakuten Loans aren’t just another borrowing option—they’re designed for users who want speed, simplicity, and digital access.
Here’s what you need to know about the loan structure and who it fits best:
- Type: Unsecured personal loan (no collateral required).
- Usage: Covers personal needs like education, moving costs, emergencies, or consolidating debt.
- Loan Amount: Typically ranges from ¥100,000 to ¥5,000,000, depending on credit profile.
- Repayment Terms: Monthly installments, with terms usually between 6 to 84 months.
- Interest Rates: Fixed, generally between 4.9% and 14.5% APR.
- Eligibility: Available to residents of Japan with a stable income source.
- Platform: Fully online application via the Rakuten Bank website or app.
- Extras: Rakuten Bank users may get faster screening and better interest offers.
Core Benefits You Don’t Want to Overlook
Rakuten Loans has key advantages that set it apart from traditional loan options.
If you're looking for speed, simplicity, and digital convenience, these features matter:
- No Collateral Required: You don’t need to pledge any property or assets.
- Fast Processing: Approval and disbursement are often quicker for Rakuten account holders.
- Flexible Terms: Choose repayment periods that match your budget, up to 7 years.
- Fixed Interest Rates: Monthly payments stay consistent, making budgeting easier.
- Fully Online Access: Apply, track, and repay entirely through the app or website.
- Rakuten Bank Perks: Using Rakuten Bank may unlock lower interest or faster decisions.
- Minimal Paperwork: ID and income proof are usually all that’s needed.
Who Qualifies: The Real Checklist
Not everyone can get a Rakuten Loan approved—there are clear criteria you need to meet.
Here’s the actual checklist to know if you’re eligible before applying:
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 20 years old and under 65 at the time of final repayment.
- Residency: Must be a legal resident of Japan with a valid address.
- Income Proof: Stable income is required—usually from full-time employment or consistent freelance work.
- Credit History: No recent defaults, bankruptcies, or unresolved late payments.
- Rakuten Bank Account (Preferred): Not mandatory, but may increase your chances.
- Valid ID: Japanese government-issued ID such as a driver’s license, My Number card, or residence card.
- Phone Number and Email: Must be reachable for identity and document verification.
How to Order It Without Wasting Time
Applying for this loan is simple if you know the exact steps.
Follow this streamlined process to avoid delays and get your application moving fast:
- Step 1: Log Into Rakuten Bank: Use the official website or mobile app with your Rakuten ID.
- Step 2: Access the Loan Application Page: Navigate to “Loan Services” and choose the personal loan option.
- Step 3: Enter Loan Details: Input the amount you want to borrow, the purpose of the loan, and the preferred repayment term.
- Step 4: Upload Required Documents: Submit your ID and proof of income—photos or PDFs are accepted.
- Step 5: Review and Confirm: Double-check all details before submitting the form.
- Step 6: Track Application Status: You’ll receive updates via email or through your Rakuten account dashboard.
Overlooked Details That Can Cost You
Most applicants focus on getting approved, but ignoring the fine print can lead to extra fees or setbacks.
Watch out for these commonly missed details that could affect your loan experience:
These minor oversights can lead to delays, reduced loan amounts, or added fees. Double-check the following before you submit:
- Auto Bank Link: Repayments may be defaulted to your Rakuten Bank account—switch manually if you're using another bank.
- The loan cap is profile-based: you might request ¥1,000,000 but only get ¥500,000 based on your credit score and income.
- No Points Earned: Unlike Rakuten Card or shopping, taking a loan won’t earn you any Super Points.
- Affects Other Rakuten Limits: An active loan may lower your credit limit on other Rakuten financial products.
- Bad Uploads Can Delay Approval: blurry, cropped, or mismatched documents can cause rejections or prolonged verification delays.
What You’ll Pay
Before applying, it’s essential to understand the real costs behind a Rakuten Loan. Here’s a breakdown of the key fees you should expect:
- Interest Rate: Typically ranges from 4.9% to 14.5% APR, depending on your credit profile.
- No Origination Fee: Most plans don’t charge an upfront processing fee.
- Late Payment Penalty: Missed payments may incur a penalty of ¥1,500–¥3,000 per occurrence.
- Monthly Repayment: Fixed amounts based on your term and loan size—calculated at approval.
- Early Repayment Fee: Usually free, but confirm the terms in your contract before proceeding.
Mistakes That Kill Your Application
Minor errors can lead to instant rejection or long delays in your loan process. Avoid these common mistakes to keep your application on track:
- Wrong Name Format: Use your full legal name—no nicknames or abbreviations.
- Blurry Document Uploads: Submit clear, high-resolution images of your ID and proof of income.
- Mismatched Information: Ensure the details in your form match those on your documents.
- Missing Employment Details: Leave out your job info, and your application may not be verified.
- Skipping the Purpose Field: Failing to explain why you need the loan can delay approval.
- Using an Inactive Email or Number: Rakuten must be able to reach you for verification.
Speed Tricks Most Users Don’t Know
If you want your Rakuten Loan approved and funded faster, a few smart moves can make a big difference. Use these lesser-known tips to cut down on waiting time:
- Apply on Weekday Mornings: Submissions during early business hours are processed faster.
- Use a Rakuten Bank Account: Linking this can help prioritize your review and speed up approval.
- Pre-Verify Your Identity: To skip extra steps, complete Rakuten’s identity check in advance.
- Upload All Docs at Once: Avoid back-and-forth by submitting everything in a single session.
- Avoid High-Traffic Times: Avoid applying late at night or during holidays to avoid queue delays.
Direct Support: No Bots, Real Help
If you encounter issues or need clarification during your loan process, Rakuten offers real human support, not just automated replies.
Here’s how you can reach them:
- Customer Service (Phone): Call 0120-691-130 (toll-free within Japan) during weekdays, business hours.
- Email Support: Use the contact form on Rakuten Bank's official website for document-related or status inquiries.
- Physical Address: Rakuten Bank, 1-14-1 Tamagawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 158-0094, Japan.
- Help Center Page: Check FAQs and live updates at Rakuten Bank Help Center (in Japanese).
- No Chatbots: Most support is handled by real agents—especially for ID, income, or loan-related cases.
Wrap-Up: Be Precise, Be Prepared
A successful Rakuten Loan application depends on accuracy and readiness.
Make sure your details are correct, your documents are clear, and you understand your loan limits.
Apply now through the Rakuten platform to avoid delays and get the funds you need faster.
Disclaimer
Loan terms, interest rates, and eligibility criteria may change without prior notice.
Always check the official Rakuten Bank website for the latest and most accurate information before applying.
