How To Earn Free Credits And Get Free Items On Mercari In 2025

Mercari, a popular U.S.-based marketplace for buying and selling used goods, offers several ways for users to earn digital currency known as Mercari Credits. These credits can be used for purchases on the platform, effectively functioning as a form of "free money" that helps users save on items they want or need. While Mercari does not offer actual cash rewards, the platform provides a range of opportunities for users to earn and use credits for free or discounted purchases. This article outlines the methods through which users can earn free Mercari Credits, the eligibility criteria for these offers, and how to maximize their value.

Understanding Mercari Credits

Mercari Credits are a type of digital currency within the Mercari platform. Users can earn them through various means, including signing up for an account, completing sales, and referring friends. These credits are applied toward purchases and are treated like real money during checkout. However, unlike traditional currency, Mercari Credits cannot be withdrawn or converted into cash.

According to multiple sources, new users can receive a $10 credit as part of a limited-time offer. This credit is automatically applied to their first purchase and can be used even without a credit card, provided the item’s total cost—including shipping—is $0. This means that, in some cases, users may be able to receive items for free if the seller offers free shipping and the item’s price is $0.

In addition to the welcome credit, users can also earn more credits by completing sales. Specifically, when a user earns their first $100 in completed sales, they receive an additional $20 credit. This is an added incentive for users who are looking to both declutter their homes and earn rewards through the platform.

Earning Credits Through the Referral Program

One of the most effective and consistent ways to earn Mercari Credits is through the referral program. Once a user creates an account, they are provided with a unique referral link. By sharing this link with friends, family, or on social media, users can earn a portion of the referral credit when their invited contacts sign up and make a purchase.

Each time a referred user makes a purchase using the shared link, the referrer earns a $10 credit. This is a powerful incentive for users who are active on the platform and have a network of contacts interested in buying and selling used goods.

It is important to note that participation in the referral program does not require the user to be a seller. Any Mercari user—whether they are primarily a buyer or seller—can participate in the referral program and earn credits simply by sharing their unique link.

The referral program is considered one of the most generous in the marketplace industry, especially when compared to similar programs on platforms like eBay. The $20 credit awarded for first-time users who complete sales and the $10 credit for each referral are among the more competitive rewards available.

Other Methods of Earning Credits

Beyond the referral program and the initial welcome credit, users can also earn Mercari Credits by completing sales. As mentioned, reaching a total of $100 in completed sales earns the user an additional $20 credit. This is a direct incentive to engage in the selling side of the platform.

Additionally, Mercari occasionally offers promotional coupons that can be used during checkout. These coupons are automatically available to users at the point of purchase, so there is no need to enter a code manually. The availability of these coupons may vary depending on ongoing promotions, and they are typically used in conjunction with Mercari Credits to further reduce the cost of items.

How to Use and Manage Mercari Credits

Once earned, Mercari Credits are stored in the user’s account and can be applied toward any purchase on the platform. The credits are automatically applied at checkout if applicable, and users can view their available balance through the app or website.

It is important to be aware that Mercari Credits have an expiration date. Users should check the terms associated with their earned credits to ensure they are used before they expire. Some credits may be valid for a limited time, such as 90 days from the date they were issued. Failing to use them within this period may result in the loss of the reward.

Credits are typically applied to the purchase of items listed by other users. They can be used for both digital and physical goods, but are not applicable to certain categories such as services or subscriptions. Users should also be aware that the value of the credit may be reduced if the item being purchased is eligible for other discounts or promotions.

Eligibility and Limitations

There are several key eligibility criteria for earning and using Mercari Credits:

• New users are eligible for a $10 welcome credit upon signing up using a specific link or referral code. This is a one-time offer and is only available for new accounts.
• Referral credits are awarded to the referrer when a referred user signs up and makes a purchase. The referred user must use the unique referral link to qualify.
• Sales-based credits are awarded after a user completes $100 in sales. This is tracked based on the total value of completed transactions.
• Credit expiration applies to all earned credits, and users must use them within the designated timeframe to avoid them being forfeited.
• Credit usage is limited to purchases made within the Mercari platform. They cannot be used for payments outside of the app or website, and they cannot be redeemed for cash.

Strategies for Maximizing Credits

To make the most out of the Mercari Credits system, users should adopt a few strategic approaches:

• Share your referral link frequently with friends, family, and on social media to maximize the number of referrals and the associated credits.
• Focus on selling high-demand items that are likely to sell quickly, which can help you reach the $100 sales threshold faster and earn the additional $20 credit.
• Monitor promotional coupons and use them in conjunction with your earned credits to reduce the cost of your purchases.
• Track your credit balance and expiration dates to ensure that you use your credits before they expire.

By combining these strategies, users can significantly reduce their spending on the platform and even receive free items when possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get real cash for free on Mercari?

No, Mercari does not offer real cash rewards. All "free money" is in the form of Mercari Credits, which can only be used for purchases within the Mercari platform. These credits cannot be withdrawn or converted into actual currency.

What is the best way to get free Mercari credit?

The most effective method for earning free Mercari Credit is through the referral program. By sharing your unique referral link and encouraging others to sign up and make purchases, you can earn a $10 credit for each successful referral. Additionally, completing $100 in sales earns a $20 credit, and new users receive a $10 welcome credit.

Do I need to be a seller to earn referral credits?

No, any Mercari user—whether a buyer or seller—can participate in the referral program. You do not need to have any items listed for sale to earn credits through referrals.

How do I use a coupon on Mercari?

Eligible coupons are automatically applied during checkout. There is no need to manually enter a code. When you reach the checkout screen, you will see a list of available coupons and credits that can be used toward your purchase.

Conclusion

Mercari offers a variety of ways for users to earn and use digital currency known as Mercari Credits. These credits function similarly to real money and can be used to reduce the cost of purchases on the platform. New users can take advantage of a $10 welcome credit, while active users can earn additional credits through the referral program and by completing sales. By strategically sharing referral links and monitoring promotional offers, users can maximize the value of their Mercari experience and potentially receive free items.

It is important to remember that Mercari Credits are not a form of cash and must be used within the platform. Additionally, users should be mindful of expiration dates to ensure they do not lose their earned rewards. For those looking to both buy and sell used goods while saving money, Mercari provides a compelling and accessible platform with multiple earning opportunities.

Sources

1. Your Ultimate Guide to Earning Free Mercari Credits
2. Free Mercari Credit & Free Stuff
3. How to Get Free Mercari Credits and Free Stuff