One of the best ways to earn extra cash while playing online poker is through rakeback programs. Many online poker rooms offer rakeback on a regular basis while others prefer VIP programs to reward their loyal members. PokerStars has worked extremely hard to develop a fantastic VIP program that rewards its most loyal players. By purchasing VIP bonuses, players can turn the VIP system into a PokerStars rakeback program. Bonuses are purchased with VIP Player Points (VPPs) which are obtained by sitting in real money cash or tournament games. If you would rather go shopping, VPPs can be used for items such as electronics or books.

PokerStars has a handful of VIP Levels including BronzeStar, SilverStar, GoldStar, PlatinumStar, Supernova, and Supernova Elite. Those new to PokerStars start off as a BronzeStar and work their way up through the system based on both monthly and yearly VPPs earned.  The higher your level, the better your PokerStars rakeback percentage will be. For example, SilverStar players can achieve 8% to 26% rakeback while reaching PlatinumStar can mean as much as 46% in rakeback depending on the stakes and games played.  It can be tempting to use your FPPs for bonuses early on in your PokerStars career, but it is actually better to wait as the bonuses have a better conversion rate at higher VIP Levels. It would be better to initially use a PokerStars bonus code to get a 100% up to $600 initial deposit bonus.

If you're looking for as much rakeback as possible on your PokerStars download, you need to become a PlatinumStar ASAP since you earn more FPPs and the VIP bonuses are much bigger. You will find, however, that this is one of the best places to download free poker because of the Supernova status. Once you reach Supernova level, you will earn a minimum of 25% rakeback. If you are a fan of Daniels Room poker, you might even earn enough VPPs to become part of the Supernova Elite. These members will earn more than 50% rakeback as well as many other prizes and perks.

The one problem with the PokerStars rakeback system is you have to clear the VIP bonuses before receiving the money. Each bonus requires a certain number of VPPs before they are released as real cash. This fact causes a lot of people to prefer other sites as they receive their rakeback without having to 'clear' it first. However, it might be worth the trouble because PokerStars is one of the top Texas Hold'em sites online due to their variety of games and superior customer service. Make sure you use one of the PokerStars marketing codes which will help your bankroll in its initial stages.