If you’re looking to make some extra money using just your phone, money-making apps could be a great way to go. These apps let you earn cash by doing things you might already do, like shopping or answering surveys. Whether you want to save for something special or just need a little extra cash, there are many options available. Here are some of the best money-making apps you can try out today!
Key Takeaways
- Money-making apps are usually free to download from app stores.
- You can earn cash back on purchases or get paid for completing surveys.
- The best app for you depends on your interests and how you want to earn.
- Some apps focus on cash back, while others reward you for surveys or tasks.
- Using these apps can help you save money or earn extra cash effortlessly.
1. Rakuten
Rakuten is a popular app that helps you earn cash back on your online shopping. With over 3,500 stores to choose from, it’s a great way to save money while buying things you already need. Here’s how it works:
- Choose a Store: Open the Rakuten app or website and select the store you want to shop at.
- Make Your Purchase: Complete your purchase through the app, and the cash back will be added to your account.
- Get Paid: You can cash out your earnings via check or PayPal every three months, but you need at least $5 to redeem your rewards.
Key Features
- Easy to Use: The app is designed to be user-friendly, making it simple to earn cash back.
- Wide Selection: Shop at thousands of retailers, including popular brands.
- Regular Payments: Cash back is paid out quarterly, so you can plan for your earnings.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Earn cash back at over 3,500 stores | Payments are only every three months |
| Simple process for online shopping | In-store cash back may be harder to get |
| Minimum of $5 needed to cash out |
Rakuten is an easy-to-use app that can help you earn cash back on everyday purchases. Each retailer sets its own cash back amounts, making it a flexible option for shoppers.
2. Ibotta
Ibotta is a popular cashback app that helps you earn money while shopping. It stands out because there are several ways to earn cash back. Here’s how it works:
- Submit Receipts: After shopping, you can upload your receipt to the app within 7 days.
- Link Loyalty Accounts: Connect your retailer loyalty accounts to earn cash back automatically.
- Gift Cards: Buy gift cards through the app to earn cash back on your purchases.
Payment Options
You can receive your cash back through:
- PayPal
- Digital gift cards
- Direct deposit to your bank account
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Quick cash back, usually within 24 hours.
- Welcome bonuses for new users.
- Multiple payment methods available.
Cons:
- You need at least $20 to cash out.
- Some retailers have a longer waiting period for cash back.
- An account maintenance fee applies if inactive for 180 days.
Ibotta is a great way to save money while shopping. Many users earn over $130 a year just by using the app regularly!
3. Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is a popular app that lets you earn money by sharing your opinions. It’s a rewarding and trusted way to influence brands while earning cash and gift cards. You can make money in two main ways: by taking surveys or sharing your data.
How It Works
- Sign Up: Create an account and build your profile.
- Take Surveys: Participate in surveys that match your profile.
- Earn Points: Each survey you complete earns you points, which can be redeemed for cash or gift cards.
Payment Details
To cash out, you need at least 500 points, which equals $5. You can receive your earnings through PayPal or as gift cards. Here’s a quick look at the payment process:
| Points Required | Cash Equivalent | Payment Method |
|---|---|---|
| 500 | $5 | PayPal/Gift Cards |
User Ratings
Survey Junkie has received positive feedback from users, earning:
- 4.3 out of 5 stars on Google Play
- 4.5 out of 5 stars on the App Store
Survey Junkie is a great option if you want to earn some extra spending money each month. You won’t get rich, but it’s a fun way to make a little cash while sharing your thoughts!
4. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a popular app that lets you earn money in various ways. You can earn cash by taking surveys, shopping online, watching videos, and playing games. With over 7,000 retailers to choose from, it’s easy to find ways to earn rewards.
How Payment Works
You earn points called “SB” for different activities. Here’s a quick look at how much you can earn:
| Activity | Earnings per Task |
|---|---|
| Short Surveys | $0.50 – $1.50 |
| Cash Back on Shopping | $0.06 per $1 spent |
| Gift Card Redemption | 100 SB = $1 |
To cash out, you need at least $1 worth of SB for gift cards or $5 for PayPal transfers. Payments usually arrive within 10 business days after you redeem your points.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Many ways to earn rewards.
- Quick payments after redemption.
- New users can get a $10 bonus with a qualifying purchase.
Cons:
- Earnings can be low; 1 SB is worth about a cent.
- Not every survey or task will qualify for you.
- Gift cards may take up to 10 days to arrive.
Swagbucks has received positive feedback, earning a rating of 4.0 out of 5 on Trustpilot and 4.2 out of 5 on the Google Play Store. This shows that many users find it a reliable way to earn some extra cash.
5. Cash App
Cash App is a popular mobile payment service that allows users to send and receive money easily. It’s a good and easy way to send and receive money and even handle cryptocurrency transactions. Here’s what you need to know about Cash App:
Key Features:
- Instant Transfers: Send money to friends and family instantly.
- Cash Card: Get a free debit card to spend your Cash App balance anywhere.
- Investing: Buy stocks and Bitcoin directly from the app.
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to use interface | Limited customer support |
| Fast money transfers | Fees for instant transfers |
| Ability to buy Bitcoin | Not available in all countries |
Cash App is a reliable source with good customer service, making it a favorite among users for quick transactions.
How to Get Started:
- Download the App: Available on both Android and iOS.
- Create an Account: Sign up with your email or phone number.
- Link Your Bank Account: Connect your bank for easy transfers.
- Start Sending Money: Use the app to send or receive cash instantly!
6. Venmo
Venmo is a popular app that makes sending and receiving money quick and easy. It’s especially useful for splitting bills with friends or paying for services. Here’s what you need to know about Venmo:
How It Works
- Send Money: You can send money to friends or family instantly.
- Receive Payments: Get paid back for shared expenses like dinner or rent.
- Transaction History: Venmo allows you to view your transaction history, so you never lose track of payments.
Payment Options
Venmo offers several ways to manage your money:
| Payment Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Bank Transfer | Direct deposit to your bank account. |
| Instant Transfer | Quick transfer to your bank for a fee. |
| PayPal | Link your PayPal account for payments. |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy to use interface.
- Fast transactions between users.
- Social feed to see payments made to friends.
Cons:
- Limited to U.S. users only.
- Fees for instant transfers.
Venmo makes paying friends fast and easy. It’s a great tool for managing shared expenses without hassle.
7. InboxDollars
InboxDollars is a popular app that allows you to earn cash by completing various tasks. You can make money by taking surveys, watching videos, and even shopping online. With over 20 million members, it’s a great way to earn some extra cash from your phone.
How It Works
- Surveys: Most surveys pay between $0.50 and $5, with some offering up to $20.
- Watching Videos: You can earn money by watching short video clips.
- Shopping: Get cash back when you shop through the app.
Payment Options
You can cash out your earnings in real money, not points. Here’s a quick look at the payment structure:
| Task Type | Earnings Range |
|---|---|
| Surveys | $0.50 – $20 |
| Watching Videos | Varies |
| Shopping Cash Back | Varies |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Variety of ways to earn
- Free $5 sign-up bonus
Cons:
- Earnings can be slow
- Limited high-paying surveys
InboxDollars has been reviewed over 23,000 times on Trustpilot and currently has a respectable 4.2/5 rating. Its mobile apps also tend to receive positive feedback, making it a reliable choice for earning cash on the go.
8. Fetch Rewards
Fetch Rewards is a simple app that lets you earn points by uploading your shopping receipts. The great thing about Fetch is that you don’t have to shop at a specific store to earn rewards, unlike many other apps. Here’s how it works:
- Snap a picture of your grocery receipts.
- Earn points for almost every purchase you make.
- Redeem points for gift cards to popular retailers.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to use | Points accumulate slowly |
| Many gift card options | High minimums for some rewards |
| No specific store required |
Conclusion
Fetch Rewards is a great way to earn rewards without the hassle of scanning barcodes or buying specific products. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to make some extra cash from their everyday shopping!
9. TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is a great app for those looking to earn money by completing various tasks. You can make money by helping others with everyday jobs. Whether it’s assembling furniture, running errands, or providing virtual assistance, TaskRabbit connects you with people who need help.
How It Works
- Create a Profile: Sign up and set up your profile to showcase your skills.
- Choose Your Tasks: Browse available tasks in your area and select the ones you want to do.
- Get Paid: After completing a task, you receive payment directly through the app.
Earning Potential
The amount you can earn varies based on the tasks you choose and your location. Some users report making up to $200 per hour for specialized services. Here’s a quick look at potential earnings:
| Task Type | Average Earnings |
|---|---|
| Furniture Assembly | $50 – $100 |
| Errand Running | $20 – $50 |
| Virtual Assistance | $25 – $75 |
TaskRabbit is an affordable answer for freelancers looking to advertise their services.
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Flexible schedule
- Variety of tasks available
- Potential for high earnings
- Cons:
- Competitive market
- Requires good communication skills
- May need to travel to different locations
In summary, TaskRabbit is a fantastic option for anyone wanting to earn extra cash by helping others with their daily tasks. It offers flexibility and the chance to make a good income based on your skills and availability.
10. Uber
Uber is a popular app that lets you earn money by driving people around or delivering food. You can work whenever you want, making it a flexible side job. Here’s how it works:
How to Get Started
- Download the Uber app and sign up as a driver.
- Complete the required background check and vehicle inspection.
- Start accepting rides or delivery requests through the app.
Earnings Potential
You can earn money in two main ways:
- Ridesharing: Drive passengers to their destinations.
- Uber Eats: Deliver food from local restaurants.
| Service | Average Earnings per Hour |
|---|---|
| Ridesharing | $15 – $25 |
| Uber Eats | $10 – $20 |
Tips for Success
- Drive during peak hours to maximize earnings.
- Keep your car clean to ensure a good experience for passengers.
- Be friendly and helpful to get better ratings and tips.
Working with Uber can be a great way to earn extra cash on your own schedule. Just remember to keep track of your expenses, as they can add up quickly!
Overall, Uber offers a flexible way to make money, whether you’re driving people or delivering food. It’s a popular choice for many looking to earn some extra cash on the side. Let me take you through my up-and-down experience testing Uber as a side hustle.
Final Thoughts on Money-Making Apps
In conclusion, money-making apps can be a great way to earn some extra cash right from your phone. Whether you want to get cash back on your shopping, take surveys, or complete simple tasks, there are many options available. Just remember, while these apps can help you make a little money, they are not a way to get rich quickly. It’s important to choose apps that fit your lifestyle and interests. By putting in some effort and being smart about how you use them, you can see some nice rewards. So, why not give a few of these apps a try and see how much you can earn?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are money-making apps?
Money-making apps are programs you can download on your phone to earn extra cash. They can help you get money back on purchases, pay you for taking surveys, or even reward you for completing tasks.
Are money-making apps free to use?
Yes, most money-making apps are free to download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Can I really earn money using these apps?
Yes, you can earn some money, but it usually won’t be a lot. These apps are best for making a little extra cash on the side.
How do I know which app is best for me?
The best app for you depends on how you like to earn money. If you enjoy taking surveys, apps like Survey Junkie are great. If you prefer shopping, consider Rakuten or Ibotta.
Do these apps pay real money?
Yes, many money-making apps pay real cash. Some might offer gift cards instead, so check what each app offers.
Are money-making apps safe to use?
Most money-making apps are safe, but it’s important to read reviews and understand what information you share when using them.
How can I maximize my earnings with these apps?
To earn more, check the apps regularly for new offers, keep your profile updated, and take advantage of bonuses when you sign up.
Can I make a living from money-making apps?
No, these apps are not meant for making a full-time income. They work better for earning a little extra cash when you need it.
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