The Best Apps for Making Extra Cash in 2024

Best Apps

In 2024, many people are looking for ways to make extra money, and mobile apps are a great option. These apps offer various ways to earn cash, whether through surveys, cash-back offers, or gig work. With the right app, you can easily boost your income from the comfort of your home or while on the go. Here’s a look at some of the best apps available this year to help you start earning money.

Key Takeaways

  • Explore different types of money-making apps to find what suits you best.
  • Cashback apps like Rakuten and Ibotta can help you save money on purchases.
  • Survey apps such as Survey Junkie allow you to earn money by sharing your opinions.
  • Gig economy apps like Uber and TaskRabbit offer flexible work opportunities.
  • Always check user reviews to find the best apps for your needs.

1. Rakuten

Rakuten is a well-known app that helps you earn cash back on your online shopping. With Rakuten, you can get money back from over 3,500 stores, making it a great choice for anyone looking to save while they shop.

How It Works

  1. Sign Up: Create a free account using your email or social media.
  2. Shop: Browse through the Rakuten app or website to find stores you like.
  3. Earn Cash Back: When you make a purchase, the cash back is automatically added to your account.

Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
Earn cash back at over 3,500 stores Cash back is paid every three months
Easy to use and navigate In-store cash back process is more complex
Free to join Minimum of $5 needed to redeem rewards

Rakuten is a fantastic option if you want to earn money back on your everyday purchases. It’s simple to use and offers a wide range of stores to choose from.

In summary, Rakuten is a top choice for those looking to make extra cash in 2024 through their shopping habits. Start earning cash back today!

2. Ibotta

Ibotta is a popular app that helps you earn cash back on your shopping. With Ibotta, you can save money every time you shop! It’s simple to use and offers many ways to earn rewards. Here’s how it works:

  1. Choose Offers: Before shopping, browse through the app to find cash back offers on products you plan to buy.
  2. Shop: Purchase the items at any participating store.
  3. Scan Receipts: After shopping, take a picture of your receipt using the app to claim your cash back.

Key Features

  • Wide Selection: Ibotta partners with over 1,500 national brands, giving you plenty of options to earn cash back.
  • Multiple Earning Methods: You can earn cash back not just in stores but also online.
  • Easy Cash Out: Once you reach a minimum of $20, you can cash out your earnings via PayPal or gift cards.

Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
Earn cash back on a variety of products Minimum of $20 needed to redeem rewards
User-friendly interface Requires scanning receipts for cash back
Offers bonuses for specific products Limited to participating stores

Ibotta is a great way to make extra cash while doing your regular shopping. Many users report earning 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 through online surveys. It connects you with market researchers who want to hear from consumers like you. Here’s how it works:

  1. Create a Profile: Sign up and fill out your profile to get matched with surveys that fit your interests.
  2. Take Surveys: Complete surveys to earn virtual points. Each survey can take anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour.
  3. Redeem Points: Once you reach 500 points (about $5), you can cash out through PayPal or get e-gift cards.

Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
Easy to use Not all surveys pay well
Instant rewards You may not qualify for every survey
No bank account needed Some surveys can be repetitive

Survey Junkie is a great way to make some extra cash, but be prepared for some glitchy surveys that may not pay out as expected.

In summary, Survey Junkie is a solid choice for those looking to earn a little extra money in their spare time. Just remember to be patient and keep trying, as not every survey will be a fit for you.

4. Swagbucks

Swagbucks is a well-known app that lets you earn points, called SB, by doing various activities. You can earn cash in many fun ways! Here are some of the things you can do to earn:

  • Take surveys
  • Watch videos
  • Play games
  • Shop online

You can redeem your points for gift cards to popular stores like Amazon and Walmart or get cash back through PayPal. To start, you need a minimum of 500 SB, which is about $5.

Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
Earn cash through various activities Not every survey pays well
Easy to use and join Some tasks may take a lot of effort
$10 bonus when you sign up Gift cards can take up to 10 days to arrive

Swagbucks has paid out over $550 million to users over the years, making it a popular choice for those looking to make extra cash.

While you might not get rich, many users report earning between $1 to $5 a day, which can add up over time!

5. Fundrise

Fundrise is a great app for those who want to invest in real estate without needing a lot of money. With just $10, you can start investing in commercial properties. This app pools money from many users to buy real estate, allowing you to earn passive income from rental payments and property appreciation.

Key Features:

  • Low Minimum Investment: Start with only $10.
  • Quarterly Cash Flow: Earn money every three months.
  • Instant Diversification: Your money is spread across different properties.

Pros and Cons:

Pros Cons
Start with just $10 Limited liquidity
Healthy historical performance Not as diversified as public REITs
Lower volatility Weaker upside potential

Fundrise is perfect for those looking to invest in real estate without the high costs usually involved. It’s a smart way to earn money over time.

In summary, Fundrise makes it easy for anyone to invest in real estate and earn extra cash. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced investor, this app can help you grow your money effectively.

6. TaskRabbit

TaskRabbit is a popular app that connects you with people who need help with various tasks. You can earn money by completing jobs like running errands, assembling furniture, or even providing virtual support. Here’s how it works:

  1. Create a Profile: Download the TaskRabbit app and set up your profile. Include your skills and the types of tasks you want to do.
  2. Get Verified: You’ll need to verify your identity by providing an ID and a photo.
  3. Start Earning: Once approved, you can start accepting tasks and earning money.

Earnings Potential

Many Taskers report making an average of $380 per month, with some earning even more depending on the number of tasks they complete. Here’s a quick look at the potential earnings:

Task Type Average Earnings
Running Errands $20 – $50
Furniture Assembly $30 – $100
Virtual Support $15 – $40

TaskRabbit is a flexible way to make extra cash while helping others in your community. You choose when and where to work, making it a great option for side hustlers.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros:
  • Cons:

In summary, TaskRabbit is a fantastic platform for those looking to make extra cash by helping others with everyday tasks. Whether you’re skilled at assembling furniture or just want to run errands, there’s a place for you on this app!

7. Uber

Uber is a well-known app that connects drivers with people who need rides. It’s a flexible way to earn extra cash on your own schedule. Here’s what you need to know:

Requirements to Drive for Uber

  • You must be at least 21 years old.
  • A valid driver’s license and insurance are required.
  • You need a four-door car that meets Uber’s standards.

Earnings Potential

According to reports, Uber drivers can earn an average of $364 per month, with a median income of $155. Here’s a quick look at the earnings:

Earnings Type Average Monthly Income Median Monthly Income
Uber Drivers $364 $155

Benefits of Driving for Uber

  • Flexible hours: You can choose when to work.
  • Instant payouts: Get paid quickly for your rides.
  • Meet new people: Every ride is a chance to connect with someone new.

Driving for Uber can be a great way to make money while having the freedom to set your own hours. Just make sure to follow all the requirements to get started!

8. Lyft

Lyft is a popular ridesharing app that connects passengers with drivers in their area. Like Uber, Lyft also offers same-day payouts, making it a great choice for those needing quick cash. Here’s what you need to know about driving for Lyft:

Requirements to Drive for Lyft

  • A valid driver’s license
  • A background check
  • Vehicle insurance
  • A four-door car (can be yours or a rental)

Earnings Potential

According to reports, Lyft drivers can earn an average of $377 per month, with a median income of $210. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Earnings Type Average Monthly Income Median Monthly Income
Lyft Drivers $377 $210

Benefits of Driving for Lyft

  • Keep 100% of your tips: All tips you earn go directly to you.
  • Flexible hours: You can choose when to drive, making it easy to fit into your schedule.
  • Community: Join a network of drivers and riders, enhancing your social experience.

Driving for Lyft not only helps you earn extra cash but also allows you to meet new people and explore your city.

In summary, Lyft is a solid option for anyone looking to make some extra money while enjoying the freedom of setting their own hours and keeping all their tips.

9. DoorDash

DoorDash is a popular food delivery app that connects you with local restaurants. As a Dasher, you can earn money by delivering meals right to customers’ doors. Here’s what you need to know:

How It Works

  1. Sign Up: Create an account and complete the application process.
  2. Start Delivering: Once approved, you can start accepting delivery requests.
  3. Get Paid: Dashers typically earn between $17 to $24 an hour, depending on various factors like location and demand.

Earnings Breakdown

Earnings Type Average Amount
Hourly Rate $17 – $24
Monthly Earnings $229 (average)
Median Income $100

DoorDash offers flexibility in your schedule, allowing you to work when it suits you best.

Tips for Success

  • Choose Busy Times: Deliver during peak hours to maximize your earnings.
  • Keep Your Vehicle Ready: Ensure your car is clean and ready for deliveries.
  • Use the App Efficiently: Familiarize yourself with the app to navigate quickly and efficiently.

With DoorDash, you can turn your free time into extra cash while enjoying the freedom of being your own boss!

10. Instacart

Instacart is a grocery delivery app that lets you earn money by shopping for and delivering groceries to others. You can enjoy a flexible schedule and get paid weekly! Here’s what you need to know:

How It Works

  1. Sign Up: Create an account and complete the application process.
  2. Shop: Accept orders and shop for groceries at local stores.
  3. Deliver: Bring the groceries to the customer’s doorstep.

Earnings

  • On average, shoppers make between $11 to $16 per hour.
  • You can also earn tips from customers, which can boost your income.
Earnings per Hour Average Earnings per Trip
$11 – $16 $16.06

Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Have a valid driver’s license and a vehicle.
  • Eligible to work in the U.S.

Instacart is a great way to make extra cash while being your own boss. You can choose when and how much you want to work.

Many people have shared their experiences with Instacart. For instance, join the 9779 people who’ve already reviewed instacart.com on Trustpilot to see what others think!

11. Airbnb

Cozy Airbnb living room with inviting decor and lighting.

Airbnb is a popular platform that allows you to earn money by renting out your extra space. You can make cash without owning property! Here are some ways to maximize your earnings:

  • List Your Space: If you have a spare room or an entire home, create a listing on Airbnb. Make sure to take good photos and write a clear description.
  • Set Competitive Prices: Research similar listings in your area to set a price that attracts guests while still earning you money.
  • Offer Unique Experiences: Consider providing special amenities or experiences that make your listing stand out, like guided tours or local tips.
Feature Description
Earnings Potential Varies based on location and property type
Fees Airbnb takes a 3% service fee from hosts
Guest Interaction Meet new people and share your local knowledge

Renting out your space can be a great way to earn extra cash while meeting interesting travelers. Just ensure you follow local laws and regulations regarding short-term rentals.

12. Sharetown

Sharetown is a unique app that helps you earn money by reselling gently-used furniture and mattresses. It’s easy to generate income with Sharetown, and many users have reported making significant profits. Here’s how it works:

How It Works

  1. Apply to Become a Rep: You need to apply first to ensure there’s a need for more reps in your area.
  2. Get Matched with Inventory: Once accepted, you’ll be matched with gently-used items from direct-to-consumer brands.
  3. Sell and Earn: You can earn between $150 to $250 per item sold, and top reps can make over $4,000 a month!

Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
Low startup costs Requires a truck or SUV
Great earning potential Bulky items to store
No inventory hunting Not available in all areas

Sharetown makes mattress and furniture flipping rewarding and lucrative for our community.

In summary, Sharetown is a fantastic option for those looking to make extra cash by leveraging their selling skills and available space.

13. Wonolo

Wonolo is a great app for finding temporary jobs quickly. It connects you with various gig jobs in areas like retail, logistics, and manufacturing. You can pick when and how much you want to work, making it very flexible.

Key Features:

  • Immediate Job Access: Get connected with jobs that need filling right away.
  • Variety of Gigs: Choose from different industries, so you can work in areas you know or try something new.
  • User-Friendly: The app is easy to use, with a high rating of 4.3 stars on Google Play.

Pros and Cons:

Pros Cons
Flexible working hours May require physical work
Wide range of job options Not all jobs are local
Easy to sign up Competition for gigs

Wonolo is perfect for anyone looking to earn extra cash on their own schedule.

14. Rover

Rover is a popular app that allows you to earn money by walking dogs and providing pet-sitting services. This platform connects dog owners with people who love pets, making it a great way to make extra cash if you enjoy spending time with animals.

Key Features

  • Strong income potential: Top dog walkers can earn up to $1,000 a month.
  • Flexible schedule: You can choose when and how often you want to work.
  • Reputable platform: Rover offers protection for both sitters and pet owners.

Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
Strong income potential Potentially difficult pets
Reputable platform Limited to local demand
Flexible schedule

How to Get Started

  1. Download the Rover app and create your profile.
  2. Set your rates and availability.
  3. Start accepting jobs and enjoy spending time with dogs!

Rover is a great way to earn extra cash while doing something you love. Just be prepared for the occasional challenging pet or owner!

15. Fetch Rewards

Fetch Rewards is a unique app that allows you to earn points for almost every purchase you make. Fetch is the only rewards app that gives you points for everything you buy! You simply upload your receipts, and you can earn rewards without needing to scan barcodes or buy specific items. Here’s how it works:

  1. Upload Receipts: Snap a picture of your grocery shopping receipts.
  2. Earn Points: Get points for every receipt, plus bonus points for buying certain products.
  3. Redeem Rewards: Cash in your points for gift cards from popular retailers.

Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
Easy to use Points accumulate slowly
Many cash-out options Requires a minimum of 3,000 points for a $3 gift card
Bonus points for popular brands Some rewards have high minimums

Fetch Rewards makes it simple to earn rewards while shopping for things you already buy. Just upload your receipts and watch your points grow!

16. Cash App

Cash App is a popular mobile payment service that allows users to send and receive money easily. It’s a great way to earn some extra cash! Here are some ways you can make money with Cash App:

  1. Referral Program: Invite friends to join Cash App and earn a bonus when they make their first transaction.
  2. Cash Back Offers: Use your Cash Card at participating retailers to earn cash back on purchases.
  3. Investing: You can buy stocks and Bitcoin directly through the app, which can lead to potential earnings.

Key Features of Cash App

Feature Description
Instant Transfers Send and receive money instantly.
Cash Card A debit card linked to your Cash App balance.
Investing Options Buy stocks and Bitcoin directly in the app.

Cash App is not just for sending money; it also offers ways to earn and invest, making it a versatile tool for your finances.

17. Honeygain

Honeygain is a unique app that lets you earn money by sharing your unused internet bandwidth. This means you can make passive income without doing much work. Once you install the app on your device, it runs quietly in the background, using your extra internet capacity to help companies with data collection.

How It Works

  1. Install the App: Download Honeygain on your device (available for Windows, MacOS, and Android).
  2. Connect to the Internet: Make sure you have a stable internet connection.
  3. Start Earning: The app will automatically use your unused bandwidth, and you’ll earn money based on the amount of data shared.

On average, users can earn up to $50 a month. It typically takes about 48 days to reach $20. Plus, you get a $3 bonus just for starting!

Important Considerations

  • Ensure you are on an unlimited data plan to avoid extra charges.
  • The app is easy to use and requires minimal effort on your part.

Honeygain turns your unused internet resources into cash with very little effort.

In summary, Honeygain is a great way to make some extra cash while you go about your daily activities. Just install it, let it run, and watch your earnings grow!

18. Nielsen Computer & Mobile Panel

Nielsen is a well-known research company, especially famous for its TV ratings. With the Nielsen Computer & Mobile Panel, you can earn money just by letting the app run in the background of your phone. This app collects data about how you use your device, and you can earn rewards for it.

How It Works

  1. Download the App: Install the Nielsen app on your registered devices.
  2. Run in Background: The app works quietly in the background, collecting data without slowing down your device.
  3. Earn Rewards: You can earn up to $60 per year just for having the app installed.

Rewards Options

  • Monthly sweepstakes entries
  • Gift cards to popular retailers
  • PayPal cash-outs after a year of usage

By using the Nielsen app, you can earn rewards passively while going about your daily activities. Many users have shared their experiences, with the app holding a 4-star rating on Trustpilot based on feedback from 565 people.

This app is a great way to make some extra cash without much effort, making it a popular choice among users looking for passive income opportunities.

19. MobileXpression

MobileXpression is a market research app that pays you for the data collected from your mobile device. This app runs quietly in the background, tracking your browsing habits and earning you rewards.

How It Works

  1. Download the App: Start by installing MobileXpression on your smartphone.
  2. Earn Credits: As you use your phone, the app collects data and you earn weekly credits.
  3. Redeem for Gift Cards: You can exchange your credits for gift cards to popular stores.
Feature Details
Estimated Earnings About $20 per year
Initial Bonus $5 gift card after the first week
Data Collection Method Background tracking of usage

User Feedback

Many users have shared their experiences on platforms like Trustpilot. According to one review, “how many stars would you give MobileXpression? Join the 287 people who’ve already contributed. Your experience matters.” This shows that users are actively engaging with the app and sharing their thoughts.

MobileXpression is a simple way to earn some extra cash without much effort. Just install it and let it do its job!

20. InboxDollars

InboxDollars is a popular app that allows you to earn money by completing simple tasks. With over 20 million members, it’s a legitimate way to make extra cash. You can earn money by:

  • Taking surveys
  • Watching videos
  • Shopping online
  • Completing offers

How It Works

When you sign up for InboxDollars, you get a free $5 bonus. Most surveys pay between $0.50 and $5, but some can pay up to $20 or more. Here’s a quick look at how you can earn:

Task Type Average Earnings
Surveys $0.50 – $5
Watching Videos Varies
Shopping Offers Varies

Is InboxDollars Legit?

Yes, InboxDollars is a legitimate way to earn money online. It has been in business for over 20 years and has paid out more than $80 million to its members.

InboxDollars pays you in real money—not points—making it easy to cash out your earnings.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a simple way to make some extra cash, InboxDollars is worth checking out. Just remember, while it won’t make you rich, it can add a little extra to your monthly budget!

21. Cash Giraffe

Smartphone with Cash Giraffe app and money.

Cash Giraffe is an exciting app that lets you earn rewards while playing games. Have you ever wanted to earn money or gift cards while playing games? This app connects you with new mobile games that are looking for players. It tracks the time you spend playing and rewards you for reaching certain milestones.

How It Works

  1. Download the app from the Google Play Store.
  2. Play games that interest you.
  3. Earn Cash Giraffe tickets as you play.
  4. Cash out your tickets for gift cards or transfer them to your PayPal account.

Key Features

  • Over 5 million downloads and a 4.4-star rating on the Google Play Store.
  • Earn rewards just for playing games.
  • Simple and user-friendly interface.

Cash Giraffe is a fun way to make some extra cash while enjoying your favorite games!

22. Freecash

Freecash is a fun app that lets you earn money by playing games and completing tasks. With over 20 million members, it’s a popular choice for making extra cash. Users can find thousands of game offers available on iOS, Android, and PC, with some paying out hundreds of dollars. The app is designed to be user-friendly and engaging, making it easy to start earning right away.

How It Works

  1. Sign Up: Create a free account on the Freecash app.
  2. Choose Offers: Browse through various game offers and tasks.
  3. Start Earning: Play games or complete tasks to earn cash rewards.

Earnings Potential

According to the platform, a typical user can earn around $17.53 per day just by playing games. Here’s a quick look at the earning potential:

Activity Average Earnings
Playing Games $17.53/day
Completing Tasks Varies
In-Game Purchases Optional

User Feedback

Around 83% of Trustpilot reviewers give Freecash a 5-star rating, highlighting its reliability and fun experience. The app also has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars on the Google Play Store, with over 101,000 reviews praising its effectiveness.

Freecash is a great way to turn your free time into cash, making it a top choice for anyone looking to earn extra money easily!

23. Poshmark

Poshmark is a popular fashion marketplace app where you can buy and sell new or used clothing, accessories, and home goods. It creates a social media-like experience, allowing users to follow each other, share items, and join virtual shopping parties. This makes it a fun way to earn some extra cash by selling your items.

How to Get Started on Poshmark

  1. Download the app: Available on both iOS and Android.
  2. Create an account: Sign up using your email or social media accounts.
  3. List your items: Take clear photos, write descriptions, and set prices.
  4. Share your listings: Promote your items to your followers to increase visibility.

Earnings Potential

According to the Poshmark ProTools blog, the average seller can earn about $500 a month. If you are dedicated and treat it like a full-time job, you could potentially make up to $5,000 monthly. Here’s a quick overview of the fees and earnings:

Earnings Details
Average Monthly Income $500
Potential Full-Time Income Up to $5,000
Seller Fee 20% of each sale

Selling on Poshmark is a great way to declutter your closet while making some extra cash. The platform’s large audience makes it easier to find buyers for your items.

24. Decluttr

Decluttr is a great app for turning your old items into cash. Decluttr pays competitive prices for used electronics, media, and other items. You can sell things like old phones, DVDs, and games easily. Here’s how it works:

  1. Download the App: Start by downloading the Decluttr app on your phone.
  2. Scan Your Items: Use the app to scan the barcodes of your items. This will show you how much you can earn.
  3. Get Paid: Once you send your items, you’ll get paid quickly, usually within a day.

Why Use Decluttr?

  • Easy to Use: The app is user-friendly and straightforward.
  • Fast Payments: You don’t have to wait long to get your money.
  • Eco-Friendly: Selling your old stuff helps reduce waste.

Decluttr is a simple way to make some extra cash while decluttering your home.

Here’s a quick look at what you can sell:

Item Type Potential Earnings
Old Phones Over $100
DVDs Varies, but can be good
Games Competitive prices

25. X (Formerly Twitter) and more

Monetizing Your Presence on X

X has become a powerful platform for earning extra cash. With its new ad revenue sharing program, users can potentially make significant income by creating engaging content. Here’s how you can get started:

  1. Become Verified or Subscribe: You need to be a verified user or subscribe to X Premium, which costs $8 per month.
  2. Gain Impressions: Your content must receive at least 5 million impressions over the last three months.
  3. Build Your Following: Aim for a minimum of 500 followers to qualify for the program.

Success Stories

Many users have turned their presence on X into a lucrative venture. For instance, one influencer grew from zero to 50,000 followers in just a year, leading to a multi-six-figure income.

Other Ways to Earn

Besides X, consider these additional platforms:

  • TikTok: Creators can earn through the TikTok Creator Fund.
  • Your Phone: Use it to connect with potential clients and offer services directly.
  • Airbnb: Rent out extra space in your home for additional income.

Engaging with your audience on social media can lead to unexpected financial opportunities. Explore these platforms to see where your skills can shine!

Final Thoughts on Earning Extra Cash with Apps

In conclusion, using apps to make extra money is a smart choice for anyone looking to boost their income. With so many options available, you can find an app that fits your lifestyle and interests. Whether you want to earn cash back on shopping, take surveys, or complete simple tasks, there’s something for everyone. Remember, while these apps can help you earn some extra cash, they are not a way to get rich quickly. With a little time and effort, you can make a nice amount of money on the side. So, why not give a few of these apps a try? You might be surprised at how much you can earn!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I really earn money using apps?

Yes, you can earn money through apps on your phone. These apps let you make extra cash whenever you want, which is great if you need money fast.

Are there free money-making apps?

Absolutely! Many money-making apps are free to use. For example, Survey Junkie and Swagbucks don’t cost anything to sign up.

Which app is best for making money?

The best app for you depends on how you want to earn money. Some popular choices are Rakuten, Ibotta, Survey Junkie, and Swagbucks.

How much money can I make with these apps?

You probably won’t make a lot of money with these apps. They are better for getting a little extra cash rather than a full income.

Do I need to pay to use these apps?

Most money-making apps are free. However, some may have optional features that require payment.

How do cash-back apps work?

Cash-back apps give you money back when you buy things. You can earn a percentage of your purchase back as cash.

Is it safe to use money-making apps?

Yes, but you should always read reviews and check the app’s privacy policy to understand how your information is used.

What type of tasks can I do to earn money with these apps?

You can take surveys, shop for cash back, or complete simple tasks to earn money with these apps.

Also check out: Sustainable Side Hustles: Eco-Friendly Ways to Earn Extra Income