These days, making money online is easier than ever, thanks to mobile apps. Whether you want to earn a little extra cash or turn it into a full-time job, there are plenty of apps to help you do just that. This guide will walk you through seven types of online earning apps and how you can use them to boost your income.
Table of Contents
- Survey and Opinion Apps
- Microtask Apps
- Cashback and Rewards Apps
- Gig Economy Apps
- Investment and Savings Apps
- Content Creation and Social Media Apps
- Gaming and Entertainment Apps
Survey and Opinion Apps
What Are Survey and Opinion Apps?
Survey and opinion apps pay you for sharing your thoughts on different products and services. Companies use this information to improve what they offer, and you get paid for your time.
Popular Survey Apps
- Swagbucks: Earn points by taking surveys, watching videos, and shopping online. You can exchange these points for gift cards or cash.
- Survey Junkie: Focuses on surveys and lets you turn your points into cash or gift cards.
- Google Opinion Rewards: Quick surveys that pay you in Google Play credits or cash via PayPal.
How to Get Started
To start earning with these apps, you’ll need to sign up and fill out your profile. This helps the app match you with surveys that fit your background.
How to Earn More
Survey apps usually pay small amounts, but here are some tips to increase your earnings:
- Take surveys quickly: Some surveys are only available for a short time, so try to respond as soon as possible.
- Focus on higher-paying surveys: Longer or more detailed surveys often pay more.
- Look for bonuses: Some apps give extra rewards for completing a certain number of surveys or participating every day.
Cashing Out
Most survey apps require you to reach a certain amount of earnings before you can cash out. You can usually choose between PayPal cash, gift cards, or direct deposit.
Microtask Apps
What Are Microtask Apps?
Microtask apps pay you to do small, simple tasks like entering data or sorting images. These tasks don’t take long to complete, and you can do them whenever you have some free time.
Popular Microtask Apps
- Amazon Mechanical Turk: Offers a variety of tasks, like processing data or taking surveys, with payments ranging from a few cents to a few dollars.
- TaskRabbit: Lets you earn money by doing local tasks, like moving furniture or assembling furniture.
- Clickworker: Provides tasks like writing, translating, and categorizing, with payment based on the task’s difficulty.
How to Get Started
Sign up, create a profile, and start taking tasks. Some apps might ask you to take a short test to qualify for specific tasks.
How to Earn More
To get the most out of microtask apps:
- Pick higher-paying tasks: Tasks that require more skill or take longer usually pay more.
- Use multiple apps: Signing up for several apps gives you more opportunities to earn.
- Improve your speed: The faster you complete tasks, the more you can earn.
Getting Paid
Payments are usually made via PayPal, direct deposit, or gift cards. Check the app’s payment schedule to know when to expect your earnings.
Cashback and Rewards Apps
What Are Cashback and Rewards Apps?
Cashback and rewards apps give you money or points when you shop. These apps work with retailers to offer you a percentage of your purchase back as cashback or points.
Popular Cashback Apps
- Rakuten: Offers cashback when you shop through its platform, both online and in stores.
- Ibotta: Focuses on grocery shopping, offering cashback on items you buy through the app.
- Honey: A browser extension that finds discounts and offers cashback when you shop online.
How to Get Started
Sign up, create an account, and link your credit or debit cards if needed. This helps the app track your purchases and apply rewards automatically.
How to Earn More
To maximize your earnings:
- Always shop through the app or extension: Make sure you’re logged in or have the extension active when shopping to earn cashback.
- Stack discounts: Combine cashback offers with coupons, sales, or store rewards for extra savings.
- Refer friends: Some apps give you bonuses when you refer friends, and they sign up.
Cashing Out
Cashback can usually be redeemed via PayPal, check, or gift cards. Each app has a minimum amount you need to earn before you can cash out.
Gig Economy Apps
What Are Gig Economy Apps?
Gig economy apps connect you with short-term jobs or freelance gigs. Whether you’re driving people around, delivering food, or offering your skills, these apps let you earn money on your schedule.
Popular Gig Economy Apps
- Uber/Lyft: Ridesharing apps that let you earn money by driving people to their destinations.
- DoorDash/Grubhub: Food delivery apps where you can earn by delivering meals to customers.
- Fiverr: A freelance platform where you can offer services like graphic design, writing, and more.
How to Get Started
Create a profile, set up your payment method, and, in some cases, complete a background check. For driving apps, you’ll also need to provide information about your vehicle and insurance.
How to Earn More
To make the most out of gig economy apps:
- Work during busy times: Peak hours, like lunchtime for food delivery or weekend nights for ridesharing, often pay more because demand is higher.
- Look for bonuses: Many apps offer bonuses for completing a certain number of jobs in a set period or working during busy times.
- Sign up for multiple gigs: Doing different types of gigs can help you earn more overall.
Managing Your Earnings
Keep track of what you earn and spend (like gas for driving). Remember that your earnings are usually considered self-employment income, so you may need to set aside money for taxes.
Investment and Savings Apps
What Are Investment and Savings Apps?
Investment and savings apps help you grow your money by investing in stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), or automating your savings. These apps are perfect if you want to start investing without much effort.
Popular Investment Apps
- Acorns: Invests your spare change from everyday purchases into a portfolio of stocks and bonds.
- Robinhood: Lets you buy and sell stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies without paying any commission fees.
- Stash: Combines investing with educational content, allowing you to start investing with just a few dollars.
How to Get Started
Sign up, create an account, provide some personal information, and link your bank account or debit card. Some apps might require a small deposit to start investing.
How to Earn More
To make the most out of investment apps:
- Automate your savings: Apps like Acorns can round up your purchases and automatically invest the spare change, helping you save without thinking about it.
- Diversify your investments: Spread your investments across different types of assets to reduce risk and increase your chances of earning a return.
- Learn as you go: Use apps that offer educational resources to help you make smarter investment choices.
Withdrawing Your Money
You can usually withdraw your money anytime, but some apps may charge fees if you sell investments early. Be sure to understand any fees and tax implications before withdrawing.
Content Creation and Social Media Apps
What Are Content Creation Apps?
Content creation apps let you earn money by sharing videos, photos, and other content. Whether you want to be an influencer or just enjoy creating, these apps can help you make money from your content.
Popular Content Creation Apps
- TikTok: A short video app where you can earn through brand deals, live gifts, and the TikTok Creator Fund.
- YouTube: The largest video-sharing platform, where you can make money through ads, sponsorships, and selling merchandise.
- Instagram: A social media app with features like IGTV and Reels that let you share and monetize your content.
How to Get Started
Create a profile, choose a niche or topic you’re passionate about, and start posting content. Learn how the app’s algorithm works to reach more people.
How to Earn More
To grow your earnings:
- Post consistently: Regular content helps you build an audience.
- Engage with your followers: Responding to comments and messages can help you build a loyal community.
- Monetize your content: Look for opportunities to join ad programs, partner with brands, or sell your products.
Cashing Out
Most content creation apps let you withdraw your earnings through PayPal, direct deposit, or other means. Make sure to check the app’s payment terms and conditions.
Gaming and Entertainment Apps
What Are Gaming and Entertainment Apps?
Gaming and entertainment apps pay you for playing games or participating in other fun activities. If you love gaming or trivia, these apps can be a fun way to earn extra money.
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) that you can add to the article to provide additional value and clarity for readers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much money can I realistically earn with online earning apps?
The amount you can earn varies widely depending on the type of app and how much time you dedicate to it. Survey and microtask apps might earn you a few extra dollars a week, while gig economy apps and content creation platforms can potentially provide full-time income if you put in the effort.
2. Are online earning apps safe to use?
Most reputable online earning apps are safe, but it’s important to do your research before signing up. Look for apps with positive reviews, transparent payment systems, and good customer support. Be wary of apps that require you to pay money upfront or seem too good to be true.
3. Do I have to pay taxes on the money I earn from these apps?
Yes, money earned from online earning apps is generally considered taxable income. If you earn above a certain threshold, you’ll need to report it to your local tax authorities. Some apps might send you a tax form if you earn over a specific amount.
4. Can I use multiple earning apps at the same time?
Absolutely! Using multiple apps can increase your earning potential. For example, you can take surveys on one app, complete microtasks on another, and use a gig economy app all at the same time. Just be mindful of how much time you’re spending on each to ensure it’s worth the effort.
5. What’s the best online earning app for beginners?
For beginners, survey and cashback apps are usually the easiest to start with. They require minimal setup and offer straightforward ways to earn. Swagbucks, Rakuten, and Google Opinion Rewards are great options for those just starting.
6. How often can I cash out my earnings?
The frequency of cashing out depends on the app. Some apps allow you to cash out anytime, while others have a minimum balance requirement or specific payout schedules (e.g., weekly or monthly). Always check the app’s terms to know when and how you can access your money.
7. Are there any hidden fees with these apps?
Most apps do not charge users directly, but some might have fees for specific services, such as withdrawing funds or currency conversion. Always read the app’s terms and conditions to understand any potential fees.
8. What if I don’t have much time—are there apps that work well with a busy schedule?
Yes! Many online earning apps are flexible and can be used in your spare time. Survey apps, microtask apps, and cashback apps can be used in short bursts whenever you have a few minutes to spare. Gig economy apps like Uber or DoorDash let you work when it suits you, making them perfect for busy schedules.
9. Can I earn money playing games?
Certain gaming and entertainment apps pay you for playing games, participating in challenges, or watching ads. While the earnings might not be significant, it’s fun to make a little extra money doing something you enjoy.
10. What should I do if I have trouble receiving payments from an app?
If you encounter payment issues, first check the app’s FAQ or help section for guidance. If the problem persists, contact the app’s customer support for assistance. Keep records of your earnings and any communication in case you need to escalate the issue.
Here’s a simple conclusion to wrap up the article:
Conclusion
Online earning apps offer a convenient way to make extra money right from your phone. Whether you’re taking surveys, completing small tasks, driving for a gig, or creating content, there’s an app out there that can help you reach your financial goals. While most of these apps won’t make you rich overnight, they can provide a steady stream of additional income with minimal effort.
Remember to choose apps that align with your interests and availability, and be patient as you build up your earnings. By exploring different types of online earning opportunities and finding what works best for you, you can turn your spare time into a valuable income source. Happy earning!