If you're searching for convenient ways to boost your income, using apps to earn money could be the perfect solution. Whether it’s through earning money playing games, freelancing, or selling items you no longer need, there's a wide range of money-making apps to suit your needs. Many of these apps are designed to offer flexible opportunities right from your smartphone, making it easy to earn extra cash on the go.
In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the best apps to make money in the US. From cashback rewards to delivery services, these apps provide excellent ways to supplement your income, whether as a side hustle or just in your spare time. Ready to explore the top apps to make money? Let’s explore and find the best fit for you!
What Are Money-Earning Apps and How Do They Work?
Money-making apps are digital tools designed to help users earn money by completing tasks, providing services, or engaging in activities such as playing games, answering surveys, or freelancing. These apps to earn money have become increasingly popular because they offer multiple ways to generate income directly from your smartphone. Depending on the app, you can:
- Earn money playing games and completing in-app challenges.
- Take on freelance gigs through platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
- Participate in surveys or watch videos to earn rewards.
- Use cashback apps like Rakuten or Ibotta to get money back on everyday purchases.
- Sell items through marketplace apps such as OfferUp and Poshmark.
Each of these apps to make money operates differently:
- Cash payments: Some apps directly transfer cash to your bank account or PayPal.
- Gift cards or points: Others reward you with gift cards or points that you can redeem later for products or services.
These best money-making apps provide a convenient, flexible way to generate income, whether it’s part-time or full-time.
1. Survey-Based Earning Apps
Best Apps for Taking Paid Surveys
Swagbucks: One of the most versatile money-making apps, Swagbucks allows you to earn money not just by taking surveys but also by watching videos, playing games, and shopping online. You can redeem your earnings for cash via PayPal or for gift cards from popular retailers.
Survey Junkie: This app is dedicated to surveys, offering higher payouts for in-depth surveys. You earn points for each survey you complete, and these points can be converted into PayPal cash or e-gift cards. Survey Junkie is known for its frequent survey availability and user-friendly interface.
How Much Can You Earn From Survey Apps?
On average, survey apps pay between $1 and $5 per survey, but longer and more detailed surveys can offer up to $10 or more. Survey apps won't make you rich, but they are an easy way to earn extra money during your free time.
Tips for Getting More Surveys
- Complete your profile: A fully completed profile increases the likelihood of getting matched with higher-paying surveys.
- Check regularly: Survey opportunities can disappear quickly, so check the app daily to maximize earnings.
- Be honest: Providing consistent and truthful answers increases your chances of getting more surveys in the future.
2. Cashback and Rewards Apps
Top Cashback Apps for Shopping
Rakuten (formerly Ebates): This app gives you cash back when you shop online or in-store at over 2,500 retailers, including big names like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. Simply shop through the Rakuten app or browser extension, and you'll receive cash back on eligible purchases. You can opt to receive your cashback via PayPal or a check.
Ibotta: Primarily focused on groceries, Ibotta lets you earn money by scanning your grocery receipts after shopping. You can also link your loyalty cards to earn cash back automatically at participating stores. The app partners with major retailers like Walmart, Kroger, and Target, offering deals on everyday items.
Reward Programs vs. Cashback: What’s the Difference?
- Cashback: This is a direct return on your spending, where you earn a percentage of the money spent back in the form of cash or credit.
- Reward Programs: These programs offer points or other forms of rewards (such as gift cards) that can be redeemed once you accumulate enough. They are often used in specific industries, such as travel or retail.
Maximizing Cashback with Stacking Techniques
Combine cashback apps with rewards programs for higher returns. For example, you can use Rakuten for cashback while simultaneously earning credit card rewards for the same purchase. Also, stack manufacturer and store coupons with Ibotta offers to increase your savings.
3. Gig Economy and Freelance Apps
Top Freelance Platforms for Side Hustles
Upwork: This is one of the most comprehensive freelance platforms that offers long-term and short-term projects across various categories like writing, design, marketing, and more. Upwork connects freelancers with clients around the world, allowing them to build portfolios and reputations over time.
Fiverr: Fiverr is great for freelancers who want to offer specific services, known as "gigs." The platform allows you to set your prices (starting at $5 per gig) and offers various categories like graphic design, writing, video editing, and voiceovers. Fiverr is known for its quick job listings and short project turnaround.
How to Set Up a Profitable Freelance Profile
- Highlight your skills: List your services and skills, using keywords to improve your visibility.
- Build a portfolio: Showcase your best work to attract potential clients.
- Offer competitive rates: Start with lower rates to build a reputation, then gradually increase as you gain reviews.
Best Practices for Getting Freelance Work Through Apps
- Be proactive: Send personalized proposals to clients that demonstrate an understanding of their needs.
- Deliver quality work: Ensuring client satisfaction will help you get positive reviews, leading to more job offers.
- Communicate clearly: Good communication helps manage expectations and builds long-term relationships with clients.
4. Delivery and Ridesharing Apps
Popular Delivery Apps to Earn Money
Uber Eats: Deliver food from local restaurants to customers’ homes. As a delivery driver, you can set your own schedule and earn tips in addition to base pay. Uber Eats is a top choice for those looking for flexible income.
DoorDash: This food delivery app allows you to deliver meals to customers using your car, bike, or scooter. DoorDash is known for offering higher-than-average delivery fees, especially during peak hours. You also get to keep 100% of the tips.
Driving Apps That Pay You
Uber: As one of the most well-known ridesharing apps, Uber allows you to earn money by driving passengers. You can work full-time or part-time, and your earnings depend on the number of rides you give. You also have the opportunity to earn tips from passengers.
Lyft: Similar to Uber, Lyft offers drivers a flexible schedule. To maximize earnings, drive during high-demand times, such as weekends and rush hours. Lyft also provides bonus incentives for completing a certain number of rides in a specified time frame.
How to Maximize Earnings With Delivery Apps
- Drive during peak times: Focus on lunch, dinner, and weekends when demand is high.
- Combine apps: Work for both DoorDash and Uber Eats to get more deliveries during downtime.
- Increase your tips: Be friendly and efficient with deliveries, ensuring customers receive hot, fresh food.
5. Renting and Selling Apps
Rent Out Your Space
Airbnb: One of the most popular money-making apps for renting out your space, Airbnb allows you to rent your home or a room to travelers. Whether it’s for a weekend or a longer stay, Airbnb provides a platform for earning extra income, especially if you have unused space in a popular location.
Turo: If you have a car that you don’t use regularly, Turo allows you to rent it out for extra income. Renters book your car through the app, and you set the rental rates and availability.
Selling Unused Items
Poshmark: Specializing in fashion, Poshmark allows you to sell new or gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories. It’s a great way to declutter and earn money from items you no longer wear.
eBay: A well-known online marketplace where you can sell virtually anything, from electronics to collectibles. Listing items is simple, and you can choose to auction or sell your items at a fixed price.
How to Effectively Market Your Items on Selling Apps
- Take high-quality photos: Clear, well-lit images attract more buyers.
- Write detailed descriptions: Include important information like condition, size, and brand.
- Price competitively: Research similar listings to set a fair price.
6. Investment and Stock Market Apps
Best Apps for Passive Income Through Investments
Robinhood: This app revolutionized stock trading by offering commission-free trades on stocks, ETFs, and even cryptocurrencies. It’s great for beginners who want to start investing without any fees. Robinhood's easy-to-use platform allows you to buy, sell, and monitor your investments from your phone.
Acorns: Acorns helps you invest your spare change by rounding up your everyday purchases and automatically investing the difference into a diversified portfolio. This app is perfect for those who are new to investing and want to start small without any effort.
Understanding Risks Involved in Investment Apps
While investment apps can help grow your money, they come with risks, especially in volatile markets. Make sure to diversify your investments to minimize risk and consult with financial experts if needed.
How to Build a Long-Term Investment Strategy Through Apps
- Start small: Apps like Acorns let you invest tiny amounts, which is a great way to begin.
- Stay consistent: Regularly invest a portion of your earnings.
- Diversify: Don’t put all your money in one stock—use apps that offer diversified portfolios.
7. Creative and Content Creation Apps
Earn Money by Creating Content
YouTube: YouTube offers monetization through ads, sponsorships, and memberships once you reach certain milestones. If you have a passion for creating videos, this is a great platform to earn money while building an audience.
Patreon: This platform allows creators to get paid by fans or "patrons" who support their work. It’s ideal for artists, podcasters, writers, and anyone who creates content regularly.
Apps That Pay for Writing
Medium: Medium’s Partner Program allows writers to earn money based on the engagement their articles receive. The more readers interact with your content, the more you can earn.
Wattpad: If you’re a storyteller, Wattpad allows you to earn by creating and sharing your stories. Authors who grow a large following can monetize their work through paid stories.
Tips for Growing an Audience on Content Platforms
- Post consistently: Regular uploads or writings will keep your audience engaged.
- Promote your work: Use social media and other platforms to promote your content.
- Engage with your audience: Respond to comments and interact with your followers to build a loyal community.
8. Health and Fitness Apps That Pay
Earn by Staying Healthy
Sweatcoin: This app rewards you with digital currency for tracking your steps. You can use Sweatcoins to redeem fitness gear, workout classes, and even cash.
HealthyWage: With HealthyWage, you can earn money by participating in weight-loss challenges. You set a goal, place a wager, and if you meet your goal, you win cash prizes.
Challenges and Contests: Motivating Yourself to Earn More
Both of these apps offer challenges and contests to keep you motivated. Joining group challenges can increase your earnings and help you stay on track with your fitness goals.
How to Track Your Fitness Goals Through Earning Apps
- Sync your apps: Use fitness trackers like Fitbit or Apple Health to connect with apps like Sweatcoin.
- Set daily targets: Setting step goals or workout milestones can increase your earnings.
9. Game and Entertainment Apps
Apps That Pay You to Play Games
Mistplay: Earn rewards for playing mobile games. Mistplay allows you to earn points that can be redeemed for gift cards. The more you play, the more you earn.
Lucktastic: This app offers daily games and scratch cards where you can win cash prizes, gift cards, or sweepstakes entries.
Are Game Apps a Legit Way to Make Money?
While game apps won’t replace a full-time income, they can be a fun and easy way to make money in your spare time.
Maximizing Your Time on Game Apps
- Choose high-reward games: Focus on games that offer the best rewards for your time.
- Set limits: Play during downtime or breaks to avoid spending too much time on the app.
10. Passive Income Apps
Apps That Earn Money Without Much Effort
Honeygain: Honeygain pays you to share your internet connection. The app runs in the background and pays you based on the amount of data you share. It’s a passive income app that requires little to no work.
Nielsen App: The Nielsen app tracks your internet usage and pays you for sharing your data. It’s completely passive, meaning you earn without having to actively participate.
How Passive Income Apps Work
Passive income apps typically require minimal effort. You can earn simply by having the app installed and running in the background, without any ongoing tasks.
Pros and Cons of Using Passive Income Apps
- Pros: Easy to use, no work required, free to install.
- Cons: Earnings are relatively low, and sharing data may raise privacy concerns.
11. Survey and Data Sharing Apps
Earn by Sharing Your Opinions
Vindale Research: Get paid to take surveys on a wide variety of topics. Vindale Research offers some of the highest payouts for surveys, and you can earn extra money by referring friends.
Pinecone Research: This app offers exclusive surveys with higher payouts. You need to be invited to join, but once in, the surveys are frequent, and the earnings are reliable.
How Data Sharing Apps Protect Your Privacy
Reputable apps like Nielsen ensure that your personal information remains anonymous and is only used for research purposes.
Is It Worth Using Data Sharing Apps for Income?
While you won’t earn a lot from data-sharing apps, they’re a low-effort way to earn some extra cash over time.
12. Educational and Learning Apps
Earn by Teaching or Tutoring Online
VIPKid: Teach English to students in China and earn a competitive income. VIPKid allows you to set your schedule and teach from anywhere with an internet connection.
Udemy: Create courses on a wide range of topics and earn money as students enroll. Udemy allows instructors to reach a global audience.
How to Maximize Earnings as an Online Educator
- Create high-quality content: Well-produced courses with valuable content are more likely to attract students.
- Promote your courses: Use social media and email marketing to drive enrollments.
Tips for Creating High-Demand Online Courses
- Focus on topics that are trending or in high demand.
- Break down complex topics into easy-to-understand lessons.
13. Task-Based Apps
Earn by Completing Simple Tasks
TaskRabbit: TaskRabbit connects you with local tasks like furniture assembly, moving, and handyman services. It’s a great way to earn extra cash by helping people with everyday jobs.
Field Agent: This app pays you to complete small assignments like taking pictures of products in stores, checking prices, or answering surveys. You can earn cash for completing these small gigs in your area.
How to Find the Best-Paying Gigs on Task Apps
- Set your preferences: Modify your profile to showcase the services you are best at.
- Be prompt: Completing tasks quickly and efficiently helps you get more jobs and better ratings.
How Task-Based Apps Ensure Fair Payment
Task-based apps like TaskRabbit and Field Agent use secure payment systems and set clear guidelines for both clients and workers to ensure fair pay for completed tasks.
14. Real Estate and Property Investment Apps
Invest in Real Estate Through Apps
Fundrise: Fundrise allows you to start real estate investing with low capital through crowdfunded real estate projects. You can invest in residential or commercial properties and earn money from dividends and appreciation.
Roofstock: With Roofstock, you can buy single-family rental properties across the U.S. and earn rental income. It’s a great option for those who want to invest in real estate without managing the properties directly.
Understanding Crowdfunded Real Estate Investing
Crowdfunded real estate lets multiple investors pool their money to invest in larger real estate projects. It’s a low-cost way to enter the real estate market and allows you to diversify your portfolio without buying entire properties.
How to Build Wealth Through Property Apps
- Start small: Invest in lower-cost properties through apps like Fundrise to get comfortable with the market.
- Reinvest dividends: Use your earnings to reinvest in more properties, building your portfolio over time.
15. Apps That Pay You to Test Products
Apps to Become a Product Tester
ProductTube: Earn money by recording video reviews of products you use. ProductTube works with brands that want real feedback on their products, and you can get paid by simply sharing your opinion in short videos.
InboxDollars: InboxDollars pays you for testing and reviewing various products. You can earn cash by completing small tasks like product testing, surveys, and more.
Maximizing Earnings by Testing Products
- Sign up for multiple apps: Increase your chances of getting more product tests by joining several platforms.
- Be thorough: Brands are more likely to invite you for higher-paying product tests if you provide detailed and thoughtful reviews.
How to Get Invited to High-Paying Product Tests
Maintain a complete profile with accurate information, and respond to invitations quickly. Many product testing platforms prioritize active, responsive users for higher-paying opportunities.
16. Loyalty and Reward Programs App
Sign Up for Loyalty Programs to Earn
Shopkick: Shopkick rewards you for walking into stores, scanning items, and making purchases. You can earn points (called “kicks”) and redeem them for gift cards at popular retailers.
Fetch Rewards: Fetch Rewards lets you earn points by simply scanning your grocery receipts. Points can be redeemed for gift cards at various stores, making it an easy way to earn while doing your regular shopping.
How Loyalty Programs Help Maximize Earnings
Loyalty programs reward repeat customers with points or cashback. The more you shop or engage with a brand, the more rewards you earn. These programs are a great way to earn extra income without changing your regular spending habits.
Combining Loyalty and Cashback for Extra Income
To maximize your earnings, combine loyalty programs with cashback apps like Rakuten or Ibotta. This stacking technique allows you to earn rewards from both programs on the same purchase.
17. Specialized Skill-Based Apps
Monetize Your Expertise
Thumbtack: Thumbtack connects skilled professionals like plumbers, electricians, and handymen with local clients. If you have a specialized trade skill, Thumbtack can help you find jobs and set your own rates.
Clarity.fm: Clarity.fm allows experts in various fields (business, marketing, tech, etc.) to offer advice over the phone. You can set a rate per minute for your consultation and get paid for sharing your expertise.
How to Set Competitive Rates on Skill-Based Platforms
- Research market rates: Look at what others in your field are charging on similar platforms.
- Offer introductory pricing: Start with lower rates to build your reputation and reviews, then increase your rates as you gain experience.
Tips for Growing Your Reputation and Client Base
- Deliver exceptional service: Consistently providing high-quality work helps you get more reviews and repeat clients.
- Promote your services: Use social media and local advertising to promote your profile and services on apps like Thumbtack.
18. Apps for Selling Photography
Turn Your Photos into Income
Foap: Foap allows photographers to sell their photos to brands and companies. You can upload your photos, and when a brand purchases one of your images, you earn a commission.
Shutterstock Contributor: If you take high-quality stock photos, becoming a Shutterstock contributor can help you earn royalties every time your photos are downloaded. It’s a great way to make passive income from your photography skills.
What Types of Photos Sell Best?
Photos that are in demand include lifestyle shots, business environments, food, travel, and nature. High-resolution, well-lit, and professional-quality images tend to sell better.
Maximizing Sales on Photography Apps
- Upload regularly: The more photos you have available, the higher your chances of making sales.
- Focus on trending topics: Monitor trends in stock photography and upload images that cater to current demand.
19. Apps for Crypto and Digital Currency
How to Earn Money Through Crypto Apps
Coinbase: Coinbase is one of the largest platforms for buying, selling, and earning cryptocurrency. You can earn through price appreciation, staking certain coins, or even by learning about crypto in Coinbase’s educational modules.
BlockFi: BlockFi allows you to earn interest on your cryptocurrency holdings. You can deposit Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies, and BlockFi will pay you interest on your balance.
Risks and Rewards of Crypto-Earning Apps
While crypto apps can offer significant returns, they are also highly volatile. Be prepared for market fluctuations and only invest what you can afford to lose.
How to Manage Your Digital Wallet for Maximum Returns
- Diversify your holdings: Don’t put all your investments into one coin; spread them across different cryptocurrencies.
- Regularly monitor your portfolio: Keep an eye on market trends and adjust your holdings accordingly.
20. Apps for Selling Handmade Goods
Turn Your Craft Skills into Income
Etsy: Etsy is one of the most popular platforms for selling handmade goods, from jewelry to home decor. If you’re skilled at crafting, Etsy gives you access to a global audience of buyers looking for unique, handmade products.
Zibbet: A lesser-known platform, Zibbet is another great option for selling handmade items. It allows you to list products across multiple marketplaces, including Etsy, making it easier to manage your online store.
How to Market Your Handmade Goods Effectively
- Use high-quality photos: Great images help showcase the details of your products and attract more buyers.
- Engage on social media: Promote your shop through Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook to reach a broader audience.
Pricing Strategies for Handmade Products
- Consider your materials and time: Ensure that your prices cover the cost of materials, labor, and overhead.
- Research competitors: Check what similar products are selling for on Etsy and Zibbet to ensure your prices are competitive.
Why Are Money-Making Apps Growing in Popularity?
The popularity of money-making apps has skyrocketed due to their convenience and accessibility. Whether you're looking for easy ways to make money from home or want to earn on the go, these apps cater to various needs. Here's why they're becoming so widespread:
- Flexibility: You can use these apps to earn money whenever you have free time, making them perfect for students, stay-at-home parents, or anyone looking for extra income.
- Variety of earning options: From earning money playing games to completing freelance projects, there are plenty of ways to get paid through these platforms.
- Smartphone accessibility: With most people carrying their phones everywhere, money apps to earn money offer instant access to income-generating activities.
- Remote earning opportunities: Many apps allow you to work from anywhere, making them ideal for those seeking ways to make money from home.
These great apps to make money are growing because they adapt to different lifestyles and provide simple, reliable ways to supplement your income.
Conclusion
In today’s digital world, there are countless opportunities to earn money through money-making apps, whether you’re interested in completing surveys, freelancing, selling items, or even investing. These apps provide flexibility and convenience, allowing you to generate extra income from your phone at any time. Whether you’re looking for short-term gigs or long-term passive income strategies, the right apps can help you reach your financial goals.
If you're interested in starting your own business with minimal investment, dropshipping is a great option. By using Spocket, you can easily set up an e-commerce store and start selling products without worrying about inventory or shipping. Spocket connects you with reliable suppliers offering high-quality products from all over the world.