Do you have a smartphone and want to make some extra cash installing money-making apps? There are countless opportunities to earn extra cash right from the palm of your hand. Whether you’re looking to supplement your income or earn a full-time living, these money-making apps offer a convenient and flexible way to achieve your financial goals. Here in this post, we have compiled some popular Money-making apps you can install on your smartphone and earn money.
What are Money-Making Apps and How They Work
Money-making apps are mobile applications that allow users to earn money online or rewards by completing various tasks or activities. These tasks can range from taking surveys and watching videos to participating in cashback programs and completing online tasks. The primary idea behind money-making apps is to provide users with opportunities to earn additional income or rewards in their spare time, often from the convenience of their smartphones or tablets.
Here is how money-making apps typically work:
⇒ Task Completion
Money-making apps offer users a variety of tasks or activities to complete in exchange for rewards or earnings. These tasks may include taking surveys, cashback from shopping, testing products, downloading and trying out new apps, watching videos, playing games, or completing online tasks such as data entry or transcription.
⇒ Points or Rewards
When users complete tasks or activities within the app, they earn points, credits, or rewards, depending on the app’s reward system. These rewards can often be redeemed for cash, gift cards, merchandise, or other incentives.
⇒ Payment Methods
Money-making apps typically offer various payment methods for users to cash out their earnings. Common payment methods include PayPal, bank transfers, gift cards, virtual currency, or cryptocurrency. Users can choose their preferred payment method based on availability and convenience.
⇒ Earning Potential
The earning potential with money-making apps can vary widely depending on several factors, including the app’s payout rates, the availability of tasks, the user’s level of activity, and their location. While some users may only earn a few dollars per month, others may generate more significant earnings, particularly with consistent effort and participation.
⇒ Account Management
Users typically have accounts within the money-making apps where they can track their earnings, view available tasks, and manage their rewards or points. Some apps may also offer features such as referral programs, bonuses, or incentives to encourage user engagement and participation.
List of 10 Money-Making Apps
1. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a popular rewards program that allows users to earn points, called SB, by completing various online activities. These activities include taking surveys, watching videos, shopping online, searching the web, and playing games. Users can also earn cashback by shopping through Swagbucks’ partner retailers.
Payment Method: Swagbucks offers several redemption options for earned SB points, including:
- Gift cards to popular retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Starbucks
- PayPal cash
- Virtual prepaid Visa cards
- Donations to charity
Pros:
- Multiple Earning Opportunities: Swagbucks offers a variety of ways to earn SB points, allowing users to choose activities that suit their preferences and interests.
- Flexible Redemption Options: With a wide range of gift card options and PayPal cash payouts, users have flexibility in how they redeem their earnings.
- Cashback on Online Purchases: By shopping through Swagbucks’ partner retailers, users can earn cashback on their online purchases, effectively saving money on their shopping.
- Referral Program: Swagbucks offers a referral program where users can earn additional SB points for referring friends and family to the platform.
Cons:
- Low Earning Potential: While Swagbucks offers multiple earning opportunities, the payout for each activity is relatively low, and it may take time to accumulate enough SB points for significant rewards.
- Time-Consuming: Some activities, such as surveys and watching videos, can be time-consuming, and the rewards may not always be worth the time invested.
- Account Deactivation Risk: Swagbucks has strict terms of service, and users risk having their accounts deactivated if they violate any of the rules, such as using VPNs or engaging in fraudulent activity.
2. ySense
ySense is a platform that allows users to earn money by completing various online tasks and activities. These tasks may include taking surveys, completing offers, watching videos, and referring friends. Users can sign up for free and start earning immediately by participating in available tasks.
Payment Method: ySense offers multiple payment options for users to redeem their earnings, including:
- PayPal
- Skrill
- Payoneer
- Gift cards to popular retailers
Pros:
- Diverse Earning Opportunities: ySense offers a wide range of tasks and activities, providing users with multiple ways to earn money.
- Low Cashout Threshold: Users can request payment once they reach a minimum balance, which is typically low compared to other similar platforms.
- Referral Program: ySense has a referral program that allows users to earn commissions by referring new members to the platform.
- Global Availability: ySense is available to users worldwide, providing opportunities for people from different countries to earn money online.
Cons:
- Low Earning Potential: While there are various earning opportunities available on ySense, the payout for each task is generally low, and it may take time to accumulate a significant amount of earnings.
- Limited Availability of Tasks: The availability of tasks and surveys may vary depending on the user’s demographics and location, which can impact earning potential.
- Payment Delays: Some users may experience delays in receiving payments, especially when using certain payment methods like PayPal.
3. Fiverr
Fiverr is an online marketplace that connects freelancers with clients seeking various services. Clients browse through Fiverr’s extensive categories and listings to find services that meet their needs, such as graphic design, writing, programming, and more. Clients review profiles, portfolios, and reviews of freelancers (sellers) offering the services they require. They can also communicate directly with sellers to discuss project details. Once a seller is selected, the client places an order by specifying project requirements, deadlines, and any additional instructions.
Payment Method: Fiverr offers several payment methods for clients to pay for services and for sellers to receive payments:
- Credit or Debit Card
- PayPal
- Bank Transfer
- Fiverr Revenue Card
Pros:
- Wide Range of Services: Fiverr offers a diverse array of services, spanning various categories and industries, making it easy for clients to find freelancers for their projects.
- Affordable Pricing: Many services on Fiverr are available at competitive and affordable prices, making it accessible to clients with different budget constraints.
- Flexible Work Arrangements: Fiverr allows clients to hire freelancers for one-time projects or ongoing work, providing flexibility to adapt to their changing needs.
- Quality Assurance: Clients can review sellers’ profiles, portfolios, and ratings before making a hiring decision, helping to ensure quality and reliability.
- Secure Payment System: Fiverr’s secure payment system protects both clients and sellers, providing peace of mind during transactions.
Cons:
- Service Fees: Fiverr charges service fees on transactions, both for clients when purchasing services and for sellers when withdrawing earnings, which can affect overall costs.
- Communication Challenges: Communication between clients and sellers may sometimes be challenging, especially when dealing with language barriers or different time zones.
- Quality Variability: While Fiverr strives to maintain quality standards, clients may encounter variations in the quality of work delivered by different sellers.
- Transaction Processing Time: Payments on Fiverr may take several days to process, particularly for sellers withdrawing funds to their bank accounts.
- Competition: Fiverr’s large pool of freelancers may lead to increased competition for clients, making it challenging for sellers to stand out and secure projects.
4. Rakuten
Rakuten ( formerly known as Ebates) is a popular cashback and rewards platform that allows users to earn money while shopping online. Users can sign up for free and browse through Rakuten’s list of partnered retailers. When they purchase through Rakuten’s affiliate links, they earn cashback on their eligible purchases.
Payment Method: Rakuten offers several payment options for users to redeem their cashback earnings, including:
- PayPal
- Check
- Gift cards to various retailers
Pros:
- Cashback on Purchases: Rakuten offers cashback rewards for purchases made through its platform, allowing users to earn money while shopping online.
- Wide Range of Retailers: Rakuten has partnerships with thousands of online retailers across various categories, providing users with numerous options to earn cashback.
- Referral Program: Rakuten has a referral program that allows users to earn additional bonuses by referring friends and family to the platform.
- Multiple Payment Options: Users have the flexibility to choose their preferred payment method when redeeming their cashback earnings.
Cons:
- Delayed Payments: While Rakuten generally processes cashback earnings promptly, users may experience delays in receiving their payments, especially for larger transactions.
- Minimum Payout Threshold: Users need to accumulate a certain amount of cashback earnings before they can request a payout, which may take some time depending on their shopping habits.
- Limited International Availability: Rakuten’s services may be limited to specific countries or regions, which could restrict access for users outside of those areas.
5. Upwork
Upwork is a leading freelance platform that connects businesses with independent professionals for various projects. Clients post job listings detailing their project requirements, including scope, budget, and timeline. Freelancers browse job listings and submit proposals outlining their qualifications, relevant experience, and proposed pricing. Clients review proposals, interview freelancers, and select the most suitable candidate for their project. Once hired, freelancers begin working on the project and collaborate with clients through Upwork’s platform.
Payment Method: Upwork offers various payment methods for both clients and freelancers:
- Credit or Debit Card
- PayPal
- Bank Transfer
- Upwork Direct Deposit (U.S. Only)
Pros:
- Access to Talent: Upwork provides access to a vast pool of talented freelancers from around the world, allowing clients to find the right expertise for their projects.
- Flexible Hiring: Clients have the flexibility to hire freelancers on an as-needed basis, scaling their workforce up or down according to project requirements.
- Secure Payments: Upwork’s secure payment system protects both clients and freelancers, ensuring that payments are processed safely and securely.
- Project Management Tools: Upwork offers built-in project management tools, including messaging, file sharing, and milestone tracking, to facilitate collaboration between clients and freelancers.
- Quality Assurance: Upwork’s rating and review system enables clients to assess freelancers’ reputations based on past performance, helping to ensure quality outcomes.
Cons:
- Service Fees: Upwork charges service fees on transactions, both for clients when hiring freelancers and for freelancers when withdrawing earnings, which can impact overall costs.
- Competition: The competitive nature of Upwork’s platform means that freelancers may face challenges in standing out and securing projects, especially in saturated market segments.
- Communication Challenges: Communication between clients and freelancers may sometimes be hindered by language barriers or differences in time zones.
- Project Delays: Projects on Upwork may experience delays due to factors such as freelancer availability, communication issues, or scope changes.
- Quality Variability: Clients may encounter variations in the quality of work delivered by different freelancers, necessitating careful vetting and monitoring
6. Ibotta
Ibotta is a popular cashback app that offers users rewards for purchasing products at participating retailers, both in-store and online. Users can browse through Ibotta’s list of available offers, which include cashback deals on groceries, household items, and more. After making a qualifying purchase, users can scan their receipts or link their loyalty card to the app to earn cashback.
Payment Method: Ibotta offers several payment options for users to redeem their cashback earnings, including:
- PayPal
- Venmo
- Gift cards to various retailers
Pros:
- Wide Range of Offers: Ibotta provides users with a diverse selection of cashback offers on everyday purchases, allowing them to earn rewards on items they already buy.
- User-Friendly Interface: The Ibotta app is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it simple for users to find and redeem cashback offers.
- Bonuses and Promotions: In addition to cashback offers, Ibotta frequently runs promotions and bonuses, such as welcome bonuses for new users and bonuses for reaching certain spending thresholds.
- Teamwork Feature: Ibotta’s Teamwork feature allows users to team up with friends and family to earn additional bonuses based on collective spending.
Cons:
- Limited Retailers: While Ibotta partners with a wide range of retailers, some users may find that their favorite stores are not included in the app’s offers.
- Processing Time: It may take some time for Ibotta to verify and process cashback earnings, resulting in a delay between making a purchase and receiving the rewards.
- Minimum Payout Threshold: Users need to reach a minimum threshold before they can cash out their earnings, which may require multiple transactions to accumulate.
7. Airbnb
If you have a spare room or property, consider listing it on Airbnb to earn extra income through short-term rentals. Travelers can search for accommodations based on location, dates, price range, and other preferences. Once travelers find a suitable listing, they can book it directly through the Airbnb platform. After booking, hosts receive a notification and have the option to accept or decline the reservation request.
Payment Method: Airbnb offers several payment methods for guests to pay for their reservations, including:
- Credit or Debit Card
- PayPal
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
Pros:
- Flexibility: Guests have access to a wide range of accommodations, from private rooms to entire homes, offering flexibility in travel options.
- Affordability: Airbnb listings often provide more affordable alternatives to traditional hotels, especially for longer stays or group travel.
- Local Experience: Staying in an Airbnb allows travelers to experience life like a local and explore residential neighborhoods.
- Host Interaction: Guests can interact with hosts who provide local tips, recommendations, and personalized hospitality.
- Safety Features: Airbnb offers safety features such as identity verification, secure payments, and reviews to ensure a safe and trustworthy experience.
Cons:
- Quality Control: While most Airbnb listings are of high quality, there’s always a risk of encountering inaccuracies or discrepancies between the listing and the actual property.
- Cancellation Policies: Hosts may have strict cancellation policies, which could result in penalties for guests who need to cancel or modify their reservations.
- Additional Fees: Guests may incur additional fees, such as cleaning fees, service fees, and occupancy taxes, which can increase the overall cost of the stay.
- Regulatory Issues: Some cities have regulations and restrictions on short-term rentals, which could affect the availability of Airbnb listings in certain areas.
- Communication Challenges: Miscommunication between guests and hosts can sometimes occur, leading to misunderstandings or disputes during the booking process or stay.
8. Uber
Uber is a ridesharing platform that connects passengers with drivers through a mobile app. Passengers open the Uber app, enter their destination, and request a ride. The app matches the passenger with an available driver nearby, taking into account factors like location, vehicle type, and driver rating. Once matched, the passenger can track the driver’s location in real-time and receive updates on their estimated arrival time.
Payment Method: Uber offers several payment methods for passengers to pay for their rides, including:
- Credit or Debit Card
- PayPal
- Cash (in select markets)
Pros:
- Convenience: Uber offers convenient transportation options at the touch of a button, making it easy for passengers to request rides whenever and wherever they need them.
- Affordability: Uber rides are often more cost effective than traditional taxi services, especially for shorter distances or during periods of high demand.
- Safety: Uber has implemented safety features such as driver background checks, real-time tracking, and emergency assistance to ensure passenger safety.
- Accessibility: Uber provides transportation options for individuals with disabilities through services like Uber Access and Uber Assist.
- Flexibility: For drivers, Uber offers flexible earning opportunities, allowing them to choose their hours and work as much or as little as they want.
Cons:
- Surge Pricing: During times of high demand, Uber may implement surge pricing, resulting in higher fares for passengers.
- Driver Ratings: Low driver ratings or negative passenger feedback can affect a driver’s ability to receive ride requests and earn income.
- Service Limitations: Uber may not be available in all areas or may have limited service hours in some regions, impacting accessibility for passengers.
- Driver Income: Some drivers may find it challenging to earn a sustainable income, especially during periods of low demand or when competing with other drivers for fares.
- Regulatory Challenges: Uber has faced regulatory challenges and legal issues in some markets, leading to restrictions or bans on its services in certain regions.
9. TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is an online platform that connects individuals with local service providers to complete various tasks and errands. Users post details about the task they need help with, including the description, location, budget, and desired completion time. TaskRabbit notifies registered Taskers (service providers) in the area about the posted task. Taskers then review the task details and submit offers with their proposed rates and availability. Once a Tasker is selected, they communicate with the user to confirm the task details and schedule the service. The Tasker completes the task as agreed upon, and the user verifies the completion and releases payment.
Payment Method: TaskRabbit offers several payment methods for users to pay for services rendered by Taskers:
- Credit or Debit Card
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
- TaskRabbit Gift Cards
Pros:
- Convenience: TaskRabbit offers a convenient solution for individuals who need help with various tasks and errands, saving them time and effort.
- Wide Range of Services: TaskRabbit connects users with Taskers who offer a wide range of services, including home repairs, cleaning, moving, delivery, and more.
- Flexible Scheduling: Users can schedule tasks at their convenience and choose Taskers based on their availability, making it easy to find help when needed.
- Verified Taskers: TaskRabbit verifies Taskers’ identities and conducts background checks to ensure users’ safety and peace of mind.
- Transparent Pricing: TaskRabbit provides upfront pricing estimates for tasks, allowing users to budget accordingly and avoid surprises.
Cons:
- Service Fees: TaskRabbit charges service fees on top of Taskers’ rates, which can increase the overall cost of completing tasks.
- Availability: TaskRabbit’s availability of Taskers may vary depending on location and demand, leading to potential delays in finding suitable help.
- Quality Control: While TaskRabbit verifies Taskers’ identities and conducts background checks, users may encounter variations in service quality and reliability.
- Cancellation Policy: TaskRabbit has a cancellation policy that may incur fees if users cancel tasks or appointments with short notice.
- Limited Coverage: TaskRabbit may have limited coverage in certain areas, restricting access to its services for some users.
10. Foap
Foap is a platform that allows users to upload their photos and videos for sale to brands and individuals looking for authentic visual content. Users upload their high-quality photos and videos to the Foap app or website. Uploaded content is reviewed by the Foap team to ensure it meets quality standards and aligns with the platform’s guidelines. Approved content is made available for purchase in the Foap marketplace, where brands and individuals can browse and license images and videos for their projects.
Payment Method: Foap offers a simple payment process for contributors:
- PayPal
Pros:
- Easy to Use: Foap’s user-friendly interface makes it easy for photographers and videographers to upload and sell their content.
- Global Marketplace: Foap connects creators with buyers from around the world, providing opportunities to monetize their work on a global scale.
- Fair Compensation: Contributors receive a share of the revenue generated from the sale of their content, providing a potential source of passive income.
- Creative Freedom: Users have the freedom to capture and upload a wide range of subjects and styles, allowing for creativity and self-expression.
- Community Engagement: Foap fosters a supportive community of creators, providing opportunities for feedback, collaboration, and networking.
Cons:
- Competition: With a large pool of contributors, users may face competition in getting their content noticed and purchased by buyers.
- Content Quality: While Foap strives for high-quality content, not all submissions may meet the standards required for sale, leading to potential rejection or lower sales.
- Earnings Potential: The earnings potential on Foap may vary depending on factors such as the quality and relevance of uploaded content, as well as market demand.
- Licensing Rights: Contributors should be aware of the licensing terms associated with their uploaded content, as buyers may have different usage rights depending on the license purchased.
- Payment Processing Time: Payment processing times may vary, and contributors may need to wait before receiving earnings from their sold content.
Read: Side Hustle Ideas to Make Extra Money
Frequently Asked Questions
How do money-making apps work?
Money-making apps typically offer users various tasks or activities to complete in exchange for rewards or earnings. These tasks can range from taking surveys and watching videos to completing online tasks or participating in cashback programs.
Are money-making apps legitimate?
While there are many legitimate money-making apps available, it’s essential to research and verify the credibility of each app before using it. Look for reviews, ratings, and user feedback to gauge the app’s legitimacy and trustworthiness.
How much money can I make with money-making apps?
Earnings from money-making apps can vary widely depending on several factors, including the app’s payout rates, the availability of tasks, the user’s level of activity, and their location. Some users may earn only a few dollars per month, while others may generate more significant earnings, particularly with consistent effort and participation.
What are the payment methods offered by money-making apps?
Money-making apps typically offer various payment methods, including PayPal, bank transfers, gift cards, and virtual currency. Users can choose their preferred payment method based on availability and convenience.
Are there any fees or costs associated with using money-making apps?
Most legitimate money-making apps do not charge users any fees to participate. However, users should be cautious of apps that require upfront payments or promise guaranteed earnings in exchange for a fee, as these could be signs of potential scams.
How long does it take to receive payments from money-making apps?
Payment processing times can vary depending on the app and the chosen payment method. Some apps offer instant payouts, while others may have processing times ranging from a few days to several weeks. It’s essential to review the app’s payment policies and processing times to manage expectations accordingly.
Are there any age or location restrictions for using money-making apps?
Some money-making apps may have age or location restrictions, particularly for certain tasks or activities. Users should review the app’s terms of service and eligibility requirements to ensure compliance with any age or location restrictions.
Is there a limit to how much I can earn with money-making apps?
Many money-making apps have earning limits or caps on certain tasks or activities to prevent abuse or exploitation. Users should familiarize themselves with the app’s earning limits and policies to maximize their earnings while adhering to the app’s guidelines.
How can I maximize my earnings with money-making apps?
To maximize earnings with money-making apps, users can:
- Stay active and regularly complete tasks or activities.
- Explore various earning opportunities within each app.
- Take advantage of bonuses, promotions, and referral programs.
- Maintain consistency and persistence in their participation efforts.
- Keep track of earnings and expenses for financial management purposes.
Can I use multiple money-making apps simultaneously?
Yes, many users choose to use multiple money-making apps simultaneously to diversify their earnings and opportunities. However, users should be mindful of each app’s terms of service and policies regarding simultaneous usage to avoid potential violations or account suspensions.
Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.