Looking for legitimate ways to make extra money with just your smartphone? The best money making apps can help you earn cash during your spare time, whether you’re waiting for your coffee, commuting, or relaxing at home. We’ve researched and tested dozens of options to bring you this definitive guide to apps that actually pay in 2024.
From survey apps and cashback platforms to gig economy solutions and passive income generators, these apps offer flexible earning opportunities for anyone looking to boost their income. Let’s explore how you can turn your idle moments into money-making opportunities!
Table of Contents:
Quick Comparison: Best Money Making Apps at a Glance
| App Name | Earning Type | Avg. Monthly Earnings | Payout Speed | Rating |
| Swagbucks | Surveys, Cashback, Games | $20-$100 | 2-3 days | 4.4/5 |
| Sweatcoin | Fitness Rewards | $5-$20 | Immediate | 4.5/5 |
| Ibotta | Cashback | $10-$50 | 24 hours | 4.8/5 |
| Upwork | Freelance | $100-$1000+ | 5-7 days | 4.2/5 |
| DoorDash | Gig Economy | $200-$800 | Weekly/Daily | 4.3/5 |
Ready to start earning? Download these top-rated apps and create your personal income stream today!
Best Survey and Microtask Money Making Apps
Survey apps offer one of the easiest ways to earn money in your spare time. These platforms pay you for sharing your opinions, completing small tasks, and participating in market research. Here are the top survey apps worth your time in 2024:
1. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a versatile money making app that rewards you for surveys, watching videos, playing games, and shopping online. With over $700 million paid to users, it’s one of the most established platforms in the space.
How Swagbucks Works:
- Complete surveys (5-30 minutes each)
- Watch videos and ads
- Play casual games
- Shop online through their portal
- Search the web using their search engine
Pros
- Multiple ways to earn
- Low $1 minimum payout for some rewards
- $10 welcome bonus for new users
- Available on both iOS and Android
- Established company with proven payment history
Cons
- Some surveys have high disqualification rates
- Points system can be confusing at first
- Lower hourly rate compared to specialized work
- Some offers require purchases
Earning Potential:
Average users earn $20-$100 per month depending on activity level. The hourly rate typically ranges from $2-$5 for most activities.
Payment Methods:
Cash out via PayPal or choose from gift cards to popular retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. The minimum threshold starts at just $1 for some gift cards.
“I’ve been using Swagbucks for about 6 months and have earned over $300 in Amazon gift cards. It’s perfect for earning while watching TV in the evenings.”
2. Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie focuses exclusively on surveys, making it one of the best money making apps for those who prefer a straightforward approach to earning. With over 10 million members, they connect users with brands seeking consumer opinions.
How Survey Junkie Works:
- Complete profile surveys to improve matching
- Receive survey invitations based on demographics
- Earn points for each completed survey
- Participate in focus groups for higher payouts
Pros
- Transparent point system (1,000 points = $10)
- Clean, user-friendly interface
- Relatively low payout threshold ($5)
- Higher-paying focus group opportunities
- Clear survey time estimates
Cons
- Limited earning methods (surveys only)
- Survey availability depends on demographics
- Some users report frequent disqualifications
- Lower earning potential than multi-purpose apps
Earning Potential:
Most users earn $10-$50 per month. Surveys typically pay between $0.50-$3 each, with an average hourly rate of $1-$3.
Payment Methods:
Cash out via PayPal, direct bank transfer, or e-gift cards once you reach $5 (500 points).
“Survey Junkie is my go-to for honest survey work. The interface is clean, and I always know exactly how much time a survey will take. I’ve cashed out over $200 in the past year.”
Best Cashback Money Making Apps
Cashback apps help you earn money on purchases you’re already making. These platforms partner with retailers to offer you a percentage back on your spending, effectively reducing your costs and putting cash in your pocket.
3. Ibotta
Ibotta is one of the best money making apps for grocery shoppers, offering cashback on everyday purchases at supermarkets, retail stores, and online shops. The app has paid out over $1 billion to users since its launch.
How Ibotta Works:
- Browse cashback offers before shopping
- Add offers to your account
- Shop at participating stores
- Upload receipt or link loyalty accounts
- Receive cashback in your Ibotta account
Pros
- High cashback rates (often $0.25-$5 per item)
- $20 welcome bonus available
- Works with stores you already shop at
- Stacks with coupon and credit card rewards
- Fast 24-hour payment processing
Cons
- $20 minimum withdrawal threshold
- Requires effort to check offers before shopping
- Some offers are brand-specific
- Receipt scanning can be cumbersome
Earning Potential:
Regular users earn $10-$50 per month on grocery shopping. Power users who maximize all offers can earn $100+ monthly.
Payment Methods:
Cash out via PayPal, Venmo, or gift cards once you reach the $20 minimum threshold.
“Ibotta has changed how I shop for groceries. I earned back $347 last year just by buying things I would have purchased anyway. The app is super easy to use.”
4. Rakuten (Formerly Ebates)
Rakuten is a premier cashback platform that partners with over 3,500 stores to offer rebates on online purchases. This money making app is perfect for regular online shoppers looking to earn passive cashback.
How Rakuten Works:
- Shop through the Rakuten app or browser extension
- Earn 1-40% cashback at participating retailers
- Receive quarterly payments (“Big Fat Checks”)
- Get bonus cashback during special promotions
- Earn referral bonuses for inviting friends
Pros
- High cashback percentages (up to 40% at some stores)
- $30 welcome bonus after qualifying purchase
- Browser extension automatically activates deals
- Works with thousands of popular retailers
- Double cashback events throughout the year
Cons
- Quarterly payment schedule (not immediate)
- $5 minimum payout threshold
- Must remember to activate through app/extension
- Some exclusions apply to cashback offers
Earning Potential:
Average users earn $25-$100 per quarter. Heavy online shoppers can earn $500+ annually, especially during holiday shopping seasons.
Payment Methods:
Receive payment via PayPal, direct deposit, or check every three months when your balance reaches at least $5.
“I’ve earned over $1,200 with Rakuten in the past two years. The browser extension makes it effortless – I just shop normally and the cashback automatically applies. It’s literally free money.”
Best Gig Economy Money Making Apps
Gig economy apps offer flexible opportunities to earn money on your own schedule. These platforms connect you with people who need services, allowing you to work when and how much you want.
5. DoorDash
DoorDash is a leading food delivery platform that allows you to earn money by delivering restaurant meals to customers. As a “Dasher,” you can work flexible hours and choose which delivery opportunities to accept.
How DoorDash Works:
- Sign up as a delivery driver (“Dasher”)
- Schedule shifts or “Dash Now” when busy
- Accept or decline delivery opportunities
- Pick up food from restaurants
- Deliver to customers and earn base pay plus tips
Pros
- Flexible schedule – work whenever you want
- Fast DasherDirect payout option (daily)
- Potential to earn $15-25 per hour with tips
- No passenger interaction (unlike rideshare)
- Bonus pay during peak hours and bad weather
Cons
- Vehicle expenses reduce net earnings
- Inconsistent order volume depending on location
- Physical demands (carrying food, climbing stairs)
- Competition from other dashers in some areas
Earning Potential:
Most dashers earn $15-25 per hour before expenses. Full-time dashers can make $500-800 per week, while part-time workers average $200-400 weekly.
Payment Methods:
Weekly direct deposits (free) or instant cash out with DasherDirect card. Fast Pay option available for $1.99 fee.
“I dash about 20 hours per week after my main job and consistently make $400-500. The flexibility is perfect for my schedule, and the DasherDirect card gives me instant access to my earnings.”
6. TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit connects you with people in your area who need help with tasks ranging from furniture assembly to home cleaning. This money making app lets you set your own rates and choose jobs that match your skills.
How TaskRabbit Works:
- Create a profile highlighting your skills
- Set your own rates and availability
- Receive task requests from local clients
- Accept jobs that interest you
- Complete tasks and get paid through the app
Pros
- Set your own rates (typically $20-50+ per hour)
- Choose tasks that match your skills
- Flexible scheduling on your terms
- Build repeat client relationships
- Wide variety of task categories
Cons
- 30% service fee on all earnings
- Background check required ($20 fee)
- Competition in popular categories
- Need to build reviews before getting steady work
Earning Potential:
Earnings vary widely by skill and location. Most taskers make $20-50 per hour, with specialized skills (electrical work, plumbing) commanding $50-100+ hourly.
Payment Methods:
Direct deposit to your bank account. Payments are processed within 3-5 business days after task completion.
“I started TaskRabbit as a weekend side hustle doing furniture assembly and handyman work. Now I’m making $1,200-1,500 weekly and quit my full-time job. The key is specializing in high-demand skills and providing excellent service.”
Best Passive Income Money Making Apps
Passive income apps allow you to earn money with minimal ongoing effort. These platforms reward activities you’re already doing or let your assets work for you in the background.
7. Sweatcoin
Sweatcoin transforms your daily steps into digital currency. This innovative money making app runs in the background, tracking your movement and rewarding you for staying active – making it perfect for fitness enthusiasts.
How Sweatcoin Works:
- Walk or run outdoors with your phone
- Earn approximately 1 Sweatcoin per 1,000 steps
- Accumulate coins in your digital wallet
- Redeem for products, services, or charitable donations
- Participate in challenges for bonus rewards
Pros
- Truly passive – earn while doing activities you already do
- Promotes healthy lifestyle habits
- No minimum payout threshold
- Minimal battery consumption
- Regular marketplace updates with new rewards
Cons
- Lower monetary value compared to other apps
- Limited cash redemption options
- Only counts outdoor steps accurately
- Premium subscription required for maximum earnings
Earning Potential:
Average users earn 5-20 Sweatcoins per month, worth approximately $5-20 in marketplace value. The exact dollar value varies based on available rewards.
Payment Methods:
Redeem for physical products, digital services, and occasionally PayPal cash or gift cards in the marketplace.
“Sweatcoin has completely changed my motivation to exercise. I’ve earned enough coins to get wireless earbuds, fitness gear, and even donate to charity. It’s not huge money, but getting rewarded for something I should be doing anyway is a great bonus.”
8. Honeygain
Honeygain is a unique passive income app that pays you for sharing your unused internet bandwidth. The app runs quietly in the background, using minimal resources while generating steady earnings.
How Honeygain Works:
- Install the app on your devices
- Share unused internet bandwidth
- Earn credits based on data shared
- Collect daily login bonuses
- Cash out when you reach the minimum threshold
Pros
- Completely passive income
- Works on multiple devices simultaneously
- Minimal impact on internet performance
- Safe and legitimate bandwidth usage
- Daily login bonuses increase earnings
Cons
- Relatively low earnings ($20-30 monthly maximum)
- High minimum payout threshold ($20)
- Earnings depend on your location
- Slight increase in electricity costs
Earning Potential:
Most users earn $5-20 per month depending on internet speed, location, and number of devices. Using multiple devices can increase earnings.
Payment Methods:
Cash out via PayPal or Bitcoin when you reach the $20 minimum threshold (20,000 credits).
“I’ve been using Honeygain on three devices for about 6 months and consistently earn around $15 monthly. It’s not life-changing money, but it’s completely passive – I literally do nothing and get paid. Perfect for covering my Netflix subscription.”
Best Freelance Money Making Apps
Freelance apps connect skilled professionals with clients needing their services. These platforms allow you to leverage your expertise to earn competitive rates on flexible schedules.
9. Upwork
Upwork is the leading freelance marketplace connecting professionals with clients worldwide. This powerful money making app lets you find projects in virtually any field, from writing and design to programming and consulting.
How Upwork Works:
- Create a professional profile highlighting your skills
- Browse job postings in your field
- Submit proposals for projects (with “connects”)
- Communicate with clients through the platform
- Complete work and receive secure payment
Pros
- Access to global client base
- Wide range of project types and budgets
- Secure payment protection
- Potential for long-term client relationships
- Set your own rates and schedule
Cons
- Service fees (5-20% of earnings)
- Paid “connects” required to submit proposals
- Competitive marketplace
- Building profile takes time and effort
Earning Potential:
Earnings vary dramatically by skill set. Entry-level freelancers typically earn $15-30/hour, while experienced professionals can command $50-150+/hour in specialized fields.
Payment Methods:
Withdraw funds via direct deposit, PayPal, wire transfer, or Payoneer. Standard withdrawals process in 5-7 days, with faster options available for a fee.
“I started on Upwork doing basic content writing at $15/hour. After building my portfolio and specializing in technical documentation, I now charge $85/hour and have more work than I can handle. The key is finding your niche and delivering exceptional quality.”
10. Fiverr
Fiverr flips the traditional freelance model by letting you create specific service packages (“gigs”) that clients can purchase. This money making app is ideal for freelancers who prefer to define their offerings clearly rather than bidding on projects.
How Fiverr Works:
- Create a seller profile showcasing your skills
- Design “gigs” with specific deliverables and pricing
- Set multiple service tiers (Basic, Standard, Premium)
- Clients purchase your pre-defined services
- Complete work and maintain your seller rating
Pros
- Clients come to you (no bidding required)
- Clear pricing structure with service tiers
- Seller levels unlock additional benefits
- Promotes your services to relevant buyers
- Good for productized services
Cons
- 20% service fee on all earnings
- 14-day waiting period for new sellers
- Highly competitive in popular categories
- Limited control over client selection
Earning Potential:
Entry-level gigs typically start at $5-25, while established sellers can charge $100-500+ for specialized services. Monthly earnings range from $500-5,000+ depending on skill, niche, and activity level.
Payment Methods:
Withdraw earnings via PayPal, direct deposit, or Fiverr Revenue Card. Funds are available 14 days after order completion (7 days for Top Rated Sellers).
“I offer logo design packages on Fiverr ranging from $50 to $350. After six months of consistent work and maintaining a 5-star rating, I’m now earning $3,000-4,000 monthly working about 30 hours per week. The key is creating a niche and delivering exceptional work that generates repeat business.”
Tips to Maximize Your Earnings with Money Making Apps
Combine Multiple Apps for Maximum Earnings
The most successful earners use a strategic combination of apps to maximize their income. Here’s a proven strategy:
- Use passive apps constantly – Keep Sweatcoin and Honeygain running in the background at all times.
- Stack cashback apps – Use Ibotta for groceries and Rakuten for online shopping to double-dip on rewards.
- Fill downtime with surveys – Complete Swagbucks or Survey Junkie tasks during commutes or while watching TV.
- Schedule dedicated gig time – Block 10-15 hours weekly for higher-paying gigs on DoorDash or TaskRabbit.
- Build freelance skills gradually – Develop your Upwork or Fiverr presence for long-term income growth.
With this approach, many users report earning $500-1,000+ monthly in supplemental income.
Create a Sustainable Earning Schedule
Consistency is key to maximizing your earnings. Consider this weekly schedule:
- Daily (15 minutes) – Check for high-paying surveys, claim daily bonuses
- Before shopping – Activate cashback offers on Ibotta and Rakuten
- Weekday evenings (1-2 hours) – Complete food deliveries during dinner rush
- Weekend mornings (3-4 hours) – Handle TaskRabbit gigs when demand is high
- Sunday evening (1 hour) – Plan the upcoming week, update freelance profiles
This balanced approach prevents burnout while maximizing earnings across different app types.
Pro Tip: Create a dedicated email address for money-making apps to keep offers organized and prevent your personal inbox from being overwhelmed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Money Making Apps
Are money making apps legitimate?
Yes, the apps featured in this article are legitimate businesses that generate revenue through advertising, data collection, service fees, or by connecting service providers with customers. They share a portion of this revenue with users who participate in their ecosystems.
However, it’s important to be cautious of apps promising unrealistic earnings or requiring upfront payments. Stick to established platforms with positive reviews and transparent payment systems.
Which money making app pays the most?
Freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr typically offer the highest earning potential, with experienced professionals earning -150+ per hour. Gig economy apps like DoorDash and TaskRabbit follow, with potential earnings of -50 per hour depending on location and demand.
Survey and cashback apps generally provide lower but more passive income, ranging from -100 per month. The highest-paying option depends on your skills, available time, and willingness to actively work versus passive earning.
Which app pays instantly?
Several apps offer near-instant payment options:
- DoorDash – Daily payouts with DasherDirect card
- Ibotta – Transfers to PayPal or gift cards within 24 hours
- Swagbucks – Some gift card options process within minutes
- TaskRabbit – Payment released 24 hours after task completion
Keep in mind that faster payment options sometimes include small processing fees, and most apps have minimum withdrawal thresholds.
How much can I realistically earn from money making apps?
Realistic monthly earnings vary by app type and your level of engagement:
- Passive apps (Sweatcoin, Honeygain): -30/month
- Survey/cashback apps (Swagbucks, Ibotta): -100/month
- Gig economy apps (DoorDash, TaskRabbit): 0-1,000/month (part-time)
- Freelance apps (Upwork, Fiverr): 0-5,000+/month (varies by skill)
Users who strategically combine multiple apps and dedicate consistent time can earn 0-1,000+ in supplemental monthly income.
Are money making apps worth the time investment?
The value depends on your financial goals and available time. For passive income apps like Sweatcoin or cashback apps like Ibotta, the return on time investment is excellent since they require minimal effort.
Survey apps provide modest returns but can be worthwhile during otherwise unproductive time (commuting, waiting in line). Gig and freelance apps offer the best hourly rates but require active work.
For most users, a strategic combination of apps provides the best balance of effort and reward. Start with passive apps, then gradually add higher-effort, higher-reward options as you identify which work best for your situation.
Start Earning Today with the Best Money Making Apps
The best money making apps provide flexible opportunities to earn extra cash on your terms. Whether you’re looking for passive income, want to monetize your spare time, or are building toward a full-time independent career, there’s an app that fits your needs.
Remember that consistency is key – even small earnings add up over time. Many successful users start with simple apps like Swagbucks or Ibotta, then gradually expand to higher-earning opportunities as they build confidence and skills.
Ready to boost your income?
Download these top-rated money making apps and start earning today. The sooner you begin, the sooner you’ll see results!
Have you had success with money making apps? Share your experiences in the comments below!
