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Want to put your smartphone to work? These FREE money-making apps give you ways to earn extra cash, collect shopping rewards and get gift cards during your spare time.
Some pay for your opinions or completed tasks. Others reward purchases you already planned to make. All ten are FREE to download, but shopping offers require spending, and some activities have additional conditions. Earnings vary, and gift card rewards aren’t the same as cash.
1. Swagbucks — Earn Rewards for Surveys and Activities
Swagbucks offers several ways to earn points, called SB, including surveys, eligible shopping purchases and selected games or promotional activities. Redeem your points for PayPal cash or gift cards.
Best for: Trying different earning activities in one app.
Keep in mind: Some offers involve purchases, subscriptions or specific milestones. Choose no-purchase activities if you want to earn without spending.
2. Survey Junkie — Get Paid to Share Your Opinions
Survey Junkie rewards members for successfully completing surveys. Earn points and redeem them for available rewards, including PayPal cash and e-gift cards.
Best for: Answering surveys during downtime.
Keep in mind: Survey availability and qualification vary. You won’t qualify for every survey, so compare the estimated time with the reward before starting.
3. UserTesting — Earn Money Testing Apps and Websites
UserTesting pays accepted participants to share feedback on digital experiences. Tasks may involve navigating a website or app while explaining your thoughts aloud.
Best for: People comfortable giving clear, detailed feedback.
Keep in mind: You must apply and complete a practice test. Paid opportunities depend on eligibility and customer needs. Payments generally arrive through PayPal 14 days after a completed test, with no minimum payout balance.
4. Dscout — Participate in Paid Research Studies
Dscout connects participants with research projects called missions. Depending on the project, you might record videos, document everyday experiences or join a live interview.
Best for: People who enjoy sharing thoughtful feedback and real-life experiences.
Keep in mind: You must be selected for a mission and complete its requirements. Dscout sends rewards through PayPal after submissions are reviewed and approved.
5. Field Agent — Complete Tasks at Local Stores
Field Agent offers opportunities to earn money by completing shopping-related assignments. Jobs can include checking products, photographing displays or providing feedback about stores.
Best for: Finding paid tasks near places you already visit.
Keep in mind: Follow every assignment instruction carefully; payment depends on approval. Factor in travel and any required purchases before accepting a job. U.S. cash-outs require a linked, verified bank account or supported prepaid card.
6. Ibotta — Get Cash Back on Eligible Purchases
Ibotta is a FREE app that offers cash back on qualifying grocery and other purchases. Review offers before shopping, follow the redemption instructions and build your earnings balance.
Best for: Getting rebates on products already on your shopping list.
Keep in mind: Ibotta generally requires at least $20 in earnings to withdraw, plus applicable eligibility requirements. Bank withdrawals require at least one redeemed name-brand offer.
7. Rakuten — Earn Cash Back When Shopping
Rakuten lets you earn cash back on eligible purchases at participating retailers. Start your shopping through Rakuten and follow the retailer’s offer terms.
Best for: Planned online purchases.
Keep in mind: Cash back is a shopping rebate, so you must make a qualifying purchase. Payment options include PayPal and check; payment timing depends on confirmation and Rakuten’s payout rules.
8. Upside — Earn Cash Back on Everyday Stops
Upside offers cash back at participating gas stations, restaurants and grocery locations. Claim an available offer and complete the qualifying purchase according to its instructions.
Best for: Checking for rewards before buying gas or making another planned purchase.
Keep in mind: Current cash-out options include bank transfers and gift cards. A $1 fee applies to bank cash-outs below $10, so waiting until you reach $10 can help you keep more of your reward.
9. Receipt Hog — Turn Shopping Receipts Into Rewards
Receipt Hog rewards users for sharing eligible shopping receipts and purchase information. Collect coins and redeem them for available rewards, including PayPal payments and gift cards.
Best for: Getting additional value from purchases you already made.
Keep in mind: Rewards take time to accumulate. Redemption starts at 1,000 coins, and account verification requirements apply.
10. Fetch — Scan Receipts for FREE Gift Cards
Fetch lets you earn points by submitting receipts, with additional opportunities through eligible offers and other app activities. Redeem your points for gift cards and other available rewards.
Best for: People who prefer gift card rewards.
Keep in mind: Fetch primarily offers rewards rather than direct cash payments. Check the current points requirement for your preferred gift card before redeeming.
Tips for Getting More Value From Money-Making Apps
- Start with two or three apps. Choose activities that fit your routine.
- Avoid unnecessary purchases. Spending $20 to earn $2 back won’t help if you didn’t need the item.
- Compare time and rewards. Include screening questions, travel and task requirements.
- Read the offer details. Check deadlines, qualifying products and cash-out conditions.
- Review privacy settings. Understand what shopping, browsing or personal information you’re sharing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you make money with FREE apps?
Yes. Some apps pay for approved research participation, surveys or tasks. Others offer cash back or gift cards. Your results depend on available opportunities, eligibility and the time you spend.
Which apps let you earn without buying anything?
Survey Junkie, UserTesting and Dscout offer ways to earn through participation rather than shopping. Swagbucks also includes no-purchase activities. Acceptance and qualification requirements apply.
Do all money-making apps pay cash?
No. Some offer PayPal payments or bank transfers, while others primarily provide gift cards. Check the redemption options before investing your time.
Ready to get started? Pick an app that matches your routine, read the requirements and turn a little spare time into extra rewards.
