Best Money-Making Apps: Money-making apps are applications that allow users to earn money by completing various tasks, such as taking surveys, watching videos, playing games, or even just browsing the internet. These apps usually require users to create an account, and some may also require personal information such as age and location.
Many money-making apps offer rewards in the form of gift cards, cash, or other incentives that can be redeemed for real-world goods and services. Some of these apps also offer referral programs that allow users to earn additional rewards by referring friends and family to the app.
It’s important to note that while some money-making apps can be legitimate and offer real rewards, others may be scams or not worth the time and effort required to earn rewards. It’s important to do your research and read reviews before downloading and using any money-making app.
Best Money-Making Apps
For those looking to make money in an easily accessible way, apps offer plenty of avenues to consider. You can use your smartphone to do surveys, pick up a side gig, sell unwanted items, and more.
Here’s an overview of seven free money-making apps. Vivnical.org considered apps with at least four stars and 25,000 reviews on both Google Play and the iOS App Store.
7 of the best apps to make money
The best money-making apps
1 – Ibotta
Ibotta is a cashback and rewards app that allows users to earn money by making purchases through the app at participating retailers. The app partners with over 1,500 retailers, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and clothing stores.
To use Ibotta, users can browse available offers and add them to their account. After making a purchase at a participating store, users can submit a photo of their receipt through the app to earn cashback on eligible items. Cashback rewards are credited to the user’s Ibotta account and can be redeemed for gift cards or transferred to PayPal.
Ibotta also offers bonuses for completing certain tasks or making purchases at specific retailers. Users can also earn additional rewards by referring friends to the app.
How it works Ibotta
- Download the app: The Ibotta app is available for free download on the App Store or Google Play Store. Once you’ve downloaded the app, create an account using your email address or Facebook account.
- Browse offers: After creating an account, you can start browsing offers from over 1,500 participating retailers. Offers are organized by category, such as groceries, health & beauty, and clothing.
- Add offers to your account: Select the offers you’re interested in by tapping on them. Some offers may require you to watch a short video or answer a survey question before adding them to your account.
- Go shopping: Once you’ve added offers to your account, you can start shopping at participating retailers. Make sure to check the offer details, as some offers may only be valid at certain stores or for specific products.
- Submit your receipt: After you’ve made your purchase, take a photo of your receipt using the Ibotta app. Make sure the receipt is clear and shows the date, store name, and qualifying items.
- Earn cashback: Ibotta will review your receipt and credit your account with cashback for eligible purchases. You can withdraw your earnings to PayPal or redeem them for gift cards to popular retailers.
Ibotta also offers bonuses for completing certain tasks or making purchases at specific retailers, as well as a referral program that allows you to earn additional rewards by inviting friends to the app.
2 – Rakuten
Rakuten, formerly known as Ebates, is a cashback and rewards platform that allows users to earn money by shopping at participating retailers. The platform partners with over 2,500 stores, including popular retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Macy’s.
To use Rakuten, users can sign up for a free account on the platform and browse available offers. Offers may include cashback percentages, promo codes, and special deals. Users can click through the offer to the retailer’s website and make a purchase as they normally would.
After the purchase is completed, Rakuten will track the transaction and credit the user’s account with cashback rewards. Cashback rewards can be redeemed for a check or PayPal payment, or in some cases, gift cards to popular retailers.
Rakuten also offers a referral program where users can earn additional rewards by inviting friends and family to the platform.
How it works Rakuten
Rakuten (formerly known as Ebates) rewards shoppers with cash back for purchases from well-known retailers, restaurants and delivery services. Users can also earn cash back on travel, gift cards and more. It’s simple: Create an account, tap on the store you want to shop in the app, then complete the transaction through the portal.
You can also link a credit or debit card to your Rakuten account and get cash back in-store – as long as you activate the offer through the app first. Rakuten will credit the money back to your account after confirming the purchase with the seller, which can take several hours to days.
3 – Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a rewards and cashback platform that offers users a variety of ways to earn points, or “Swagbucks,” that can be redeemed for gift cards or cash through PayPal. The platform offers a range of options for earning points, including completing surveys, watching videos, playing games, and shopping online.
Swagbucks was founded in 2008 by Prodege, LLC, and has since grown to become one of the largest rewards platforms online. Here’s a closer look at how Swagbucks works, how you can earn points, and what rewards are available.
How Swagbucks Works
Earning Swagbucks
Swagbucks offers several ways to earn points, including:
- Surveys: Swagbucks partners with a variety of market research companies to offer users the opportunity to complete surveys on a range of topics. Surveys can vary in length and point value, but generally offer between 50 and 300 Swagbucks each.
- Watching videos: Swagbucks offers a variety of videos, including movie trailers, celebrity news, and viral videos. Users can earn Swagbucks by watching videos and completing related activities, such as taking quizzes or answering questions.
- Playing games: Swagbucks offers a selection of free online games that users can play to earn points. Points are awarded based on a user’s score and can vary depending on the game.
- Shopping online: Swagbucks partners with a variety of retailers to offer cashback rewards for online purchases. Users can earn up to 20% cashback on purchases made through the Swagbucks website or app.
- Referring friends: Swagbucks offers a referral program that allows users to earn Swagbucks by inviting friends to join the platform. Users can earn up to 10% of their friends’ earnings for the lifetime of their account.
Redeeming Swagbucks
Once you’ve earned enough Swagbucks, you can redeem them for a variety of rewards, including gift cards to popular retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target, as well as cash through PayPal. The amount of Swagbucks required for a reward varies depending on the value of the reward, but generally ranges from 500 to 50,000 Swagbucks.
Swagbucks also offers daily goals and bonuses for users who consistently earn Swagbucks. Daily goals are set based on a user’s activity level and offer bonus points for meeting or exceeding the goal.
Swagbucks Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Variety of earning opportunities: Swagbucks offers a variety of ways to earn points, including surveys, videos, games, and shopping. This makes it easy for users to find earning opportunities that fit their interests and schedule.
- Low payout threshold: Swagbucks has a low payout threshold, with rewards starting at just 500 Swagbucks (equivalent to $5).
- Referral program: Swagbucks offers a generous referral program that allows users to earn up to 10% of their friends’ earnings for the lifetime of their account.
- Cashback offers: Swagbucks partners with a variety of retailers to offer cashback rewards for online purchases. Users can earn up to 20% cashback on purchases made through the Swagbucks website or app.
Cons:
- Low payout rate for some activities: Some earning opportunities on Swagbucks may not offer a high payout rate, making it difficult to earn Swagbucks quickly. For example, some surveys may offer only 50-100 Swagbucks for a 20-30 minute survey.
- Limited survey availability: Swagbucks relies on partner market research companies to provide surveys, and availability can vary depending on your demographic profile. Some users may find that they don’t qualify for many surveys, limiting their earning potential.
- Points expiration: Swagbucks points expire after one year of inactivity, which means that users who don’t use the platform for a while may lose their points.
- Potential for account deactivation: Swagbucks has strict policies against fraud and abuse, and users who violate these policies may have their accounts deactivated without warning. This can result in the loss of any earned Swagbucks and the inability to create a new account.
4 – Fiverr
Fiverr is an online marketplace that offers a platform for freelancers and clients to connect and conduct business. Launched in 2010, Fiverr has become one of the leading platforms for freelancers to offer their services to clients worldwide. The platform offers a wide range of services, including graphic design, digital marketing, programming, writing, and more.
How It Works
Fiverr operates on a gig-based system, where freelancers can offer their services for a fixed price, starting at $5. Clients can browse through the services offered on the platform and select a freelancer to work with. The freelancer is then responsible for completing the work and delivering it to the client within the agreed-upon timeframe.
Fiverr’s platform offers several features to ensure smooth communication and transactions between freelancers and clients. Freelancers can create profiles that highlight their skills, experience, and work samples. -Best Money-Making Apps
Clients can search for freelancers by skillset and review their profiles to determine if they are a good fit. Once a client has selected a freelancer to work with, they can communicate with them through Fiverr’s messaging system to discuss the project’s details, timeline, and pricing. -Best Money-Making Apps
Fiverr’s payment system is straightforward and secure. Clients pay for the service upfront, and Fiverr holds the payment in escrow until the work is completed and delivered to the client. Once the client has approved the work, Fiverr releases the payment to the freelancer, minus a 20% commission fee.
Pros:
- Wide range of services: Fiverr offers a broad range of services, making it a one-stop-shop for clients to find the right freelancer for their project.
- Competitive pricing: Freelancers on Fiverr offer their services at competitive prices, making it an affordable option for clients looking for high-quality work.
- User-friendly platform: Fiverr’s platform is easy to use and navigate, making it simple for clients and freelancers to find what they need.
- Safe and secure: Fiverr’s payment system is secure, and the platform has strict policies in place to prevent fraud and ensure a safe and fair experience for both parties.
- Access to a global talent pool: Fiverr’s platform allows clients to connect with freelancers from all over the world, providing access to a diverse talent pool.
Cons:
- Competition: With over 3 million freelancers on the platform, competition can be fierce, making it challenging for new freelancers to stand out and win clients.
- Quality control: While Fiverr has strict policies in place to ensure the quality of work delivered by freelancers, there is still a risk of receiving subpar work from inexperienced or unskilled freelancers.
- Limited customization: Fiverr’s gig-based system means that freelancers may not be able to provide highly customized services, limiting the flexibility of the platform.
- Limited communication options: While Fiverr’s messaging system is convenient, some clients may prefer more direct communication options such as phone or video calls.
- Platform fees: Fiverr charges a 20% commission fee on all transactions, which can add up quickly for both freelancers and clients.
Fiverr is a great platform for freelancers looking to offer their services and clients looking for affordable and high-quality work. While there are some limitations and challenges to using the platform, Fiverr’s user-friendly interface and secure payment system make it a popular choice for freelancers and clients alike. -Best Money-Making Apps
5 – Upwork
Upwork is a popular online freelance marketplace that connects businesses with freelancers. Founded in 2015, Upwork was created by the merger of two other freelance platforms: Elance and oDesk. The platform allows businesses to post job listings for freelancers to bid on, making it a convenient and efficient way to find talent.
How It Works:
Upwork works by allowing businesses to post job listings for freelancers to apply to. Freelancers can search for jobs by category or use Upwork’s advanced search tools to find jobs that match their skills and experience. Once they find a job they are interested in, freelancers can submit a proposal outlining their qualifications and why they are the best fit for the job.
Businesses can review proposals from freelancers and choose to interview them to learn more about their skills and experience. Once a freelancer is selected for the job, they can begin working on the project and communicate with the client through Upwork’s messaging system. -Best Money-Making Apps
Upwork’s payment system is secure and efficient. Clients fund the project upfront, and Upwork holds the payment in escrow until the work is completed and approved by the client. Once the work is approved, Upwork releases the payment to the freelancer, minus a fee ranging from 5% to 20%, depending on the size of the project and the freelancer’s status on the platform.
Pros:
- Wide range of services: Upwork offers a broad range of services, from programming and web development to content creation and graphic design, making it a one-stop-shop for businesses looking for freelance talent.
- Access to a global talent pool: Upwork allows businesses to connect with freelancers from all over the world, providing access to a diverse talent pool.
- Flexible pricing: Freelancers can offer their services at a range of prices, allowing businesses to find talent that fits their budget.
- Secure payment system: Upwork’s payment system is secure and efficient, ensuring that freelancers are paid for their work and clients are protected from fraud.
- Project management tools: Upwork offers a range of project management tools, including time tracking and file sharing, making it easy for freelancers and clients to work together and manage projects.
Cons:
- Competition: With over 18 million freelancers on the platform, competition can be fierce, making it challenging for new freelancers to stand out and win jobs.
- Platform fees: Upwork charges a fee ranging from 5% to 20% on all transactions, which can add up quickly for both freelancers and clients.
- Quality control: While Upwork has policies in place to ensure the quality of work delivered by freelancers, there is still a risk of receiving subpar work from inexperienced or unskilled freelancers.
- Limited communication options: While Upwork’s messaging system is convenient, some clients may prefer more direct communication options such as phone or video calls.
- Limited customization: Upwork’s job-based system means that freelancers may not be able to provide highly customized services, limiting the flexibility of the platform.
Upwork is a great platform for businesses looking to find freelance talent and for freelancers looking for job opportunities. While there are some limitations and challenges to using the platform, Upwork’s user-friendly interface, secure payment system, and range of project management tools make it a popular choice for freelancers and clients alike.
6 – OfferUp
OfferUp is a popular online marketplace that allows users to buy and sell items locally. Founded in 2011, the platform has grown rapidly and is now one of the largest mobile marketplaces in the United States. OfferUp’s mission is to create a simpler and safer way to buy and sell goods online.
How It Works
OfferUp is a peer-to-peer marketplace that allows users to buy and sell items locally. Users can create an account for free and then list items for sale using the platform’s simple listing process. The platform allows users to sell a wide range of items, including electronics, furniture, clothing, and home goods.
When a user lists an item for sale on OfferUp, they can add photos and a description of the item, set a price, and choose whether to offer shipping or local pickup. Interested buyers can then browse items on the platform and make an offer to the seller. -Best Money-Making Apps
Once a buyer and seller agree on a price, they can arrange a time and location to meet in person to complete the transaction. OfferUp recommends that users meet in a public place, such as a coffee shop or mall, to ensure their safety. Buyers can pay for the item in cash or use the OfferUp app to pay electronically. -Best Money-Making Apps
Pros:
- Easy to use: OfferUp’s platform is user-friendly, making it easy for both buyers and sellers to use.
- Local marketplace: OfferUp’s focus on local transactions means that users can avoid shipping costs and receive items quickly.
- Large user base: With over 44 million users, OfferUp has a large and active user base, increasing the chances of finding buyers or sellers.
- Secure payment options: OfferUp offers secure payment options through the app, allowing users to make electronic payments for their purchases.
- Low fees: OfferUp charges a low fee of 12.9% for shipping and handling costs, and no fees for local transactions, making it a cost-effective platform for sellers.
Cons:
- Limited coverage: OfferUp’s focus on local transactions means that users may not be able to find certain items in their area.
- Limited protection: OfferUp’s buyer protection policies are limited compared to other online marketplaces, leaving buyers at risk of fraud or scams.
- Limited dispute resolution: OfferUp’s dispute resolution process can be slow and may not provide a satisfactory resolution for buyers or sellers.
- Limited customer support: OfferUp’s customer support is limited, with no phone or email support available.
- Limited customization: OfferUp’s listing process is simple, but it may not provide enough customization options for some sellers.
OfferUp is a convenient and user-friendly platform for buying and selling items locally. While there are some limitations and challenges to using the platform, OfferUp’s large user base, low fees, and secure payment options make it a popular choice for many buyers and sellers. However, users should be aware of the risks associated with peer-to-peer transactions and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety and security.
7 – Poshmark
Poshmark is a popular online marketplace that allows users to buy and sell new or used clothing, shoes, and accessories. Founded in 2011, the platform has grown rapidly and is now one of the largest mobile marketplaces in the United States. Poshmark’s mission is to create a social, fun, and simple way for people to buy and sell fashion online. -Best Money-Making Apps
How It Works
Poshmark is a peer-to-peer marketplace that allows users to buy and sell new or used clothing, shoes, and accessories. Users can create an account for free and then list items for sale using the platform’s simple listing process. The platform allows users to sell a wide range of items, including clothing, shoes, bags, jewelry, and accessories. -Best Money-Making Apps
When a user lists an item for sale on Poshmark, they can add photos and a description of the item, set a price, and choose whether to offer shipping or local pickup. Interested buyers can then browse items on the platform and make an offer to the seller.-Best Money-Making Apps
Once a buyer and seller agree on a price, the buyer can purchase the item directly through the platform. Poshmark charges a 20% commission fee on all sales, and the seller is responsible for shipping the item to the buyer.-Best Money-Making Apps
Poshmark also offers a social aspect to the buying and selling experience, allowing users to follow each other, share listings, and engage with one another through comments and likes.-Best Money-Making Apps
Pros:
- Easy to use: Poshmark’s platform is user-friendly, making it easy for both buyers and sellers to use.
- Large user base: With over 70 million users, Poshmark has a large and active user base, increasing the chances of finding buyers or sellers.
- Social aspect: Poshmark’s social aspect allows users to engage with one another, creating a fun and interactive buying and selling experience.
- Secure payment options: Poshmark offers secure payment options through the app, allowing users to make electronic payments for their purchases.
- Buyer protection: Poshmark offers buyer protection, including a return policy and a dispute resolution process, reducing the risk of fraud or scams.
Cons:
- High fees: Poshmark charges a high commission fee of 20% on all sales, which can significantly reduce a seller’s profit.
- Limited coverage: Poshmark’s focus on fashion means that users may not be able to find other types of items on the platform.
- Limited customization: Poshmark’s listing process is simple, but it may not provide enough customization options for some sellers.
- Shipping costs: Poshmark does not offer a shipping discount, and sellers are responsible for paying the shipping costs.
- Limited customer support: Poshmark’s customer support is limited, with no phone or email support available.
Poshmark is a popular and fun platform for buying and selling fashion items. While there are some limitations and challenges to using the platform, Poshmark’s large user base, social aspect, and buyer protection policies make it a popular choice for many buyers and sellers. However, users should be aware of the high commission fees and shipping costs associated with using the platform and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety and security. -Best Money-Making Apps