Money-making apps have emerged as a convenient way to earn extra income in today’s digital age. Whether you’re looking to supplement your primary income, save for a specific goal, or simply increase your spending money, these apps offer a flexible way to earn cash in your spare time. From cashback rewards to paid surveys and completing small tasks, the opportunities are diverse. Money-making apps are readily available on both Apple and Google Play stores, making them accessible to almost anyone with a smartphone.
Introduction to Money-Making Apps
If you’re seeking a simple and accessible method to boost your income directly from your phone, money-making apps could be an excellent solution. This supplementary income can significantly ease your financial planning and provide greater flexibility in managing your budget. When considering how to budget, even a small increase in earnings can make a noticeable difference in stretching your paycheck further.
The landscape of money-making apps is varied, offering numerous avenues to earn. Some apps specialize in cashback rewards for your purchases, while others compensate you for participating in surveys, playing games, or completing various tasks. The optimal money-making app for you will largely depend on your personal preferences and the activities you enjoy. To help you navigate this landscape, we’ve curated a list of the top-rated money-making apps that stand out in 2024.
Top Money-Making Apps: Expert Picks
Based on user reviews, earning potential, and overall usability, these are our top recommendations for the best money-making apps currently available:
- Top Rated for Online Cash Back: Rakuten
- Top Rated for In-Store Cash Back: Ibotta
- Top Rated for Surveys: Survey Junkie
- Top Rated for Versatile Earning Options: Swagbucks
These apps have been selected for their reliability, user-friendly interfaces, and positive user feedback. If you are also interested in improving your overall financial health, you may want to explore our guides on the best budgeting apps to manage your finances effectively.
Comparing the Best Apps to Make Money
The most effective money-making apps are characterized by their ease of earning and straightforward redemption processes. The ideal app for you hinges on your preferred earning method, whether it’s through cashback rewards, completing surveys, gaming, or other activities. For those interested in growing their money, exploring best investment apps could also be beneficial.
Here’s a detailed look at the top-rated apps for earning money, carefully chosen and evaluated by financial experts.
Top Rated for Online Cash-Back: Rakuten
Top Rated for getting cash back on online purchases
Rakuten
Rakuten app interface on a mobile device displaying cash back offers and store logos.
Fees: Free to download
Annual Percentage Yield (APY): N/A
Minimum Opening Deposit: None
Pros
- Earn cash back at over 3,500 stores, maximizing your savings on everyday purchases.
- Straightforward process for earning cash back online through the website or app, ensuring a seamless user experience.
- Low minimum of $5 needed to redeem rewards, providing quick access to your earnings.
Cons
- Cash back payouts are issued every three months, which might be less frequent than some users prefer.
- In-store cash back process may be less intuitive compared to apps specifically designed for in-store rewards.
Product Details
- Access cash back at over 3,500 stores, offering a wide selection of shopping opportunities.
- Get paid for shopping at your favorite retailers, turning everyday purchases into savings.
- Sign up for a free account in under 30 seconds, allowing for quick and easy access to the platform.
- Start shopping via rakuten.com, the Rakuten App, or the browser extension, offering multiple ways to engage.
- Watch your Cash Back balance grow, and receive payments via check or PayPal, providing flexible payout options.
[Show Pros, Cons, and More chevron down icon An icon in the shape of an angle pointing down. ]
Rakuten is a leading platform for earning cash back on online shopping. As a well-established rewards app and website, Rakuten partners with over 3,500 stores, offering users significant cash back opportunities.
Using Rakuten is simple: visit the Rakuten website or app, select the store you wish to shop at, and make your purchase. The cash back offer is automatically applied to your account.
Rakuten’s user-friendly design and intuitive interface make it easy to navigate and use. For any questions, their comprehensive help center provides answers to common queries.
Cash back is distributed via check or PayPal every three months. If you prefer more frequent payouts, consider exploring other top-rated apps on our list that offer faster redemption options.
Rakuten also supports in-store shopping, but it requires a few extra steps. Users need to navigate to the “In-Store” tab, select “Link Offer,” and add their credit card information. The linked credit card must then be used for in-store purchases to activate the cash back. While functional, other apps may offer a more streamlined in-store experience.
Minimum amount needed to redeem cash: $5
Download: Google Play Store | Apple Store
Top Rated for In-Store Cash-Back: Ibotta
Top Rated for getting cash back on in-store purchases
Ibotta
Learn more On Ibotta’s website
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Ibotta app displaying cashback offers on grocery items and product brands.
](https://www.businessinsider.com/?feature=FEATURED_62fc158a8726d60011d03c5f)
Fees: Free to download
Annual Percentage Yield (APY): N/A
Minimum Opening Deposit: None
Pros
- Earn cash back with over 1,500 national brands, providing extensive savings across a wide range of products.
- Multiple ways to earn cash back in stores, offering flexibility through loyalty account linking, receipt scanning, and gift card purchases.
Cons
- Higher minimum of $20 needed before redeeming rewards, which may take longer to reach compared to apps with lower thresholds.
Product Details
- Earn cash back every time you shop, making saving an integral part of your routine.
- Get exclusive cash back offers across the web from your favorite marketplaces and brands, expanding your earning opportunities beyond in-store purchases.
- Link a bank account and withdraw earnings from anywhere you’re logged into Ibotta, offering convenient access to your funds.
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Ibotta is particularly appealing for those who frequently shop in physical stores. This top-rated cash-back app distinguishes itself by partnering with over 1,500 well-known brands, offering diverse savings opportunities across various stores. Users can link loyalty accounts, submit receipts which Ibotta scans for eligible purchases, or purchase gift cards through the app to earn cash back. Typically, cash-back earnings are credited within 24 hours.
A withdrawal minimum of $20 is required before you can access your earnings. While this is higher than some other money-making apps, the extensive range of brands and earning methods can help you reach this threshold effectively.
Minimum amount needed to redeem cash: $20
Download: Google Play Store | Apple Store
Top Rated for Making Cash Through Surveys: Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie
Learn more On Survey Junkie’s website
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Survey Junkie interface showing survey options and user profile details.
](https://secure.money.com/pr/n4d90c8698f6?feature=FEATURED_644973ac9bca6000112d2c5f)
Icon of check mark inside a promo stamp It indicates a confirmed selection.
Perks: Take surveys. Get paid. Be an influencer. Share your opinion to help brands deliver better products and services.
Fees: Free to download
Annual Percentage Yield (APY): N/A
Minimum Opening Deposit: None
Pros
- Earn cash by participating in surveys, offering a straightforward way to monetize your opinions.
- Low minimum of 500 points (equivalent to $5) needed to redeem rewards, allowing for quick and easy access to your earnings.
- Quick and straightforward rewards redemption process, enhancing user satisfaction and accessibility.
Cons
- Qualification questions are required before each survey to determine eligibility, which can be time-consuming if you don’t qualify.
- Surveys can be repetitive, and qualification is not guaranteed for every survey, which may require patience.
Product Details
- Build your profile and get matched to relevant surveys, increasing your chances of qualification and earning potential.
- Complete surveys and earn virtual points, accumulating rewards for your time and opinions.
- Redeem virtual points for PayPal or e-Giftcards, providing flexible payout options to suit your needs.
[Show Pros, Cons, and More chevron down icon An icon in the shape of an angle pointing down. ]
Survey Junkie stands out as a top-rated survey app, recognized for its consistent availability of surveys and a streamlined, user-friendly redemption process.
With a low minimum of just 500 points (equivalent to $5), users can easily redeem earnings via PayPal or online gift cards. This accessibility makes it a suitable option even for those who are unbanked, as a bank account is not necessary for payment. In most cases, rewards are processed instantly, with gift card codes delivered to your email on the same day.
It’s important to note that qualification for surveys is not guaranteed. Typically, you’ll need to answer pre-survey questions to assess your eligibility. Based on your responses, you’ll either proceed to the survey or be informed of non-eligibility (often with a small number of points awarded for your time).
Participating in surveys requires patience. You might encounter repetitive questions or find that you don’t qualify for every survey after answering initial questions.
Minimum amount needed to redeem cash: $5
Download: Google Play Store | Apple Store
Top Rated for Earning Cash Through a Variety of Ways: Swagbucks
Top Rated for earning cash through diverse activities
Swagbucks
Learn more On Swagbucks’s website
[ 
Swagbucks app interface displaying various earning methods like surveys, shopping, and games.
Icon of check mark inside a promo stamp It indicates a confirmed selection.
Perks: Join for free, and earn a $10 bonus. Member must “Activate” the Bonus in the Swag Ups section of your account. Bonus value is earned in the form of points, called SB. Get a 1000 SB bonus, which is equivalent to $10 in value, when you spend at least $25 at a store featured in Swagbucks.com/Shop. You must receive a minimum of 25 SB for this purchase, which you must complete within 30 days of registration. MyGiftCardsPlus.com and travel purchases do not qualify.
Fees: Free to download
Annual Percentage Yield (APY): N/A
Minimum Opening Deposit: None
Pros
- Earn cash through a wide array of activities, providing diverse earning opportunities to suit various interests.
- Low minimum of 500SB (equivalent to $5) needed for reward redemption, ensuring quick access to your earnings.
Cons
- Survey qualification is not guaranteed, similar to other survey-based apps.
- High-value activities may require significant effort or have stringent qualification criteria, requiring time investment.
- Gift card processing can take up to 10 business days, which is longer compared to instant payout options.
Product Details
- Shop online, play video games, search the web, answer surveys, and find deals to earn points, offering a comprehensive earning ecosystem.
- Redeem points for gift cards to popular retailers like Amazon and Walmart, or opt for cash back via PayPal, providing versatile reward options.
[Show Pros, Cons, and More chevron down icon An icon in the shape of an angle pointing down. ]
Swagbucks is a highly versatile and top-rated money-making app, ideal for users seeking multiple earning avenues. Users accumulate points (SB) by participating in surveys, playing games, scanning receipts for eligible cash rewards, and completing various other tasks.
SB points can be exchanged for gift cards or transferred as cash via PayPal. Generally, 500 SB equates to $5.
The SB reward for different activities varies significantly, ranging from 2 SB to as high as 250,000 SB. Higher-value tasks typically demand more effort or have stricter qualification requirements. Some tasks may also require downloading additional apps or visiting external websites. Gift card processing and delivery to your email can take up to 10 business days.
Minimum amount needed to redeem cash: $5
Download: Google Play Store | Apple Store
Key Features of Top Money-Making Apps
User-Friendly Interface
A crucial aspect of a top-rated money-making app is its ease of use. An intuitive interface ensures that users can effortlessly navigate the app and maximize their earning potential. Apps that are difficult to use can deter consistent engagement and may hinder access to earned funds due to complicated redemption processes. For beginners, the best money-making apps feature straightforward cash redemption options, typically offering direct transfers to accounts like a checking account or digital gift cards delivered via email.
Low Payout Threshold
The payout threshold, or the minimum amount required to withdraw earnings, is a significant factor. Top money-making apps generally feature lower thresholds, making it easier for users to access their money. A $5 payout threshold is considered low and attainable, whereas a $100 threshold is considerably higher and may require substantial time and effort to reach, potentially diminishing user motivation.
Diverse Earning Options
Top-rated money-making apps often provide multiple earning methods, catering to diverse user preferences. Some apps might focus solely on specific retail partnerships, while others offer a broader range of activities, including cashback from numerous stores, surveys, games, and more. When selecting an app, consider your preferred activities and ensure the app’s earning options align with your interests and habits.
Reliable Payment Methods
The reliability of payment is paramount. A top money-making app should ensure consistent and dependable payouts. Consider your preferred payment method when choosing an app. Options vary and can include points redeemable for gift cards or prepaid debit cards, or, less commonly, direct bank deposits. Review the app’s website and terms of service for payout details and frequency. User reviews can also provide valuable insights into the payment reliability and user experiences.
Choosing the Best Top Rated Money-Making App for You
Assessing Your Skills and Interests
When selecting a money-making app, consider your personal skills and interests to ensure sustained engagement. If you’re interested in earning cashback on purchases without the commitment of a cash-back credit card, apps focused on cashback rewards may be ideal. For students, exploring the best money-making apps specifically tailored for students can also be beneficial.
Evaluating App Features and Benefits
Before committing to an app, thoroughly evaluate its features and benefits. For cashback apps, verify the brands and stores included to ensure relevance to your shopping habits. For survey or gaming apps, assess the survey length, frequency, and potential earnings per survey or game. Determine if the app is among the highest-paying money-making apps or if the earning potential aligns with your expectations. Always prioritize security by reviewing the app’s security policies to protect your personal data. If security is a major concern, consider exploring cashback features within your existing mobile banking app for potentially safer alternatives.
Considering Payment Methods and Frequency
Most apps impose limitations on withdrawal frequency through payout thresholds, payout schedules, or both. Understand these requirements and how the app disburses payments. Some apps offer gift cards, others provide prepaid debit cards, and a few offer direct bank transfers. Choose an app with payment methods and schedules that best suit your financial needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Top Rated Money-Making Apps
Advantages of Using Money-Making Apps
Top-rated money-making apps provide a straightforward method to earn supplemental income. Typically free to use, they generally do not require upfront investment, especially for cashback apps where savings are earned on existing spending. Their mobile nature allows you to earn from virtually anywhere, offering unparalleled flexibility.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
Be mindful that using money-making apps often involves data sharing. If you have concerns about data privacy, consider alternative earning methods like a cash-back debit card from your bank, which may offer better data security. It’s also crucial to recognize that income from these apps is generally supplementary and not a primary income source.
Beyond money-making apps, numerous other ways to make fast cash exist. Freelancing, gig economy jobs, and side hustles can offer more substantial income potential.
For more traditional financial solutions, consider options like applying for a personal loan or seeking a family or community loan for more significant financial needs.
App Trustworthiness and BBB Ratings
To assess app reliability and customer service, we reviewed Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings. These ratings reflect how well companies address customer concerns and maintain transparency.
| Company | BBB Rating |
|---|---|
| Rakuten | A+ |
| Ibotta | C |
| Survey Junkie | B |
| Swagbucks | B |
Ibotta received a C rating due to a significant number of complaints, with some unresolved issues.
Survey Junkie holds a B rating primarily due to a high volume of customer complaints reported on the BBB website.
Prodege, LLC, the parent company of Swagbucks, also has a B rating, similarly attributed to a high volume of customer complaints.
The BBB also issued a warning about scammers impersonating Survey Junkie in 2022, using the company’s name for mystery shopper scams. Survey Junkie does not operate mystery shopper programs or use the website “sjunkie.co.” The BBB advises reporting such scams to the Federal Trade Commission.
Money-Making Apps FAQs
What are the benefits of using money-making apps?
The primary benefits of money-making apps include their flexibility, ease of access, and minimal or no upfront costs. They can be used virtually anywhere, offer diverse earning methods, and are generally free to download and use.
Are money-making apps safe to use?
Most reputable money-making apps are generally safe, employing secure payment systems and data protection measures. However, always verify user reviews, recent legal actions, and privacy policies of any app you consider to ensure its legitimacy and safety.
Can I really make a significant income using money-making apps?
No, it’s unlikely to achieve a significant income solely from money-making apps. Even the best apps provide supplemental income rather than a primary source of earnings.
Are there any free money-making apps available?
Yes, numerous free money-making apps are available. Survey Junkie and Swagbucks are highly-rated examples of free apps that offer legitimate earning opportunities.
Which is the best app to earn money?
Rakuten, Ibotta, Survey Junkie, and Swagbucks are consistently ranked among the best apps for earning money from your phone, each offering unique strengths and earning styles.
Why You Should Trust Us: Experts’ Advice on Choosing the Best Money-Making Apps
We consulted financial planning experts to ensure our recommendations are informed and provide valuable guidance for choosing the best money-making apps for your needs.
Here’s what financial experts advise regarding money-making apps:
Are money-making apps worth it?
Mykail James, MBA, certified financial education instructor, BoujieBudgets.com:
“Cash-back apps are excellent, particularly for regular shoppers. To earn extra dollars, leverage your existing habits. If you handle household grocery shopping, utilize apps that offer discounts and cash-back on groceries.”
Sophia Acevedo, banking editor, Business Insider:
“Money-making apps can be beneficial for earning a small monthly supplement through quizzes, receipt scanning for cashback, or other simple activities. However, manage your expectations; earnings depend on your engagement and effort.”
What should people be mindful of when using a money-making app?
Mykail James, MBA, CFEI:
“Recognize that these apps compensate you for your feedback and data. Many are market research firms that monetize user data.”
Sophia Acevedo:
“When evaluating money-making apps, read customer reviews to understand usability and platform reliability. Review the app’s privacy policy to know what data is collected and how it’s used.”
Methodology: How Did We Choose the Best Money-Making Apps?
Business Insider’s editorial standards guide our unbiased product reviews. We recognize “best” is subjective, so we detail both the advantages and limitations of each product.
To select the top money-earning apps, we assessed over a dozen popular mobile apps. We excluded gig economy apps like TaskRabbit or Uber due to variable sign-up availability based on location and skill-dependent experiences.
Most top picks had over 20,000 reviews on both Apple and Google Play stores. We tested each app for two weeks, evaluating sign-up, user experience, advertised features, and user reviews.
Our product reviews are rated on a scale of one to five stars, with five stars representing exceptional products widely recommended.
For more details, see our bank account methodologies page.
[ 
Kit Pulliam, Banking reporter at Business Insider, smiling and wearing glasses.
](https://www.businessinsider.com/author/kit-pulliam) [Kit Pulliam
](https://www.businessinsider.com/author/kit-pulliam)Banking reporter
Kit Pulliam (they/them) is a banking expert specializing in certificates of deposit, savings accounts, and checking accounts, with over four years of experience in personal finance journalism.
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Evelyn He, Compliance and Operations Associate at Business Insider, smiling with fairy lights in the background.
](https://www.businessinsider.com/author/evelyn-he) [Evelyn He
](https://www.businessinsider.com/author/evelyn-he)Compliance and Operations Associate
Evelyn He is a compliance and operations associate for Business Insider’s Personal Finance team, ensuring content accuracy, editorial independence, and regulatory compliance.
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