In today’s digital age, smartphones have revolutionized how we live and work. Earning money has become more accessible than ever, thanks to a plethora of online platforms and mobile applications. Whether you’re seeking to supplement your income or build a full-time career, numerous apps can help you achieve your financial goals.
This article will explore some of the most effective apps for making money, catering to various needs and skill sets. We’ll cover options for earning extra cash in your spare time or generating a sustainable income.
For international earners and businesses, we’ll also briefly mention how Wise Business offers a robust solution for managing international finances and receiving payments efficiently.
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18 Best Apps to Make Money
To help you navigate the diverse landscape of money-making apps, we’ve categorized our top picks into four main areas:
- Long-Term Freelancing Platforms
- Short-Task & Gig Economy Apps
- Delivery and Ride-Sharing Apps
- Platforms for Selling Your Items
For each app listed, we’ll provide an overview of its services, detail how to get started, and give you insights into potential earnings.
Long-Term Freelancing Platforms
Let’s delve into platforms designed for longer-term, project-based freelance work:
- Upwork
Upwork stands as a leading online marketplace connecting businesses with freelance professionals across diverse fields. It offers a vast array of remote job opportunities, empowering freelancers to manage projects, communicate with clients, and handle payments within a centralized platform.
Getting started on Upwork involves creating a comprehensive profile showcasing your skills and experience, followed by an application for membership. While Upwork’s acceptance criteria aren’t publicly detailed, the process is generally straightforward.¹
Research from Upwork indicates that U.S. freelancers on the platform average around $20 per hour, with some specialized professions reaching $28 per hour.² While Upwork offers the potential for substantial earnings, it’s important to factor in the platform’s fees.
Upwork provides multiple options for withdrawing your earnings, including direct bank transfers, wire transfers, and instant pay for US-based freelancers. For those withdrawing USD outside the US, Upwork supports various third-party payment providers like Wise, PayPal, Payoneer, and M-Pesa.
- Fiverr
Fiverr is a dynamic digital marketplace connecting freelancers with clients seeking a wide spectrum of services. From graphic design and content writing to web development and virtual assistance, Fiverr offers businesses and individuals cost-effective and efficient solutions for professional tasks.
To begin your journey on Fiverr, you’ll need to set up a seller profile and create “Gigs.” Gigs are essentially service packages you offer to potential clients. Fiverr emphasizes that Gigs are “the opportunity to showcase your talents and provide buyers with all the essential information they need to choose to work with you.”³
According to research by Earnest, the average Fiverr user earns approximately $103 per month, with a median income of around $60 per month.⁴ If you’re weighing your options between platforms, our comparison article on Upwork versus Fiverr can provide further insights.
- Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com is a global platform connecting businesses with skilled freelance professionals for a variety of projects. The platform supports a broad range of services vital for business growth, spanning web design, content creation, digital marketing, software development, and more.
Registration on Freelancer.com is free. You can sign up using a Facebook account or email address. You’ll also need to choose a username, which, notably, cannot be changed later.⁵
Freelancer.com, like Upwork, operates as a network of freelancers. As such, you can generally expect to earn an average hourly rate comparable to Upwork, around $20 per hour. For a detailed comparison, explore our article on Upwork versus Freelancer.
- Toptal
Toptal distinguishes itself as a highly selective platform connecting businesses with elite freelance talent from across the globe. Its stringent screening process ensures clients are matched with top-tier professionals in their respective fields, guaranteeing high-quality work.
Toptal states on their website that “Successful Toptal freelancers typically possess at least 2-3 years of relevant professional experience, exceptional communication abilities, and the capacity to quickly adapt to new project requirements.” Be prepared for a comprehensive screening process, which may extend over several weeks.⁶
Reports from Career Karma and Glassdoor suggest that Toptal freelancers can earn between $50,355 and $234,368 annually. Earnings vary based on your specialization, hourly or project rate, and the volume and complexity of projects undertaken.⁷
- FlexJobs
FlexJobs is a specialized job search platform focusing on flexible and remote work opportunities. It aims to connect individuals seeking work-life balance with companies offering telecommuting, part-time, contract, and freelance positions.
To begin using FlexJobs, you’ll need to register and create a resume profile. This profile “enables you to apply for featured jobs and allows our automated system to match you with ‘New Jobs of Interest’ that have been recently added to our database.”⁸
Data from Glassdoor users indicates that average salaries on FlexJobs range from $30,000 to $80,000 per year. More senior and specialized roles can command salaries exceeding $100,000 annually.⁹
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Wise Business – An Account for International Businesses
Wise Business offers significant advantages for businesses engaged in international transactions. Here are some key benefits:
- Mid-Market Exchange Rate: Wise Business is renowned for utilizing the mid-market exchange rate, ensuring the fairest and most transparent currency conversion rates.
- Lower Fees: Compared to many traditional financial institutions, Wise Business provides lower fees for sending and receiving international payments.
- Multi-Currency Account: Hold and manage funds in over 40+ currencies within a single account.
- Accounting Integrations: Seamlessly integrate with popular accounting platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, Wave, FreeAgent, Sage, and NetSuite.
- Instant Payments: Enjoy the convenience of instant payments in select currencies.
- Wise Multi-Currency Card: Utilize a Wise Multi-Currency Card for spending and withdrawing funds internationally.
- Local Account Details: Receive payments like a local with one-time fee local account details in major global currencies (GBP, EUR, USD, CAD, AUD, JPY).
Looking for cost-effective solutions for your international business needs?
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Short-Term Task & Gig Economy Apps
This section highlights apps that enable you to earn money by completing short-term tasks and gigs.
- Ibotta
Ibotta is a popular cash-back rewards app that empowers users to earn money on everyday purchases. By making purchases at participating stores and scanning your receipts, you can unlock cash-back offers. Ibotta has gained popularity due to its diverse reward options and user-friendly interface.
According to Ibotta’s website, “To get started with Ibotta, you’ll need a compatible mobile device and a PayPal account. Alternatively, users can accumulate rewards and redeem them for featured gift cards from select retailers if preferred over cash.”¹⁰
User reviews indicate that “reaching a $20 threshold each month with Ibotta is quite achievable.”¹¹
- Rakuten
Rakuten is a well-known e-commerce platform and app offering a wide array of products from numerous retailers. It also provides attractive deals, discounts, and a robust cashback program where users earn a percentage back on their purchases.
Joining Rakuten is free. You can sign up with an email and password, or through your Facebook, Google, or Apple account.¹²
Specific earnings on Rakuten can vary. CNBC reports that new users are often eligible for a $10 bonus after spending $25 within the first 90 days of membership. Cashback is typically distributed via check or PayPal every three months.¹³
- Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a widely used rewards app that allows users to accumulate points (“SB”) by completing various online tasks. These tasks include taking surveys, watching videos, playing games, and browsing the web. Points can then be redeemed for gift cards or cash via PayPal. Swagbucks provides a simple and engaging way to make extra money in your free time.
You can join Swagbucks through their website or mobile app. Swagbucks states that “creating your account should only take about 45 – 60 seconds.”¹⁴
Swagbucks’ website indicates that “Most Swagbucks members can earn anywhere from a couple hundred to a couple thousand extra dollars per year.” For daily earnings, they estimate: “Most Swagbucks members should be able to earn $1 to $5 a day (or $365 to $1,825 a year). Higher-paying offers of $50 to $250 are available, but typical daily earnings average $1 to $5.”¹⁴
- Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is a dedicated online survey platform that enables users to earn money by sharing their opinions. It connects market research companies with consumers, providing valuable data to businesses while rewarding participants for their time and insights.
Upon signing up for Survey Junkie, you have the choice to join one or both of their data collection services. “SJ Opinion” is the standard survey and focus group option. “SJ Pulse” collects data on your browsing behavior to provide more targeted surveys.¹⁵
The blog Money Done Right reports average earnings of $3.18 per hour for completing surveys on Survey Junkie. They note that disqualifications from surveys can reduce earnings and waste time. Focus groups offered through Survey Junkie may offer higher earning potential, but consistent estimates are less readily available.¹⁶
- Taskrabbit
Taskrabbit is an online platform connecting individuals with local freelancers (“Taskers”) to assist with a wide range of tasks and errands. Users post tasks, specify their budget, and hire a Tasker to complete the job. Tasks can range from furniture assembly and moving help to cleaning and yard work.
To become a Tasker, you need to download the Tasker app, create an account, and build a profile with your skills and availability. Identity verification, including ID and photo submission, is also required.¹⁷
Earnest reports that Taskrabbit users earn an average of $380 per month, with a median income of $110 per month.⁴
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Delivery and Ride-Sharing Apps
Here are some of the most popular apps in the US for making money through deliveries and ride-sharing services:
- Uber
Uber is a leading transportation app that connects riders with drivers for on-demand transportation services. It provides a convenient and efficient alternative to traditional taxi services, offering ride-hailing in cities worldwide.
To become an Uber driver, you’ll need to meet certain requirements, including legal driving eligibility, a four-door vehicle, a valid in-state driver’s license, vehicle insurance, proof of residency, and typically 1-3 years of driving experience.¹⁸
Earnest data indicates that Uber drivers earn an average of $364 per month, with a median income of $155 per month.⁴
(Learn about the best business accounts for Uber drivers)
- Lyft
Lyft is a prominent ride-sharing app that allows users to request and pay for rides from nearby drivers. Similar to Uber, it offers a convenient and often more affordable transportation option compared to traditional taxis.
Like Uber, becoming a Lyft driver requires a valid driver’s license, a background check, vehicle documents such as insurance, and access to a car – which can be your own or a rental.¹⁹
Earnest reports that Lyft drivers earn an average of $377 per month, with a median income of $210 per month.⁴
- DoorDash
DoorDash is a leading food delivery app connecting users with local restaurants for on-demand meal ordering. Customers can browse restaurant menus, place and track orders, and have meals delivered directly to their homes or offices.
To become a DoorDash “Dasher” (delivery driver), you must be at least 18 years old, have access to a vehicle (car, scooter, or bike in some areas), and provide necessary documentation like an ID and Social Security number.²⁰
Earnest reports that DoorDash Dashers earn an average of $229 per month, with a median income of $100 per month.⁴
- Instacart
Instacart is a popular grocery delivery app that allows users to order groceries from their preferred local stores and have them delivered to their doorsteps. It offers a convenient and time-saving solution for busy individuals and families or those with limited mobility.
To become an Instacart shopper, you must be over 18 years old and authorized to work in the U.S. You’ll also need a vehicle, a driver’s license, and a bank account for direct deposit payments.²¹
According to the blog Route4Me, Instacart shoppers earn an average of $11-$16 per hour, or approximately $16.06 per delivery trip.²²
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Platforms for Selling Your Items
In the US, the secondhand market is experiencing significant growth, presenting opportunities to earn money by selling pre-owned items.
- Poshmark
Poshmark is a leading social marketplace app for buying and selling new and used fashion items, accessories, and home goods. It incorporates social media features, allowing users to follow other sellers, share listings with followers, and participate in virtual shopping events called “Posh Parties”.
The Poshmark ProTools blog estimates that the average seller “can expect to earn about $500 a month”. Dedicated, full-time sellers may earn up to $5,000 per month.²³
- Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is a widely used online platform within Facebook where individuals can buy and sell items locally. It provides a convenient way to connect with potential buyers and sellers within your community, leveraging Facebook’s vast user base.
To sell on Marketplace, you need a Facebook account. Facebook recommends sellers use original photos, write honest and detailed descriptions, provide any available original purchase documentation, price items competitively, maintain professionalism in communication, and keep listings updated.²⁴
Estimating average earnings on Facebook Marketplace is challenging due to its region-specific nature and varied product categories. However, Capital One reports that 40% of Facebook users utilize Marketplace, suggesting a substantial potential audience for sellers.²⁵
- OfferUp
OfferUp is a mobile-first marketplace app connecting buyers and sellers within local areas. Users can buy and sell a diverse range of items through the platform’s user-friendly interface and in-app communication features.
To use OfferUp, you’ll need to access their app or website and create an account using your email, Facebook, Google, or Apple ID.²⁶
Specific earning data for OfferUp sellers isn’t widely published.
- Vinted
Vinted is a popular mobile marketplace specializing in secondhand clothing, shoes, and accessories. It includes features like virtual closets for sellers to organize their listings, personalized recommendations for buyers, and social networking aspects for fashion enthusiasts.
Vinted requires account verification through Google or Facebook and suggests using a profile picture to build trust and visibility.²⁷
Individual seller earnings on Vinted are not readily available. However, Productmint reports Vinted’s valuation at $4.5 billion with $562.3 million in funding raised, indicating a thriving platform for secondhand fashion sales.²⁸
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Sources used:
Sources last checked on 12-January 2024.
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