In today’s digital age, smartphones have become indispensable tools, not just for communication and entertainment, but also as powerful instruments for generating income. The rise of the gig economy and the proliferation of user-friendly apps have made earning money more accessible than ever before. Whether you’re looking to supplement your primary income, save for a specific goal, or even build a full-time income stream, there’s a diverse range of apps designed to help you achieve your financial objectives.
This article explores some of the top Apps That Earn You Money, categorizing them to help you find the best fit for your skills, time commitment, and financial goals. We’ll delve into platforms that offer longer-term freelance opportunities, apps for quick, short-term tasks, delivery and taxi services, and marketplaces for selling your unwanted items. Each category and app will provide insights into how they work, how to get started, and realistic earning expectations.
For individuals and businesses operating in the global marketplace, efficient and cost-effective financial solutions are paramount. As you explore these apps that earn you money, consider how you’ll manage your earnings, especially when dealing with international clients or platforms. Solutions like Wise Business offer a streamlined approach to receiving and managing funds internationally, potentially saving you money on exchange rates and transaction fees.
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Discover the Best Apps That Earn You Money
To navigate the vast landscape of money-making apps, we’ve organized them into four key categories, each catering to different earning preferences and time commitments:
- Freelance Platforms for Long-Term Projects
- Quick Task & Gig Apps
- Delivery and Ride-Sharing Apps
- Platforms for Selling Your Pre-loved Items
For each app that earns you money in these categories, we will provide a detailed overview, guide you through the initial setup process, and offer insights into potential income levels. This comprehensive guide aims to equip you with the knowledge to confidently choose the apps that earn you money and align with your personal and financial aspirations.
Freelance Platforms for Long-Term Projects
For those seeking more substantial and consistent income streams, freelance platforms offer opportunities to engage in longer-term, project-based work. These platforms connect businesses with skilled freelancers across a wide spectrum of industries.
- Upwork
Upwork stands as a leading online marketplace connecting businesses with freelance talent for diverse projects and services. From web development and graphic design to writing and virtual assistance, Upwork presents a vast landscape of remote work opportunities. The platform facilitates project management and secure payment processing, making it a robust ecosystem for both freelancers and clients.
To begin your journey on Upwork and leverage it as an app that earns you money, you’ll need to create a comprehensive profile showcasing your skills and experience. While the application process is generally straightforward, approval isn’t guaranteed and hinges on undisclosed criteria.¹ Persistence and a well-crafted profile are key to gaining access to the platform’s extensive project listings.
Research from Upwork indicates that U.S. freelancers on the platform average around $20 per hour, with some specialized professions commanding rates as high as $28 per hour.² While Upwork presents the potential for a solid income, it’s essential to factor in platform fees which can impact your net earnings.
Upwork offers multiple convenient options for withdrawing your earnings. These include direct bank transfers, wire transfers, and instant pay for freelancers based in the U.S. For freelancers looking to withdraw USD outside the US, Upwork supports various third-party payment vendors, including Wise, PayPal, Payoneer, and M-Pesa.
Alt text: Upwork freelance platform interface displayed on a laptop screen, showcasing project listings and user dashboard, illustrating an app that earns you money through remote work.
- Fiverr
Fiverr is a dynamic digital marketplace that specializes in connecting freelancers with clients seeking a wide array of services. Fiverr’s strength lies in its “Gig” based system, where freelancers offer services starting from as low as $5, hence the name. Categories range from creative fields like graphic design and writing to technical services such as programming and digital marketing. Fiverr provides efficient and often affordable solutions for businesses and individuals in need of professional skills.
To get started using Fiverr as an app that earns you money, you need to create a seller profile and then craft compelling “Gigs.” Gigs are essentially service packages you offer, detailing what you will provide and at what price. Fiverr emphasizes that creating a Gig is “the opportunity to show off your talents, and provide buyers with all the information they could need to help them decide to do business with you.”³ A well-structured and visually appealing Gig is crucial for attracting clients on this platform.
Earnings on Fiverr can vary significantly depending on the services offered, pricing, and the freelancer’s effort. Research by Earnest suggests that the average Fiverr user earns around $103 per month, with a median income of $60 per month.⁴ While these figures may seem modest, top Fiverr sellers can earn significantly more. If you’re weighing your options, our article comparing Upwork and Fiverr can offer valuable insights.
- Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com operates as a comprehensive online platform designed to connect businesses with skilled freelance professionals for a broad spectrum of projects. Similar to Upwork, Freelancer.com hosts a wide range of service categories, including web design, content writing, digital marketing, software development, and engineering. The platform aims to facilitate business growth and provide individuals with diverse work opportunities in the freelance market.
Registering on Freelancer.com to use it as an app that earns you money is a free and straightforward process. You can sign up using your Facebook account or email address. A key aspect of registration is choosing a username, which, once selected, cannot be changed.⁵
Freelancer.com, being a network of freelancers, generally aligns with industry-standard freelance rates. As previously mentioned, an average hourly rate of around $20 can be expected, although this can fluctuate based on skills, demand, and project complexity. For a comparative perspective, explore our analysis of Upwork and Freelancer.
- Toptal
Toptal distinguishes itself as a highly selective platform focused on connecting businesses with elite freelance talent from across the globe. Toptal’s defining feature is its rigorous screening process, which ensures that clients are matched with top-tier professionals in fields like software development, design, finance, and project management. This emphasis on quality makes Toptal a premium platform in the freelance space.
According to Toptal’s website, successful freelancers on their platform typically possess at least 2-3 years of substantial experience, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to quickly adapt to new project environments. The screening process for Toptal is known to be extensive and can span several weeks.⁶ This selectivity reflects Toptal’s commitment to maintaining a high standard of talent.
Reflecting its premium positioning, Toptal offers commensurately higher earning potential. Career Karma and Glassdoor reports indicate that annual earnings for Toptal freelancers range from approximately $50,355 to as high as $234,368.⁷ These figures are influenced by factors such as the freelancer’s specialization, hourly or project rate, and the volume and complexity of projects undertaken.
- FlexJobs
FlexJobs is a specialized job search platform that focuses exclusively on flexible and remote job opportunities. Unlike general job boards, FlexJobs curates listings for telecommuting, part-time, freelance, and contract positions, catering to individuals seeking work-life balance or alternative work arrangements. FlexJobs aims to connect job seekers with reputable companies offering legitimate flexible work options.
To utilize FlexJobs as a resource to find apps that earn you money (indirectly, by finding freelance jobs), you need to sign up and create a resume profile. This profile enables you to apply for featured job postings and allows their automated system to match you with relevant “New Jobs of Interest” as they are added to the database.⁸ While FlexJobs is not directly an earning app, it’s a platform to find flexible work that can lead to income.
Salary data reported by Glassdoor users suggests that the average annual salary for positions found through FlexJobs ranges from $30,000 to $80,000.⁹ More senior and specialized roles listed on the platform can command salaries exceeding $100,000 per year, highlighting the potential for substantial earnings through flexible work arrangements.
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Wise Business – Streamlining Finances for International Businesses
Wise Business offers significant advantages for businesses engaged in international transactions, simplifying cross-border payments and currency management. Here are key benefits of using Wise Business:
- Mid-Market Exchange Rate: Wise Business is renowned for utilizing the mid-market exchange rate, ensuring the fairest and most transparent currency conversion rates, minimizing hidden costs.
- Lower Fees: Compared to traditional financial institutions, Wise Business typically offers significantly lower fees for sending and receiving international payments, boosting your bottom line.
- Multi-Currency Account: Hold and manage funds in over 40+ currencies within a single account, simplifying international transactions and hedging against currency fluctuations.
- Accounting Integration: Seamlessly integrate with popular accounting platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, Wave, FreeAgent, Sage, and NetSuite, streamlining financial management and reconciliation.
- Instant Payments: Enjoy the speed and efficiency of instant payments in select currencies, accelerating cash flow and business operations.
- Wise Multi-Currency Card: Access your funds globally with the Wise Multi-Currency Card, enabling convenient spending and ATM withdrawals when traveling or operating internationally.
- Local Account Details: For a one-time fee, obtain local account details in major global currencies (GBP, EUR, USD, CAD, AUD, JPY) to receive payments like a local, eliminating international transfer fees for your clients.
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Alt text: Wise Business multi-currency card displayed next to a mobile phone showing the Wise Business app interface, illustrating a financial tool for businesses operating internationally.
Quick Task & Gig Apps
For those seeking immediate, smaller-scale earning opportunities, short-term task apps provide a flexible avenue to make money by completing quick gigs and tasks. These apps that earn you money are ideal for supplementing income in your spare time.
- Ibotta
Ibotta is a popular cash-back rewards app that empowers users to earn money back on everyday purchases at participating stores. By submitting receipts or linking loyalty accounts, users can unlock cash-back offers on groceries, household items, and more. Ibotta’s user-friendly interface and diverse reward options have contributed to its widespread popularity as an app that earns you money while you shop.
According to Ibotta’s website, getting started is simple: “To get started with Ibotta, you will need to own a compatible device and have a PayPal account. Alternately, shoppers can collect rewards and cash them in to receive featured gift cards from select retailers if that is preferred over the cash option.”¹⁰ The app’s accessibility and straightforward redemption process make it appealing to a broad audience.
User reviews suggest that consistent use of Ibotta can lead to tangible savings. One review notes that “it’s very feasible to reach a $20 threshold each month with Ibotta”.¹¹ While individual earnings will vary depending on spending habits and offer utilization, Ibotta presents a realistic opportunity to recoup a portion of your shopping expenses.
- Rakuten
Rakuten, formerly known as Ebates, is a well-established e-commerce platform and app that earns you money through cashback rewards. Rakuten partners with thousands of retailers, offering users cashback percentages on purchases made through their platform. Beyond cashback, Rakuten also provides access to deals, discounts, and coupons, amplifying savings for its users.
Joining Rakuten is free and requires minimal setup. You can sign up using your email and password, or conveniently link your Facebook, Google, or Apple account.¹² The platform’s ease of access and broad retailer network make it a convenient tool for savvy shoppers looking to earn cashback on their online spending.
While precise individual earnings data for Rakuten is less readily available, CNBC reports that new users can often earn a $10 bonus upon spending $25 within the first 90 days of membership.¹³ Rakuten typically distributes cashback payments every three months via check or PayPal, providing a regular stream of savings for active users.
- Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a multifaceted rewards app that earns you money by compensating users for completing a variety of online tasks. These tasks encompass activities such as taking surveys, watching videos, playing games, and browsing the web through their portal. Points earned, known as “SB,” can be redeemed for gift cards from numerous retailers or as cash via PayPal. Swagbucks offers a gamified approach to earning small amounts of money in your spare time.
Joining Swagbucks is a quick and simple process, achievable online or through their mobile app. According to their website, “it should only take about 45 – 60 seconds to create your Swagbucks account.”¹⁴ The low barrier to entry and diverse earning options make Swagbucks accessible to a wide range of users.
Swagbucks’ website provides insights into potential earnings, stating that “Most Swagbucks members can make anywhere from a couple hundred to a couple thousand extra dollars a year.” In terms of daily income, they estimate that “Most Swagbucks members should be able to earn $1 to $5 a day (or $365 to $1,825 a year). There are some offers that pay $50 to $250, but on a typical day, earnings could average out to $1 to $5 a day.”¹⁴ While Swagbucks is unlikely to replace a primary income, it offers a legitimate way to generate supplemental earnings.
Alt text: Swagbucks app interface displayed on a mobile phone, showcasing various earning activities such as surveys and offers, representing an app that earns you money through micro-tasks.
- Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is a dedicated survey platform that connects market researchers with consumers, offering users the opportunity to earn money by participating in online surveys. By sharing your opinions and demographic information, you contribute to market research and are compensated for your time. Survey Junkie focuses specifically on surveys, providing a streamlined experience for users interested in this type of earning activity.
Upon signing up for Survey Junkie, you have the option to enroll in one or both of their information collection services. “SJ Opinion” represents the standard survey and focus group participation, while “SJ Pulse” collects data on your browsing behavior.¹⁵ Understanding the distinction between these services allows users to choose the level of participation they are comfortable with.
The blog Money Done Right reports average earnings of approximately $3.18 per hour for completing surveys on platforms like Survey Junkie. ¹⁶ However, it’s important to note that survey availability can fluctuate, and disqualifications can occur, impacting overall hourly earnings. Focus groups offered through survey platforms may provide higher earning potential but are typically less frequent.
- Taskrabbit
Taskrabbit functions as an online marketplace connecting individuals needing assistance with local “Taskers” who provide various services and errands. Users can post tasks, ranging from furniture assembly and moving help to cleaning and handyman services, and set their budget. Taskrabbit provides a platform for individuals to monetize their skills and time by offering on-demand local services and is a practical app that earns you money through gig work.
To become a Tasker and start earning through the app, you must download the Tasker app, create an account, and build a profile highlighting your skills and experience. Identity verification, involving ID submission and a profile photo, is also required.¹⁷ These steps ensure user safety and platform credibility.
Earnings for Taskrabbit users can vary widely based on location, skills offered, task frequency, and rates charged. Earnest reports average monthly earnings of $380 for Taskrabbit users, with a median income of $110 per month.⁴ These figures suggest that while Taskrabbit can provide supplemental income, consistent effort and strategic service offerings are necessary to maximize earning potential.
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Delivery and Ride-Sharing Apps
The rise of the gig economy has fueled the popularity of delivery and ride-sharing apps. These apps that earn you money offer flexible earning opportunities for individuals with vehicles and time to spare.
- Uber
Uber is a leading transportation app that revolutionized on-demand ride services. Connecting riders with local drivers via a mobile platform, Uber provides a convenient alternative to traditional taxis. For drivers, Uber offers a flexible earning opportunity, allowing them to set their own hours and utilize their vehicles to generate income.
To become an Uber driver and leverage the app to earn money, certain prerequisites must be met. These include possessing a valid in-state driver’s license, a four-door vehicle meeting Uber’s requirements, vehicle insurance, proof of residency, and typically 1-3 years of driving experience.¹⁸ Background checks are also standard procedure for driver safety and passenger trust.
Earnest data indicates that Uber drivers average approximately $364 per month in earnings, with a median income of $155 per month.⁴ Earnings are influenced by factors such as location, hours driven, time of day, and demand. Learn more about the best business accounts for Uber drivers to efficiently manage your finances.
- Lyft
Lyft operates as a ridesharing app, directly competing with Uber in the transportation-on-demand market. Lyft’s core functionality mirrors Uber’s, enabling users to request and pay for rides from nearby drivers via a mobile app. Lyft offers a similar flexible earning model for drivers, allowing them to utilize their vehicles and time to generate income on their own schedule.
Similar to Uber, becoming a Lyft driver requires meeting specific criteria. These include a valid driver’s license, passing a background check, providing necessary documentation such as vehicle insurance, and having access to a qualifying car, which can be personally owned or rented.¹⁹ Lyft prioritizes driver and passenger safety through these requirements.
Earnings for Lyft drivers are comparable to those of Uber drivers. Earnest reports an average monthly income of $377 for Lyft drivers, with a median income of $210 per month.⁴ As with Uber, actual earnings are subject to variables like location, driving hours, and demand fluctuations.
- DoorDash
DoorDash is a dominant food delivery app connecting users with local restaurants for on-demand meal orders. Customers can browse restaurant menus, place orders, track deliveries in real-time, and have meals delivered directly to their doorsteps. For “Dashers” (DoorDash drivers), the app provides an opportunity to earn money by delivering food orders during flexible hours.
To become a DoorDash Dasher and use the app to earn money, applicants must be over 18 years of age, have access to a vehicle (car, scooter, or bicycle in some markets), and provide necessary documentation such as a government-issued ID and Social Security number.²⁰ DoorDash offers a relatively accessible entry point into the delivery gig economy.
Earnest data indicates that DoorDash Dashers earn an average of $229 per month, with a median income of $100 per month.⁴ Earnings are influenced by factors such as delivery location, hours worked, delivery volume, and tips received.
- Instacart
Instacart specializes in grocery delivery services, allowing users to order groceries from their preferred stores and have them delivered to their homes. Instacart caters to busy individuals and those seeking the convenience of grocery shopping without physically going to the store. For “shoppers” (Instacart drivers), the app provides an earning opportunity by shopping for and delivering groceries to customers.
To become an Instacart shopper and utilize the app to earn money, applicants must be over 18 years old and eligible to work in the U.S. Additional requirements include having access to a vehicle, a driver’s license, and a bank account for payment processing.²¹ Instacart offers both full-service shopper roles (shopping and delivering) and in-store shopper roles (shopping only).
According to the blog Route4Me, Instacart shoppers earn an average of $11-$16 per hour, or approximately $16.06 per trip.²² Hourly earnings can vary depending on location, order volume, delivery distance, and customer tips.
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Alt text: Instacart shopper app interface on a mobile phone, showing order details and navigation, illustrating an app that earns you money through grocery delivery services.
Platforms for Selling Your Pre-loved Items
The secondhand market in the U.S. is experiencing significant growth, presenting opportunities to earn money by selling items you no longer need. These apps and platforms provide user-friendly marketplaces to connect with potential buyers.
- Poshmark
Poshmark is a social marketplace app specializing in fashion, accessories, and home goods. Users can buy and sell new or used clothing, shoes, handbags, jewelry, and home decor items. Poshmark fosters a social community through features like following sellers, sharing listings, and participating in virtual “Posh Parties.”
Poshmark provides a platform for individuals to declutter their closets and earn money from their pre-owned fashion items. The Poshmark ProTools blog suggests that the average seller “can expect to earn about $500 a month”. Dedicated, full-time sellers can potentially earn up to $5,000 per month.²³ Success on Poshmark often depends on active engagement, quality listings, and effective marketing within the platform.
- Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace leverages the vast Facebook user base to create a local online marketplace for buying and selling goods and services. Users can list items for sale within their community, connecting with potential buyers nearby. Facebook Marketplace covers a wide range of categories, from furniture and electronics to clothing and vehicles.
Utilizing Facebook Marketplace to earn money requires a Facebook account. Facebook recommends that sellers upload high-quality photos they’ve taken themselves, write detailed and honest descriptions, provide original purchase documentation when available, price items competitively, maintain professional communication, and keep listings updated.²⁴ Building trust and providing good customer service are key on this platform.
Estimating potential earnings on Facebook Marketplace is challenging due to its region-specific nature and varied product categories. However, Capital One reports that a significant 40% of Facebook’s extensive user base utilizes Marketplace, indicating a substantial potential audience for sellers.²⁵
- OfferUp
OfferUp is a mobile-first marketplace app designed to connect local buyers and sellers. OfferUp emphasizes simplicity and ease of use, allowing users to quickly list items for sale, browse local listings, and communicate with potential buyers through in-app messaging. OfferUp supports a diverse range of product categories, facilitating local transactions for various goods.
To use OfferUp as an app to earn money by selling items, you need to access their app or website and create an account using your email, Facebook, Google, or Apple ID.²⁶ OfferUp prioritizes mobile accessibility and local community focus.
Specific data on typical earnings for OfferUp sellers is not widely available. Like Facebook Marketplace, earnings potential depends heavily on the types of items sold, local demand, pricing strategies, and seller effort.
- Vinted
Vinted is a mobile marketplace specializing in secondhand clothing, shoes, and accessories. Vinted distinguishes itself with a focus on fashion and a strong European presence, although it also operates in the US market. The platform offers features like virtual closets for organizing listings, personalized recommendations for buyers, and social networking aspects for fashion enthusiasts.
To begin selling on Vinted and earn money from your pre-owned fashion items, you’ll need to verify your account, typically through Google or Facebook, and Vinted suggests using a profile picture to enhance your seller profile.²⁷ Vinted’s fashion-centric approach and community features cater to a specific niche of buyers and sellers.
Individual earnings data for Vinted sellers is less readily available. However, Productmint reports that Vinted holds a substantial valuation of $4.5 billion with $562.3 million in funding raised, indicating a thriving marketplace with significant transaction volume.²⁸
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Sources used :
Sources last checked on 12-January-2024.
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