In today’s digital age, smartphones have become indispensable tools, and with them, a plethora of opportunities to supplement or even replace traditional income streams. The internet is brimming with platforms and applications designed to help you earn money, regardless of your skills or availability. Whether you’re looking to make some extra pocket money in your spare time or seeking a full-time online income, the right apps can pave the way.
This article dives into some of the best Apps To Earn Money available right now. We’ll explore a variety of options, from long-term freelancing platforms to quick task apps, delivery services, and marketplaces for selling your unwanted items. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the landscape of money-making apps and find the perfect fit for your needs.
For international earners and businesses, managing finances across borders can be complex. That’s why we’ll also touch upon how services like Wise Business can be an invaluable tool for receiving payments internationally and managing your funds efficiently.
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Discover the Best Apps to Earn Money Across Various Categories
To make it easier for you to find the ideal app, we’ve categorized our top picks into four main areas:
- Freelancing Platforms for Long-Term Projects
- Short Task Apps for Quick Gigs
- Delivery and Ride-Sharing Apps
- Platforms for Selling Your Used Goods
For each app, we’ll provide a detailed overview of its services, guide you through the initial setup process, and give you insights into the potential earnings you can expect.
Freelancing Platforms for Long-Term Projects
If you’re seeking more substantial and consistent income opportunities, these freelancing platforms connect you with clients for project-based work across various industries.
- Upwork
Upwork stands as a leading online marketplace connecting businesses with freelance talent globally. It’s a robust platform for professionals in fields like writing, web development, graphic design, and virtual assistance, offering a vast array of remote job opportunities. Upwork provides tools for project management, communication, and secure payment processing, making it a comprehensive solution for both freelancers and clients.
Getting started on Upwork involves creating a detailed profile highlighting your skills and experience. While the application process is generally straightforward, approval isn’t guaranteed as Upwork aims to maintain a certain level of quality on its platform. However, persistence and a well-crafted profile can significantly increase your chances of acceptance.¹
Freelancers on Upwork in the U.S. report average hourly earnings of around $20, with some specialized professions commanding rates closer to $28 per hour.² While Upwork offers the potential for a decent income, it’s crucial to factor in the platform fees, which vary depending on your earnings and client relationships. Understanding Upwork’s fee structure is essential for maximizing your take-home pay.
Upwork provides multiple convenient withdrawal methods, including direct bank transfers, wire transfers, and instant pay options for US-based freelancers. For freelancers outside the US looking to withdraw USD earnings internationally, Upwork supports third-party payment services like Wise, PayPal, Payoneer, and M-Pesa, offering flexibility in accessing your funds.
Image: Upwork platform interface showcasing freelance job listings and user profiles, illustrating the variety of opportunities available on the app.
- Fiverr
Fiverr is a dynamic digital marketplace that specializes in connecting freelancers with clients seeking a wide spectrum of services, from creative tasks like graphic design and video editing to professional services like writing, marketing, and programming. Fiverr is known for its gig-based structure, where freelancers offer services starting at $5 (hence the name), but can also offer packages and custom offers at higher price points. This makes it accessible for both buyers and sellers, and particularly appealing for those starting out in freelancing.
To begin on Fiverr, you create a seller profile and then design “Gigs,” which are essentially advertisements for the services you offer. Fiverr emphasizes that Gigs are your opportunity to showcase your talents and provide potential buyers with all the necessary information to make an informed decision about hiring you.³ High-quality Gigs with clear descriptions and compelling visuals are key to attracting clients.
Earnings on Fiverr can vary significantly. Research suggests that the average Fiverr user earns around $103 per month, with a median income of $60 per month.⁴ However, top-rated sellers with in-demand skills can earn considerably more. If you’re weighing your options between platforms, you might find our comparison of Upwork vs. Fiverr helpful in deciding which platform aligns better with your freelancing goals.
- Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com is another prominent online platform that serves as a bridge between businesses and freelance professionals across diverse fields. Similar to Upwork, it offers a wide range of service categories, including web design, content writing, digital marketing, software development, and engineering. Freelancer.com facilitates project bidding, contests, and direct hiring, providing multiple avenues for freelancers to find work.
Registration on Freelancer.com is free, and you can sign up using your email address or a Facebook account. Choosing a username is a crucial step as it cannot be changed later.⁵ Building a strong profile and actively bidding on projects are essential steps to gaining visibility and securing work on this platform.
Like other freelance networks, earnings on Freelancer.com are project-dependent. The average hourly rate for freelancers across platforms like these is around $20, but this can fluctuate based on your skills, niche, and client demand. For a deeper comparison, you can explore articles that compare Upwork and Freelancer.com to understand their respective strengths and weaknesses.
- Toptal
Toptal, short for “Top Talent,” distinguishes itself as a highly selective platform focused on connecting businesses with elite freelance talent from around the world. Toptal caters to those seeking top-tier professionals in fields like software engineering, design, finance, and project management. Its rigorous screening process ensures that only the most skilled and experienced freelancers are admitted, guaranteeing clients access to exceptional quality work.
Toptal’s website states that successful applicants typically possess at least 2-3 years of significant experience, excellent communication abilities, and the capacity to quickly adapt to new project environments. The application process is known to be demanding and can take several weeks to complete, involving skill assessments, interviews, and portfolio reviews.⁶
Due to its focus on top talent, Toptal offers significantly higher earning potential compared to general freelancing platforms. Reports from Career Karma and Glassdoor indicate that Toptal freelancers can earn between $50,355 and $234,368 annually.⁷ Your actual earnings will depend on your specialization, hourly or project rate, and the volume of work you undertake.
- FlexJobs
FlexJobs is a specialized job search platform that curates listings for flexible and remote job opportunities. Unlike general job boards, FlexJobs focuses on telecommuting, part-time, freelance, and alternative work arrangements, catering to individuals seeking work-life balance or non-traditional employment. FlexJobs verifies each job listing to ensure legitimacy, reducing the risk of scams and unreliable postings often found on free job boards.
To use FlexJobs, you’ll need to sign up for a membership, which involves a fee. Creating a resume profile allows you to apply for featured jobs and receive automated job recommendations based on your skills and preferences.⁸ While there is a cost associated with membership, the curated job listings and focus on flexible work can be valuable for serious job seekers.
Salary data reported by Glassdoor users suggests that the average annual salary found through FlexJobs ranges from $30,000 to $80,000.⁹ More senior and specialized roles can command salaries exceeding $100,000 per year. The investment in a FlexJobs membership can potentially pay off with access to higher-quality, flexible job opportunities.
Explore the Best Banks for Small Businesses >>
Wise Business – Streamline International Business Finances
For freelancers and businesses operating internationally, managing finances across borders efficiently is crucial. Wise Business provides a powerful account designed to simplify international money management. Here are key benefits of using Wise Business:
- Mid-Market Exchange Rate: Wise Business is renowned for using the mid-market exchange rate for currency conversions, ensuring you get the fairest and most transparent rates without hidden markups.
- Lower International Fees: Compared to traditional banks and many other financial institutions, Wise Business offers significantly lower fees for sending and receiving international payments, saving you money on every transaction.
- Multi-Currency Account: Hold and manage funds in over 40+ currencies within a single account, simplifying international transactions and eliminating the need for multiple bank accounts.
- Accounting Integrations: Seamlessly integrate Wise Business with popular accounting platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, Wave, FreeAgent, Sage, and NetSuite, streamlining your financial record-keeping.
- Instant Transfers: Enjoy the speed and convenience of instant payments in select currencies, ensuring timely transactions with international clients and partners.
- Wise Multi-Currency Card: Get a Wise Multi-Currency Card to easily spend and withdraw funds in multiple currencies when traveling or making international purchases.
- 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, avoiding international transfer fees and simplifying payments for your international clients.
Looking to optimize your international business finances?
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Image: Wise Business platform interface demonstrating a multi-currency account dashboard and transaction details, highlighting the ease of managing international finances.
Short Task Apps for Quick Gigs
For those seeking immediate, smaller-scale earning opportunities, these short-task apps provide platforms to complete gigs, surveys, and micro-jobs for quick cash.
- Ibotta
Ibotta is a popular cash-back rewards app that enables users to earn money back on purchases from participating retailers. It offers a user-friendly way to save money and earn rewards on everyday shopping, from groceries and household items to clothing and dining out. Ibotta has gained popularity due to its diverse reward options, including cash back via PayPal, direct deposit, or gift cards.
To start using Ibotta, you’ll need a compatible smartphone or device and a PayPal account. Alternatively, you can choose to redeem your earned rewards for gift cards from a variety of featured retailers if you prefer that over cash payments.¹⁰ The app is designed for ease of use, making it simple to find offers, scan receipts, and claim your cash back.
Many Ibotta users find it feasible to reach a $20 payout threshold each month through regular use of the app.¹¹ While earnings may vary depending on your spending habits and available offers, Ibotta provides a consistent way to recoup some of your shopping expenses.
- Rakuten
Rakuten, formerly known as Ebates, is a well-established e-commerce platform and app that offers a wide range of products and services from numerous retailers. Beyond its shopping platform, Rakuten is recognized for its robust cashback program, allowing users to earn a percentage back on their purchases at thousands of online and in-store retailers. It’s a straightforward way to save money on things you’re already buying.
Joining Rakuten is free and simple. You can sign up using your email address, password, or through your Facebook, Google, or Apple account.¹² Once registered, you can start earning cashback by shopping through the Rakuten app or website, or by activating in-store cashback offers.
While specific earning figures for Rakuten users are not widely publicized, CNBC reports that new members can often earn a $10 bonus after spending $25 within the first 90 days of membership.¹³ Rakuten typically sends cashback payments every three months via check or PayPal, providing regular payouts for your accumulated earnings.
- Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a widely used rewards and cashback app that offers multiple avenues for users to earn points, known as “SB,” which can be redeemed for gift cards or cash via PayPal. Swagbucks provides a variety of earning opportunities, including taking online surveys, watching videos, playing games, completing online tasks, and shopping through their portal. It’s a popular choice for those looking for flexible and easy ways to earn extra money in their spare time.
You can join Swagbucks either online or through their mobile app. Account creation is quick, typically taking only about 45-60 seconds, according to their website.¹⁴ Once signed up, you can explore the various earning activities available and start accumulating SB points.
Swagbucks states that many active members can earn anywhere from a few hundred to a couple of thousand extra dollars per year. Daily earnings for most users range from $1 to $5, translating to a potential annual income of $365 to $1,825. While some higher-paying offers may be available, consistent engagement with the platform’s various earning options is key to maximizing your Swagbucks income.¹⁴
- Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is a dedicated online survey platform that compensates users for sharing their opinions and insights through market research surveys. It connects market research companies with consumers, providing valuable data for product development and marketing strategies while rewarding participants for their time and feedback.
When you register with Survey Junkie, you have the option to sign up for one or both of their data collection services. “SJ Opinion” involves traditional surveys and focus groups, while “SJ Pulse” collects data on your browsing behavior to provide more targeted survey opportunities.¹⁵ Participating in both services can potentially increase your earning potential on the platform.
The blog Money Done Right reported average earnings of around $3.18 per hour for completing surveys on Survey Junkie. However, survey availability and qualification can vary, and disqualifications can sometimes lead to wasted time. Focus groups offered through Survey Junkie generally pay more than standard surveys, but opportunities may be less frequent.¹⁶
- Taskrabbit
Taskrabbit is an online marketplace that connects individuals with local freelancers, referred to as “Taskers,” to help with a wide range of everyday tasks and errands. From furniture assembly and moving help to cleaning, yard work, and handyman services, Taskrabbit provides a platform to outsource tasks you need assistance with and for Taskers to find local gig work.
To become a Tasker, you need to download the Tasker app, create an account, and build a profile outlining your skills, experience, and availability. Identity verification, including ID submission and a photo, is required to ensure safety and trust within the Taskrabbit community.¹⁷ Once approved, you can start browsing available tasks in your area and setting your own rates.
Earnings on Taskrabbit can vary based on the types of tasks you undertake, your location, and your hourly rates. Reports indicate that Taskrabbit users average around $380 per month, with a median income of $110 per month.⁴ Taskers with specialized skills and positive client reviews often have the potential to earn more.
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Delivery and Taxi Apps: Drive Your Way to Earnings
If you have a car and enjoy driving, delivery and ridesharing apps offer flexible opportunities to earn money on your own schedule by providing transportation or delivery services.
- Uber
Uber is the dominant ridesharing app, connecting passengers with drivers for on-demand transportation services. It’s a convenient alternative to traditional taxis, offering a mobile-first approach to requesting and paying for rides. For drivers, Uber provides a platform to earn income using their own vehicle and setting their own hours.
To become an Uber driver, you must meet certain requirements, including being of legal driving age, having a valid in-state driver’s license, vehicle insurance, proof of residency, and typically 1-3 years of driving experience.¹⁸ You’ll also need a four-door vehicle that meets Uber’s vehicle standards.
Average earnings for Uber drivers are reported to be around $364 per month, with a median income of $155 per month.⁴ However, earnings can fluctuate based on location, time of day, demand, and the driver’s efficiency.
(Learn about the best business accounts for Uber drivers)
- Lyft
Lyft is another major ridesharing app, similar to Uber, offering users a platform to request and pay for rides from nearby drivers. Lyft is known for its pink mustache branding and often positions itself as a more community-focused alternative to Uber. For drivers, Lyft provides a comparable earning opportunity with similar flexibility.
Like Uber, becoming a Lyft driver requires a valid driver’s license, a background check, necessary documents such as vehicle insurance, and access to a car – which can be your own or a rental.¹⁹ Vehicle requirements and driver qualifications are generally similar to Uber’s.
Lyft driver earnings are comparable to Uber, with average monthly earnings around $377 and a median income of $210 per month.⁴ Factors influencing earnings are also similar, including location, time of day, and demand for rides.
- DoorDash
DoorDash is a leading food delivery app that partners with local restaurants to provide on-demand meal delivery services. It allows customers to browse restaurant menus, place orders, track deliveries in real-time, and have food delivered directly to their doorstep. For “Dashers,” DoorDash offers a flexible way to earn money by delivering food orders using their car, bike, or scooter.
To become a DoorDash Dasher, you must be at least 18 years old, have access to a vehicle (car, bike, or scooter depending on location), and be able to provide necessary documentation such as an ID and Social Security number.²⁰ The signup process is typically straightforward, and you can start dashing relatively quickly after approval.
DoorDash Dashers average around $229 per month in earnings, with a median income of $100 per month.⁴ Earnings can be influenced by factors like delivery location, time of day, demand, and efficiency in completing deliveries.
- Instacart
Instacart is a grocery delivery and pick-up service that partners with grocery stores to allow users to order groceries online and have them delivered to their homes or prepared for store pickup. Instacart provides a convenient solution for busy individuals or those who prefer not to shop in-store. “Shoppers” for Instacart fulfill these orders, either by shopping in-store and delivering to customers or by simply picking up pre-packed orders for customer pickup.
To become an Instacart shopper, you must be at least 18 years old and eligible 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 There are different types of Instacart shopper roles, including full-service shoppers (shop and deliver) and in-store shoppers (shop 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 based on location, order volume, delivery distance, and shopper efficiency.
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Selling Your Stuff: Declutter and Earn
The secondhand market is booming, and selling your unused items online is a great way to declutter your home and make some extra cash. These apps provide platforms to easily list and sell your clothes, electronics, household goods, and more.
- Poshmark
Poshmark is a social marketplace app specializing in fashion, where users can buy and sell new and secondhand clothing, accessories, shoes, and home goods. Poshmark emphasizes a social shopping experience, with features like following other users, sharing listings, and participating in virtual “Posh Parties.” It’s particularly popular for selling mid-range to high-end fashion items.
The Poshmark ProTools blog suggests that an average seller “can expect to earn about $500 a month.” Dedicated, full-time sellers with a large inventory and active engagement can potentially earn up to $5,000 per month.²³ Success on Poshmark often depends on the quality of your listings, your engagement with the community, and your inventory of desirable items.
- Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is a local online marketplace integrated within the Facebook platform, allowing users to buy and sell items within their community. It’s a convenient and widely accessible platform for selling a wide range of goods, from furniture and electronics to clothing and household items, to local buyers.
To sell on Facebook Marketplace, you need a Facebook account. Facebook recommends sellers to take clear, well-lit photos of their items, write honest and detailed descriptions, provide original purchase documents if available, price items competitively, maintain professional communication, and keep their listings up to date.²⁴
Estimating average earnings on Facebook Marketplace is challenging due to its region-specific nature and the vast range of items sold. However, Capital One reports that a significant 40% of Facebook’s user base utilizes Marketplace, highlighting its potential reach and market size.²⁵
- OfferUp
OfferUp is a mobile-first marketplace app that focuses on connecting local buyers and sellers. Similar to Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, OfferUp provides a user-friendly interface for listing and selling a variety of items, from furniture and electronics to cars and collectibles, within your local area.
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 OfferUp emphasizes safety and security, with features like user profiles, ratings, and in-app messaging to facilitate secure transactions.
Specific earning data for OfferUp sellers is not readily available online. However, its popularity and focus on local transactions make it a viable option for selling unwanted items in your community.
- Vinted
Vinted is a mobile marketplace app specializing in secondhand clothing, shoes, and accessories. It’s particularly popular in Europe and is expanding its presence in other markets. Vinted offers features like virtual closets, personalized recommendations, and social networking aspects for fashion enthusiasts.
To use Vinted, you’ll need to verify your account, often through Google or Facebook, and creating a profile picture is recommended.²⁷ Vinted’s focus on fashion and its social features make it a platform particularly appealing to those looking to buy and sell clothing items.
Individual seller earnings on Vinted are difficult to ascertain. However, Productmint reports Vinted’s impressive valuation at $4.5 billion, with $562.3 million raised in funding, indicating its significant market presence and potential for sellers within the secondhand fashion space.²⁸
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Sources used :
Sources last checked on 12-January 2024.
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