In today’s digital age, your smartphone isn’t just for calls and social media—it’s a powerful tool for generating income. With a plethora of online platforms and apps available, earning money online has become increasingly accessible. Whether you’re looking for some extra pocket money or aiming for a more substantial, full-time income, the app economy offers diverse opportunities.
This article dives into the best apps to earn money across various categories, providing you with a comprehensive guide to start boosting your income today. We’ll explore platforms for freelancing, short tasks, delivery services, and selling your items.
And for those involved in international business or freelancing, we’ll also touch upon how services like Wise Business can streamline receiving international payments and manage your finances efficiently.
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Top Apps to Make Money: Your Guide for 2024
We’ve organized the best money-making apps into four distinct categories to help you find the perfect fit for your skills and schedule:
- Long-Term Freelancing Platforms: Ideal for skilled professionals seeking project-based or ongoing work.
- Short Task & Gig Economy Apps: Perfect for quick earning opportunities and flexible schedules.
- Delivery and Ride-Sharing Apps: Leverage your vehicle to earn money on your own time.
- Platforms for Selling Your Goods: Turn your unwanted items into cash.
For each app listed, we’ll provide an overview of its services, detail how to get started, and give you an idea of the potential earnings.
1. Long-Term Freelancing Platforms: Build Your Skills and Income
If you’re looking to utilize your professional skills for consistent income, these freelancing platforms offer a range of opportunities.
1.1. Upwork
Upwork is a leading online marketplace connecting businesses with freelancers for a wide array of projects. From web development and graphic design to writing and virtual assistance, Upwork provides a platform to manage projects, communicate with clients, and handle payments securely.
Getting Started: Create a detailed profile showcasing your skills and experience. While the application process can be competitive, a strong profile increases your chances of acceptance.¹
Earning Potential: Freelancers on Upwork in the U.S. average around $20 per hour, with some specialized professions earning upwards of $28 per hour.² Keep in mind that Upwork charges fees for using the platform.
Payment Options: Upwork offers various withdrawal methods, including direct deposit, wire transfer, and for US freelancers, instant pay. For international freelancers needing to withdraw USD outside the US, options like Wise, PayPal, Payoneer, and M-Pesa are available.
1.2. Fiverr
Fiverr is a global online marketplace renowned for connecting freelancers with clients seeking diverse services at various price points. Fiverr is particularly known for its “Gig” based system, where freelancers offer services starting from as low as $5. It’s a great platform for those in graphic design, digital marketing, writing, translation, and more.
Getting Started: Create a seller profile and design “Gigs” – these are your service offerings. Fiverr emphasizes that Gigs are your opportunity to highlight your talent and provide buyers with all necessary information to choose your services.³
Earning Potential: While some users treat Fiverr as a side income source, others build substantial businesses. Research indicates the average Fiverr user makes around $103 per month, with a median income of $60 per month.⁴ For a comparison, explore articles reviewing Upwork vs Fiverr.
1.3. Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com is a comprehensive platform connecting businesses with freelance professionals for projects ranging from website design and content writing to marketing and software development. It hosts contests where freelancers can compete for projects, offering diverse ways to find work.
Getting Started: Registration on Freelancer.com is free and straightforward, requiring an email address or Facebook account and a username.⁵
Earning Potential: Similar to Upwork, Freelancer.com hosts a wide range of freelancers, and hourly rates are generally competitive, averaging around $20 per hour. For a platform comparison, see articles reviewing Upwork vs Freelancer.
1.4. Toptal
Toptal positions itself as a premium platform focusing on connecting businesses with top-tier freelance talent globally. Known for its rigorous screening process, Toptal ensures clients are matched with highly skilled professionals, primarily in tech and finance.
Getting Started: Toptal’s screening process is selective and may take several weeks, requiring freelancers to demonstrate significant experience, strong communication skills, and the ability to quickly adapt to new projects.⁶
Earning Potential: Reflecting its focus on top talent, Toptal offers higher earning potential. Reports indicate annual earnings ranging from $50,355 to $234,368, depending on specialization, rates, and project volume.⁷
1.5. FlexJobs
FlexJobs is a specialized job search platform focusing on flexible and remote work opportunities. It curates listings for telecommuting, part-time, freelance, and contract positions across various industries, aimed at professionals seeking work-life balance.
Getting Started: Creating a resume profile on FlexJobs is required to apply for jobs. This profile allows you to apply for featured jobs and enables their system to match you with relevant new job postings.⁸ Note that FlexJobs is a subscription-based service for job seekers.
Earning Potential: Salaries on FlexJobs vary widely based on the role and industry. Average reported salaries range from $30,000 to $80,000 per year, with specialized or senior positions exceeding $100,000 annually.⁹
Considering business banking options? Explore the Best Banks for Small Businesses >>
2. Wise Business: Streamline International Business Transactions
For freelancers and businesses operating internationally, Wise Business offers a powerful account to manage global finances efficiently.
Key Benefits of Wise Business:
- Mid-Market Exchange Rate: Wise is known for using the mid-market exchange rate, ensuring fair and transparent currency conversion.
- Lower Fees: Often provides lower fees compared to traditional financial institutions for international transactions.
- Multi-Currency Account: Hold and manage funds in over 40 currencies.
- Accounting Integrations: Seamlessly integrates with platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, Wave, and more.
- Fast Transfers: Offers instant payments in select currencies.
- Wise Business Card: Use a multi-currency card for spending and withdrawals.
- Local Account Details: Receive payments like a local with account details in major currencies (GBP, EUR, USD, CAD, AUD, JPY) for a one-time fee.
Optimize your international business finances with Wise Business. Learn More >>
3. Short Task & Gig Economy Apps: Quick Cash and Flexible Work
For those seeking immediate earning opportunities and flexible work schedules, short task apps provide a gateway to quick income.
3.1. Ibotta
Ibotta is a popular cash-back rewards app that allows users to earn money on everyday purchases. By scanning receipts or linking store loyalty cards, users can receive cash back on groceries, household items, and more from participating retailers.
Getting Started: You’ll need a compatible smartphone device and a PayPal account to withdraw earnings. Alternatively, you can opt for gift cards from select retailers.¹⁰
Earning Potential: While earnings vary, users report it’s feasible to reach a $20 threshold each month with consistent use.¹¹
3.2. Rakuten
Rakuten, formerly known as Ebates, is a leading e-commerce platform and cash-back app. It partners with thousands of retailers, offering users cash back on online and in-store purchases. Rakuten also frequently features deals and discounts to enhance savings.
Getting Started: Joining Rakuten is free and requires only an email, password, or sign-up through Facebook, Google, or Apple accounts.¹²
Earning Potential: Rakuten earnings are directly tied to your spending. New users often get a bonus, such as $10 for spending $25 within the first 90 days. Cashback is typically paid out quarterly via check or PayPal.¹³
3.3. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a versatile rewards app that allows users to earn “SB” points for completing various online tasks. These tasks include taking surveys, watching videos, playing games, and shopping online. SB points can be redeemed for gift cards or cash via PayPal.
Getting Started: Sign-up is quick and easy, taking just a minute through their website or app.¹⁴
Earning Potential: Swagbucks users can earn anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars annually, depending on their engagement. Daily earnings typically range from $1 to $5, but higher payouts are possible with specific offers.¹⁴
3.4. Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is a dedicated online survey platform that compensates users for sharing their opinions. Market research companies use these surveys to gather consumer insights.
Getting Started: Upon signing up, you can choose to participate in standard surveys (SJ Opinion) and optionally allow them to collect browsing behavior data (SJ Pulse) for additional earning opportunities.¹⁵
Earning Potential: Hourly earnings for surveys can be modest, with reports around $3.18 per hour. Focus groups may offer higher payouts, but survey availability and qualification can vary.¹⁶
3.5. Taskrabbit
Taskrabbit connects individuals with “Taskers” for local errands and tasks. From furniture assembly and moving help to cleaning and handyman services, Taskrabbit offers a platform to find local gigs based on your skills and availability.
Getting Started: Become a Tasker by downloading the Tasker app, creating a profile, and verifying your identity with an ID and photo.¹⁷
Earning Potential: Taskrabbit earnings vary based on location, skills, and task availability. Average monthly earnings are reported around $380, with a median income of $110 per month.⁴
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4. Delivery and Ride-Sharing Apps: Earn Money on the Road
If you own a car and enjoy driving, delivery and ride-sharing apps offer opportunities to earn money on your own schedule.
4.1. Uber
Uber is the leading ride-sharing app, connecting drivers with passengers seeking transportation. It provides a flexible way to earn income by driving people around your city.
Getting Started: Requirements include a four-door vehicle, a valid driver’s license, vehicle insurance, proof of residency, and typically 1-3 years of driving experience.¹⁸
Earning Potential: Uber driver earnings vary by location and time of day. Average monthly earnings are reported around $364, with a median of $155 per month.⁴
Considering business accounts as an Uber driver? Learn about the best options here.
4.2. Lyft
Lyft is a major competitor to Uber in the ride-sharing market. It operates similarly, connecting drivers with passengers for on-demand rides.
Getting Started: Driver requirements are comparable to Uber, including a valid driver’s license, background check, insurance documents, and a qualifying vehicle (which can be owned or rented).¹⁹
Earning Potential: Lyft driver earnings are similar to Uber. Average monthly earnings are around $377, with a median of $210 per month.⁴
4.3. DoorDash
DoorDash specializes in food delivery, partnering with restaurants to deliver meals to customers’ doorsteps. As a Dasher (DoorDash driver), you pick up orders from restaurants and deliver them to customers.
Getting Started: Dashers must be over 18, have access to a vehicle (car, scooter, or bike in some markets), and provide necessary documentation like an ID and Social Security number.²⁰
Earning Potential: DoorDash Dasher earnings average around $229 per month, with a median income of $100 per month.⁴
4.4. Instacart
Instacart focuses on grocery delivery and personal shopping. Instacart Shoppers receive orders through the app, shop for groceries at local stores, and deliver them to customers.
Getting Started: To become an Instacart Shopper, you must be over 18, eligible to work in the U.S., have a vehicle, driver’s license, and a bank account.²¹
Earning Potential: Instacart Shoppers average between $11-$16 per hour, or around $16.06 per delivery trip.²²
Need to manage earnings in different currencies? Wise can help with international money management >>
5. Platforms for Selling Your Goods: Declutter and Earn
The secondhand market is booming, and selling your unwanted items online is a straightforward way to generate extra cash.
5.1. Poshmark
Poshmark is a social marketplace app focused on fashion, accessories, and home goods. It’s particularly popular for selling clothing and accessories, with a strong community aspect.
Earning Potential: Average Poshmark sellers can expect to earn around $500 per month, with dedicated full-time sellers potentially earning up to $5,000 monthly.²³
5.2. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace leverages Facebook’s vast user base to create a local buying and selling platform. It’s versatile, allowing you to sell almost anything from furniture and electronics to clothing and collectibles to people in your local area.
Getting Started: You need a Facebook account to start selling. Facebook recommends using your own photos, writing honest descriptions, pricing competitively, and being professional in your interactions.²⁴
Earning Potential: Earnings on Facebook Marketplace are highly variable and region-dependent. However, with 40% of Facebook users using Marketplace, it presents a significant opportunity.²⁵
5.3. OfferUp
OfferUp is a mobile-first marketplace app designed for local buying and selling. Known for its user-friendly interface and focus on safety, OfferUp facilitates transactions for a wide range of items within your community.
Getting Started: Account creation is simple via the OfferUp app or website using email, Facebook, Google, or Apple ID.²⁶
Earning Potential: Specific earning data for OfferUp is less readily available, but its popularity suggests a viable platform for local sales.
5.4. Vinted
Vinted is a marketplace app specializing in secondhand clothing, shoes, and accessories, particularly popular in Europe and increasingly in the US. It emphasizes affordable fashion and sustainable shopping.
Getting Started: Account verification can be done through Google or Facebook. A profile picture is recommended to build trust.²⁷
Earning Potential: Individual earnings vary widely. Vinted’s substantial valuation at $4.5 billion indicates a robust and active marketplace.²⁸
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Conclusion: Start Earning with the Best Money-Making Apps Today
The digital economy offers a wealth of opportunities to earn money through apps. Whether you’re looking to leverage professional skills on freelancing platforms, grab quick gigs, utilize your car for deliveries, or sell your unwanted items, there’s an app to match your goals. By exploring these best apps to earn money, you can start boosting your income and achieving your financial objectives in 2024.
Sources:
Sources last checked on 12-January-2024.
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