In today’s digital age, earning money from your smartphone is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s a tangible reality. With a plethora of apps available, the opportunity to supplement your income or even build a full-time career online is more accessible than ever. Whether you’re looking to make some extra cash in your spare time or seeking a more substantial income stream, the right apps can be your gateway to financial empowerment.
This article dives into the Best Apps To Get Money in 2024, categorizing them to help you find the perfect fit for your skills and schedule. We’ll explore platforms for longer-term freelancing, quick short-term tasks, delivery and taxi services, and even selling your unwanted items. Discover how these apps work, how to get started, and what you can realistically expect to earn, empowering you to take control of your financial future.
Top Money-Making Apps in 2024: Your Guide to Earning Online
To navigate the diverse landscape of money-making apps, we’ve organized our recommendations into four key categories, catering to different earning styles and time commitments:
- Freelancing Platforms for Long-Term Projects
- Short Task & Gig Economy Apps
- Driving & Delivery Apps
- Platforms to Sell Your Used Goods
Each section will provide a detailed overview of the app’s services, a step-by-step guide on getting started, and insights into potential earnings.
Freelancing Platforms for Long-Term Projects
For those seeking consistent income and project-based work, freelancing platforms offer a robust marketplace to connect with clients and build a sustainable online career.
- Upwork: Your Global Talent Marketplace
Upwork stands as a leading online platform connecting businesses with freelancers across a vast spectrum of skills. From web development and graphic design to writing, marketing, and virtual assistance, Upwork provides a diverse range of remote work opportunities. It’s a comprehensive platform that facilitates project management, communication, and secure payments.
Getting Started with Upwork:
- Create a Profile: Sign up and build a professional profile highlighting your skills, experience, and portfolio.
- Submit Applications: Browse job postings relevant to your expertise and submit proposals to projects that match your skillset.
- Build Your Reputation: Deliver high-quality work and communicate effectively with clients to build positive reviews and increase your visibility on the platform.
Earning Potential on Upwork:
Freelancers on Upwork in the U.S. can average around $20 per hour, with some specialized professions commanding rates of $28 per hour or more, according to Upwork’s own data. Keep in mind that Upwork charges fees for using the platform, which vary depending on your earnings and client relationships. Payment withdrawal options are diverse, including direct bank transfers, wire transfers, and third-party services like Wise, PayPal, and Payoneer, especially useful for international freelancers withdrawing USD outside the US.
- Fiverr: Gig-Based Services for Every Skill
Fiverr is a dynamic digital marketplace known for its gig-based service model. Freelancers, or “sellers,” offer services, or “Gigs,” in categories ranging from creative design and writing to digital marketing and programming. Fiverr is known for offering accessible and often affordable services, making it a popular choice for both freelancers and clients.
Getting Started with Fiverr:
- Create a Seller Profile: Sign up and set up your seller profile, showcasing your skills and experience.
- Create Gigs: Design attractive and informative “Gigs” outlining the services you offer, pricing, and delivery timelines. Think of Gigs as your service packages, clearly defining what you offer to potential buyers.
- Promote Your Gigs: Utilize Fiverr’s platform tools and social media to promote your Gigs and attract clients.
Earning Potential on Fiverr:
While Fiverr is known for its starting prices as low as $5, many freelancers earn significantly more by offering Gig packages and upselling services. Research from Earnest indicates that the average Fiverr user makes around $103 per month, with a median income closer to $60 per month. However, top Fiverr sellers can earn thousands of dollars monthly by building a strong reputation and offering in-demand services.
- Freelancer.com: Bid and Win Projects
Freelancer.com is another expansive online platform connecting businesses with freelance professionals for diverse projects. Similar to Upwork, it offers a wide spectrum of services, including web design, content writing, digital marketing, software development, and more. Freelancer.com operates on a bidding system, where freelancers bid on projects posted by clients.
Getting Started with Freelancer.com:
- Register for Free: Sign up using your email or Facebook account.
- Create a Profile: Develop a comprehensive profile highlighting your skills, portfolio, and experience.
- Bid on Projects: Search for projects matching your skills and submit competitive bids to win work.
Earning Potential on Freelancer.com:
As a platform with a large network of freelancers, earning potential on Freelancer.com is competitive. Similar to Upwork, average hourly rates can be around $20, depending on your skills and the projects you secure. Success on Freelancer.com often depends on crafting compelling bids and building a strong portfolio of completed projects.
- Toptal: Elite Freelance Talent Network
Toptal distinguishes itself as a highly selective platform focused on connecting businesses with top-tier freelance talent globally. Toptal employs a rigorous screening process, ensuring that only the most skilled and experienced professionals are admitted to the platform. This focus on quality makes Toptal a premium option for both freelancers and clients seeking exceptional results.
Getting Started with Toptal:
- Apply and Undergo Screening: The application process is selective and involves multiple stages of screening to assess skills, experience, and communication abilities. This process can take several weeks.
- Build Your Profile: Once accepted, create a detailed profile showcasing your expertise and professional background.
- Connect with Top Clients: Toptal matches you with high-profile clients seeking top-tier talent for complex and impactful projects.
Earning Potential on Toptal:
Due to its focus on elite 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 $50,000 and $230,000+ annually, depending on their specialization, rates, and project volume.
- FlexJobs: Flexible and Remote Job Platform
FlexJobs is a dedicated job search platform specializing in flexible and remote work opportunities. Unlike general job boards, FlexJobs pre-screens listings to ensure they are legitimate and offer truly flexible arrangements, such as telecommuting, part-time, freelance, and alternative schedules. This makes it a valuable resource for individuals seeking work-life balance.
Getting Started with FlexJobs:
- Sign Up and Create a Profile: Create an account and build a resume profile highlighting your skills and desired job types.
- Browse Job Listings: Explore a curated database of flexible and remote job postings across various industries.
- Apply to Jobs: Apply directly to job postings that align with your skills and career goals.
Earning Potential on FlexJobs:
Salaries on FlexJobs vary widely depending on the type of role and company. Glassdoor reports average salaries ranging from $30,000 to $80,000 per year, with specialized or higher-level positions exceeding $100,000 annually. FlexJobs provides access to a wide range of flexible employment options with competitive pay.
Short Task & Gig Economy Apps
For those looking for quick and easy ways to make money in their spare moments, short task apps and gig economy platforms offer immediate earning opportunities for completing small tasks and errands.
- Ibotta: Cashback Rewards for Everyday Shopping
Ibotta is a popular cashback app that rewards users for everyday purchases at participating stores. By scanning receipts or linking store loyalty cards, users can earn cashback on groceries, household items, and more. Ibotta has gained popularity for its user-friendly interface and diverse reward options.
Getting Started with Ibotta:
- Download the App: Install the Ibotta app on your compatible smartphone or device.
- Create an Account: Sign up and link your PayPal account or choose gift card reward options.
- Browse Offers and Shop: Explore cashback offers within the app before you shop at participating stores.
- Redeem Rewards: After shopping, scan your receipt or link your loyalty card to claim your cashback.
Earning Potential with Ibotta:
While Ibotta won’t make you rich, it’s a practical way to earn cashback on your regular spending. User reviews suggest that reaching a $20 payout threshold each month is achievable with consistent use. Earnings depend on your shopping habits and the available offers.
- Rakuten (formerly Ebates): Earn Cash Back Online
Rakuten is a leading e-commerce platform and app that provides a wide array of products from various retailers, coupled with deals and discounts for its users. Its standout feature is its cashback program, allowing users to earn a percentage back on purchases made through the Rakuten platform or app.
Getting Started with Rakuten:
- Sign Up for Free: Join Rakuten via email, Facebook, Google, or Apple account.
- Browse and Shop: Access Rakuten’s platform or app before shopping online at participating retailers.
- Earn Cash Back: Rakuten automatically tracks your purchases and credits cashback to your account.
- Receive Payments: Rakuten sends cashback payments via check or PayPal every three months.
Earning Potential with Rakuten:
Rakuten’s earnings are directly tied to your online shopping spending. While specific monthly earnings vary, new users often receive a $10 bonus after spending $25 within the first 90 days. The percentage of cashback varies by retailer and promotion, but consistent online shoppers can accumulate significant savings over time.
- Swagbucks: Rewards for Online Activities
Swagbucks is a versatile rewards app that allows users to earn points (“SB”) by completing various online tasks. These include taking surveys, watching videos, playing games, and completing online shopping offers. SB points can be redeemed for gift cards or cash via PayPal.
Getting Started with Swagbucks:
- Sign Up Online or via App: Create a Swagbucks account, which takes approximately 1 minute.
- Explore Earning Activities: Browse the Swagbucks platform and app for various earning opportunities, such as surveys, videos, and offers.
- Earn SB Points: Complete tasks and activities to accumulate SB points.
- Redeem for Rewards: Exchange your SB points for gift cards or cash payouts.
Earning Potential with Swagbucks:
Swagbucks offers modest but consistent earning potential for casual online activity. Swagbucks states that active members can earn “a couple hundred to a couple thousand extra dollars a year.” Daily earnings typically range from $1 to $5, but occasional higher-paying offers can boost income.
- Survey Junkie: Get Paid for Your Opinions
Survey Junkie is a dedicated survey platform connecting market researchers with consumers who want to share their opinions and get paid. Users earn rewards for completing online surveys on various topics.
Getting Started with Survey Junkie:
- Sign Up: Register for Survey Junkie and choose to participate in SJ Opinion (surveys) or SJ Pulse (browsing behavior tracking), or both.
- Complete Your Profile: Fill out your profile to ensure you receive relevant survey invitations.
- Take Surveys: Participate in surveys that match your profile and interests.
- Earn Points and Redeem: Accumulate points for each completed survey and redeem them for cash via PayPal or e-gift cards.
Earning Potential with Survey Junkie:
Survey Junkie offers a modest hourly earning rate. One report indicates an average of $3.18 per hour for completing surveys. Earnings can fluctuate depending on survey availability and completion rates. Focus groups offered through Survey Junkie may offer higher payouts but are less frequent.
- Taskrabbit: Your Local Task Marketplace
Taskrabbit is an online platform that connects individuals with local “Taskers” to help with a wide range of tasks and errands. From furniture assembly and moving help to cleaning and handyman services, Taskrabbit provides a convenient way to outsource everyday chores.
Getting Started with Taskrabbit:
- Download Tasker App and Apply: Download the Tasker app and create an account.
- Create a Profile: Build a profile detailing your skills, experience, and availability.
- Verify Identity: Complete identity verification using an ID and photo.
- Browse and Claim Tasks: Browse available tasks in your area and claim those that match your skills and interests.
Earning Potential with Taskrabbit:
Taskrabbit earnings vary depending on the types of tasks you complete and your hourly rates. Earnest reports average monthly earnings of $380 for Taskrabbit users, with a median income of $110 per month. Taskers who specialize in in-demand skills and maintain high ratings can command higher rates and earn more.
Delivery and Taxi Apps
For those with vehicles and a flexible schedule, delivery and taxi apps offer opportunities to earn money by providing transportation and delivery services on demand.
- Uber: Ride-Sharing Giant
Uber is the dominant ride-sharing app, connecting passengers with drivers for on-demand transportation. It offers a convenient alternative to traditional taxi services and provides drivers with flexible earning opportunities.
Getting Started with Uber:
- Meet Driver Requirements: Have a four-door vehicle, valid driver’s license, vehicle insurance, and meet minimum driving experience requirements (typically 1-3 years).
- Sign Up and Background Check: Apply to become an Uber driver and undergo a background check.
- Download Driver App and Go Online: Download the Uber Driver app and go online to accept ride requests.
Earning Potential with Uber:
Uber driver earnings vary based on location, time of day, demand, and expenses (fuel, vehicle maintenance). Earnest reports average monthly earnings of $364 for Uber drivers, with a median income of $155 per month. Earnings can be maximized by driving during peak hours and in high-demand areas.
- Lyft: Uber’s Main Competitor
Lyft is Uber’s primary competitor in the ride-sharing market, offering a similar service connecting passengers and drivers. Lyft is known for its pink mustache branding and often emphasizes community and driver support.
Getting Started with Lyft:
- Meet Driver Requirements: Similar to Uber, you’ll need a valid driver’s license, insurance, a vehicle that meets Lyft’s standards, and pass a background check.
- Sign Up and Onboarding: Apply to drive with Lyft and complete their onboarding process.
- Download Driver App and Start Driving: Use the Lyft Driver app to accept ride requests and start earning.
Earning Potential with Lyft:
Lyft driver earnings are comparable to Uber, influenced by similar factors like location, time, and demand. Earnest reports average monthly earnings of $377 for Lyft drivers, with a median income of $210 per month. Strategies for maximizing earnings are similar to Uber, focusing on peak times and locations.
- DoorDash: Food Delivery on Demand
DoorDash is a leading food delivery app, partnering with local restaurants to provide on-demand meal delivery services. “Dashers” use their vehicles to pick up orders from restaurants and deliver them to customers.
Getting Started with DoorDash:
- Meet Dasher Requirements: Be over 18 years old, have access to a vehicle, and provide required documentation (ID, SSN).
- Sign Up and Background Check: Apply to become a Dasher and complete a background check.
- Download Dasher App and Start Dashing: Use the DoorDash Dasher app to accept delivery requests and begin making deliveries.
Earning Potential with DoorDash:
DoorDash Dasher earnings depend on delivery volume, distance, and time. Earnest reports average monthly earnings of $229 for DoorDash Dashers, with a median income of $100 per month. Earnings can be increased by dashing during peak meal times and in busy restaurant areas.
- Instacart: Grocery Delivery to Your Door
Instacart is a popular grocery delivery app that allows users to order groceries from local stores and have them delivered to their homes. Instacart shoppers fulfill these orders by shopping in-store and delivering groceries to customers.
Getting Started with Instacart:
- Meet Shopper Requirements: Be over 18, eligible to work in the U.S., have a vehicle, driver’s license, and bank account.
- Apply to Become a Shopper: Apply through the Instacart website or app to become a shopper.
- Download Shopper App and Start Shopping: Use the Instacart Shopper app to accept orders, shop for groceries, and deliver to customers.
Earning Potential with Instacart:
Instacart shopper earnings are typically hourly based or per-trip. Route4Me reports average earnings of $11-$16 per hour or $16.06 per trip. Earnings can be influenced by order size, delivery distance, and tips from customers.
Platforms to Sell Your Used Goods
For those looking to declutter and earn money from items they no longer need, online marketplaces offer convenient platforms to sell used clothing, electronics, furniture, and more.
- Poshmark: Fashion Marketplace for Style Enthusiasts
Poshmark is a fashion-focused marketplace app where users can buy and sell new and used clothing, accessories, and home goods. Poshmark emphasizes a social shopping experience with features like virtual shopping parties and social sharing.
Getting Started with Poshmark:
- Download the App and Sign Up: Install the Poshmark app and create an account.
- List Your Items: Take clear photos of your items, write detailed descriptions, and set your prices.
- Share and Promote Your Listings: Share your listings with followers and participate in Poshmark’s social features to increase visibility.
Earning Potential with Poshmark:
Poshmark seller earnings vary based on the types of items sold and sales volume. Poshmark ProTools suggests that average sellers can expect to earn around $500 per month, with dedicated full-time sellers potentially earning up to $5,000 per month.
- Facebook Marketplace: Local Buying and Selling Community
Facebook Marketplace is an integrated platform within Facebook where users can buy and sell goods and services locally. It leverages Facebook’s vast user base to connect buyers and sellers within their communities.
Getting Started with Facebook Marketplace:
- Access Marketplace via Facebook: Navigate to Marketplace within your Facebook account.
- Create Listings: Post items for sale with photos, descriptions, and pricing.
- Interact with Buyers: Respond to inquiries and arrange for local pickup or delivery.
Earning Potential with Facebook Marketplace:
Facebook Marketplace earnings are highly variable and region-specific, depending on the types of items sold and local demand. With a large user base, Facebook Marketplace offers significant potential for reaching local buyers, but earnings are dependent on individual effort and item popularity.
- OfferUp: Mobile Marketplace for Local Deals
OfferUp is a mobile-first marketplace app connecting buyers and sellers within their local areas. OfferUp focuses on simplicity and ease of use for buying and selling a wide variety of items.
Getting Started with OfferUp:
- Download the App and Sign Up: Install the OfferUp app and create an account using email, Facebook, Google, or Apple ID.
- Create Listings: Post items for sale with photos, descriptions, and pricing.
- Communicate with Buyers: Use OfferUp’s messaging features to interact with potential buyers and arrange transactions.
Earning Potential with OfferUp:
Information on typical OfferUp earnings is less readily available. Earnings depend on the types of items sold, local demand, and effective listing practices.
- Vinted: Secondhand Fashion Marketplace
Vinted is a mobile marketplace specializing in secondhand clothing, shoes, and accessories. Vinted emphasizes a community aspect with features like virtual closets and personalized recommendations for fashion enthusiasts.
Getting Started with Vinted:
- Download the App and Sign Up: Install the Vinted app and verify your account via Google or Facebook.
- Create Listings: Upload photos of your items, write descriptions, and set your prices.
- Engage with the Community: Utilize Vinted’s social features to connect with other users and promote your listings.
Earning Potential with Vinted:
Individual Vinted earnings are difficult to quantify. However, Vinted’s significant valuation and funding indicate a thriving marketplace for secondhand fashion. Earnings depend on the types of items sold, brand recognition, and effective listing and promotion within the Vinted community.
Conclusion: Choose the Best Apps to Get Money for Your Needs
The world of money-making apps offers diverse opportunities to supplement your income and achieve your financial goals. Whether you’re seeking long-term freelance work, quick cash for short tasks, flexible driving or delivery gigs, or a platform to sell your used items, there’s an app to match your skills and aspirations.
By exploring the apps outlined in this guide, you can take informed steps towards leveraging technology to boost your earnings and enhance your financial well-being in 2024 and beyond. Remember to research each app thoroughly, understand the terms and conditions, and choose platforms that align with your personal circumstances and earning objectives.
Sources Used:
Sources last checked on 12-January-2024.
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