22 Apps That Pay You Real Money (No Scams, No Gimmicks)
Looking for easy ways to earn a little extra cash from your phone? You don’t need a full-time job or complicated side hustle to start making money. Some apps pay you real cash, gift cards, and rewards for tasks you’re already doing. Whether it’s completing surveys, playing games, or testing new apps, there’s something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll show the best apps that pay you, how much you can realistically earn, and tips to maximize your earnings.
Here, we will share our favorite apps that pay you cash.
Apps That Pay You Real Money
1. Rakuten
Rakuten is an app that can get you cashback at thousands of retailers nationwide. How does that work? Stores pay Rakuten to advertise their products to you, sharing some of that commission via cashback for your purchases.
Simply shop through their links and earn a percentage of your purchase! Some stores even offer up to 40% off. When it’s time to cash out, you can get your money either in a check or via PayPal.
You’ll find stores like Belk, eBay, Nike, EyeBuyDirect, Bark Box, and more on Rakuten. They have everything from clothing and accessories to travel and subscription services. Why not make money on the purchases you’re already making?
I’ve been using Rakuten since 2013. Below, you can see my earnings so far.
Ready to get paid for shopping? Sign up for Rakuten now and claim your $30 bonus—your future self will thank you.
2. Robinhood
Robinhood is an app that makes investing easy. It’s 100% commission-free and lets you invest as little as a dollar, allowing you to buy parts of a share instead of forking out the money for an entire one. I’ve been investing with Robinhood for a few years now.
They have a comprehensive and easy-to-understand starter’s guide to investing on their website that is super helpful if you’re just getting started and clueless about the world of stocks.
Robinhood is a great way to start investing your money into a diversified portfolio that works for you and your budget.
Start investing with confidence. Join Robinhood today and get a free stock just for signing up. It’s never been easier to build your portfolio.
3. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is the next on the list of apps that pay cash. Swagbucks lets you earn gift cards by taking surveys, watching videos, shopping online, searching the web, and playing games. Yes, it is that simple!
It is free to join and offers gift cards to major retailers such as Walmart, Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and more. You can even redeem your Swagbucks as cash, but there is a $25 minimum to do so. There’s also a $10 bonus just for signing up!
Swagbucks is a great way to turn that idle time into a little extra cash if you have some downtime and often find yourself aimlessly scrolling through your phone. Take a look at my Swagbucks review here.
Also, check out my lifetime Swagbucks earnings.
Turn your spare time into gift cards. Join Swagbucks now and grab your $10 bonus while it lasts!
4. Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is another excellent survey app that can earn you up to $45 for your opinions on just about everything. They’re one of the most well-known and trusted survey companies around!
It’s a great way to help influence the brands you love to enhance their products and services while making extra money.
When you complete surveys, you earn points that can be redeemed for gift cards to places like Amazon, Target, and even PayPal! You can’t withdraw right away, though. Before redeeming and receiving your gift cards, you must meet a $10 threshold. Learn more about Survey Junkie by reading this review.
Your opinions are valuable. Sign up for Survey Junkie and start earning real rewards for your voice.
5. Fetch Rewards
Fetch Rewards is an app that lets you snap pictures of your receipts and earn rewards points that you can turn into gift cards for your favorite retailers and brands. You can also use your e-receipts from online shopping to earn points! It’s one of the newest things on this list of apps that pay you cash.
You can even turn your points into charitable donations if you want to do some good. Or, if you’re feeling lucky, you can use those points to enter monthly sweepstakes.
You’ll find brands ranging from Sephora, Nintendo, Best Buy, Top Golf, Ray-Ban, Stitch Fix, Domino’s, and hundreds more. I’m letting my Fetch Rewards points add up to get something travel-related. Check out my Fetch Rewards review if you want to learn more.
Snap, earn, and redeem! Use my referral code W7XAY to sign up for Fetch Rewards to get 2000 bonus points.
6. Earny
Earny is a browser plugin that lets you know if something you’ve recently bought has decreased in price and helps you get the difference back! It can also earn you up to 20% cashback when you shop online.
You must install and activate the extension in your Chrome browser, add items to your watchlist, and shop! When an item is on your watchlist, Earny will notify you when the price drops and it’s the right time to buy.
Earny does it all: price tracking, cashback, and getting your money back when prices drop after you make a purchase.
Don’t let price drops slip by, let Earny get you money back automatically. Install now and save without thinking.
Want more ways to earn money beyond apps? Explore these legit side hustles.
7. Poshmark
Poshmark is an app that lets you buy and sell unwanted clothes, accessories, home decor, and more. It’s super easy to use and can help you make money off stuff that just takes up space in your closet. If you like selling on eBay or Mercari, you should sign up for Poshmark.
Clear out your closet and cash in. Download Poshmark and make your first sale today!
So, the next time you do a closet cleanout, make sure to post your items on Poshmark before you donate them. The app is straightforward to use. You will have your first sale before you know it. This is one of my favorite apps that pay real money. By selling your old clothes, you earn money and create more space in your closet. If you want to learn more about Poshmark, check out this post here.
8. Freecash
Freecash is an app that allows you to earn real money by completing tasks, taking surveys, and participating in offers. Whether you have a few spare minutes or some dedicated time, Freecash offers a variety of ways to rack up rewards.
One of the standout features of Freecash is its flexibility. You can cash out your earnings through PayPal, cryptocurrency, or gift cards. Additionally, it has a low payout threshold, making it easier to access your rewards quickly.
With its user-friendly interface and steady earning opportunities, Freecash is an excellent app for anyone looking to make extra cash in their free time.
Easy tasks, real payouts. Click here to join Freecash and start earning fast.
9. Rover
Rover is a great way to earn extra money if you love animals and have some free time! Rover is an app dog and cat owners use to find pet walkers and sitters. Whether you’re open to overnight care or just a quick mid-day walk, you can earn up to $1,000 a month hanging out with pets. That sounds like a win-win situation to us!
You can set your schedule, prices, and animal preferences that work for you. Rover also offers 24/7 support and vet assistance, ensuring you and your pets are safe.
Love pets? Get paid to spend time with them. Sign up for Rover and turn cuddles into cash.
10. Nielsen
Nielsen is a company that relies on real people like you to get an idea of what media and goods the population buys. They use this data to produce their Nielsen Ratings for TV and radio and look at consumer purchasing behaviors. There is also an app that you can use to scan item barcodes and earn cashback.
They operate in over 100 countries and provide what is arguably the best look at consumer data and analytics out there.
Your habits can earn you money. Learn more about Nielsen and get rewarded for being you.
11. Surveys4Rewards
Surveys4Rewards is an online platform that allows users to earn money or rewards by completing surveys. Companies partner with these survey sites to gather consumer opinions and feedback on products, services, and other market research topics. Users who sign up for Surveys4Rewards can participate in surveys and earn points, which can be redeemed for gift cards, cash, or other rewards.
Your opinions matter, and they pay. Join Surveys4Rewards today and start cashing in.
12. Ibotta
Ibotta is one of the most well-known cashback apps. It offers cash back on groceries, online purchases, travel, and more. You can even earn a $10 welcome bonus when you sign up and redeem your first offer.
Ibotta is a great way to get cash back on your purchases. Download the app and start shopping. Then upload your receipt and get cash back deposited into your account when you’re done. It’s that easy!
You must make purchases to earn money with Ibotta. But if you make many online and in-person purchases, Ibotta is a great way to get cashback. Check out my Ibotta review for more information.
There are no games to play or anything like that. You shop, upload your receipt, and get cash back.
Shop. Snap. Get cash back. Sign up for Ibotta now and grab your $5 welcome bonus!
13. Acorns
Acorns is an app that helps you invest your spare change. When you make a purchase, the app rounds up to the nearest dollar and invests that into a portfolio of ETFs. Over time, those small investments can add up to a lot of money.
Acorns is a great way to get started in investing. The app is easy to use and has many features, like rounding up your spare change and investing it for you.
Acorns is an excellent option if you’re looking for a simple way to invest your money. You don’t need much money to start, and the app does much of the work.
Investing in your future is one of the most important things you can do. And Acorns makes getting started easy and affordable. You’ll be surprised how quickly your nest egg grows by only investing your spare change.
Invest without thinking. Join Acorns today and start growing your money with spare change.
14. Uber
Uber is a rideshare app that allows you to earn money by giving people rides. You can use your car, or you can sign up to be an Uber driver.
Uber is a great way to make extra money. You can set your own hours and work as much or as little as you want. And with Uber, you can be your own boss!
To be an Uber driver, you need a reliable car and a clean driving record. But if you meet those requirements, it’s a great way to earn money.
Unlike many of the ways listed to make money, driving for Uber requires investing in gas and car maintenance. But it’s a great option if you’re looking for a way to earn extra money.
College students and retired people make great Uber drivers because they can drive whenever they want. That means they can drive for a few hours here and there when they have nothing else to do and want to earn a little extra cash.
Drive your way to extra cash. Become an Uber driver and start earning on your terms.
Wondering what it takes to reach six figures? Learn how different income streams stack up.
15. Inbox Dollars
InboxDollars has been around for what feels like forever. They offer paid surveys, cash back on online purchases, games, and more.
InboxDollars is one of the oldest and most well-known ways to make money online. It offers various ways to earn cash, including taking surveys, playing games, and shopping online.
InboxDollars is a great way to make extra money in your free time. You can do it anywhere, and you don’t need any particular skills or experience.
You can spend as little or as much time on InboxDollars. And the more time you spend, the more money you can earn.
If you’re looking for a way to earn extra cash when you’re bored, InboxDollars is a great option.
Don’t let downtime go to waste—get paid for surveys, games, and more. Sign up for InboxDollars today!
16. KashKick
KashKick makes getting started super easy. You sign up quickly and jump right into making money. It’s smooth sailing through the app, too, thanks to a design that’s easy on the eyes and simple to get around. I hardly ran into any glitches, which is a big thumbs up for those who aren’t tech wizards.
There’s no shortage of ways to pocket some extra cash here. Whether you’re into surveys, watching videos, or just surfing the web, KashKick keeps things interesting. It’s nice to have a mix of tasks so you can switch it up instead of getting stuck in a survey rut. Playing games offers some of the highest earning potential on the platform, though. Be sure to explore the Challenges section, download a few games, and complete various level milestones to maximize your earnings.
Cashing out is straightforward. They keep the payout threshold low, which means you can get your hands on your earnings without much wait. Payments through PayPal add that layer of ease and security. You won’t be left hanging long to enjoy your earnings, which is nice.
Don’t expect to quit your day job, but the money you make can pad your wallet nicely for relatively little effort. Focusing on the more lucrative activities yields better earnings, indicating that a strategic approach to task selection can enhance your financial gain.
Fast sign-up, fast payouts. Try KashKick now and see how easy earning online can be.
17. DoorDash
DoorDash is next on the list of apps that pay you. It is pretty simple to use, whether you’re tech-savvy or not. Signing up is quick; before you know it, you’re ready to start delivering. The app itself is a breeze to use; it shows you what you’ll earn per delivery and keeps you updated on extra cash opportunities.
What’s cool about DoorDash is it’s not just about food. You can deliver all sorts of things, from groceries to pet supplies. The flexibility is a big win; you decide when and where you work. Whether it’s a side hustle or something you’re considering full-time, how much you earn depends on a few things like your location, how often you deliver, and, yes, the type of orders you choose to accept. And remember, all those miles you’re driving? Keep tabs on them. They’re tax-deductible.
Dashers get their pay through several options. You can opt for weekly direct deposit, or if you’re in a pinch, DoorDash’s Fast Pay lets you access your earnings daily for a small fee. There’s also a DasherDirect card, a prepaid debit card that is better because you get cashback on gas purchases.
Here’s the lowdown on making more dough: picking the right orders is key. You don’t have to take every small order that comes your way. And if you can deliver multiple orders at once, go for it; make sure you don’t mix them up. Also, timing is everything. Working during busy times means more orders and potentially more tips. Speaking of tips, being friendly and throwing in extra napkins or sauces might bump up those tips.
So, is DoorDash worth it? It’s a solid choice for earning extra cash on your terms. Just keep in mind that, like any gig, it has its ups and downs. Your earnings will vary, but with a bit of strategy, you can make the most of your dashes.
Hit the road and start earning fast. Sign up for DoorDash and make money your way.
18. Mercari
Mercari is like the online garage sale of your dreams, minus the early wake-up call and haggling over a couple of bucks in person. It’s perfect for those of us in the U.S. who are over 18 and have stuff lying around that we swear we’ll use “someday.” Instead of collecting dust, your items could be collecting cash.
Getting started on Mercari couldn’t be easier. Download the app, snap some pics of the stuff you want to sell, write a quick description, and set your price. Boom—you’re in business. And if you’re on the hunt for something specific or love a good deal, browsing is a breeze. When ready, you can save your faves, make offers, or hit the “buy now” button.
The app is pretty simple when it comes to cashing out. After you and your buyer rate each other, the money can be transferred directly to your bank, used for a slight fee through Instant Pay, or spent on something else within the app. They do take a 10% cut from your sale plus a small processing fee, but considering the platform and audience they provide, it’s pretty good.
If you’re considering diving into Mercari, it’s all about balance. Consider your selling strategy, weigh the fees, and don’t forget about shipping logistics. It’s an easy, popular place to make some extra dough, clear out your space, or find discounted items without leaving your couch. Just remember, like any online marketplace, there’s always a small risk of returns or policy abuses, but that’s just part of the game.
To learn more about Mercari, check out my review here.
Turn clutter into cash. Download Mercari and list your first item in minutes!
19. Mistplay
Mistplay is a cool app if you’re into gaming on your phone. You sign up, pick your favorite types of games, and start playing to earn points, or what they call Units. It’s all about playing games, racking up points, and getting gift cards in return. They have many different games to choose from—everything from Super Mario Run to Candy Crush Saga. So, you’re likely to find something you enjoy.
The deal with earning points is pretty appealing. You play games, and the more you play, the more Units you earn. You can turn these Units into gift cards from places like Amazon or Google Play. But there’s a twist: the number of Units you get can change, and there are different types of points you earn, like GXP for how long you play a game and PXP, which goes up the more you play any game on Mistplay.
Cashing in your Units for gift cards is simple. You have many options, from small amounts like $0.50 to $25 or more. And while it’s fun and all, don’t expect to quit your day job—most folks say they make a few bucks to maybe $30 or $40 a month if they’re really into it. It’s more about having fun and getting a little something back for your time.
People enjoy Mistplay for the games and the easy way to snag some gift cards. But it’s only on Android for now, which is a bummer for iPhone users. And yeah, earning those gift cards can take a bit, especially if you’re not playing all the time. But if you’re already playing games on your phone, why not give Mistplay a shot and earn a bit while you’re at it?
Game your way to gift cards. Try Mistplay and start earning while having fun. (Android only!)
20. Branded Surveys
Branded Surveys is a platform that allows users to earn money by completing online surveys, offering a straightforward way to make extra income in their free time. The app provides users with various survey opportunities, with average survey payments ranging between $0.50 and $5.00 and some exceptional surveys potentially paying up to $102. Both public and private company surveys are available for users to complete; they usually take 10 to 30 minutes to complete.
The platform offers multiple ways to redeem earnings, including PayPal cash-outs and gift cards to popular retailers. While survey apps like Branded Surveys can provide a supplemental income stream, users should be aware that survey availability and qualification can vary. The flexibility of the app, which lets users finish surveys in their free time while waiting for a ride, makes it a practical choice for anyone wishing to make a little extra cash online.
Make your opinions count—and pay. Join Branded Surveys and earn with every click.
21. Cash’em All
Cash’em All is a mobile gaming rewards app available exclusively on Android devices. It allows users to earn virtual coins by playing sponsored mobile games. Users download featured games, play them, and earn coins based on playtime.
Coins can be exchanged for real rewards, including PayPal cash or gift cards from popular retailers like Amazon, Starbucks, and Nike.
The app uses a rotating earnings model where coins decrease in value the longer you play a single game. This encourages users to switch between multiple games to maximize their earnings.
While Cash’em All won’t replace a full-time income, it’s a casual and entertaining way to earn small amounts of extra money during downtime. The app offers a low payout threshold, a joining bonus, and unlimited cash-outs, making it easy to redeem rewards whenever you’re ready.
Play new games, earn rewards. Download Cash’em All and turn playtime into paytime.
22. Playtime
PLAYTIME is an innovative app that allows users to earn money by playing free games. With no ads, fees, or hassles, players can enjoy their favorite games while earning cash rewards or gift cards directly on their phones.
The platform offers instant cash-outs with no limits, making it a fast and easy option for users who want quick payouts. PLAYTIME also provides daily rewards and bonuses, encouraging users to play more and earn more.
With a 4.7 rating from over 250,000 reviews, PLAYTIME has become a popular choice for people looking to make better use of their time by having fun and getting paid.
Download PLAYTIME and start earning instantly, no limits, just rewards.
How Much Can Apps Realistically Earn?
Apps that pay you are best viewed as a way to earn supplemental income, not a full-time paycheck. Most users earn anywhere from $10 to $200 per month, depending on how many apps they use, how consistently they complete tasks, and the types of offers they choose.
Simple tasks like surveys, cashback offers, and reward programs usually yield small but steady income, while higher-paying opportunities such as referrals, bonuses, and special promotions can boost earnings over time. Many people combine multiple apps to maximize their income instead of relying on just one platform.
For beginners, this type of income can be a great starting point because it builds the habit of earning online. Over time, many users transition from small app earnings into more scalable income streams like freelancing, digital products, or other structured side hustle ideas. While apps won’t replace a full-time income, they can be a practical first step toward building consistent extra cash flow.
Apps can be a great starting point, but they’re only one piece of the puzzle. Check out these guides to grow your income further:
• Explore legit side hustle ideas that go beyond apps
• See how close apps can get you to a six-figure income goal
• Learn about investing small amounts consistently
• Find high-income skills worth learning
Jason Butler is the owner of My Money Chronicles, a website where he discusses personal finance, side hustles, travel, and more. Jason is from Atlanta, Georgia. He graduated from Savannah State University with his BA in Marketing. Jason has been featured in Forbes, Discover, and Investopedia.
