If you want a side gig, there are lots of opportunities around. You don’t need to troll the job boards and local newspapers, as you can make money using your smartphone with these high-paying apps.
Although you may struggle to make a full-time income with an app, they do provide an opportunity to make decent money in your free time. You can also use several different apps to increase your earning potential.
Here we’ll explore 17 of the highest-paying apps around today that are definitely worth your time.
The Highest-Paying Apps
1. Swagbucks ($5 signup bonus)
It is easy to start making extra money with Swagbucks. There are many different ways to make money, and it can even be fun. You can earn by watching videos, taking surveys, internet surfing, and even earn cash back on your purchases at thousands of participating websites.
As the name suggests, you collect Swagbucks (their point system) with various rates for different tasks. There are bonuses for sign up and referring friends. Your Swagbucks can be redeemed for gift cards for over 1,500 retailers that include iTunes, Starbucks, and Amazon. Alternatively, you can convert your SBs into cash via a PayPal account. In general, 100 SB is equal to $1, but they run a lot of promotions that allow you to redeem your points at discounted rates (for example, you might be able to get a $20 gift card for 1800 SB, which would be a 10% discount. You also need a higher minimum for a PayPal cash out, so you will need to rack up thousands of SBs for a $100 PayPal payment. This can be a little daunting, but you may be surprised at how quickly those SBs start to add up.
2. Rakuten (formerly known as Ebates, $10 signup bonus)
Ebates is considered the most widely used and successful cashback app. You can earn as much as 40% on purchases made at over 2,500 stores. You can even combine your cashback with hot daily deals, coupons, and promo codes. This is a great way to earn extra cash for your regular shopping. Ebates is now a part of the Rakuten Inc group, which means access to even more offers and deals.
All new Ebate app users who spend $25 or more in the first 90 days after sign up will receive a $10 welcome bonus. Having the Ebates app will allow you to activate shopping trips at any time and shop through the Ebates affiliate link. You will receive your cashback every three months via check or PayPal, and you don’t need to fill out any forms or keep track of points. The payout threshold is very low, so even if you’re not a serious shopping enthusiast, you can still get a payment.
All new Ebate app users who spend $25 or more in the first 90 days after sign up will receive a $10 welcome bonus. Having the Ebates app will allow you to activate shopping trips at any time and shop through the Ebates affiliate link. You will receive your cashback every three months via check or PayPal, and you don’t need to fill out any forms or keep track of points. The payout threshold is very low, so even if you’re not a serious shopping enthusiast, you can still get a payment.
Dosh is another cash back app that provides payment when you shop at selected retailers with your linked credit or debit card. The app is easy to install and very user-friendly. This means that you don’t need to worry about scanning receipts, logging in before you make a purchase or using promo codes. Every time you use a linked card with a qualifying merchant, Dosh automatically calculates the spend and adds your cashback to your “Dosh Wallet.” When your wallet hits $25 or more, you can receive a payment via PayPal or direct deposit.
Since Dosh has so many qualifying merchants, including retail stores, online stores, restaurants, and even gas stations, you can enjoy significant cashback with your everyday spending (you need to click through the app to get credit for online purchases).
The amount of cashback varies according to the retailer, but some of the most popular retailers offer decent cashback, such as Walmart offering 6%, Target 1.25%, and Macy’s online at 2.25%. You can even earn 1% at Exxon gas stations. So, if you plan your regular shopping, you will start to earn money fast.
4. MyPoints ($10 signup bonus)
The MyPoints app provides access to accumulating points for cashback through surveys and other simple ways. On sign up, you’ll start earning points immediately that can be turned into cash, airline miles, or gift cards. You can earn points from completing surveys, online shopping with over 2,000 retailers, reading BonusMail emails, watching videos, playing games, referring friends, and printing coupons. There is even an option for shopping in-store, where you can redeem points by uploading your receipt.
When you reach 480 points, or $3, you can exchange them for gift cards from 70 top restaurant and retail brands, or travel miles. However, there are different requirements for different cards. For example, a $25 Amazon card requires 3,950 points, while an AMC card needs 3,520. Additionally, if you want to exchange your points for a PayPal transfer, you will need to accumulate at least $25 worth of points.
5. Ibotta
Ibotta allows you to earn cashback on your online and in-store purchases. This means that without changing your shopping habits, you can rack up some serious savings. The app works with more than 300 grocery store chains, including Walmart, Krogers, and Trader Joe’s. There are also offers for everyday items and a signup bonus.
You need to be prepared to spend a little time reviewing the offers and uploading copies of your receipts, but it is well worth it. Additionally, the minimum cash out is only $20, so you don’t need to wait months to see some cash. To get the most out of this app, you need to show a little commitment. You will need to review the offers before you head to the grocery store and upload your receipts when you return. There are also some grocery stores that are not supported, so you will need to check that your favorite is.
6. Truebill
Truebill is a free app that helps you to save money and recoup money in several different ways. It serves as an overall dashboard that allows you to see your cash, investments, and upcoming bills all in one convenient place. It also helps you to save money with smart savings goals and automatic transfers to help you achieve those goals. Most importantly, Truebill will put more money in your pocket through their bill negotiating services. They can help you to reduce your cable, cell phone, security, and other bills. There’s no reason not to try it and see what Truebill can save you.
7. Trim
Trim is a relatively simple app, yet it has the potential for significant savings each year. Many of us are giving money away without even realizing it, and Trim can help. With so many of us using automated payments for important bills, it is easy to be paying out for things you didn’t realize. It can be hard to spot smaller charges going out of your bank account, but these can add up to hundreds of dollars throughout the year. The Trim app combats this corporate behavior to make sure you don’t lose money every month. You need to allow the Trim app access to your spending, but it will alert you of recurring charges that could be negotiated lower or even eliminated. Like Truebill, Trim can also negotiate your cable and internet bills to save you money every month.
8. TopCashback
As the name suggests, Top Cashback is another cashback app, but it has some great benefits. There are exclusive deals with certain transactions offering up to 105 percent cashback. This means you’re being paid to shop. There are several cashback options, including getting more if you accept a voucher for Amazon or certain other sites. These offers mean that you gain 25 percent more on your rewards. You can also upgrade to the Plus Member level. This is a yearly membership plan that earns you an additional 5 percent cash back on some purchases. With savvy spending habits, you can easily negate the cost of the membership. Cashback rewards are not limited to online shopping, and there are some retail outlets supported, so you can maximize your rewards.
9. Drop
Drop is an easy-to-use, intuitive app that allows you to earn gift cards for your everyday spending. When you download the app and sign up, you will need to link a debit or credit card to your profile. The app works by lining up your purchases made with the card with the offers available. This means that you’re accumulating points as you do your regular spending. You can also choose five of your favorite brands, such as Uber, Walmart, or Starbucks, where you spend the most money. These choices cannot be changed after registration, so choose yours wisely. You can also choose bonus offers to maximize your savings. After you’ve earned over 5,000 points, you can exchange them for gift cards at your favorite retailers. A $5 gift card will cost you 5,000 points across the board.
10. Rover
If you’re a dog person, then you can turn your spare time into cash with the Rover app. You can sign up as a dog sitter and be connected with a nationwide network of pet owners who need dog walking, pet sitting, or boarding. Each scenario is different from caring for dogs in your home while the owners are on vacation or pet sitting in the owner’s house. You will need to be prepared to cater to the specific needs of the dog and even update the owners with photos so they can know their furry friend is in safe hands. You can specify your rates in your profile and accept or reject any requests that come through.
You might be surprised at how much money you can make by offering services through Rover. Earlier this year we interviewed Lily, who is making $40,000+ per year with a simple home-based pet sitting and dog walking business. Read the interview here: How to Become a Pet Sitter.
11. Handy.com
Handy is the Uber of home cleaning, so if you like everything spic and span, you can turn your spare time into extra cash. You will need to supply some personal information to pass a background check, but then the app will connect you with homeowners in your area who need cleaning services, and other services like lawn care, plumbing, and more.
The cleaning services include vacation rentals, maid services, whole home cleaning, deep cleaning, and kitchen cleaning. Unfortunately, Handy has had some negative reviews in the past with users reporting issues with cleaners stealing or other unpleasant situations, so the app may not have as much traction for attracting potential clients.
12. Postmates
The Postmates app is a tool for the delivery company that allows customers to have home delivery of pretty much anything. This versatility means that it is an attractive option for those looking to make money with a side hustle. Being a Postmate courier means that you’re paid for the time you spend waiting to pick up an order, the miles you travel and how many orders you complete in an hour. You can also receive tips from customers that boost your income further.
Postmates is available in all 50 states, and there are no vehicle requirements, so you can deliver by bike, car or even on foot. You do need to be at least 18, download the Postmates Fleet app and complete a background check. When you’re accepted, Postmates will send you everything you need, including a prepaid card and insulated delivery bag free of charge.
The app will alert you to new delivery requests and show a map highlighting the quickest route. You will receive your pay each week via direct deposit with a minimum payout for each order.
13. Instacart
Instacart allows you to cash in and shop. You can make money grocery shopping and delivering the items to a customer’s home. The orders come through the app, and you can work flexible hours. You can earn commission or work on an hourly rate depending on whether you opt to be an independent contractor or part-time employee. You can collect your earnings weekly.
Instacart operates in 38 states, and you can check that your town or city is listed on the service area section. You do need to meet some basic requirements, including being over the age of 18, the ability to lift 40 pounds and pass a background check.
14. Uber and Lyft
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’re likely to be familiar with Uber, but becoming an Uber driver can be a great side gig. Uber has over 3 million drivers operating around the world. You need to meet the Uber requirements, but you can earn some serious cash even if you don’t want to work peak hours. Uber takes 20 percent of the ride fares that are booked through the app, and your customers pay and tip using the app, so you don’t need to worry about carrying cash.
You do need to upload your paperwork to confirm your driving eligibility and provide vehicle details, but once everything is approved, you can manage your fares through the app and start making money.
With the popularity of Uber, it was inevitable that more apps and services would arrive and Lyft was founded in 2012. Driving for Lyft can be a decent side gig or with some dedication, a full-time income. The fares are broken down into the basic fare, the cost per minute and cost per mile. The app bills the passenger the basic fare to start the ride, and you need to tap the app after you arrive to start earning the cost per minute. Your fares can also include Prime Time, which is an extra charge for the customer when it’s busy, or there are fewer drivers available. You can also earn tips from your passengers.
Lyft takes between 20 and 25 percent commission, and you can get paid in one of two ways; a weekly checking account deposit or Express Pay that loads on to your debit card. Express Pay automatically loads your debit card when you reach $50 in earnings, but there is a small transfer fee.
15. Poshmark
The Poshmark app not only allows you to shop for great deals on designer clothing, but you can also earn some extra cash. Poshmark clothing needs to be good quality and in good condition. There is a boutique section, but this tends to be highly competitive.
The main difference between Poshmark and other selling apps is that this is a more social activity. The app is connected with different social media platforms, so you can connect with new friends who also enjoy your favorite clothing brands. You can also host clothing parties and other fun activities, but you need to adhere to the strict policies to continue operating as a seller.
16. HealthyWage
HealthyWage is designed to make losing weight more exciting and fun. You can earn cash prizes and achieve your goal weight. The app allows you to make bets on losing certain amounts of weight within a time frame. The money you win is determined by a number of factors including the amount you bet and your current weight. If you win your bet, you can receive your winnings via PayPal or check. If you lose your bet, the money supports operating the app and website. There are also competitions and challenges to enjoy even more extra cash.
There is no limit to how much weight you need to lose, but there is a minimum 6-month duration and a maximum 18 months, so you will need to think about how much you want to lose and how long it will take. You can then determine your monthly bet from $10 to $995, then hit the gym!
17. StepBet
The StepBet app is essentially a fitness game to help motivate you into a more active lifestyle. Like HealthyWage, you bet on achieving certain goals calculated by the app. This is a great opportunity to earn a little extra cash. Supported activity trackers monitor your activity to meet your goals.
There is only one way to earn cash with StepBet, and that is to win the different games on the app, which can be $10 or $20. Essentially, the app takes 15 percent of the pot, and the rest is divided up for the game winners. So, if the total pot is $300, $45 is taken by StepBet, and the rest is split to the winners.
While you may struggle to replace a full-time income with an app, they do offer some fantastic potential for an impressive side gig or turn a spare couple of hours each week into extra cash. Of course, you need to check the specific terms and conditions, but it is likely that you can find an app that suits your favorite activities and preferences.
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