Top 10 Apps for Earning Real Money Right Now

Have you ever thought about turning your smartphone into a money-making machine? Real money apps are changing the game, letting you earn extra cash without leaving your couch. Whether you’re answering surveys, shopping online, or offering your skills, these apps make it easy to fit earning into your daily routine. The best part? You can choose what works for you, whether it’s passive income or active gigs. It’s never been simpler to boost your income while doing things you already enjoy.

Key Takeaways

• Apps like Swagbucks and Survey Junkie let you earn money. You can do tasks like surveys or shopping to get paid.
• Earn more by picking high-paying tasks and setting daily goals. Use referral bonuses to increase your earnings too.
• Cashback apps like Rakuten and Ibotta pay you for shopping. You can earn money while buying things you need every day.
• Websites like Fiverr and TaskRabbit help you make money. Offer your skills or services to people who need them.
• Airbnb lets you rent out your space to earn money. How much you make depends on your location and demand.

1. Swagbucks

How It Works

Swagbucks is one of the most popular real money apps that rewards you for completing simple online tasks. You can earn points, called SB, by doing things like answering surveys, watching videos, shopping online, or even playing games. Once you’ve collected enough SB, you can redeem them for gift cards or PayPal cash. Signing up is free, and you can start earning right away. It’s a flexible way to make money during your downtime.

Earning Potential

The amount you can earn with Swagbucks depends on how much time you’re willing to invest.

• Most users earn between $2 to $5 daily, which adds up to $730 to $1,825 annually.
• If you’re consistent and put in more effort, you could boost your daily earnings to $5 to $10.

While it won’t replace a full-time income, it’s a great way to earn extra cash for things like coffee, subscriptions, or small treats.

Tips for Maximizing Earnings

Want to get the most out of Swagbucks? Here are some tips:

• Focus on high-paying tasks: Surveys and cashback offers often provide the best rewards.
• Set a daily goal: Spending just 15-30 minutes a day can help you earn steadily.
• Use the SwagButton: This browser extension alerts you to cashback opportunities while shopping online.
• Refer friends: Swagbucks offers referral bonuses, so invite others to join and earn extra SB.

By staying consistent and using these strategies, you can make Swagbucks a reliable source of side income.

2. Survey Junkie

How It Works

Survey Junkie is one of the simplest real money apps you can use to earn extra cash. It connects you with companies that need your opinions to improve their products and services. All you have to do is sign up, create a profile, and start taking surveys that match your interests. Each survey you complete earns you points, which you can redeem for PayPal cash or e-gift cards. The platform is user-friendly, and you can access it on both desktop and mobile devices.

Earning Potential

Your earnings on Survey Junkie depend on how many surveys you qualify for and complete. Here’s what you can expect:

• Initially, you’ll find plenty of survey opportunities. Over time, this may drop to about 1 to 4 surveys per week.
• Many users qualify for only 25% of the surveys they attempt. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re disqualified after spending time on a survey.
• When disqualified, you’ll still earn a small consolation—usually 2 or 3 points (equivalent to 2 or 3 cents).

While the earning potential isn’t huge, it’s a straightforward way to make some pocket money during your free time.

Tips for Maximizing Earnings

Want to make the most of Survey Junkie? Try these tips:

• Complete your profile: A detailed profile increases your chances of qualifying for surveys.
• Check often: Survey opportunities can fill up quickly, so log in regularly to grab them.
• Be honest: Companies value genuine feedback, and honesty can help you qualify for more surveys.
• Set realistic expectations: Treat this as a side hustle, not a primary income source.

Survey Junkie is perfect if you’re looking for a simple way to earn a little extra cash. It’s one of the easiest real money apps to get started with, especially if you enjoy sharing your opinions.

3. Rakuten

How It Works

Rakuten makes earning cash back on your online shopping incredibly easy. Once you sign up, you can browse through thousands of partner retailers, including big names like Walmart, Target, and Macy’s. When you shop through the Rakuten app or website, you’ll earn a percentage of your purchase back as cash. The best part? You don’t need to jump through hoops. Just click on the retailer link, shop as usual, and Rakuten tracks your purchases automatically. You can even link your credit or debit card to earn cash back for in-store purchases at select retailers.

Pro Tip: Download the Rakuten browser extension. It alerts you to cash back opportunities while you shop online, so you never miss out on savings.

Earning Potential

Rakuten offers some of the highest cash back rates, especially during promotional periods. Here’s what you can expect:

• Earn anywhere from 1% to 10% cash back on most purchases. Some retailers even offer up to 15% during special events.
• Payments are made quarterly, so you’ll need to wait a bit to see your earnings.
• Compared to apps like Ibotta, Rakuten focuses more on online shopping and less on everyday in-store purchases.

While Rakuten’s in-store cash back options are limited, its smooth process for online shopping makes it a favorite for frequent online shoppers.

Tips for Maximizing Earnings

Want to get the most out of Rakuten? Try these strategies:

• Shop during promotions: Look out for seasonal sales and double cash back events to maximize your rewards.
• Use the browser extension: It ensures you never miss a cash back opportunity.
• Combine with credit card rewards: Use a rewards credit card for your purchases to stack up even more savings.
• Refer friends: Rakuten offers generous referral bonuses when your friends sign up and make their first purchase.

Rakuten is perfect if you love online shopping and want to earn cash back effortlessly. With a little planning, you can turn your everyday purchases into extra income.

4. Ibotta

How It Works

Ibotta is a cashback app that rewards you for shopping. It’s perfect if you’re already buying groceries, clothing, or even electronics. All you need to do is download the app, browse available offers, and add them to your account. After shopping, upload your receipt or link your loyalty card to claim your cashback. You can also shop online through the app to earn rewards automatically.

Quick Tip: Use Ibotta for everyday purchases like milk, bread, or snacks. These small savings add up fast!

Ibotta partners with hundreds of retailers, including Walmart, Target, and Amazon. This makes it easy to find deals on items you already plan to buy.

Earning Potential

Your earnings with Ibotta depend on how often you shop and take advantage of offers. Here’s a breakdown of what users typically earn:

If you’re consistent and shop strategically, you can easily boost your monthly earnings. Some users even earn over $100 by combining cashback offers with store sales and coupons.

Tips for Maximizing Earnings

Want to get the most out of Ibotta? Try these strategies:

• Plan your shopping trips: Check the app before heading to the store. Add offers for items you need.
• Stack savings: Combine Ibotta cashback with store discounts and manufacturer coupons.
• Use teamwork: Join a team with friends or family to unlock bonus rewards faster.
• Shop online: Use Ibotta’s online shopping feature for extra cashback on big purchases.

With a little effort, Ibotta can turn your everyday shopping into a steady stream of extra cash. It’s a simple way to save money while sticking to your usual routine.

5. Uber

How It Works

Uber is one of the most popular apps for earning money by driving. If you have a car and some free time, you can sign up as a driver and start earning. After completing the registration process and passing a background check, you’ll receive ride requests through the app. You can accept or decline these requests based on your availability. Once you pick up a passenger, the app provides turn-by-turn navigation to their destination. Payments are processed automatically, so you don’t have to worry about handling cash.

Quick Tip: Keep your car clean and comfortable to ensure a great experience for your passengers.

Earning Potential

Your earnings with Uber depend on several factors, including location, time of day, and the number of rides you complete. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

On average, drivers earn between $15 to $25 per hour. However, this can vary widely depending on your city and driving habits.

Tips for Maximizing Earnings

Want to make the most out of driving for Uber? Try these strategies:

• Drive during peak hours: Focus on times when demand is high, like Friday nights or weekday rush hours.
• Use surge pricing to your advantage: Keep an eye on the app for areas with surge pricing and head there to earn more.
• Track expenses: Keep a record of gas, maintenance, and other costs to calculate your net earnings.
• Be friendly and professional: A good rating can lead to more ride requests and tips.

Driving for Uber offers flexibility and the chance to earn on your schedule. With a little planning, you can turn your car into a reliable source of income.

6. DoorDash

How It Works

DoorDash is a food delivery app that lets you earn money by delivering meals to customers. Once you sign up and complete the onboarding process, you can start accepting delivery requests through the app. You’ll pick up orders from local restaurants and deliver them to customers’ doorsteps. The app provides all the details you need, like the restaurant location, delivery address, and estimated earnings for each order. You can choose when and where you want to work, making it a flexible option for earning extra cash.

Pro Tip: Use the “Dash Now” feature to start working immediately in busy areas without scheduling shifts in advance.

Earning Potential

Your earnings on DoorDash depend on factors like the number of deliveries you complete, tips, and the time of day you work. Here’s what you can expect:

• Most drivers earn between $15 and $25 per hour.
• Tips from customers can significantly boost your income.
• Working during peak hours increases your chances of earning more.

If you focus on these high-demand periods, you can maximize your earnings and complete more deliveries in less time.

Tips for Maximizing Earnings

Want to make the most out of DoorDash? Try these strategies:

• Work during peak hours: Lunch and dinner times are the busiest. Weekday lunch (10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.) and dinner (4:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.) are especially profitable.
• Deliver in busy areas: Stick to neighborhoods with lots of restaurants and high customer demand.
• Be efficient: Plan your routes to save time and gas.
• Provide great service: A friendly attitude and timely deliveries can lead to better tips.

DoorDash offers a flexible way to earn money on your schedule. With smart planning and a focus on peak hours, you can turn your delivery runs into a steady income stream.

7. Fiverr

How It Works

Fiverr is a platform where you can offer freelance services to clients worldwide. It’s simple to get started. You create a profile, list your skills, and set up “gigs” that showcase what you can do. Clients browse through these gigs and hire you for specific tasks. Whether you’re a graphic designer, writer, or voiceover artist, Fiverr connects you with people who need your expertise.

The platform covers a wide range of services, including:

• Video and animation
• Web development
• Digital marketing
• Administrative tasks
• Voiceover work
• Virtual assistant services

You can work on your own schedule and choose projects that match your skills. Fiverr makes it easy to communicate with clients and deliver your work directly through the platform.

Earning Potential

Your earnings on Fiverr depend on the services you offer and how much you charge. Gigs start at $5, but you can set higher prices for more complex tasks or premium packages. For example, logo designers often charge $50 to $200 per project, while web developers can earn even more.

Here’s a quick look at some popular gigs and their potential earnings:

If you build a strong reputation and deliver high-quality work, you can attract repeat clients and earn a steady income.

Tips for Maximizing Earnings

Want to succeed on Fiverr? Here are some tips to help you stand out:

1. Create a detailed profile: Highlight your skills and experience to attract clients.
2. Offer competitive pricing: Start with lower rates to build reviews, then increase your prices as you gain experience.
3. Focus on in-demand gigs: Services like SEO content writing, video editing, and web development are always popular.
4. Deliver on time: Meeting deadlines builds trust and encourages clients to leave positive reviews.
5. Upsell your services: Offer premium packages or add-ons to increase your earnings per gig.

Fiverr is a fantastic way to turn your skills into income. With dedication and smart strategies, you can grow your freelance business and achieve your financial goals.

8. TaskRabbit

How It Works

TaskRabbit connects you with people in your area who need help with everyday tasks. After signing up and completing a background check, you can create a profile showcasing your skills and availability. Once approved, you’ll start receiving task requests. You can choose the jobs you want to take on, whether it’s assembling furniture, mounting a TV, or helping someone move.

Here are some of the most common tasks you can find on TaskRabbit:

• Furniture assembly
• Yard work
• Cleaning services
• Handyman tasks
• Delivery services
• Painting
• Plumbing or electrical help

You can even offer contactless tasks if you prefer minimal interaction. The app makes it easy to communicate with clients and get paid directly through the platform.

Quick Tip: Keep your profile detailed and professional. Highlight your skills to attract more clients!

Earning Potential

Your earnings on TaskRabbit depend on the type of tasks you complete and your location. For example, handyman services or plumbing jobs often pay more than cleaning or delivery tasks. On average, Taskers earn between $15 and $45 per hour. Some specialized tasks, like electrical work or furniture assembly, can pay even higher rates.

If you live in a busy city, you’ll likely find more opportunities and higher-paying gigs. TaskRabbit also allows you to set your own rates, so you can adjust your pricing based on your experience and the demand in your area.

Tips for Maximizing Earnings

Want to make the most out of TaskRabbit? Here are some strategies to boost your income:

• Focus on high-demand tasks: Jobs like furniture assembly, yard work, and handyman services are always popular.
• Set competitive rates: Start with reasonable prices to build your reputation, then increase your rates as you gain experience.
• Be reliable: Show up on time and complete tasks efficiently to earn positive reviews.
• Expand your skills: Learn new services like painting or electrical work to access higher-paying gigs.
• Work in busy areas: Cities with high demand for Taskers often offer better earning opportunities.

TaskRabbit gives you the flexibility to work on your own schedule while earning money for your skills. With a little effort and smart planning, you can turn this app into a steady source of income.

9. Depop

How It Works

Depop is a trendy app where you can sell clothes, accessories, and even unique home items. Think of it as a mix between Instagram and a thrift store. You create a profile, snap some eye-catching photos of your items, and list them for sale. Buyers can browse your shop, message you with questions, and purchase directly through the app. Depop is especially popular for vintage and secondhand fashion, so if you’ve got stylish pieces you no longer wear, this is the perfect place to sell them.

Here’s a quick look at what people sell most on Depop:

• Outerwear: Puffer jackets, blazers, denim jackets
• Tops: T-shirts, hoodies, crop tops
• Shoes: Trainers, boots, platforms
• Accessories: Bags, hats, sunglasses
• Other items: Homeware, art, records

Pro Tip: Use natural light and creative backgrounds for your photos. Great visuals attract more buyers!

Earning Potential

Your earnings on Depop depend on how well you price your items and how much effort you put into your shop. Sellers often achieve a profit margin of 30% or more by pricing strategically and factoring in Depop’s 10% selling fee. For example, if you sell a jacket for $50, you’ll keep $45 after fees.

Some sellers turn Depop into a full-time gig, earning hundreds or even thousands of dollars monthly. If you’re just starting, you can expect to make $50 to $200 a month by selling a few items from your closet.

Tips for Maximizing Earnings

Want to boost your sales on Depop? Try these tips:

• List trendy items: Vintage and unique pieces sell best.
• Price smartly: Research similar listings to set competitive prices.
• Promote your shop: Share your listings on social media to reach more buyers.
• Be responsive: Answer buyer questions quickly to close sales faster.
• Bundle deals: Offer discounts for buyers purchasing multiple items.

Depop is a fantastic way to declutter your closet and make extra cash. With a little creativity and effort, you can turn your shop into a thriving side hustle.

10. Airbnb

How It Works

Airbnb lets you earn money by renting out your home, a spare room, or even a unique space like a treehouse or camper. You start by creating a listing on the platform. Add photos, write a description, and set your nightly price. Once your listing is live, travelers can book your space for short-term stays. Airbnb handles the payment process, so you don’t have to worry about collecting money.

Pro Tip: Highlight unique features of your space, like a great view or cozy decor, to attract more bookings.

You’re in control of your availability, pricing, and house rules. Whether you want to rent out your space occasionally or turn it into a full-time business, Airbnb gives you the flexibility to decide.

Earning Potential

Your earnings depend on your location, the type of space you’re renting, and how often you host. Here’s a quick breakdown:

If you live in a popular tourist destination or a city with high demand, you can earn even more. Many hosts make $500 to $2,000 per month, depending on how often they rent their space.

Tips for Maximizing Earnings

Want to boost your Airbnb income? Try these strategies:

• Keep your space clean and welcoming: Guests love a tidy, comfortable place.
• Set competitive prices: Research similar listings in your area to find the sweet spot.
• Offer extras: Provide amenities like Wi-Fi, coffee, or toiletries to earn great reviews.
• Update your calendar: Keep your availability accurate to avoid cancellations.
• Respond quickly: Fast replies to guest inquiries can lead to more bookings.

Airbnb is a fantastic way to turn unused space into extra cash. With a little effort, you can create a memorable experience for guests and enjoy a steady income stream.

These top 10 real money apps offer something for everyone. Whether you’re selling clothes on Depop, driving for Uber, or renting out your space on Airbnb, there’s an app that fits your lifestyle. Each app provides a unique way to earn, from cashback rewards to freelance gigs. Why not give one a try? You might find it’s easier than you think to turn your free time into extra income. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your earnings grow. Real money apps make earning both accessible and rewarding.

FAQ

What’s the best app for beginners to start earning money?

If you’re just starting, try Swagbucks or Survey Junkie. These apps are simple to use and don’t require special skills. You can earn by completing surveys, watching videos, or shopping online. They’re perfect for making extra cash during your free time.

Can I use multiple apps at the same time?

Absolutely! Using multiple apps helps you maximize your earnings. For example, you can drive for Uber while selling items on Depop or earning cashback with Rakuten. Just make sure to manage your time effectively to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

How much money can I realistically earn with these apps?

Your earnings depend on the app and the effort you put in. For instance:

• Swagbucks: $2–$5 daily
• Uber: $15–$25 per hour
• Airbnb: $500–$2,000 monthly
  Start small and scale up as you get comfortable.

Are these apps safe to use?

Yes, most of these apps are reputable and widely used. Always read reviews and check their privacy policies before signing up. For added security, use strong passwords and avoid sharing sensitive personal information unless necessary.

Do I need special skills to earn money with these apps?

Not always! Apps like Swagbucks and Ibotta require no special skills. However, platforms like Fiverr or TaskRabbit may need specific expertise, such as graphic design or handyman skills. Choose apps that match your abilities and interests.

Pro Tip: Start with simple apps and gradually explore more skill-based options to increase your income.