Top 27 Money Making Apps That Actually Pay (Legit Apps to Earn Real Cash)

Money making apps can be a smart way to earn extra cash between paychecks—if you choose the right ones. The problem is, many “earn money” apps overpromise, hide payout limits, or waste your time with low-value tasks. This guide is built to help you skip the noise and find legit money making apps that fit your schedule, skills, and goals.

Whether you’re a student, a busy parent, or building a side hustle, there are apps to earn money through surveys, cashback, selling items, gig work, and simple online tasks.

Every option here focuses on safety, real user feedback, and clear payout rules—so you can confidently try apps that pay real money (including picks that pay real cash fast) without falling for scams.

What Are Money Making Apps (And How Do They Work?)

Money making apps are mobile apps and web platforms that let you earn extra income by completing simple actions—like taking surveys, shopping through cashback portals, doing quick tasks, selling items, or offering services. Some apps pay in real cash, while others pay in points that you can convert into money or rewards.

The key is knowing how each app pays you, what the payout rules are, and whether the earning method fits your time and expectations. Below is a clear breakdown so you can confidently choose legit money making apps that match your goals to make money online.

How Money Making Apps Pay You

Not every money earning app works the same way. Most fall into three payout models:

Rewards (Points → PayPal/Gift Cards)

These apps reward you with points for completing tasks—like surveys, playing games, scanning receipts, or watching short videos. Once you hit a minimum threshold, you redeem points for PayPal cash, gift cards, or store credit.

• Best for: Beginners who want low-effort options
• Good to know: Points can feel slow at first, so look for apps with transparent conversion rates and low minimum cashout.

Direct Cash Payouts

Direct payout apps pay you in real money for completing tasks, gigs, or services. Examples include food delivery, micro-task platforms, user testing, and freelance work. Earnings are usually tied to the value of the task, your location, and demand.

• Best for: People who want apps that pay real cash and can commit time
• Good to know: Always check payout speed (same day vs weekly) and whether the app charges withdrawal fees.

If your goal is apps to make money fast, direct payout models generally have higher potential than points-based apps.

Commission-Based Earning

Commission apps pay you when you help generate a sale or action—often through affiliate links, referrals, or creator partnerships. You might earn a percentage of purchases or a fixed bonus per referral.

• Best for: Creators, marketers, and anyone with an audience (even a small one)
• Good to know: Commission income is real, but it’s not always immediate—some programs have “holding periods” before payout.

What You Realistically Earn Per Day

Let’s keep expectations honest: most money making apps are designed for extra income, not a full-time salary—unless you’re doing high-value work like freelancing, delivery, or skilled gigs.

Side Income vs Full Income Expectations

• Low-effort apps (surveys, receipt scanning, small tasks): best for small daily wins and rewards.
• Skill-based apps (freelancing, tutoring, creative services): higher earning potential if you can deliver consistent quality.
• Gig apps (delivery, local tasks): can pay more, but depend on time, demand, and sometimes expenses like fuel.

A good benchmark: start by stacking 2–3 apps that match your lifestyle—one for quick payouts, one for steady rewards, and one for higher-paying tasks. That’s how people usually turn apps that actually pay you into reliable side income.

Are Money Making Apps Legit or Scams?

Yes—many apps that pay real money are legitimate. But there are also apps that waste your time or rely on shady tactics. The difference is usually clear if you know what to look for.

Quick Checklist to Spot Legit Money Making Apps

Before downloading any real money making app, check:

• Real reviews (not just ratings): Look for detailed user feedback about payouts and support.
• Payout proof: Legit apps clearly explain how withdrawals work (PayPal, bank transfer, gift cards).
• Minimum withdrawal amount: If it’s unusually high, it may be designed to keep you earning without cashing out.
• Clear earning rules: You should know exactly what actions earn what rewards.
• No “pay-to-earn” pressure: Avoid apps that require upfront payment to unlock earnings.

If you’re searching what apps pay real money, a good rule is simple: the best apps are transparent about payouts, consistent with user reports, and realistic about earnings.

Types of Money Making Apps

There are several main categories of money making apps, each offering different ways to earn income and they are:

• Task and Survey Apps - These pay you for completing simple activities like taking surveys, watching videos, downloading apps, or testing products. Examples include Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and Freecash.
• Gig Economy Apps - These connect you with freelance work opportunities like rideshare driving, food delivery, or task completion. Popular options include Uber, DoorDash, TaskRabbit, and Fiverr.
• Cashback and Rewards Apps - These give you money back on purchases you're already making. Apps like Ibotta, Rakuten, and Pocket Money fall into this category.
• Selling and Marketplace Apps - These platforms let you sell items, photos, or services directly to other users. Examples include Poshmark, Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, and Foap.
• Freelance Money Making Apps - These connect skilled professionals with clients who need specific services. TopTal, Upwork, and Freelancer.com are prime examples.
• Fitness and Lifestyle Apps - These reward you for healthy activities or daily routines. Sweatcoin is a notable example that pays you for walking.
• Sharing Economy Apps - These let you earn passive income by renting out assets you already own, like cars through Turo.

27 Best Money Making Apps for Everyone in 2025

Here are 27 best money making apps for everyone in 2025:

1. Swagbucks

Swagbucks is a pretty cool money making app that can help you save money and make money. You can share your opinions by completing online surveys and earn extra cash. You can do single question polls or up to 30 minute market research questionnaires. Swagbucks offers cashback shopping online and in-store rewards. 

You can find coupons, promo codes, deals and other great discounts to your favorite stores. You can combine these cash packs with your preferred credit card to get more cash back. Swagbucks will also pay you to watch videos and ads online. You can check out their web browser games and try their popular Swagbucks daily trivia app. You can get paid to watch the latest short videos on Swagit. The customer service is definitely great and won't disappoint you.

• Best For: Surveys, cashback, games, and small online tasks to earn extra money.
• Pros: Multiple earning options with trusted payouts and easy redemption.
• Cons: Low earnings per task unless you stay consistent.
• Payout Type: PayPal cash, gift cards‍
• Earning Potential: Low–Medium

2. Pawns.app

What if I told you that you can earn up to $170 a month just by sharing your internet bandwidth and doing nothing? Well, Pawns.app lets you make extra money online by sharing your internet. You can also make cash by completing their surveys and playing games. It's been rated 4.5 stars on Trustpilot and you can get the app on both Google Play and Apple App Store. Pawns has received over 10 million downloads.

If you sign up, you can use this affiliate link to earn $3

• Best For: Passive income by sharing unused internet plus optional surveys.
• Pros: Easy to run in the background with minimal effort.
• Cons: Earnings vary by region and may be slow in low-demand areas.
• Payout Type: PayPal cash‍
• Earning Potential: Low

3. DoorDash

DoorDash is a solid money making app that lets you earn cash by delivering food from local restaurants to customers. You can dash whenever you want, wherever you want, and be your own boss. The app is perfect for anyone with a car, bike, scooter, or motorcycle who wants to start earning right away.

You can make money through base pay, which is calculated based on time, distance, and how desirable the delivery is. On top of that, you get to keep 100% of the customer tips, and most orders include a tip. DoorDash also offers promotions like Peak Pay, Challenges, and Delivery Streaks to help boost your earnings even more.

Dashers typically average between $17 to $24 per hour according to most reports. The great thing about DoorDash is that you can cash out instantly with DasherDirect or use Fast Pay to get your money within minutes. You can start earning within days of signing up once your application gets approved.

• Best For: Making quick cash through food delivery with flexible hours.
• Pros: High earning potential during peak times with instant/daily payout options.
• Cons: Income depends on location, tips, and fuel/vehicle expenses.
• Payout Type: Direct deposit, instant cashout (where available)‍
• Earning Potential: Medium–High

4. UberEats

UberEats is a fantastic money making app that pays you to deliver food from restaurants to customers in your area. You can work flexible hours and earn money on your own schedule, making it perfect for students, part-time workers, or anyone looking for extra income.

As an UberEats driver, you can expect to make between $15 to $25 per hour before expenses. The average earnings per ride come out to around $13.31 based on recent data. Your total pay includes a base rate plus extra per mile and per minute, along with any tips that customers choose to give you.

The best part about UberEats is that demand tends to surge during peak hours like breakfast (7-9 AM), dinner (4-6 PM), and late night (12:30-2:30 AM), which means higher pay when you need it most. You can also earn more by delivering during busy times and taking advantage of surge pricing.

• Best For: Earning money fast by delivering food locally.
• Pros: Flexible schedule and strong demand in most cities.
• Cons: Pay fluctuates and deliveries can be time-consuming in slow hours.
• Payout Type: Bank transfer, instant payout (where available)
• Earning Potential: Medium–High

5. Turo

Turo is a unique money making app that lets you earn passive income by renting out your car to travelers and locals who need a vehicle. Think of it as the "Airbnb for cars" - you can make money from a car that's just sitting in your driveway most of the time.

The earning potential with Turo is impressive. Cars on the platform earn an average of $906 per month, and if you work with a Turo host, you'll receive 70% of those earnings, which averages around $634 per month per car. Some car owners earn even more depending on their vehicle type and location.

You have two options with Turo: you can list and manage your car yourself, or you can join their passive income program where a vetted host near you handles everything. With the passive income option, you just hand over your car keys and collect monthly payments without any of the work.

• Best For: Renting out your car for passive-style income.
• Pros: Can generate strong returns if your car is in a high-demand area.
• Cons: Wear-and-tear risk and earnings depend on bookings and vehicle type.
• Payout Type: Direct deposit‍
• Earning Potential: Medium–High

6. Ibotta

Ibotta is one of the best cashback money making apps that pays you real money for shopping at stores you already visit. You can earn cash back on groceries, travel, retail purchases, restaurants, and more by simply uploading your receipts or linking your loyalty cards.

The app works with over 3,000 retailers and has paid out over $2.3 billion in cash back to users. On average, consistent savers earn $261 per year just by using Ibotta for their regular shopping. You can earn cash back on everything from everyday groceries to your favorite tech gadgets.

Getting started is super easy. Just add offers to your list before you shop, make your purchases at participating stores, then submit your receipt through the app. You can also link your loyalty cards for instant cash back without needing receipts. Once you reach $20 in earnings, you can cash out via PayPal, direct bank transfer, or gift cards.

The app has earned a 4.6-star rating with over 10 million downloads. If you're looking for a simple way to earn money back on your regular shopping, Ibotta makes it possible to get paid for things you're buying already.

• Best For: Cashback on groceries, shopping, and everyday purchases.
• Pros: Real cashback opportunities with frequent offers and bonuses.
• Cons: Requires consistent receipt scanning and offer activation.
• Payout Type: PayPal cash, bank transfer, gift cards‍
• Earning Potential: Low–Medium

7. Sweatcoin

Sweatcoin is a cool fitness money making app that literally pays you to walk and stay active. The app tracks your steps using your phone's GPS and converts them into digital currency called Sweatcoins that you can redeem for rewards.

For every 1,000 steps you take, you earn 0.95 Sweatcoins (after a small 5% processing fee). The free version lets you earn up to 10 Sweatcoins per day, which equals about 10,000 steps. You can also get a daily bonus by choosing 20 minutes where your step earnings are doubled.

The app offers rewards ranging from gift cards and electronics to cash and exclusive discounts. You can find products starting from just 5 Sweatcoins, including food subscriptions, clothes, and even cash payments. The marketplace updates daily with new offers.

Sweatcoin has over 90 million users and has been the number one health app in over 30 countries. What makes it special is that you're getting rewarded for something you should be doing anyway - staying active and healthy. The app runs in the background and tracks your outdoor steps automatically.

• Best For: Earning rewards for walking and staying active.
• Pros: Passive earning while you move throughout your day.
• Cons: Rewards are often limited and cash payouts may not be available everywhere.
• Payout Type: Rewards, partner offers (cash options vary)‍
• Earning Potential: Low

8. Rakuten

Rakuten is one of the top cashback money making apps that pays you to shop at over 3,500 stores. You can earn cash back on everything from clothing and electronics to travel bookings and dining, making it easy to save money on purchases you're already making.

The app offers cashback rates up to 10% at your favorite brands like Nike, eBay, Boots, and many more. You simply shop through the Rakuten app or browser extension, and cash back is automatically credited to your account. There's no complicated point system - you earn real cash that gets paid out via PayPal or check.

Rakuten has paid out over $3 billion to members to date. The company makes money through affiliate commissions from partner retailers, then shares those earnings with you. New members can even get an extra 10% cashback boost during their first 7 days.

With a 4.3-star rating and 17 million users, Rakuten has become a trusted way to earn money back on purchases you're making anyway. Whether you're shopping for essentials or treating yourself, Rakuten helps you get paid for your everyday spending.

• Best For: Cashback when shopping online through partnered stores.
• Pros: Easy to use and great for stacking savings on regular purchases.
• Cons: Cashback builds slowly unless you shop frequently.
• Payout Type: PayPal cash, check‍
• Earning Potential: Low–Medium

9. Fiverr

Fiverr is a popular freelancing money making app where you can sell your skills and services to clients worldwide. You can create "gigs" offering services like logo design, writing, video editing, programming, and hundreds of other skills, starting at any price you set.

The earning potential on Fiverr is significant. New freelancers typically earn between ₹5,000-₹10,000 per month when starting out, but experienced sellers can make ₹1 lakh or more each month. The platform takes a 20% commission on all completed orders, so you keep 80% of what you charge.

What makes Fiverr different from other freelance platforms is that you create service listings and clients come to you, rather than bidding on jobs. You can offer basic, standard, and premium packages at different price points to maximize your earnings. Funds are released 7-14 days after order completion depending on your seller level.

Fiverr serves over 4 million active clients worldwide, giving you access to a huge customer base. The platform is particularly good for creative services, digital marketing, programming, and business services. Success depends on creating compelling gig descriptions, delivering quality work, and building positive reviews.

• Best For: Freelancers offering services like design, writing, and marketing.
• Pros: Strong earning potential once you build reviews and repeat clients.
• Cons: Competitive marketplace and platform fees reduce earnings.
• Payout Type: PayPal, bank transfer‍
• Earning Potential: Medium–High

10. TaskRabbit

TaskRabbit is a handy money making app that connects you with people in your area who need help with everyday tasks. You can earn money by offering services like furniture assembly, TV mounting, home repairs, cleaning, moving help, and yard work.

TaskRabbit Taskers typically charge between $40-$85 per hour depending on the type of work and location. Popular services include furniture assembly ($40-$70/hour), handyman tasks ($50-$85/hour), and moving help ($45-$80/hour). You set your own rates and choose which tasks to accept.

The app takes a 15% service fee from your earnings, but this is included in the hourly rate clients see, so you don't have to worry about calculating it separately. New Taskers can potentially earn around $1,000-$1,500 per month, though some experienced Taskers report earning much more.

Getting started requires passing TaskRabbit's screening process and having the right tools for your chosen task categories. The platform provides insurance coverage and customer support. You can work as much or as little as you want, making it perfect for flexible side income.

• Best For: Local gig work like cleaning, moving, and handyman services.
• Pros: High pay per task depending on skill and location.
• Cons: Availability depends on demand and requires physical work.
• Payout Type: Direct deposit‍
• Earning Potential: Medium–High

11. Lyft

Lyft is a popular rideshare money making app that lets you earn money by giving people rides in your car. You can work flexible hours and be your own boss while helping people get where they need to go safely and conveniently.

Lyft drivers make an average of $21.51 per hour according to Indeed, with earnings ranging from $7.25 to $44.25 per hour depending on location and demand. Weekly earnings average around $318, and you can make $23.23 per hour on average based on recent data. During busy times with surge pricing, you can earn 1.5 to 3 times more than normal rates.

Your earnings come from base rates plus extra per mile and per minute, along with 100% of customer tips. Lyft recently committed to giving drivers 70% of what riders pay (excluding external fees). The app offers instant pay options so you can access your earnings immediately after completing rides.

The best earning opportunities happen during peak demand times like morning rush (7-9 AM), evening rush (4-6 PM), and late nights when people are heading home from bars. Your location makes a big difference - drivers in high-demand cities tend to earn more.

• Best For: Earning through rideshare driving with flexible working hours.
• Pros: Good earning potential in busy areas and surge times.
• Cons: High vehicle costs and earnings depend heavily on demand.
• Payout Type: Direct deposit, instant payout (where available)‍
• Earning Potential: Medium–High

12. Foap

Foap is a photo-selling money making app that lets you turn your smartphone photos into real cash. You can upload photos directly from your phone and sell them to brands, businesses, and individuals who need authentic, high-quality images.

When someone purchases your photo, you earn $5 and can sell the same image unlimited times. The platform splits the $10 license fee 50/50 with photographers. Foap also runs "Missions" where brands request specific types of photos, with prizes starting at $50 and sometimes going much higher.

You can upload unlimited photos for free and earn money from three main ways: selling through the Foap Market, participating in branded missions, and collaborating directly with companies. The app makes it easy to tag your photos properly so buyers can find them in searches.

• Best For: Selling photos to brands and buyers online.
• Pros: Simple way to monetize photography if you already take good photos.
• Cons: Sales can be inconsistent and competition is high.
• Payout Type: PayPal‍
• Earning Potential: Low–Medium

13. Survey Junkie

Survey Junkie is a trusted survey money making app where you can earn cash by sharing your opinions on various topics. The platform has over 25 million members and offers a straightforward way to make extra money in your spare time.

You can earn money by completing surveys, with payments ranging from a few cents to several dollars per survey. Members who complete three surveys daily earn around $40 monthly on average. The app also offers a "Surf to Earn" feature that pays you for your normal online activities.

Survey Junkie pays in real cash, not points, making it easy to understand your earnings. You can cash out starting at just $5 via PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards for popular retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Starbucks. The minimum threshold is 1,000 points, which equals $10.

Survey Junkie has a 4.3-star rating and is available in the US, Canada, Australia, and UK. While you won't get rich taking surveys, it's a legitimate way to earn extra spending money during downtime, like waiting in line or watching TV. The key is being consistent and completing your profile fully to get better survey matches.

• Best For: Consistent survey-based earnings for spare-time income.
• Pros: Easy interface and reliable payout system.
• Cons: Surveys can screen you out and payouts are limited.
• Payout Type: PayPal cash, gift cards‍
• Earning Potential: Low–Medium

14. Freecash

Freecash is a versatile money making app where you can earn rewards by playing games, taking surveys, and testing new products. The platform has paid out over $50 million and boasts an average user earning of $35+ daily.

You can make money through several activities: playing mobile games and reaching certain levels, completing market research surveys, signing up for and testing new apps or services, and participating in special offers from partners. The app offers over 100 different games across various genres like RPGs, puzzles, and strategy games.

Freecash stands out because it offers high earning potential compared to other reward platforms. You can cash out your earnings via PayPal, bank transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards, with some withdrawals processing in just 17 minutes. The minimum payout varies by method but can be as low as 10 cents for crypto.

With a 4.2-star rating and over 10 million downloads, Freecash has built a solid reputation. The app is particularly good for gamers who want to get paid for playing games they'd enjoy anyway. If you like trying new apps and games while earning money, Freecash offers one of the better reward experiences available.

• Best For: Earning through games, surveys, and online offer tasks.
• Pros: High variety of tasks and quick earning opportunities.
• Cons: Some offers take time to validate and payout rules vary.
• Payout Type: PayPal, gift cards, crypto (varies)‍
• Earning Potential: Low–Medium

15. GroMo

GroMo is a unique money making app that lets you earn income by selling financial products like credit cards, loans, insurance, and investment accounts. You can potentially earn over ₹1 lakh per month by helping people access financial services they need.

The earning structure is commission-based, with payouts varying by product type. You can earn up to ₹3,500 for credit card referrals, up to ₹1,300 for savings accounts, up to ₹1,750 for demat accounts, and up to 4% commission on personal loans. The app provides comprehensive training through GroMo Academy to help you succeed.

What makes GroMo special is that it requires zero investment to start. You simply download the app, complete free training modules, and begin sharing financial products with people in your network. The platform handles all the backend processes, payments, and customer service.

GroMo offers the fastest payout cycle in the market with direct bank transfers. You can work from home and choose your own hours, making it perfect for students, working professionals, or anyone looking for additional income. The app provides marketing materials and ongoing support to help you grow your business.

• Best For: Earning commissions by selling financial products in India.
• Pros: Strong earning potential if you’re good at referrals and sales.
• Cons: Requires trust-building and consistent lead generation.
• Payout Type: Bank transfer (commission-based)
• Earning Potential: Medium–High

16. ShareChat

ShareChat is India's leading regional content platform where you can make money by creating engaging videos, posts, and other content in Hindi and regional languages. The platform has over 180 million monthly active users, giving content creators a massive audience to reach.

You can earn money through ShareChat's Creator Monetization Program, which pays creators based on engagement and viewership. The platform also announced plans to help creators earn INR 3,500 crore (over $450 million) by 2025 through their "Moj For Creators" program.

ShareChat offers multiple ways to monetize your content: virtual gifting where followers send virtual gifts that convert to real money, brand collaborations and sponsored content deals, live streaming earnings through gifts and donations, and affiliate marketing by promoting products to your audience.

The platform's short video app Moj provides additional earning opportunities through virtual gifts during live streams, participation in trending challenges and contests, brand partnership programs, and creator referral bonuses. Success depends on building a loyal following and creating content that resonates with Indian audiences.

• Best For: Content creators earning through regional content engagement.
• Pros: Useful for creators targeting Indian language audiences.
• Cons: Monetization depends heavily on reach and platform eligibility.
• Payout Type: Creator incentives, brand deals (varies)
• Earning Potential: Low–Medium

17. Pocket Money

Pocket Money is a popular Indian money making app where you can earn rewards by completing simple tasks like downloading apps, watching videos, taking surveys, and referring friends. The app has over 10 million users and offers a variety of ways to earn extra income.

You can make money through several activities: exploring and completing offers from partner brands, downloading and trying new apps, watching trending videos in their "Pocket Videos" section, playing games like Tambola, referring friends and family members, and participating in special promotions. The app aggregates offers from multiple sources to give you more earning opportunities.

You can redeem your rewards for various benefits like cab rides, movie tickets, food delivery, shopping vouchers, and bill payments. The app essentially lets you use rewards instead of cash for many daily expenses.

Pocket Money has a 4.3-star rating and has paid out rewards worth significant value to its users. The app is particularly popular among Indian students and young professionals looking for flexible earning opportunities. What makes it appealing is that you can use your earnings for practical purposes like transportation and entertainment rather than just cash.

• Best For: Quick earnings through simple offers and small online tasks.
• Pros: Beginner-friendly and easy to start.
• Cons: Earnings are usually small and task availability varies.
• Payout Type: Paytm/UPI or gift rewards (varies)‍
• Earning Potential: Low

18. TopTal

TopTal is an exclusive freelancing platform for the top 3% of freelance talent, making it one of the highest-paying money making apps for skilled professionals. You can earn premium rates of $200+ per hour once you pass their rigorous screening process.

Typical TopTal projects range from $10,000 to $15,000+, with some consultants earning over $50,000 on single jobs. The platform focuses on high-quality clients with substantial budgets, meaning no small or low-paying projects. You keep 100% of your earnings since TopTal doesn't take a service fee from freelancers.

What sets TopTal apart is their screening process - only about 3% of applicants get accepted. This creates less competition for projects and enables higher rates. TopTal representatives actually find suitable clients for you and help negotiate project rates, so you spend less time applying and more time working.

The platform specializes in software development, design, finance, and project management roles. Clients are fully vetted and typically include established companies and well-funded startups. Projects tend to be longer-term with deeper client relationships compared to other platforms.

• Best For: High-skilled freelancers in software, design, finance, and product roles.
• Pros: Premium clients and high-paying projects once accepted.
• Cons: Strict screening process and not suitable for beginners.
• Payout Type: Bank transfer‍
• Earning Potential: High

19. Upwork

Upwork is one of the largest freelancing money making apps, connecting 18 million freelancers with clients worldwide. You can offer services in writing, web development, graphic design, marketing, and hundreds of other categories to earn money on flexible schedules.

The average pay for Upwork freelancers is $21.80 per hour, though rates vary significantly by skill level and category. Freelance writers typically earn $10-$100 per hour, web developers make $13-$324 per hour, and graphic designers earn $15-$150 per hour. The highest-earning freelancer on Upwork has made over $1.5 million.

Upwork charges a flat 10% service fee on all contracts, which is lower than many competing platforms. Unlike Fiverr where you create service listings, on Upwork you apply for posted jobs and projects. The platform handles payments securely and offers dispute resolution services.

You need to purchase "Connects" (credits) to submit proposals for jobs, though Upwork provides free Connects monthly. Success requires crafting compelling proposals, building positive client reviews, and specializing in in-demand skills. The platform offers opportunities for both short-term projects and long-term client relationships.

• Best For: Freelancers looking for long-term remote work opportunities.
• Pros: Wide variety of jobs across industries and skill levels.
• Cons: Competition is tough and service fees reduce take-home pay.
• Payout Type: PayPal, bank transfer‍
• Earning Potential: Medium–High

20. Freelancer.com

Freelancer.com is a global money making app where you can offer freelance services and compete for projects in categories like writing, design, programming, marketing, and data entry. The platform connects millions of freelancers with clients looking for specific skills and services.

You can participate in both fixed-price projects and hourly work. For fixed-price projects, you'll pay a 10% fee or $5 (whichever is greater) when you complete the work, while hourly projects have a 10% fee on each payment. Clients pay either 3% or $3 for fixed projects and 3% for hourly work.

The platform operates primarily through competitive bidding - you submit proposals for posted projects and clients choose their preferred freelancer. Free members get 6 bids per month, but you can purchase additional bids and bid upgrades to promote your proposals. Contest work is also available where multiple freelancers submit entries and the client picks a winner.

• Best For: Freelancers bidding for projects across multiple categories.
• Pros: Many job listings and global client access.
• Cons: Competitive bidding can push prices down.
• Payout Type: PayPal, bank transfer‍
• Earning Potential: Medium

21. FlexJobs

FlexJobs is a premium job search money making app that specializes in legitimate remote, part-time, and flexible work opportunities. Unlike many other platforms, FlexJobs manually screens every job listing to ensure they're scam-free and high-quality.

The platform features over 100,000 flexible job listings across 50+ career categories, from entry-level to executive positions. You can find remote jobs with companies like Netflix, Amazon, Dell, and other Fortune 500 companies. FlexJobs offers both full-time and part-time opportunities, plus freelance and contract work.

What sets FlexJobs apart is their focus on quality over quantity - they spend 200+ hours daily verifying job listings. The service requires a paid membership, but this helps filter out low-quality listings and competition from unserious job seekers. Members get access to skills tests, career webinars, and expert job search resources.

FlexJobs has helped millions of people find legitimate work-from-home opportunities and maintains an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. The platform is particularly valuable for professionals seeking remote work in fields like customer service, writing, project management, and data entry.

• Best For: Finding legitimate remote and flexible job opportunities.
• Pros: Curated listings help reduce scam job postings.
• Cons: Requires a paid membership for full access.
• Payout Type: Earnings depend on the job (employer payout)‍
• Earning Potential: Medium–High

22. Uber

Uber is the world's largest rideshare money making app that lets you earn money by driving passengers to their destinations. You can work flexible hours and be your own boss while earning competitive pay in cities worldwide.

Uber drivers earn an average of $23.33 per hour and about $513 per week, making them among the highest-earning gig workers. Your earnings include base rates, surge pricing during high-demand periods, and 100% of customer tips. During peak times, surge pricing can increase your earnings by 1.5 to 3 times normal rates.

The app is available in thousands of cities globally, giving you earning opportunities whether you're at home or traveling. Getting started requires a valid driver's license, vehicle insurance, and a car that meets Uber's requirements. The approval process typically takes a few days, and you can start earning immediately.

• Best For: Rideshare driving with flexible earning hours.
• Pros: High demand in many locations and quick payout options.
• Cons: Car expenses and pay fluctuation can impact profits.
• Payout Type: Direct deposit, instant payout (where available)‍
• Earning Potential: Medium–High

23. Instacart

Instacart is a grocery delivery money making app where you can earn money by shopping for and delivering groceries to customers. You can work as a full-service shopper who shops and delivers, or as an in-store shopper who just picks orders.

Full-service shoppers typically earn between $15-$25 per hour, with some earning $30+ per hour in high-demand areas or with experience. Your earnings include a base payment of $7-$10 per batch (order), plus 100% of customer tips. Tips can significantly boost your income, especially on large orders.

The earning potential varies by location, with higher-income areas typically offering better pay due to larger tips and higher Instacart base payments. You can increase earnings by working during peak times like Sundays and evenings when demand is highest. The app shows estimated earnings for each order before you accept it.

Instacart offers instant cashout options so you can access your earnings immediately, though there's a small fee. Regular payments are made weekly via direct deposit. You need a reliable vehicle, smartphone, and ability to lift heavy items, but no special experience is required.

• Best For: Grocery shopping and delivery for fast earnings.
• Pros: Good earning opportunities in busy neighborhoods and weekends.
• Cons: Physically demanding and tips can be inconsistent.
• Payout Type: Direct deposit, instant cashout (where available)
• Earning Potential: Medium

24. Poshmark

Poshmark is a social commerce money making app where you can sell clothing, shoes, accessories, and home goods from your own closet. The platform combines online selling with social networking features, making it popular among fashion enthusiasts. Is Poshmark legit? Yes.

You can earn money by taking photos of items, writing descriptions, and setting your prices. For sales under $15, Poshmark charges a flat $2.95 fee, while sales of $15 and above incur a 20% commission. This means on a $50 item, you'd keep $40 after fees.

Poshmark handles shipping through prepaid labels that buyers pay for ($7.97 shipping fee), so you don't need to calculate shipping costs. Popular items include designer handbags, vintage clothing, trendy pieces, and brand name items from companies like Louis Vuitton, Coach, and Free People.

The platform offers features like "Posh Parties" (virtual shopping events), sharing and following other users, and bundle discounts to increase sales. If you have fashion items taking up closet space or enjoy thrift shopping, Poshmark provides a social way to turn clothing into cash and you can learn how to sell on Poshmark here.

• Best For: Selling clothes, accessories, and lifestyle items online.
• Pros: Easy to list items and strong community shopping culture.
• Cons: Platform fees are high and sales require active sharing.
• Payout Type: Bank deposit‍
• Earning Potential: Low–Medium

25. Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is a popular money making app that lets you sell items locally to people in your community. You can list almost anything for sale, from furniture and electronics to clothing and vehicles, reaching millions of potential buyers.

Listing items on Facebook Marketplace is completely free - there are no listing fees or selling commissions. You keep 100% of your sale price, making it more profitable than platforms that charge fees. The process is simple: take photos, write a description, set your price, and publish your listing.

The platform benefits from Facebook's massive user base, giving your items extensive local exposure. You can join local buying/selling groups to expand your reach even further. Facebook Marketplace is particularly good for larger items like furniture that are impractical to ship.

Take high-quality photos with good lighting, write detailed descriptions with keywords, price competitively, and respond quickly to messages. You should expect to negotiate with buyers and be prepared to meet for local pickup. Always prioritize safety when meeting strangers for transactions.

• Best For: Selling items locally for quick cash without shipping.
• Pros: No listing fees and fast local buyer reach.
• Cons: Buyer reliability and negotiation spam can be frustrating.
• Payout Type: Cash (local), Meta payments (varies)
• Earning Potential: Medium

26. OfferUp

OfferUp is a mobile-first money making app that makes it simple to buy and sell items locally in your community. The platform focuses on in-person transactions and has become one of the largest local marketplaces in the United States.

You can list items for sale in under 30 seconds by taking photos and adding a brief description. The app is completely free to use for basic listings, though you can pay for promoted listings to increase visibility. OfferUp charges either $1.99 or 12.9% of the sale price (whichever is greater) only for shipped items.

The platform includes safety features like user ratings, profiles, and secure in-app messaging to help build trust between buyers and sellers. You can sell everything from electronics and furniture to clothing and vehicles. The app has over 50 million downloads and millions of active users.

OfferUp offers optional paid features like "Promote Plus" ($19.99/month) that gives priority placement to your listings and other promotional tools. The app also includes TruYou identity verification to help establish credibility. Most transactions happen locally without shipping.

• Best For: Selling used items locally with simple listing tools.
• Pros: Good for quick sales and local meetups.
• Cons: Lowball offers and inconsistent buyer quality.
• Payout Type: Cash (local), in-app payments (varies)‍
• Earning Potential: Low–Medium

27. Vinted

Vinted is a popular clothing resale money making app where you can sell pre-loved fashion items including clothes, shoes, accessories, and more. The platform focuses on secondhand fashion and has become one of Europe's leading peer-to-peer marketplaces.

What makes Vinted unique is that sellers keep 100% of their sale price - there are no selling fees or commissions. You simply snap photos of your items, write descriptions, set your prices, and list them for free. Buyers pay a small protection fee (around 5% plus $0.70) that covers secure transactions and buyer protection.

The app handles shipping through prepaid labels that buyers pay for, making the process simple for sellers. You can sell various categories including women's, men's, and children's clothing, plus accessories, shoes, and home goods. The platform is particularly popular for vintage and branded items.

• Best For: Selling secondhand fashion with an easy listing process.
• Pros: Great for decluttering and earning from unused clothing.
• Cons: Profit depends on item demand and shipping logistics.
• Payout Type: Bank transfer (varies by region)‍
• Earning Potential: Low–Medium

Best Money Making Apps by Category (Quick Picks)

Not all money making apps work the same way, so the fastest way to find what fits you is to start by category. Some apps to earn money are better for quick wins like surveys and cashback, while others help you make more through gigs, selling items, or creator income. Below is a quick “jump-to” style shortlist of legit money making apps that are known for real payouts—perfect if you’re searching what apps pay real money or want apps that actually pay you without wasting time.

Best Survey App

• Swagbucks – Earn rewards from surveys, videos, and offers with flexible cashout options.
• Survey Junkie – A simple, reliable survey app that pays for sharing your opinions.
• InboxDollars – Get paid for surveys and quick online tasks with beginner-friendly earning options.

Best Cashback App

• Rakuten – Earn cash back when you shop online through partnered retailers.
• Ibotta – Get cash back on groceries and everyday purchases by uploading receipts.
• Fetch Rewards – Scan receipts to earn points you can redeem for gift cards fast.

Best Gig App

• DoorDash – Make quick money delivering food with flexible working hours.
• TaskRabbit – Earn more per job by helping people with local tasks and services.
• Uber Eats – A solid option for earning with deliveries, especially in busy areas.

Best Selling App

• Facebook Marketplace – Sell locally with no listing fees and fast cash pickups.
• eBay – Great for selling almost anything online with a wide buyer audience.
• Poshmark – Best for selling fashion items easily through a social marketplace.

Best Investing/Passive Income App

• Acorns – Invest spare change automatically to build passive income over time.
• Robinhood – Easy-to-use investing app for beginners looking to grow money long-term.
• Public – Invest in stocks and ETFs while learning from a community-driven platform.

Best Creator / Social Earning App

• Afluencer – Helps influencers connect with brands for paid collaborations.
• TikTok Creator Tools – Monetize content through creator rewards, gifts, and brand deals.
• Instagram Subscriptions – Earn recurring income by offering exclusive content to followers.

Free Apps That Pay Real Money Instantly (Fast Payout Picks)

If you’re searching for free apps that pay real money instantly, what you usually want is simple: fast, reliable cashouts with low withdrawal limits. In reality, “instant” often means same-day PayPal transfers, instant cashout features, or apps that let you withdraw as soon as you hit a small minimum. Below are the best ways to find apps that pay you real money quickly—without wasting hours on platforms that delay payouts.

Apps With PayPal Payouts

PayPal is popular because it’s fast, widely available, and easy to track. These money making apps typically pay via PayPal once you meet the minimum cashout.

• Swagbucks – Earn through surveys and offers, then redeem rewards for PayPal cash.
• Survey Junkie – Straightforward surveys with PayPal payout options once you qualify.
• InboxDollars – Get paid for surveys and simple tasks with PayPal-style reward redemption.

Apps With Instant Cashout Options

These apps are often considered the best apps to make money fast because they can offer same-day transfers or instant payout features (depending on your location and account status).

• DoorDash (Fast Pay) – Allows eligible drivers to cash out earnings daily for a fee.
• Uber / Uber Eats (Instant Pay) – Lets eligible drivers transfer earnings quickly to a card/bank.
• TaskRabbit – Higher-paying tasks with relatively quick payout cycles once jobs are approved.

Apps With the Lowest Minimum Withdrawal

Low minimums matter because they help you test whether an app is legit without waiting weeks to cash out.

• Fetch Rewards – Redeem points for gift cards with low reward thresholds.
• Rakuten – Cashback builds up automatically; payouts follow scheduled cycles (great for steady earners).
• Ibotta – Cashback app with low cashout minimums after offers are confirmed.

Tip: If your goal is fast cash, prioritize apps with clear minimum withdrawal rules and avoid platforms that keep raising the cashout threshold after you sign up.

How to Choose Legit Money Making Apps (Quick Checklist)

Not every money earning app is worth your time. The safest legit money making apps are transparent about payouts, realistic about earnings, and backed by consistent user experiences. Use this checklist before downloading any app—especially if you’re searching what apps pay real money and want something proven.

Signs the App Is Legit

• Clear payout terms: You can easily find how you earn, cash out, and how long it takes.
• Verifiable user feedback: Reviews mention real payouts (not just “great app!”).
• Simple withdrawal process: PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards with clear minimums.
• No pressure tactics: You’re not forced into upgrades to access your earnings.

Red Flags to Avoid

• Pay-to-join: Any app that requires payment upfront to “unlock” earnings is a risk.
• Unrealistic earning claims: Promises like “$500 a day with no effort” are usually misleading.
• Hidden subscription traps: Free trials that quietly turn into weekly charges.

Best Payout Methods to Look For

Choosing the right payout option helps you avoid delays and frustration.

• PayPal: Fast, trackable, and widely accepted.
• Direct bank transfer: Best for larger withdrawals and long-term consistency.
• Gift cards: Good for quick redemptions if you already shop at those stores.

How to Make More Money With These Apps (Realistic Strategy)

Most people don’t earn well from a single app. The best results come from a simple system: stack apps, use your time intentionally, and add at least one higher-paying skill-based option. That’s how apps to earn money turn into steady side income.

Stack Multiple Apps Strategically

Use a mix so you always have an earning option that fits your time:

• 1 rewards app (surveys/receipts) for quick spare minutes
• 1 cashback app for purchases you already make
• 1 higher-paying app (gig or skill-based) for real earning days

This reduces downtime and helps you earn faster without relying on one platform.

Use Spare Time Earning “Blocks”

Instead of randomly opening apps, set short time blocks:

• 10 minutes: survey/receipt scan
• 30–60 minutes: gig/task work
• Weekend block: selling items or creating content

This keeps your effort focused and makes results more predictable.

Combine Apps With Real Income Skills

If you want more than pocket money, pair money making apps with skills that scale:

• Freelancing: Offer writing, design, video editing, or admin help for higher payouts.
• eCommerce: Sell products, flip items, or build a small online store for repeat income.
• Affiliate marketing: Earn commissions by recommending tools/products through content or social media.

The goal is simple: let quick apps cover small wins, and use skill-based income for bigger growth—so you’re not stuck chasing low-paying tasks forever.

Conclusion

Money making apps can be a practical way to bring in extra income—whether you’re stacking cashback on purchases, completing surveys in your free time, or taking on gig work for faster payouts. The key is to pick legit apps with clear cashout rules, realistic earning potential, and a method that fits your schedule. Start with two or three options, track what works, and scale the ones that pay you consistently. And if you’re ready to turn side income into a real online business, Spocket makes it easier to launch a dropshipping store with high-quality products and reliable suppliers.