Imagine making money from your couch. Or earning while waiting in line at the grocery store. It sounds too good to be true, but it’s not. With the right apps, you can start earning extra cash anytime, anywhere—all you need is your smartphone.
These aren’t get-rich-quick schemes. They’re practical ways to earn a little extra income in your spare time. Maybe you want to pay off debt faster, save for a vacation, or just have more breathing room in your budget. Whatever your goal, these apps can help.
Here are the best money-making apps to try in 2024. Let’s get started!
1. Swagbucks: Earn by Doing What You Already Do
Swagbucks pays you for things you probably already do online—like searching the web, watching videos, and taking surveys. Each activity earns you Swagbucks points (SB), which you can redeem for cash or gift cards.
How It Works:
- Earn SB by answering surveys, watching short videos, or shopping through their portal.
- Redeem SB for PayPal cash or gift cards to places like Amazon or Starbucks.
- New users often get a $5 sign-up bonus.
Why It’s Great:
- You can earn without changing your habits.
- Low cash-out threshold—redeem starting at $3.
👉 Check out Swagbucks to get started.
2. Rakuten: Get Paid to Shop
If you love to shop online, Rakuten (formerly Ebates) is a must-have app. It’s a cash-back app that pays you every time you shop through their portal. It’s like getting paid for doing what you already do!
How It Works:
- Sign up for free and use Rakuten’s website or app to shop at your favorite stores.
- Get up to 40% cash back on purchases at over 2,500 retailers.
- You’ll get a quarterly payout via PayPal or check.
Why It’s Great:
- No points or complicated rules—just straightforward cash back.
- It’s like finding free money on things you were going to buy anyway.
👉 Use Rakuten to start earning today.
3. TaskRabbit: Make Money Doing Small Gigs in Your Area
If you don’t mind rolling up your sleeves, TaskRabbit lets you earn money by helping others with small jobs like assembling furniture, running errands, or mounting a TV. You set your rates and decide what tasks you want to take on.
How It Works:
- Create a profile highlighting your skills.
- Choose from tasks like yard work, home repairs, or helping someone move.
- Get paid after completing each task, with rates often starting at $15 an hour or more.
Why It’s Great:
- You can earn good money for flexible, one-time gigs.
- It’s a great way to turn your hands-on skills into extra cash.
👉 Sign up for TaskRabbit and start earning.
4. Uber or Lyft: Drive When It Works for You
If you have a car and some free time, driving for Uber or Lyft is one of the most flexible ways to earn money. You set your own hours and choose when and where to drive. It’s perfect for professionals who want to work around their 9-to-5.
How It Works:
- Apply to become a driver for Uber or Lyft.
- Set your availability and start accepting ride requests through the app.
- Earn money for each ride, plus tips.
Why It’s Great:
- Complete flexibility—you drive when you want.
- Ideal for evenings, weekends, or even during your lunch break.
👉 Learn more about becoming a driver at Uber or Lyft.
5. Upwork: Freelance and Get Paid for Your Skills
If you have a skill—like writing, graphic design, marketing, or even data entry—you can start earning on Upwork. Upwork connects freelancers with businesses looking for short-term projects or ongoing work. It’s one of the top platforms for remote freelance jobs.
How It Works:
- Create a profile and highlight your skills.
- Apply to projects posted by clients or wait for clients to invite you to apply.
- Negotiate your rate and complete the work—payments are secure through Upwork.
Why It’s Great:
- Endless variety of jobs, from entry-level to high-paying.
- Great way to build your freelance business.
👉 Explore opportunities on Upwork.
6. Airbnb: Make Money Renting Out Your Space
Do you have a spare room or empty property? With Airbnb, you can make extra cash by renting out your space. Even if you don’t have a spare room, consider renting out your place when you’re traveling or hosting short-term stays.
How It Works:
- Create a listing with photos and descriptions.
- Set your own nightly rate.
- Host guests and earn money for each stay.
Why It’s Great:
- You set your availability and rates.
- It’s one of the most passive ways to earn extra income if you have the space.
👉 Ready to become a host? Get started at Airbnb.
7. Foap: Sell Your Photos and Videos
If you love photography, Foap lets you monetize your photos. All you have to do is upload your images to the platform, and businesses or individuals can purchase them. You can also join “Missions” to create content for brands.
How It Works:
- Download the Foap app and create an account.
- Upload your best photos and tag them.
- Earn $5 for every photo sold.
Why It’s Great:
- Turn a hobby into a money-maker.
- It’s super easy to get started—just use your smartphone camera.
👉 Download Foap on iOS or Android.
8. Rover: Get Paid to Hang Out with Dogs
Love dogs? Rover is a platform that connects dog lovers with pet owners in need of dog sitting, boarding, or walking. If you have free time and enjoy spending it with furry friends, this is a fun and easy way to make extra money.
How It Works:
- Create a Rover profile and choose the services you offer.
- Set your rates and availability.
- Get paid after each successful service—dog sitting rates often start at $20 per night.
Why It’s Great:
- Flexible work that’s fun and rewarding.
- Great way to turn your love of dogs into a side hustle.
👉 Become a Rover sitter at Rover.com.
Final Thoughts: Start Earning with Money-Making Apps Today
There are so many ways to earn extra money with just your smartphone. The best part? You don’t have to stick to just one app. Try a few, see what you like, and start building multiple streams of income. Each small step brings you closer to your financial goals.
You don’t have to spend hours hustling. Just a few minutes here and there can add up to real money over time. So pick an app, download it, and start earning today!
If you’re looking for more ways to earn extra cash, check out our Side Hustle blog posts for even more ideas and inspiration!
You’ve got this. Your next paycheck could be just a tap away.