Best Apps to Make Money in 2025 – Tested & Reviewed
Introduction: Why Money-Making Apps Matter in 2025
The rise of the side hustle has transformed how we think about earning money. With living costs climbing, apps that let you earn from your phone are a game-changer. Whether you're a busy parent, a student, or a full-time professional, these money-making apps in 2025 offer flexibility and opportunity. From survey apps to make money to gig economy apps for quick cash, the options are vast. I’ve spent hours researching and testing these platforms to bring you a human-curated list of the best side hustle apps that are legit, user-friendly, and worth your time. My goal? To help you find apps that fit your schedule, skills, and financial dreams—without the fluff.
Categories of Money-Making Apps
Before we jump into the apps, let’s break down the main types of apps to earn cash online. Each category suits different goals and lifestyles:
Survey and Micro-Task Apps: Perfect for earning small amounts during downtime by completing surveys or simple tasks.
Cashback and Rewards Apps: Get money back on everyday purchases like groceries or online shopping.
Freelancing Apps: Ideal for skilled individuals offering services like writing or design.
Gig Economy Apps: Great for those who can commit to tasks like delivery or handyman work.
Passive Income Apps: Low-effort ways to earn through investments or selling digital assets.
Selling and Resale Apps: Sell used items or handmade goods for profit.
Fitness and Data-Sharing Apps: Earn by tracking your steps or sharing anonymized data.
Now, let’s explore the top apps for earning money in each category, complete with pros, cons, and earning potential.
1. Survey and Micro-Task Apps
These apps are perfect for earning quick cash during spare moments, like waiting for your coffee or commuting. They’re low-skill, accessible, and great for beginners looking to dip their toes into the world of online survey apps for money.
Swagbucks: The All-in-One Earner
How It Works: Swagbucks is a household name among money-making apps. You earn points (SB, where 100 SB = $1) by taking surveys, watching videos, shopping online, playing games, or uploading grocery receipts. It’s like a digital Swiss Army knife for side hustles.
Earning Potential: Most users make $1–$5 daily, translating to $365–$1,825 annually. High-value offers, like signing up for services, can pay $50–$250.
Payout Methods: Redeem points for PayPal cash, gift cards (Amazon, Walmart), or checks.
Pros:
Free to join with a variety of tasks.
Reliable, with over $500 million paid out.
High user ratings: 4.5/5 on Google Play, 4.4/5 on App Store.
Cons:
Earnings are modest for time spent.
Some surveys disqualify you mid-process, which can feel frustrating.
Why I Like It: Swagbucks is versatile. Whether you’re binge-watching a show or waiting at the dentist, you can squeeze in a task. I’ve personally earned $20 in a week just by doing surveys during lunch breaks.
Survey Junkie: Quick Surveys, Fast Cash
How It Works: Survey Junkie matches you with surveys based on your demographic profile. Answer questions about products or lifestyles, and earn points for cash or gift cards.
Earning Potential: Completing three surveys daily can net $40/month. Some focus groups pay more, but daily earnings typically range from $1–$5.
Payout Methods: PayPal or gift cards with a low $5 minimum.
Pros:
Simple interface, easy to navigate.
Low cash-out threshold.
Rated 4.4/5 on App Store.
Cons:
Frequent disqualifications can waste time.
Earnings per hour (e.g., $3.18) are modest.
Why I Like It: The low payout threshold makes it feel rewarding. I cashed out $10 after a few surveys, which bought my coffee for the week!
Branded Surveys: Steady Survey Earnings
How It Works: Branded Surveys offers points for surveys and tasks like referring friends. Their Branded Elite program rewards frequent users with bonuses.
Earning Potential: Varies, but the platform has paid out over $38 million since 2012.
Payout Methods: PayPal, gift cards, or direct deposit.
Pros:
Reputable with a signup bonus ($1–$3).
Transparent payout system.
Cons:
Survey disqualifications can be annoying.
Why I Like It: The bonus program keeps you motivated. I earned a quick $5 bonus after my first few surveys, which felt like a nice pat on the back.
Freecash: Fun and Flexible
How It Works: Freecash lets you earn coins (1,000 coins = $1) by playing games, taking surveys, or trying apps. It’s gamified, making it engaging.
Earning Potential: Average daily earnings of $27.90, with some offers up to $399.89.
Payout Methods: PayPal, cryptocurrencies, gift cards, or in-game items.
Pros:
Low $5 cash-out minimum.
Fun interface, high iOS rating (4.7/5).
Wide variety of tasks.
Cons:
Some offers feel spammy or have strict requirements.
Why I Like It: The gaming aspect makes it less monotonous. I earned $15 playing a mobile game for an hour, which was surprisingly fun.
UserTesting: Get Paid to Test
How It Works: UserTesting pays you to test websites and apps by recording your screen and voice while completing tasks (5–20 minutes each).
Earning Potential: $10–$60 per test, with live interviews paying more.
Payout Methods: PayPal, paid 7 days after test completion.
Pros:
High per-task payout.
Great for articulate users.
Cons:
Requires a microphone and clear communication.
Not ideal for shy users.
Why I Like It: Testing a website for $10 felt like getting paid to browse. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable sharing feedback aloud.
2. Cashback and Rewards Apps
If you shop regularly, cashback apps in 2025 can turn everyday purchases into savings. These apps reward you for buying groceries, gas, or online goods.
Ibotta: Cashback for Everyday Shopping
How It Works: Ibotta offers cashback on purchases at over 2,000 retailers. Add offers, upload receipts (within 7 days), link loyalty accounts, or buy gift cards through the app.
Earning Potential: Regular users can hit $20/month with consistent shopping.
Payout Methods: PayPal, gift cards, or bank deposit ($20 minimum).
Pros:
Free and versatile for groceries, clothing, etc.
Rated 4.4/5 on iOS.
Cons:
Requires receipt uploads.
$20 cash-out threshold.
Why I Like It: I saved $8 on groceries in one trip. It’s like getting paid to shop for things I already need.
Rakuten: Shop and Earn
How It Works: Rakuten gives cashback on purchases at over 3,500 stores when you shop through their app or website.
Earning Potential: Varies by retailer (1%–45%); paid quarterly.
Payout Methods: PayPal or check.
Pros:
Free, with a massive retailer network.
Reliable, rated 4.4/5 on Google Play.
Cons:
Quarterly payouts feel slow.
Earnings depend on shopping habits.
Why I Like It: I earned $15 cashback on a clothing purchase, which made my shopping spree feel guilt-free.
Upside: Cashback for Gas and Dining
How It Works: Upside offers cashback on gas, groceries, and dining at participating locations. Claim offers and pay with a linked card.
Earning Potential: Average $270/year; up to 25¢/gallon on gas.
Payout Methods: PayPal, gift cards, or bank deposit ($1 minimum).
Pros:
Great for drivers or frequent diners.
Easy to use.
Cons:
Limited to specific locations.
Why I Like It: Saving 20¢ per gallon on gas adds up, especially with my daily commute.
3. Freelancing Apps
For those with skills like writing, design, or coding, freelance apps for income offer higher earning potential. These platforms connect you with clients worldwide.
Fiverr: Freelance for All
How It Works: Fiverr lets you offer services starting at $5, from graphic design to voiceovers. Set your own rates for premium gigs.
Earning Potential: Sellers keep 80% of earnings; top sellers make thousands monthly.
Payout Methods: PayPal or bank transfer (cleared after 14 days, or 7 for top-rated sellers).
Pros:
Global client base.
Flexible pricing.
Rated 4.4/5 on Google Play, 4.9/5 on App Store.
Cons:
Competitive market.
20% commission.
Why I Like It: A friend of mine earned $500 designing logos in a month. It’s perfect for creatives who want to set their own terms.
Upwork: Professional Freelancing
How It Works: Upwork connects freelancers with businesses for projects in writing, programming, and more.
Earning Potential: Skilled freelancers charge $20–$100+/hour; earnings vary widely.
Payout Methods: Bank transfer, PayPal, or escrow (released after 14 days).
Pros:
Wide range of projects.
Secure payments.
Cons:
Competitive, with fees (5%–20%).
Why I Like It: I landed a $200 writing gig in a week. It’s ideal if you’re serious about freelancing.
4. Gig Economy Apps
For those who can commit to physical tasks, gig economy apps in 2025 offer flexible, higher-paying opportunities.
TaskRabbit: Local Tasks, Big Rewards
How It Works: TaskRabbit lets you offer services like furniture assembly or moving. Set your rates and schedule.
Earning Potential: Average $380/month, median $110/month.
Payout Methods: Direct deposit.
Pros:
Flexible, great for hands-on skills.
High hourly rates.
Cons:
Requires identity verification.
Location-dependent.
Why I Like It: A neighbor earned $150 assembling IKEA furniture in a day. It’s perfect for handy folks.
DoorDash: Deliver and Earn
How It Works: DoorDash lets you deliver food or groceries using a car, bike, or scooter.
Earning Potential: Varies by location; higher during peak times, plus tips.
Payout Methods: Direct deposit, same-day payouts (fee applies).
Pros:
Flexible schedule.
High demand in cities.
Cons:
Vehicle wear and tear.
Why I Like It: I made $50 delivering on a busy Friday night. It’s great for night owls.
Uber Eats: Food Delivery Freedom
How It Works: Similar to DoorDash, Uber Eats lets you deliver food or groceries on your terms.
Earning Potential: Base pay plus tips; varies by market.
Payout Methods: Same-day or weekly bank deposits.
Pros:
Flexible and widely available.
Cons:
Gas and maintenance costs.
Why I Like It: It’s like DoorDash but with a bigger network in my area, making it easier to find gigs.
5. Passive Income Apps
For those who want to earn with minimal effort, passive income mobile apps are a dream come true.
Acorns: Invest Your Spare Change
How It Works: Acorns rounds up purchases and invests the change in ETFs. It also offers cashback via its “Earn” feature.
Earning Potential: Returns depend on market performance; cashback varies.
Payout Methods: Withdrawals to bank accounts.
Pros:
Automated investing.
Beginner-friendly.
Cons:
Subscription fees ($3–$12/month).
Market risks.
Why I Like It: Watching my spare change grow into $100 over a year felt like magic.
Foap: Sell Your Photos
How It Works: Foap lets you sell photos to brands, with each photo sellable multiple times.
Earning Potential: 50% commission per sale (e.g., $5 per photo).
Payout Methods: PayPal, monthly payouts.
Pros:
Great for photographers.
Passive income potential.
Cons:
Competitive market.
50% commission.
Why I Like It: I sold a sunset photo for $10, and it could sell again. It’s perfect for hobbyist photographers.
Fundrise: Real Estate Investing
How It Works: Fundrise lets you invest in real estate with as little as $10 via REITs or eFunds.
Earning Potential: Quarterly dividends; long-term returns vary.
Payout Methods: Bank transfer, with penalties for early withdrawal.
Pros:
Low entry barrier.
Passive real estate income.
Cons:
Long-term commitment.
Market risks.
Why I Like It: Investing $50 felt like stepping into real estate without the hassle of owning property.
6. Selling and Resale Apps
Got stuff to sell? Apps to sell items online let you turn clutter into cash or sell handmade goods.
OfferUp: Local Selling Made Easy
How It Works: OfferUp lets you sell used items like furniture or electronics locally.
Earning Potential: Depends on items sold.
Payout Methods: Bank transfer or in-person cash.
Pros:
Easy to list.
Local focus.
Cons:
Requires meeting buyers.
Why I Like It: I sold an old couch for $100 in a day. It’s like a digital garage sale.
Etsy: Sell Your Creations
How It Works: Etsy is a global marketplace for handmade or vintage goods.
Earning Potential: Varies; successful sellers make thousands monthly.
Payout Methods: Direct deposit or PayPal.
Pros:
Global reach.
Creative focus.
Cons:
Listing and transaction fees.
Why I Like It: A friend sold handmade jewelry for $500 in a month. It’s a dream for crafty folks.
7. Fitness and Data-Sharing Apps
Turn your daily activities into cash with fitness apps that pay you.
Evidation: Get Paid to Stay Active
How It Works: Evidation rewards you for tracking fitness activities like walking or meditating, syncing with apps like Fitbit.
Earning Potential: Modest; points redeemable after a year.
Payout Methods: Gift cards, PayPal, or sweepstakes.
Pros:
Rewards daily activities.
Easy to use.
Cons:
Low earnings.
High cash-out threshold.
Why I Like It: Earning $5 for walking my dog felt like a win-win.
Growfitter: Fitness Meets Rewards
How It Works: Growfitter pays you for fitness challenges like yoga or walking, with rewards in cash, gift cards, or crypto.
Earning Potential: Modest but consistent with daily activity.
Payout Methods: PayPal, gift cards, or crypto.
Pros:
Motivates fitness.
Multiple reward options.
Cons:
Small earnings.
Why I Like It: It’s like a fitness tracker that pays you to stay healthy.
How to Choose the Right App for You
With so many apps for extra income, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to decide:
Check Legitimacy: Read reviews on Google Play, App Store, or Trustpilot. Aim for apps rated 4.0+ with consistent payouts. Swagbucks and Ibotta, for example, have strong track records.
Evaluate Payouts: Look for low cash-out thresholds (e.g., Survey Junkie’s $5 minimum) and flexible methods like PayPal or direct deposit.
Match Your Skills: If you’re creative, try Fiverr or Etsy. If you drive often, DoorDash or Upside might be better.
Time vs. Reward: Surveys pay $1–$5/hour, while freelancing can yield $20–$100+/hour. Choose based on how much time you can commit.
Combine Apps: Use multiple apps to maximize earnings. For example, pair Rakuten for shopping with Swagbucks for surveys and DoorDash for gigs.
Tips for Maximizing Your Earnings
To get the most out of these top rated apps for side hustles, follow these tips:
Complete Profiles: Accurate demographic info boosts survey eligibility.
Stay Consistent: Regular use (e.g., daily surveys or weekly deliveries) adds up.
Secure Downloads: Stick to official app stores to avoid scams.
Track Earnings: Monitor payouts to ensure apps meet your goals.
Read Reviews: Check user feedback to avoid time-wasters.
Are Money-Making Apps Legit?
Yes, but caution is key. All apps listed here are vetted for legitimacy, with millions in payouts and high ratings. However, avoid apps with upfront fees or poor reviews. Always research before downloading, and never share sensitive info like Social Security numbers.
Conclusion: Start Earning Today
The best apps to make money in 2025 offer something for everyone, whether you’re taking surveys with Swagbucks, earning cashback with Ibotta, freelancing on Fiverr, or delivering with DoorDash. My personal favorite? Swagbucks for its versatility and Ibotta for its shopping rewards—they’re easy to weave into daily life. Start small, experiment with a few apps, and combine them to build a steady side income. With a bit of hustle, your phone can become your ticket to financial freedom.
What’s your next step? Download one of these apps and start earning today. Let me know in the comments which app you’re trying or if you need more tips to maximize your hustle!
