We all want to find easy ways to put more money in our pockets without working too hard. Online surveys are a popular choice because you can do them on your couch while watching TV.
Companies need to know what you think about their new products, ads, and more. As a result, you can make money by sharing your thoughts on these topics through a simple app on your phone. You won’t get rich, but online surveys are perfect for getting lunch money or saving for a small treat.
We’ll look at the best apps and help you maximize your earnings. You’ll discover platforms that give you flexibility and reliable payouts so that you can make money on your own schedule.
What to Look for in Legit Survey Apps
You need to know how the app pays you before you sign up and spend your time. A good app will send money to your PayPal account or let you get gift cards for stores you like. Check what options they have and what payments you’re willing to accept, so you don’t get stuck with rewards you can’t use.
You should also look at the minimum payout threshold. Some apps make you wait until you earn $30, while others allow you to cash out once you hit just $5. Market research companies sometimes disqualify you if you don’t fit the right profile for a specific survey, which can be annoying, but decent apps will tell you this quickly, so you don’t waste your time.
Finally, ensure the app protects your data and privacy. Legit survey apps keep your personal details safe while you earn. Apps that pay cash should also be transparent about how they use your answers.
7 Best Survey Apps That Pay
Here is the list of the top apps you can download right now. We chose these based on how easy they are to use and how reliable they are with payments.
1. Pawns.app
Pawns.app is unique because it offers two main ways to earn. You can earn extra cash by answering surveys, but you can also play paid games for money. It’s a combination that helps you build up your balance faster than some other apps.
The payout threshold is only $5, which is easy to reach. Online surveys on Pawns.app cover many interesting topics and are usually short. You can get paid via PayPal, Bitcoin, bank deposits, or gift cards.
It’s a platform that allows you to earn extra cash efficiently by using both the survey and paid game features.
2. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is one of the most famous rewards programs in the world. You can make money by watching videos, shopping online, answering questions, and more. It offers a huge variety of ways to earn points called SB.
You can redeem your points for gift cards to Amazon, Walmart, and other big stores. You can also get cash through PayPal if you prefer that over gift cards. Make money during your lunch break by completing their “Daily Goal”, or earn rewards for playing mobile games through their app.
3. Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie focuses entirely on connecting you with brands that need your opinion. It’s one of the most direct survey platforms available. You take surveys and earn points that you can track easily on their dashboard. It’s straightforward and doesn’t clutter the screen with unnecessary elements.
The minimum payout is $5, which is about 500 points. You can take surveys on your phone or computer, making it flexible and convenient. Survey platforms like Survey Junkie are great because they don’t distract you with other tasks. You can cash out to your bank or PayPal account.
4. Google Opinion Rewards
Google Opinion Rewards is fantastic for Android and iOS users. Market research here is very short, often just two or three questions about a video or a store you visited. You earn money in the form of Google Play credits on Android or PayPal cash on iOS.
Which, for an Android user, means that your earnings are strictly store credits for Google Play, and you cannot transfer them to a bank account. iOS users, on the other hand, can enjoy real cash rewards.
You have 24 hours to answer a survey once notified. Note that your earned credits will expire 1 year after you receive them, so don’t hoard your balance for too long.
Market research data helps Google improve its services, so you are helping them while you get paid. Earning money this way is very slow, but it requires almost no effort. Also, it’s one of the most trusted apps out there.
5. Eureka
Eureka is famous for its fast payouts and daily polls. They pay cash to your bank or PayPal as soon as you hit $5. They also give you a $1 bonus just for signing up and filling out your first profile survey.
The app is colorful and easy to navigate. Online surveys on Eureka vary in length, but they tell you exactly how much you will earn before you start. Like all other online survey apps, it won’t make you rich, but you may be able to pay for your coffee after a few days of using Eureka.
6. InboxDollars
InboxDollars gives you real cash amounts instead of points. You make money by reading emails, taking surveys, and playing games. They often offer a signup bonus, which makes it attractive for new users.
The minimum payout for your first withdrawal is $15, but it often drops to $10 for future cash outs in gift cards. It’s significantly better than their old $30 requirement.
You can check your balance in dollars at any time. Rewards are sent via check, PayPal, or gift cards. Earn cash by completing their specific offers, which sometimes pay much better than standard questions.
7. YouGov
YouGov is different because it focuses heavily on politics and public affairs. It is one of the most respected survey platforms for data on what people actually think about current events. Complete surveys about news, brands, and TV shows. It’s a bit more serious than the other apps on this list.
The payout threshold is higher than most apps, often requiring $15–$50 worth of points, so it requires patience, but the disqualification rate is usually low. Survey platforms like YouGov send you invitations when a survey matches your profile perfectly.
Answer surveys honestly, and you will build a good reputation with them. Market research from YouGov is often quoted in the news.
Tips to Maximize Earnings From Survey Apps
You should sign up for multiple apps to keep a steady stream of income. Make money more consistently by jumping between apps when one runs out of surveys. Having more options is key.
Complete your profile fully so the apps know who you are. Online surveys often look for specific people with specific lifestyles or interests. Earn extra cash by keeping your data updated in the app settings.
Use notifications so you never miss a high-paying opportunity. Survey platforms often have quotas, and once enough people respond, the survey closes. Make money by being the first one to click the alert. Online surveys are a first-come, first-served game.
Set realistic expectations for your time and effort. Use surveys to make money to supplement your income, not replace your full-time job. You can earn while watching TV or commuting to work, but quitting your job to pursue a career in online surveys is not something we’d recommend you do.
Refer friends if the app offers bonuses. Make money when your friends sign up and start earning, too. It’s earning rewards without doing any extra work yourself. Also, online surveys can be more fun when you can compare earnings with a friend.
Final Thoughts
If you want flexibility and a low barrier-to-entry, Pawns.app is one of the best survey apps that pay. In general, survey apps are a legitimate way to use your phone for profit. Earn extra cash whenever you have a few minutes of downtime.
For users in the US, Swagbucks and Survey Junkie offer a huge volume of work. Online surveys on these platforms are updated constantly.
Start with 2 or 3 apps based on your location and goals. Online surveys can be a nice little side hustle where you can earn extra cash to pay for subscriptions or holiday gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do surveys usually take, and how much can I earn per survey?
Online surveys can take from 5 to 30+ minutes to complete. You typically earn in the range of $0.50 to $5.00, depending on the length. Short market research polls might pay less but are faster to do.
Why do I keep getting disqualified from surveys, and can I avoid it?
Companies need specific people, so you might get booted if you don’t fit the criteria. Take surveys that match your profile to reduce disqualifications.
Can I use survey apps if I live outside the U.S.?
Yes, many survey platforms work globally, and online surveys are available in many countries. Earn extra cash regardless of where you live, though the number of offers may vary significantly.
Is my personal data safe when using survey apps?
Legit survey apps aggregate your data and keep your identity anonymous. Market research firms want answers related to their field, not your specific name and address.
Are the earnings from survey apps taxable income?
Yes, in many places, the money you earn is considered taxable.

