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Your smartphone can be a powerful tool for earning extra cash. Whether you want to dedicate some focused time or prefer a more hands-off approach, there are options to consider.
From side hustles and online businesses to passive income streams, many possibilities require minimal time investment. Explore different money-making ideas using your phone to discover what works best for you and turn your spare moments into profit.
How to make money on your phone
Here are some simple ways to make money on your phone in your free time:
1. Take online surveys
Did you know you can turn your couch time into cash? Taking online surveys is a legitimate way to make some extra money on your phone.
Several reputable survey sites reward you for your opinions. Some of the most popular include MyPoints, Swagbucks, InboxDollars, and Branded Surveys. Sign up for a few (or all of them!) to maximize your earning potential.
These surveys can be completed while you relax at home, watch TV, or unwind after work. They’re also perfect for filling short daily gaps, like during lunch breaks or while waiting for public transportation.
So the next time you’re looking for a way to make some extra cash, consider sharing your thoughts through online surveys. It’s a flexible and easy opportunity that anyone can do!
2. Shop and get rewarded with Rakuten cash back
Love shopping but hate seeing your money disappear? Rakuten can turn that frown upside down! Here’s the deal: you shop at your favorite stores, and Rakuten gives you cash back – a portion of your purchase amount comes back to you!
Rakuten collaborates with many popular retailers, so you can earn cash back on almost anything. Need a new outfit? Get cash back on clothes and accessories. Upgrading your tech? Earn cash back on those gadgets. Planning a trip? You guessed it – Rakuten offers cash back on travel bookings too.
It’s a win-win! You shop what you need or want, and Rakuten rewards you for it.
3. Contribute to tech trends and earn rewards with Nielsen
Nielsen, a world leader in market research, offers you the chance to influence technology development! Join their Computer and Mobile Panel and contribute valuable insights.
Here’s how it works
- Sign up for the program.
- Install the app on your devices.
- Browse the web and use your mobile apps as usual.
The Nielsen app quietly gathers anonymized data on your internet activity in the background. This data is then combined with information from other panel members to create a bigger picture of internet trends.
By participating, you’ll be helping businesses understand how people use technology. As a token of appreciation, Nielsen offers rewards of up to $50 in points for gift cards when you sign up.
4. Turn your clutter into cash with Decluttr
Ever feel like your home is overflowing with unused things? From old gadgets in the drawer to forgotten DVDs in the back of the shelf, clutter can build up fast.
Decluttr can help you turn those unwanted items into cash! Simply download their free app and scan the barcodes of your old electronics, DVDs, CDs, games, books, and more. Decluttr will provide you with an instant valuation for each item.
Once you’ve accepted their offer, they’ll send you a free shipping box. Pack up your unwanted items, send them off, and receive cash payment! Decluttr takes care of the rest, either responsibly recycling your old tech or giving it a new life by selling it on their online marketplace.
Declutter your home and make some money in the process! Download the Decluttr app today and say goodbye to that dusty Aqua Teen Hunger Force DVD (seriously, who even owns those anymore?).
5. Turn old textbooks into cash
Ever finished a semester and looked at that hefty textbook with relief, knowing you’ll never need it again? Great news – you can turn those unwanted textbooks into cash by selling them online!
One handy app to help you do this is BookScouter. Here’s how it works:
- Download the free BookScouter app.
- Search for your textbook: BookScouter works with over 30 different buyback vendors, so you can easily compare prices and seller reviews.
- Choose the best offer: Once you’ve compared options, pick the deal that works for you.
- Ship for free and get paid: BookScouter often facilitates free shipping, and the company you sell to will send you your payment.
Selling your textbooks online is a smart alternative to letting them collect dust on a shelf or, worse, throwing them away. With BookScouter, it’s a quick and easy way to make some extra cash!
6. Turn your snaps into cash
Have you ever looked at the amazing pictures on your phone and thought, “There has to be a way to make money from these?” Well, you’re right! There are several online platforms that allow you to sell your photos and turn your hobby into a side hustle.
Shutterstock is a popular option for photographers of all levels. Signing up is easy, and once your account is approved, you can submit your photos for sale. Here’s the beauty: every time someone uses your image, you earn a royalty. Over time, your high-quality photos could become a consistent source of income.
Another platform to explore is Foap. This vibrant community connects photographers with brands looking for unique images. Uploading your photos to Foap is a breeze, and if a brand selects your work for a private-use license, you get paid!
So, stop letting your amazing photos gather digital dust. With these online marketplaces, you can showcase your talent and start earning for your photography skills.
7. Improve products and get paid
Do you have strong opinions about websites and apps? UserTesting is a platform that connects you with companies who want to hear your thoughts! You’ll be helping them improve their products by sharing your feedback through short video recordings.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Get paid to share your experience: UserTesting offers opportunities to earn money by providing your insights on various products.
- Speak your mind: Fluency in English is required as you’ll be sharing your thoughts verbally.
- Flexible participation: Tests can be completed on your computer or mobile device, allowing you to work from anywhere.
- Quick and easy: Most tests take only about 20 minutes of your time.
- Transparent earnings: The amount you earn for each test is clearly displayed on your dashboard beforehand, so you can choose which opportunities to participate in.
uTest is another company worth considering if you’re interested in user testing.
Ready to make a difference and earn some extra cash? Sign up for UserTesting today!
8. Let Sweatcoin pay for walking
Looking for extra motivation to get active? Sweatcoin is a free app that rewards you for walking with a digital currency called Sweatcoins. That’s right, you can earn Sweatcoins simply by going for a walk!
Here’s how it works:
- Download the Sweatcoin app on your iPhone or Android device.
- Take steps! Every 1,000 steps you take earns you Sweatcoins.
- You can redeem your Sweatcoins for various rewards in the app’s marketplace. These could include discounts on merchandise or charitable donations.
More than just a step counter
Sweatcoin is a great way to gamify your fitness routine and make getting active more rewarding. It can also help you track your daily steps and overall activity level. Whether you’re looking to improve your health, earn some rewards, or simply get more motivated to walk, Sweatcoin is a great app to check out.
Sweatcoin is available for free on both Apple and Android devices. So lace up your shoes, download the app, and earn Sweatcoins today!
9. Get paid with gig apps for household tasks
Ever wished you had an extra hand around the house? Or maybe you’re looking for a way to make some extra cash? Gig apps like TaskRabbit and Gigwalk can connect you with people in your community who need help with chores, and can also help you find work doing those chores!
How it works
Downloading the TaskRabbit app is easy, and once you create a profile, you can start browsing jobs in your area. Tasks can include anything from fixing fences and painting walls to mowing lawns. Apply for the jobs you’re interested in and get started earning money! Both the payment and review process happen right through the app, making it a convenient experience.
Benefits for everyone
Looking for gigs can be a fun way to find work, and if you’re willing to put in the effort, it can even turn into a steady source of income. This is especially true in busy metropolitan areas with high demand for these services.
So whether you need help with a household project or are looking for a way to earn extra cash, gig apps are a great option!
10. Manage social media
Are you social media savvy? Companies are seeking social media managers to manage their online presence. This remote opportunity allows you to control company accounts like Twitter and Facebook, craft their voice, and engage with customers—all from your phone!
Across industries, businesses, particularly small ones, crave help navigating the social media landscape. That’s where you come in! If managing a company’s online persona sounds exciting, platforms like FlexJobs offer a treasure trove of social media management gigs.
11. Breathe new life into old tech with Amazon Trade-In
Looking to declutter your tech collection and score some rewards? Amazon’s trade-in program offers a convenient solution! This program lets you swap unwanted gadgets for Amazon gift cards or promotional credit toward a brand-new device.
Amazon accepts a wide variety of tech items, from smartphones and video games to Amazon devices and accessories. Simply check their trade-in store to see if your item qualifies. If it does, you’ll get an instant offer for an Amazon gift card or a discount on a new purchase.
There are no hidden charges involved. Amazon covers all shipping costs and even provides a free shipping label to make the process hassle-free. So why not declutter and earn some rewards at the same time?
12. Invest for your future with these handy apps
Looking to grow your wealth while making some extra cash? Look no further than investment apps! These handy tools allow you to invest from your phone, putting your money to work for you. Let’s explore some popular options:
Betterment: Your personalized finance coach
Betterment is perfect for those who want to manage their finances. It combines investing and saving tools to help you achieve your financial goals. Set up personalized plans and automate monthly deposits for a stress-free approach to investing.
Acorns: Invest your spare change
Acorns makes investing painless. It rounds up your everyday purchases to the nearest dollar and deposits that spare change into your investment account. Partner stores can even give you a bonus investment when you shop!
Robinhood: Fractional shares for every one
Robinhood is a popular platform for active investors. It allows you to trade stocks and funds, with the unique feature of buying “fractional shares.” This means you can invest in a company for as little as $1, rather than buying a whole share.
Remember, these are just a few examples, and there are many investment apps available. When choosing an app, consider your investment goals and risk tolerance. Happy investing!
13. Run a Shopify store from your smartphone
Shopify offers a convenient mobile app that allows you to manage your e-commerce store from your phone, wherever you are. This empowers you to handle many aspects of your business with just a few taps.
Here’s what you can do with the Shopify mobile app:
- Add and manage products: Easily add new products to your store, edit existing ones, and update inventory levels directly from your phone.
- Fulfill orders: Process and fulfill orders quickly and efficiently, ensuring a smooth customer experience.
- Track sales performance: Keep an eye on your sales performance and stay informed about revenue levels.
- Provide customer support: Respond to customer inquiries and messages through the app, offering excellent customer service.
While you might initially need a desktop to set up your Shopify store, the mobile app is a great tool for managing your day-to-day operations and staying on top of things when you’re away from your computer.
14. Turn Playtime into cash
Forget mindless phone games! These days, you can level up your fun and earn rewards with apps that pay you to play.
Take Mistplay, for example. This app lets you score points (called Units) just for playing games you enjoy on your phone. These Units can then be redeemed for gift cards to popular stores like Amazon, iTunes, and Best Buy.
The best part? With genres ranging from puzzle adventures to strategic battles, there’s something for everyone on Mistplay. So why not turn your playtime into prize time?
15. Make money watching videos
While you won’t get rich quickly, watching videos can be a fun way to earn some extra cash. Here are two approaches to consider:
Easy rewards: Apps like Swagbucks and InboxDollars offer points or cash for watching short videos. These are typically advertisements or compiled clips, and while the payouts aren’t huge, they’re a good option for some passive income.
More involved, more money: If you’re looking for a more consistent and potentially lucrative option, consider freelance gigs. Companies like Netflix sometimes outsource tasks like video tagging, which involves categorizing content. These jobs require more focus but can offer better pay compared to simple video watching.
16. Turn your expertise into cash
Do you have a niche skill or deep knowledge in a particular area? Are you passionate about helping others? If so, you can leverage your expertise to make money by sharing your knowledge on platforms like JustAnswer.
JustAnswer is a platform that connects people with questions to experts who can provide answers. This means you can get paid for doing what you love: sharing your knowledge and helping others.
To become an expert on JustAnswer, you must pass a background check and an exam in your area of expertise. Once approved, you’ll enjoy the flexibility of setting your own hours and choosing which questions you answer.
JustAnswer claims that experts can make between $2,000 and $7,000 per month, allowing you to earn a competitive income while working on your own terms.
Ready to share your knowledge and get paid?
Visit JustAnswer’s website to learn more about becoming an expert and turning your expertise into cash.
17. Become an online language tutor
The internet has opened doors for language learning like never before. Platforms like Verbling and iTalki connect you, the language expert, with students eager to learn. Set your own rates (within guidelines) and turn your language skills into a flexible side hustle or even a full-time income!
18. Start a YouTube channel
Ever dreamed of creating awesome content and sharing it with the world? YouTube provides a fantastic platform to do just that, and all you need is your phone to get started!
Find your niche:
The beauty of YouTube is the sheer variety of content that thrives there. Whether you’re passionate about teaching others, offering insightful reviews, or simply entertaining viewers, there’s a space for you. Identify your strengths and interests—what are you knowledgeable about or enthusiastic about? This will be the foundation for your channel’s theme.
Plan your content calendar:
Brainstorm video ideas that align with your chosen niche. Having a list helps you stay focused and maintain consistency, a key factor in audience growth. Aim for a regular weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly upload schedule to keep viewers engaged and coming back for more.
Optimize for discovery:
When you upload your videos, craft compelling descriptions that not only entice viewers but also incorporate search-friendly keywords. This increases the chances of your videos appearing in search results, attracting a wider audience.
With these steps, you’re well on your way to launching a successful YouTube channel. Remember, creating engaging content takes time and dedication, but with passion and perseverance, you can build a loyal following and establish yourself as a YouTube creator!
19. Be a remote customer service representative: Help people from anywhere
Do you enjoy helping others and have excellent communication skills? Then a work-from-home customer service representative position might be perfect for you!
You’ll use your phone to connect with customers in this remote role. You’ll answer their questions, address their concerns, and provide them with helpful information. Your focus will be on creating a positive customer experience from the comfort of your own home.
Customer service representatives are the backbone of many companies. They play a vital role in ensuring customer satisfaction by providing support and resolving issues. Thanks to technology, you can now contribute to this essential service while enjoying the flexibility of working remotely.
20. Make money with your TikTok account
TikTok’s popularity is undeniable, and for creators who’ve amassed a following, it can be more than just a fun pastime. It can be a way to turn those views into serious cash.
Here are several strategies to consider, depending on your content niche:
- Affiliate marketing: Partner with brands you love and promote their products through your videos. You’ll earn a commission on every sale you drive.
- Join the creator fund: This program rewards creators directly for their content, but you’ll need a substantial following to qualify.
- Go live and get gifted: During live streams, viewers can send virtual gifts that convert into real money.
- Open a TikTok Shop: If you have your own products or merchandise, TikTok Shop allows seamless integration for in-app sales.
- Run targeted ads: This option lets businesses leverage their audience through short, engaging ad campaigns within the app.
- Land brand deals: As your influence grows, brands may approach you to feature their products in exchange for a fee.
Remember, building a loyal audience takes time and dedication. Don’t get discouraged if monetization isn’t instant. The good news? Numerous TikTok creators generate significant income from their channels, proving the platform’s potential. So, unleash your creativity, build your audience, and watch the money follow!
21. Food delivery
Food delivery apps like DoorDash, Grubhub, and ChowNow offer a way to turn your phone into a money-making tool. If you have a car and are driven (pun intended!), you can potentially earn a good income as a delivery driver, with some pulling in an estimated $24 per hour.
Here’s the beauty: you set your own schedule. Want a full-time gig? Go for it! Need something part-time to fit around other commitments? No problem.
Signing up is simple. Just download the app of your chosen delivery company and apply directly through it. Once approved, you can be delivering meals almost instantly.
The app sends you all your delivery offers. To maximize your earnings, consider factors like distance and the size of the order. After each successful delivery, you’ll receive a notification with your earnings, including tips. Most apps allow you to transfer your money out daily or weekly.
So, if you’re looking for a flexible way to make money on your terms, food delivery apps could be a great option for you.
22. Becoming a reseller
Ever considered those outdated platform shoes gathering dust in your closet? They could be a goldmine for someone else! The resale market is booming, with platforms like TheRealReal, Poshmark, and eBay empowering individuals to build thriving businesses.
Here’s the magic: transform your unwanted items into cash. All it takes is a few simple steps:
- Declutter and choose: Identify items you no longer need or use. Clothing, accessories, electronics – the possibilities are endless!
- Prep for profit: Give your items some TLC. Wash, clean, and make any necessary repairs to maximize their appeal.
- Become a photography pro: Take high-quality photos that showcase your items in the best light.
- List it online: Choose your selling platform, write clear descriptions, and set competitive prices.
- Relax and watch it sell: Manage your listings and be prepared to ship your items to eager buyers.
Reselling isn’t just about decluttering; it’s about sustainability and giving pre-loved items a new life. So, ditch the misconception that reselling requires minimal effort. With a little preparation and savvy marketing, you can turn your unwanted items into a profitable venture.
Can you make money with your phone?
Your phone can be a money-making tool! There are a variety of ways to bring in extra cash, from sharing your thoughts on surveys to putting your creative skills to work.
Here are some popular options to consider:
- Share your opinions: Companies value consumer insights, and you can get paid for providing them through survey apps.
- Test the latest apps: Help shape the digital world by participating in user testing programs and giving feedback on new apps.
- Become an online tutor: Share your knowledge with others by tutoring students virtually on various subjects.
- Manage social media: Businesses increasingly seek help managing their social media presence. Offer your social media expertise and get paid.
- Sell your photos: If you have a knack for capturing great images, you can sell them to stock photo websites.
What can I do with my phone to make money?
Your smartphone is more than just a communication device. With a little creativity and the right apps, it can be a tool to boost your income. Here are some ways to turn your phone into a money-maker:
- Be a survey taker: Share your opinions and earn rewards by participating in online surveys with apps like Survey Junkie or Swagbucks.
- Resell and recycle: Declutter your home and make cash by selling unwanted items through apps or websites. You can also look for deals on secondhand goods to resell at a profit.
- Become a gig worker: Connect with local job opportunities through apps like TaskRabbit or Handy. These platforms allow you to get paid for running errands, doing handyman tasks, or even walking dogs.
- Promote and earn: Try affiliate marketing! Partner with brands you love and earn commissions by recommending their products through your social media channels.
- Open an online shop: Platforms like Shopify allow you to set up an online store right from your phone. Sell handmade crafts, unique finds, or even dropship products to a global audience.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. With some effort and exploration, you can discover even more ways to leverage your smartphone and turn it into a source of extra income.
What are the best money-making apps?
Your smartphone can be a powerful tool for earning money! Here are some of the best apps for making money from your phone:
- Survey Junkie: Share your opinions and get rewarded! Survey Junkie connects you with companies looking for consumer insights. By taking surveys on various topics, you can earn points that can be redeemed for cash or gift cards.
- Swagbucks: Earn rewards for everyday activities. Swagbucks lets you rack up points for doing things you might already be doing online, like watching videos, searching the web, or playing games. You can also earn cash back by shopping at partner stores. Redeem your points for gift cards or cash through PayPal.
- Rakuten (formerly Ebates): Earn cash back while you shop. Rakuten partners with thousands of retailers to offer you cash back on your purchases. Simply activate the app before shopping online or in-store at a partnered retailer, and earn a percentage of your spending back as cash.
Can I make money without working?
While a traditional job might be the first thing that comes to mind, there are plenty of ways to bring in income without following the usual path. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Investing apps and affiliate marketing can create income streams that keep growing even when you’re not actively working.
- Dropshipping lets you sell products online without having to hold any inventory yourself.
- Taking surveys and using cashback apps might not make you rich, but they’re a flexible way to earn some extra cash.
Remember, these options often require some upfront effort or research to get started. But the freedom and flexibility they offer can be a big perk!
The bottom line: Turn your phone into a money-making machine
Your phone is more than just a communication device. It can be a powerful tool to boost your income! Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or a few extra bucks here and there, there are numerous apps and methods to leverage your phone’s potential.
Ditch the mindless scrolling and unlock the earning potential of your phone. Many apps make earning extra cash so simple, it feels almost like free money. From online surveys to cashback rewards, you can get paid for everyday activities you might already be doing.
The key is to explore the various options and find what works best for you. You can turn your phone into a money-making machine with a little effort!