Even though I have a work at home job, I still love earning extra money. And I guess that's clear because I do often post ways to earn extra money on this site.
However, there are a lot of things that are simply a waste of time, even for extra money. In my opinion, these five opportunities should be well worth it (and also fun to use) if “real” extra cash is what you need.
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1 – Sproutful – Surveys & Games
Sproutful is a rewards site you can use to earn extra money taking surveys and playing games.
You earn points for the things you complete, and you can start cashing out once you reach $5. Reward options include Paypal, Venmo, prepaid Visa cards, and gift cards.
I've also been seeing some good feedback from people who are actually using it. One Reddit user said, “I hit the $5 cashout within a few days of casual use.” Another said the reason they still use Sproutful is because “the payouts have been reliable in my experience.”
Of course, like any rewards site, this isn't going to replace a job. But if you just want something easy to mess around with in your spare time, it looks like a solid option.
Go here to sign up for Sproutful.
2 – PaidViewpoint – Short Surveys
I've used PaidViewpoint for years, and it's still one of the survey sites I feel most comfortable recommending.
The surveys are generally short and easy to complete, and one thing I've always liked about PaidViewpoint is that you aren't constantly getting kicked out of surveys after spending time answering questions.
You can cash out once you reach your account's payout threshold, and PayPal is available as a payment option.
This isn't going to replace a job, but it's one of my favorite sites to keep around for earning a little extra money here and there.
Go here to sign up for PaidViewpoint, or read my PaidViewpoint review.
3 – Pinecone Research – Surveys & Product Testing
Pinecone Research is another survey panel I've known about and used for years.
They are more selective than a lot of survey sites because they're usually looking for people who fit specific demographics. So, signing up doesn't necessarily mean you'll be accepted.
If you do get in, you can earn points for answering surveys about products and services. Pinecone also occasionally offers product testing opportunities, which can be a fun bonus.
Rewards can include gift cards, prepaid cards, bank transfer where available, and other options.
Go here to try signing up for Pinecone Research, or read my Pinecone Research review.
4 – UserTesting – App/Website Testers
You can sign up with UserTesting and get paid to leave your honest feedback on websites, apps, and digital products. Companies of all sizes use the platform to find out how real people experience what they’ve built.
Many recorded tests pay around $10 for about 20 minutes, though shorter surveys may pay less. UserTesting also offers live video conversations, which pay more but require scheduling and approval.
Payments are made via PayPal after your tests are completed and approved, often within a few days.
One downside is that tests aren’t always available, and when they are, you usually have to grab them quickly. You’ll also need to answer short screener questions to see if you qualify.
UserTesting rewards consistency — the more tests you complete successfully, the better your rating, and the more invites you’re likely to receive. It can take time to build up, but some users do earn a few hundred dollars per month with patience.
Go here to check out UserTesting, or read the UserTesting review.
5 – Prolific – Research Studies & Tasks
People on the Beer Money Reddit are continually singing the praises of Prolific. You can join as a research participant and earn fair money for very easy work – studies and tasks.
The downside is that everyone KNOWS this site is good, and for that reason there is a waitlist to sign up. Some people have been on it for over two years!! I, myself, am also on the waitlist and have been for probably eight months.
Still, it's worth getting on it. Regarding payment, the site says: “All participants receive a guaranteed minimum of $8 or £6 an hour, with instant cash-outs after your first 4 payments. Some studies even pay hourly rates of $20+ with additional bonuses.”
And yes, they are open worldwide! Go here to get on Prolific's waitlist.
I would additionally recommend joining User Interviews and Respondent (two similar sites that may accept you faster that also have great reviews and pay very well).
Good luck to you if you try any of these sites! If you want more info on remote jobs and side gigs, you can start getting my newsletters free here. I send out new information every week.
Anna Thurman is a work at home blogger and mom of two. She has been researching and reviewing remote jobs for over 15 years. Her findings are published weekly here at Real Ways to Earn.