Sometimes you don't have weeks to wait for your first paycheck. Maybe rent is due, your car needs repairs, or you just need grocery money before payday.
Thankfully, there are now several apps that connect you with one-time shifts, flexible gigs, and temporary jobs that can pay the same day you work or shortly afterward, depending on the app and the payment method you choose.
One quick note: These aren't remote jobs, which I know is what I usually write about here. I'm including them because I also hear from readers who simply need money now and don't mind leaving the house if it means getting paid quickly.
If that's you, these apps are definitely worth knowing about.
Just remember that availability depends on where you live. Larger cities usually have the most opportunities, but it could still be smart to download several of these apps so that you have more jobs to choose from!
1. Wonolo
Wonolo (short for “Work Now Locally”) connects businesses with workers who are looking for flexible, short-term jobs. Once your profile is approved, you can browse available shifts nearby and claim the ones you want.
You may find jobs like:
- Warehouse work
- General labor
- Event staffing
- Merchandising
- Cleaning
- Food production
I like that you can see how much a shift pays before accepting it. Some jobs are just for a day, while others could maybe turn into ongoing work if the employer likes you.
Pay: Many workers are paid within one to five business days, although some jobs offer faster payouts.
Go here to check out Wonolo.
2. Instawork
If you have experience in restaurants, hospitality, retail, or warehouse work, Instawork is definitely one you should download.
The app lets you browse available shifts, choose the ones that fit your schedule, and see your expected pay before accepting.
Common jobs include:
- Servers
- Bartenders
- Dishwashers
- Warehouse associates
- Retail merchandising
- Event staff
I see that Instawork has a nice variety of jobs depending on your area, especially if you live near a larger city.
Pay: Most workers are paid weekly, while eligible workers can access daily pay using the Instawork Debit Card.
Go here to check out Instawork.
3. Veryable
Veryable focuses mainly on manufacturing, warehouse, and distribution work. Instead of simply claiming shifts, you'll often submit yourself for available opportunities, and businesses choose workers based on their experience and ratings.
You can find work such as:
- Warehouse jobs
- Manufacturing
- Shipping and receiving
- Forklift operation
- General labor
If you're comfortable doing physical work, this app could become a regular source of extra income.
Pay: Many workers receive payment as soon as the next day through Veryable's payment system.
Go here to check out Veryable.
4. Veho
Veho works a little differently because it focuses on package delivery instead of shift work.
Drivers claim delivery routes rather than individual deliveries, and you'll generally know your expected earnings before accepting a route.
You'll usually need:
- A reliable vehicle
- A valid driver's license
- Auto insurance
- A smartphone
If you already drive for apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Amazon Flex, Veho can be another option to add to your rotation.
Pay: Payment timing varies by market, but many drivers receive earnings shortly after completing deliveries.
Go here to check out Veho.
5. Qwick
Qwick is designed primarily for hospitality workers and connects restaurants, hotels, and event venues with people looking for flexible shifts.
You may see openings for:
- Servers
- Bartenders
- Line cooks
- Dishwashers
- Banquet staff
- Event workers
Even if you only want to work occasionally, this app can make it easy to pick up shifts when you need extra money.
Pay: Many eligible shifts offer same-day pay after the work has been completed.
Go here to check out Qwick.
6. Get Gigs
Get Gigs is a little different because it doesn't provide its own jobs. Instead, it searches multiple gig work platforms and brings listings together in one place.
That means you can spend less time opening several different apps every day just to see what's available.
You may find:
- Delivery work
- Warehouse jobs
- Retail gigs
- Event staffing
- General labor
Go here to check out Get Gigs.
Tips for Getting More Gigs
The more complete your profile is, the better your chances of getting accepted for shifts on the above apps.
I also see that workers with higher ratings usually qualify for more opportunities and better-paying jobs over time.
- Sign up for several apps instead of relying on just one.
- Turn on notifications so that you see new shifts quickly.
- Show up on time and do good work.
- Keep in mind that opportunities vary depending on where you live.
- Don't get discouraged if one app seems slow. Another one could have plenty of work available.
In Conclusion
If you need money quickly, these apps are definitely worth looking into. While they probably won't replace a full-time job for everyone, they can be a great way to bring in extra cash or help cover unexpected expenses.
If it were me, I'd probably download all six instead of picking just one. Since each app works with different businesses, you'll have a much better chance of finding work when you need it most.
That said, the more flexible you are about the type of work you're willing to do, the more opportunities you'll probably see!
Good luck!
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.