rise of smartphones and the gig economy, making money through apps has never been easier. Whether you’re looking for a side income or a primary source of earnings, several mobile applications offer real cash payouts.
Below is a comprehensive guide on the best apps for earning money in 2025.
1. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is one of the most popular and reputable reward-based apps. Users can earn points (SB) by completing surveys, watching videos, shopping online, and searching the web.
The points can then be redeemed for PayPal cash or gift cards to major retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
Key Features:
- Free to join
- Multiple ways to earn
- Low payout threshold ($5)
- PayPal and gift card redemption
2. Ibotta
Ibotta is a cashback app designed for grocery shoppers. Users earn money by scanning receipts and making purchases from partner retailers like Walmart, Target, and Amazon.
Key Features:
- Cashback on groceries and retail purchases
- Works with both online and in-store shopping
- Payouts via PayPal, Venmo, or gift cards
3. Rakuten (formerly Ebates)
Rakuten is another great cashback app that pays users for shopping at partnered stores. It offers cashback on a variety of purchases, including travel, clothing, and electronics.
Key Features:
- High cashback rates (up to 40%)
- Quarterly payouts via PayPal or check
- $10 sign-up bonus
4. Fiverr
Fiverr is a freelancing platform where users can sell digital services like graphic design, writing, video editing, and marketing. It allows skilled professionals to earn money by providing services worldwide.
Key Features:
- Global freelancing marketplace
- Offers payments via PayPal, direct deposit, or Fiverr Revenue Card
- Opportunity to scale up and earn substantial income
5. Upwork
Similar to Fiverr, Upwork is a freelancing app where professionals can offer services such as programming, virtual assistance, and copywriting. It connects businesses with remote workers for various projects.
Key Features:
- Large client base
- Hourly and fixed-price jobs available
- Secure payment system with milestone protection
6. Mistplay (for gamers)
Mistplay rewards users for playing mobile games. It’s a great app for those who enjoy gaming and want to earn some extra cash while having fun.
Key Features:
- Earn points while playing games
- Redeem points for gift cards
- Available on Android
7. TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit connects people who need tasks done with local freelancers willing to do them. Users can earn money by helping with moving, cleaning, assembling furniture, and more.
Key Features:
- Set your own rates
- Secure payments
- High demand in urban areas
8. Sweatcoin
Sweatcoin is an app that pays users for walking. It converts steps into digital currency that can be redeemed for products, services, or even PayPal cash (in select regions).
Key Features:
- Encourages fitness
- Earn money for walking
- Redeem for PayPal cash or gift cards
9. Toluna Influencers
Toluna Influencers is a survey app that rewards users for sharing their opinions. By answering surveys, users earn points that can be converted into PayPal cash or gift cards.
Key Features:
- Wide variety of surveys
- Multiple payout options
- Reliable and legitimate
10. Uber and Lyft
Driving for ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft remains one of the best ways to earn real money. Drivers can earn money by offering rides in their spare time.
Key Features:
- Flexible working hours
- Instant payout options
- High earning potential in busy areas
11. Airbnb
For those who have extra space, Airbnb allows users to rent out their rooms, apartments, or homes to travelers, generating significant income.
Key Features:
- Earn passive income
- Set your own rental rates
- Secure payments and verified guests
12. Foap
Foap is a photography app that allows users to sell their smartphone photos to businesses, marketers, and stock image websites.
Key Features:
- Sell photos for real cash
- Collaborate with brands on specific photo missions
- No limit to how many times a photo can be sold
13. Poshmark
Poshmark is an online marketplace where users can sell secondhand fashion items, shoes, and accessories for extra income.
Key Features:
- Easy-to-use selling platform
- Payout via direct deposit or check
- Free shipping for buyers
14. Acorns
Acorns is an investment app that helps users grow their savings by rounding up purchases and investing the spare change.
Key Features:
- Automatic savings and investment
- No large initial deposit required
- Cash rewards for shopping at partner retailers
15. Rover
Rover is a pet-sitting and dog-walking app that connects pet owners with reliable pet caregivers.
Key Features:
- Flexible scheduling
- Get paid to spend time with pets
- Secure payments
Conclusion
There are plenty of apps that offer real money-making opportunities. Whether you prefer taking surveys, shopping, freelancing, or even walking, there is an app that suits your lifestyle. Before downloading any app, always check its reviews and ensure it has a good reputation to avoid scams. With dedication and consistency, you can turn these apps into a steady source of income in 2025.