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Taking surveys for money is an accessible side hustle. Just about anyone with an internet connection can sign up for paid survey-taking websites to earn cash, gift cards or rewards by sharing their opinions. Thousands of users each day use their spare time during lunch breaks, while watching TV or during downtime.
But while it’s a flexible money-making option, it’s important to have manageable expectations about how much money you can make.
Can You Really Make Money Taking Surveys Online?
Survey websites offer people the opportunity to earn some money by taking surveys about products, services or advertising. For example, with SurveyJunkie, it has a parent company that compiles data for clients and surveys can serve as a way to conduct market research. When you sign up for a survey website, you typically have to create an account and share demographic information, so then you can be matched to specific surveys. Companies value this market research because it offers a way to get insights into what their buyers may want from them.
The payout options for survey taking sites can vary. If there is a points system used, you’ll have to reach a minimum threshold to convert your points into a payment, like gift cards. Some will let you link a PayPal account or bank account and you can move money you earn there.
Surveys can help you earn some extra cash, but they don’t make enough money to replace a job. Like any side hustle, you have to be mindful of how much time and effort you put in to truly see if its worth you doing consistently.
Paid Survey Websites
On most survey sites, you can make anywhere from a few cents to over $50 per survey, depending on the platform and the survey’s complexity. Most people using paid survey websites earn $1 to $5 per survey, with opportunities varying by demographics and location.
The types of surveys you’ll be presented with range from consumer feedback and product testing to political polls and behavioral studies. There are dozens of survey platforms online, but only a handful are considered the best survey sites for consistent payouts and legitimacy. Trust is crucial—many of the top-paid survey sites are vetted by thousands of users, offer transparent terms and have reliable payment systems. If you’re looking to take surveys for money, choosing the right platform is the first step to maximizing your earnings and avoiding scams.
1. Swagbucks
As one of the most popular rewards platforms, you can use Swagbucks to earn by answering surveys, watching videos, playing mobile games and shopping online. Your payout options are PayPal and gift cards. The minimum payout depends on the reward. If you cash out using PayPal it needs to be at least $25, but if you use gift cards it can generally start around $3.
The site is very beginner-friendly, requires no specific skills and allows you to start easily by signing up with your email and completing a profile. Swagbucks is reasonably low-effort and offers tasks that you can complete in your spare time. Typically, the survey topics that you’ll take part in will be about consumer habits, entertainment, shopping, tech, etc. You may be able to complete several surveys every day, but the frequency all depends on your profile details. Swagbucks is best for those who want a flexible, low-effort method of earning some extra cash online.
2. InboxDollars
InboxDollars is a platform that pays users for completing surveys, watching videos, reading emails and more. Signing up is quick and simple, and only requires you to register online and complete your profile. While some tasks may take longer than others, most require low to moderate time and effort on your part.
This site requires no special skills, but you must be at least 18+ to create a profile. Survey topics include product testing, lifestyle, entertainment and shopping. You will be able to complete multiple surveys and tasks daily, earning anywhere from $0.25 to $5 per survey with some tasks paying more than this. After earning, you can cash out via gift cards or PayPal. InboxDollars is a great option for anyone looking for a simple way to earn a few bucks during downtime.
3. Pinecone Research
This option is one of the most exclusive platform options and is known for its high payouts and product testing options. Due to the exclusivity, you must apply and be accepted into the program.
Surveys are typically low-effort and take about 5 to 10 minutes each. To complete most surveys, you must meet a particular demographic requirement to be accepted, depending on the survey’s needs. Most are focused on consumer products, advertisements and lifestyle preferences. Users typically find themselves completing a few surveys monthly and earning about $3 per survey, cashing out via PayPal and gift cards. Pinecone Research is an excellent option for those who enjoy sharing their opinions and want frequent survey options.
4. Toluna Influencers
If you’re interested in your feedback playing a part in the development of products and brands, Toluna Influencers is a safe option. To sign up, just create a login and complete your profile. This platform offers frequent opportunities, but they may be more time-consuming or higher-effort than other platforms.
Most users can complete several surveys per week on topics such as products, brands, current events and consumer behavior. As you complete these surveys, you earn points that can be redeemed for rewards. Survey points range range from 15 to 50,000 points. According to Toluna terms, 3,000 points is equal to $1.
5. YouGov
YouGov is a well-respected research company that conducts polls on topics such as politics, brands and public opinion. After creating your account, you’ll be invited to answer questions via surveys. The longer the survey, the more you will earn in YouGov points to redeem for gift cards or PayPal payouts.
Most surveys require low effort and are short. You must be 18+, but there are no other special skills needed to create an account and start earning. This is the go-to platform for those interested in sharing their opinions about politics and current events.
6. Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is one of the most well-established names in the industry. While it’s primarily known for surveys, the platform also offers product testing and focus groups for select users. To get started, just create a free account, complete a profile to help match you with relevant opportunities and begin earning points.
Most surveys range from 5 to 20 minutes, and there are no special qualifications required beyond being at least 16 years old and residing in the U.S., Canada or Australia. Topics cover a wide range of industries including retail, healthcare, tech and entertainment.
Users typically have access to multiple surveys per day, though availability depends on how closely your profile matches client needs. Payouts are available via PayPal, direct bank transfer, or e-gift cards once you reach the $5 (500 points) threshold.
7. Prolific
This UK-based platform is used specifically for academic research. Unlike most traditional survey sites, Prolific connects real researchers—often from universities—with participants for psychology, behavioral science and social research studies. Signing up involves creating a detailed profile that helps ensure you’re only matched with studies you qualify for.
This site offers thoughtful and engaging surveys that are typically offered more sparingly, with participants usually being paid anywhere from $8 to $12 per hour with some studies offering rates higher than this. Many of Prolific’s surveys have built-in checks to ensure quality responses, so honesty and attention to detail are essential. Payouts are made in the form of PayPal payment.
8. Branded Surveys
With Branded Surveys, you can earn points in exchange for completing consumer surveys. The signup process is as easy as creating a profile and answering demographic questions. You’ll then be able to get started right away.
Most surveys take between 10 to 20 minutes, and the platform does provide an estimate of time and reward before starting. Topics range from consumer products and services to entertainment and travel preferences, with most users earning from $0.50 to $1.50 per survey. Once you reach $5, you can cash out via PayPal, direct deposit or gift card.
9. LifePoints
The market research company Lightspeed is behind this well-known survey community. The platform allows users to earn points by participating in surveys that influence product development and brand decisions. Signing up requires filling out a detailed profile, which helps match you with suitable surveys.
The time required per survey varies from 5 to 30 minutes, and there are no required qualifications aside from being at least 14 years old and living in an eligible country. LifePoints surveys cover a broad range of consumer-related topics, from food and tech to healthcare and household habits.
Survey frequency varies by user profile, but active members often see multiple invites per week. Payouts can range from a few cents to several dollars per survey, with redemption options including PayPal, Amazon and other retail gift cards.
10. User Interviews
If you have a bit more time to spare, tapping into User Interviews’ higher-paying opportunities can be quite lucrative. This site offers users the opportunity to participate in one-on-one interviews, usability tests and focus groups geared toward general consumers and professionals in niche industries.
Signing up is free, and you’ll need to complete a detailed profile to be matched with relevant studies. Some projects require professional experience in a specific niche, while others are open to the general public. Time commitment varies widely—some studies take 30 minutes, others up to 2 hours.
Due to the larger time commitment, most of these surveys pay out in the form of gift cards or direct deposit. Amounts for payment can vary widely, for instance, from $10 to $300.
Tips For Making Money With Surveys
To earn decent money with surveys, the key is prioritizing consistency and being selective about where you’re putting your time. You can register with multiple reputable survey sites to increase the opportunities presented to you. Most survey offers are given based on your profile, so it’s best to make sure your profile is fully completed in detail.
Aside from dedicating specific time each day or week to take surveys, it’s best to focus on the opportunities that will give you the most bang for your buck.
How To Spot A Paid Survey Scam
Sites should never ask for details that you don’t feel at ease including like your Social Security number. You should also never send money to researchers.
Survey websites may also provide further guidance for red flags to look out for. For example, Prolific says to be cautious of any studies that require you to download file or click on link, or that have you make a separate account.
In general, you should also be mindful of any texts, calls, emails or social media messages you receive that ask you to take a survey to receive a payout. These are common tactics scammers. AI scams are also becoming more prevalent, so identifiers like misspellings are becoming less common and making these types of messages seem more legitimate.
Taking surveys for money is a highly accessible side hustle. It likely won’t replace your full-time income, but most survey sites can help you supplement your earnings. If you’re consistent and selective with opportunities, you’ll be able to earn a pretty penny each month.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
