9 Best Online Surveys To Earn Money In 2024

Is Filling Out Surveys a Scam? We Expose the Truth About Online Earnings.

Let’s face it, everyone loves a little extra cash. Whether you’re saving up for a dream vacation, a new gadget, or that rainy day fund, taking online surveys to earn money can be a convenient and flexible way to make some extra money.

But with a plethora of online survey sites out there, where do you even begin? Fear not, intrepid side hustler! This handy guide will unveil the best paid survey sites to earn money in 2024, so you can choose the perfect platform to match your interests and schedule.

Why Online Surveys To Earn Money?

In the quest for extra cash, online surveys to earn money have emerged as a popular option. They offer the allure of making money from the comfort of your couch, simply by sharing your opinions and experiences through online paid surveys. These surveys are offered by different survey sites, emphasizing the process of joining multiple platforms to maximize earnings and highlighting the legitimacy of online surveys as a way for brands to gather consumer feedback.

But before you envision yourself quitting your day job and living a life of leisure funded by surveys alone, let’s set some realistic expectations.

Online surveys to earn money can indeed be a lucrative side hustle. Many reputable platforms offer opportunities to earn cash, gift cards, or even points redeemable for various rewards through paid online surveys. The beauty lies in the flexibility. You can squeeze in a survey during your lunch break, catch up on a few while watching TV, or dedicate a focused session whenever you have spare time.

However, it’s crucial to understand that online surveys to earn money are not a get-rich-quick scheme. Earnings typically range from a few cents to a few dollars per survey, and the frequency of available surveys can vary depending on the platform and your demographics. It requires dedication and consistency to see a significant accumulation in your earnings.

So, online surveys to earn money can be a valuable tool to supplement your income, reward yourself with extra spending money, or even contribute towards a specific financial goal. However, approaching them with realistic expectations and a strategic mindset will ensure a more fulfilling and productive experience.

1. Swagbucks

Swagbucks is a well-established platform in the online surveys to earn money world, and for good reason. It stands out for its variety of ways to earn points, otherwise known as Swagbucks Points (SB). These points can be redeemed for various rewards, making it a versatile option for those seeking to earn extra cash or other incentives.

Here’s a closer look at the key features of Swagbucks:

• Surveys: Swagbucks offers a decent selection of online surveys to earn money, varying in length, topic, and payout. This includes answering surveys, which is a straightforward way to participate in survey-related activities on the platform. The surveys are categorized to help you find ones relevant to your interests and demographics. However, the availability and payout for surveys can fluctuate depending on these factors, so consistency is key.
• Earning Potential: As with most survey sites, earnings on Swagbucks vary depending on the complexity and length of the survey. You can expect to earn anywhere from a few SB points to a few hundred SB points per survey. While it may not make you rich quick, it can add up over time, especially if you participate consistently.
• Redemption Options: The beauty of Swagbucks lies in its diverse redemption options. You can convert your SB points into cash via PayPal, which is a popular choice for many users. If you prefer gift cards, Swagbucks offers a vast selection from popular retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Additionally, you can redeem your points for prepaid Mastercard credit cards.

Beyond Surveys: Expanding Your Earnings on Swagbucks

While surveys are a core component of Swagbucks, the platform goes beyond just that. Here are other ways to accumulate points and maximize your earnings:

• Watching Videos: Swagbucks offers a section with curated playlists of short videos. Watching these videos earns you a small amount of SB points, and while it may not be a significant earner, it’s a passive way to accumulate points while catching up on entertaining or informative content.
• Playing Games: Take a break from surveys and participate in various online games offered by Swagbucks. These can range from casual puzzle games to skill-based challenges. Similar to watching videos, the earnings from games might be modest, but they can add up and provide a fun way to earn points.
• Discovering New Products: Swagbucks occasionally partners with brands to introduce users to new products and services. By engaging with these offers, you can earn SB points, which can be a great way to discover new products while being rewarded for your time.

The Swagbucks Referral Program: Earning Double the Dough

Here’s a delightful perk! Swagbucks boasts a referral program, allowing you to earn extra points by inviting your friends to join the platform.

Once your friend signs up using your referral link and completes their first activity (such as taking a survey or watching a video), you’ll both receive a bonus in SB points. This can be a great way to incentivize your friends and expand your earnings circle on Swagbucks.

2. InboxDollars

InboxDollars is a veteran online surveys to earn money site that has been around for over a decade. It boasts a user-friendly interface and a variety of ways to rack up cash, making it an attractive option for those seeking to generate extra income. Here’s a deeper dive into its key features:

• Steady Stream of Surveys: InboxDollars offers a consistent flow of surveys on various topics. These surveys are categorized to help you find ones that align with your interests and background. Similar to Swagbucks, the availability of surveys and the payout will depend on your demographics, so consistency is important to maximize your earnings.
• Earning Potential: As with most survey sites, earnings on InboxDollars vary depending on the complexity and length of the survey. You can expect to make anywhere from a few cents to a few dollars per survey. Consistent participation can lead to a gradual accumulation of earnings.
• Additional Earning Methods: While surveys are a primary way to earn on InboxDollars, the platform offers other avenues to boost your earnings:
  • Email Offers: Sign up for promotional emails from InboxDollars to receive opportunities to earn extra cash. These offers might involve signing up for free trials or subscribing to newsletters from partner companies.
  • Games and Activities: Take a break from surveys and participate in online games and activities offered by InboxDollars. These can be trivia quizzes, arcade-style games, or even online scratch-off tickets. While the earnings from these might be on the lower side, they provide a fun way to add a few points to your account.

InboxDollars Referral Program: Boost Your Earnings with Friends

InboxDollars, like Swagbucks, features a referral program. By inviting your friends to join the platform using your referral link, you can earn bonus points once they complete their first activity.

This can be a great way to incentivize your friends and expand your earning potential on InboxDollars.

3. Survey Junkie

Survey Junkie has carved a niche for itself in the online surveys to earn money world by specifically focusing on connecting businesses with consumers willing to share their opinions through taking paid online surveys. This platform specializes in high-paying survey opportunities, emphasizing the importance of consistency and honesty to maximize earnings. Here’s a closer look at what makes Survey Junkie stand out:

• High-Paying Surveys: Survey Junkie is renowned for offering surveys with higher payouts compared to other platforms. This is because they connect you with businesses willing to invest in valuable consumer insights. While the exact payout depends on the survey’s length and complexity, you can generally expect to earn more per survey compared to some other survey sites.
• Targeted Surveys: Unlike some platforms that bombard you with generic surveys, Survey Junkie takes a targeted approach. They utilize your profile information to match you with surveys relevant to your interests and demographics. This increases your chances of qualifying for surveys and eliminates the frustration of encountering surveys you don’t fit the criteria for.
• Bonuses and Rewards: Survey Junkie frequently offers bonuses and rewards to incentivize participation and keep users engaged. These can include bonus points for completing a certain number of surveys in a week, reaching milestones, or participating in specific surveys. Additionally, they occasionally run sweepstakes or contests, offering exciting prizes for survey takers.

Survey Junkie Point System and Redemptions

Survey Junkie utilizes a points system. You earn points for every survey you complete, and the number of points awarded corresponds to the survey’s value. Once you accumulate enough points, you can redeem them for various rewards:

• Cash via PayPal: This is a popular option for many users, allowing you to transfer your earnings directly to your PayPal account.
• Gift Cards: Survey Junkie offers a selection of gift cards from popular retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This allows you to treat yourself to something you’ve been wanting with the rewards you’ve earned.

No Minimum Threshold for Redemptions

Unlike some survey sites that have a minimum payout threshold, Survey Junkie allows you to redeem your points for rewards as soon as you reach just 500 points (equivalent to $5).

This makes it easier to access your earnings and provides a sense of accomplishment as you can redeem rewards more frequently.

Survey Junkie Referral Program: Building Your Earning Squad

Similar to Swagbucks and InboxDollars, Survey Junkie offers a referral program. By inviting your friends to join the platform using your unique referral link, you can earn bonus points once they complete their first survey.

This can be a great way to encourage your friends to participate and build your earning circle on Survey Junkie.

4. Vindale Research

Vindale Research is a legitimate survey site that’s been around since 2004. It provides a mix of activities to help you accumulate points, making it a versatile option for those seeking to generate extra income online. Here’s a deeper dive into what Vindale Research offers:

• Variety of Activities: Unlike some online surveys to earn money sites solely focused on surveys, Vindale Research offers a broader range of ways to earn points. This includes:
  • Surveys: Vindale Research offers a decent selection of surveys, though the number and variety might be lower compared to some other platforms. The payout for surveys can vary depending on the length and complexity.
  • Microtasks: Vindale Research offers microtasks, which are small, bite-sized online tasks that require minimal time and effort to complete. These can involve watching short videos, testing websites, or participating in micro-surveys. The earnings for microtasks are typically lower than surveys, but they can be a good way to accumulate points in short bursts of time.
  • Offers: Occasionally, Vindale Research might present special offers to earn points. These offers can involve signing up for free trials of products or services, subscribing to newsletters, or downloading apps. The point payout for these offers can vary depending on the complexity of the offer.

Vindale Research Point System and Redemptions

Vindale Research utilizes a points system. You earn points for every survey you complete, microtask you finish, and offer you engage with.

The number of points awarded depends on the complexity and time commitment required for each activity. Once you accumulate enough points, you can redeem them for various rewards:

·       Cash via PayPal: This is a popular option for many users, allowing you to transfer your earnings directly to your PayPal account.

·       Gift Cards: Vindale Research offers a selection of gift cards from popular retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

• Payout Threshold: Vindale Research has a minimum payout threshold of $10. Once you reach this threshold, you can redeem your points for cash or gift cards.

Vindale Research Referral Program: Expanding Your Earnings

Similar to other online surveys to earn money sites, Vindale Research offers a referral program. By inviting your friends to join the platform using your unique referral link, you can earn bonus points once they complete their first activity (survey, microtask, or offer).

This can be a great way to incentivize your friends and expand your earning potential on Vindale Research.

5. Prolific

Prolific stands out in the online surveys to earn money landscape by focusing on academic research. It connects researchers with participants willing to contribute to studies by completing short online surveys and tasks. Here’s what sets Prolific apart:

• Unique Focus on Academic Research: Unlike many survey sites that cater to market research from businesses, Prolific bridges the gap between researchers and the general public. By participating in surveys on Prolific, you directly contribute to valuable academic insights that can advance scientific progress across various disciplines.
• Shorter Surveys: Prolific is known for its short surveys, typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes in length. This makes it a perfect platform for those who are short on time but still want to contribute to research and earn some extra cash on the side.
• Fair Compensation: Prolific is renowned for offering fair compensation for research participation. Payments are typically made through PayPal, ensuring you receive your earnings directly. The exact payout depends on the length and complexity of the survey, but it generally falls within a competitive range compared to other survey sites.

Beyond Surveys: Tasks and Participation in Research

While surveys are the primary way to participate in research on Prolific, the platform occasionally offers microtasks or other research activities.

These can involve tasks like image labeling, data verification, or short writing prompts related to the specific research project.

Prolific Doesn’t Have a Referral Program

Unlike some online surveys to earn money sites that incentivize user growth through referrals, Prolific doesn’t have a referral program. Their focus is on maintaining a high-quality participant pool for researchers.

This means they prioritize users who are genuinely interested in contributing to academic research, rather than just accumulating points through referrals.

6. Marketagent

Marketagent is a global online surveys to earn money platform with a strong presence in Europe. It offers a variety of surveys on diverse topics, catering to a broad range of interests. Here’s a closer look at what Marketagent brings to the table:

• International Reach: One of Marketagent’s strengths is its global presence. They offer surveys in multiple languages, making it a great option for international participants. This can be particularly appealing if you reside outside of Europe or prefer surveys in your native language.
• Variety of Surveys: Marketagent boasts a good selection of surveys on various topics. This allows you to find surveys that align with your interests and knowledge, potentially increasing your chances of qualification and completion.
• Reward System: Marketagent utilizes a points system. You earn points for completing surveys, which can then be redeemed for rewards like:
  • Cash via PayPal: A popular option for many users, allowing you to transfer your earnings directly to your PayPal account.
  • Gift Cards: Marketagent offers a selection of gift cards from popular retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This provides flexibility in choosing rewards that suit your preferences.
• Sweepstakes Entries: An additional perk offered by Marketagent is the occasional opportunity to earn sweepstake entries for surveys. This adds an element of excitement and the potential to win bigger rewards.

Availability of Surveys and Demographics

Here are some things to consider regarding survey availability on Marketagent:

• Dependence on Location and Demographics: The availability of surveys on Marketagent can vary depending on your location and demographics. This is because researchers might target specific regions or demographics for their studies.
• Prescreening Process: Similar to Prolific, Marketagent might utilize a prescreening process to ensure you match the criteria for each survey. This can help reduce disqualification and ensure you spend your time on surveys you’re eligible for.

Marketagent Referral Program: Expanding Your Earnings

Marketagent offers a referral program, similar to other survey sites. By inviting your friends to join the platform using your unique referral link, you can earn bonus points once they complete their first survey.

This can be a great way to incentivize your friends and expand your earning potential on Marketagent.

7. LifePoints

LifePoints offers various survey opportunities, the exact amount you earn can vary depending on several factors:

• Survey Length and Complexity: Generally, longer and more complex surveys offer higher payouts compared to shorter or simpler ones.
• Your Demographics: Researchers might target specific demographics for their surveys. If your profile aligns with their criteria, you’re more likely to qualify for higher-paying surveys.
• Location: Survey availability and payout can sometimes vary depending on your geographical location.

Beyond Surveys: Expanding Your Earnings on LifePoints

LifePoints goes beyond just online surveys to earn money to provide you with additional ways to accumulate points:

• Games: Take a break from surveys and participate in various online games offered by LifePoints. These can range from casual puzzle games to skill-based challenges. Similar to watching videos, the earnings from games might be modest, but they can add up and provide a fun way to earn points.
• Online Activities: LifePoints might occasionally offer points for participating in specific online activities. These can include things like signing up for free trials or registering for informational webinars. Be sure to review the details and requirements of each activity before participating.

Redemption Options on LifePoints

Once you accumulate enough points on LifePoints, you can redeem them for various rewards:

• Cash via PayPal: A popular option for many users, allowing you to transfer your earnings directly to your PayPal account.
• Gift Cards: LifePoints offers a selection of gift cards from popular retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This allows you to treat yourself to something you’ve been wanting with the rewards you’ve earned.
• Charity Donations: LifePoints also allows you to donate your points to charitable causes. This can be a great way to support a cause you care about while using your earnings.

LifePoints Point System and Minimum Payout Threshold

LifePoints utilizes a points system. You earn points for every survey you complete, game you play, or activity you participate in. The number of points awarded depends on the complexity and time commitment required for each option.

LifePoints has a relatively low minimum payout threshold compared to some other survey sites. This means you can reach the minimum amount needed to redeem your rewards quicker, providing a sense of accomplishment and motivation to keep participating.

LifePoints Referral Program: Building Your Rewards Network

Similar to other survey sites, LifePoints offers a referral program. By inviting your friends to join the platform using your unique referral link, you can earn bonus points once they complete their first activity (survey, game, or online activity).

This can be a great way to incentivize your friends and expand your earning potential on LifePoints.

8. Opinion Outpost

Opinion Outpost is a well-established online surveys to earn money site known for its user-friendly interface and multiple ways to earn rewards. Here’s a closer look at what Opinion Outpost offers:

• Easy-to-Use Interface: Opinion Outpost boasts a clean and intuitive interface, making it easy for users to navigate and find relevant surveys. This is particularly beneficial for those who are new to online surveys and might find complex platforms overwhelming.
• Variety of Surveys: Opinion Outpost offers a decent selection of surveys on various topics. They categorize surveys to help you find ones that align with your interests and demographics. However, the availability of surveys can depend on these factors, so consistency is key to maximizing your earnings.
• Fast Payouts: Opinion Outpost is known for processing payouts quickly, often within a few days. This allows you to access your earnings efficiently and reduces waiting times compared to some other platforms. Redemption options include cash via PayPal or gift cards to popular retailers.
• Bonus Opportunities: Opinion Outpost occasionally offers bonus points for completing surveys or reaching milestones. These bonus points can be a great way to boost your earnings and add an element of incentive to participate.

Referral Program: Expanding Your Rewards Network

Similar to other survey sites, Opinion Outpost offers a referral program. By inviting your friends to join the platform using your unique referral link, you can earn bonus points once they complete their first survey.

This can be a great way to spread the word about Opinion Outpost, incentivize your friends to participate, and expand your earning potential on the platform.

9. Ysense

Ysense has carved a niche for itself by focusing on short surveys and microtasks that can be completed quickly, often in under 10 minutes. This makes it a suitable platform for those seeking to earn on-the-go or in short bursts of free time. Here’s a deeper dive into Ysense’s features:

• Micro-Tasks and Short Surveys: Ysense primarily offers microtasks and short surveys that require minimal time commitment. These can be tasks like evaluating search results, classifying images, or participating in brief surveys on various topics. While the individual earnings per microtask or survey might be lower compared to longer surveys offered on other platforms, the quick completion time allows you to accumulate points relatively quickly.
• Real-Time Payouts: Ysense stands out for its instant payout system. Once you complete a microtask or survey, you’ll see your earnings credited to your account immediately. This provides instant gratification and eliminates waiting times for payouts, unlike some other platforms. You can redeem your earnings via PayPal or transfer them directly to your bank account.
• Transparent Pay System: Ysense offers a transparent pay system. Before you accept a microtask or survey, you’ll see the estimated reward upfront. This allows you to make informed decisions about which tasks to complete and optimize your earnings potential.

Earning Potential and Considerations for Ysense

While Ysense offers the convenience of short tasks and instant payouts, it’s important to consider these points regarding earning potential:

• Lower Earnings Compared to Traditional Surveys: Due to the short nature of microtasks and surveys, the individual earnings per activity tend to be lower compared to longer surveys offered on other platforms.
• Survey Availability: The availability of microtasks and surveys can fluctuate depending on your location, demographics, and overall demand on the platform. There might be times when there are fewer opportunities available.

Ysense Referral Program: Build Your Earnings Network

Similar to other survey sites, Qmee offers a referral program. By inviting your friends to join the platform using your unique referral link, you can earn bonus points once they complete their first task. This can be a great way to incentivize your friends and expand your earning potential on Qmee.

Important Considerations Before You Start Online Surveys To Earn Money

While online survey sites can be a convenient way to make some extra cash, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:

• Time commitment: Earnings from surveys can vary greatly depending on the length and complexity. Be realistic about the time you can dedicate and the potential return.
• Survey availability: The number of surveys you qualify for will depend on your demographics and the needs of the researchers. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see a constant flow of opportunities.
• Legitimate sites: Stick to reputable survey platforms to avoid scams. Look for sites with positive user reviews, clear payout structures, and secure payment methods.
• Be honest: Providing accurate information in your profile helps you qualify for relevant surveys. Don’t try to fabricate answers, as this can lead to disqualification and account suspension.

It’s also crucial to be vigilant about scam survey sites. Choosing reputable platforms is essential to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes that promise unrealistic earnings.

Maximizing Your Earnings with Online Survey Panels

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of online surveys:

• Sign up for multiple platforms: Increase your earning potential by registering with several reputable survey sites and actively engaging in completing paid surveys across these platforms.
• Complete your profile accurately: A detailed profile helps you match with relevant surveys, maximizing your qualification chances.
• Be consistent: Check in regularly to see new survey opportunities. The more surveys you complete, the more you can earn. Remember, surveys pay in varying amounts, so it’s important to select those that offer the best compensation for your time, with some surveys paying up to $45.
• Look for bonus opportunities: Some platforms offer bonus points for completing surveys or reaching milestones. Take advantage of these to boost your earnings.
• Cash out strategically: Consider waiting until you reach a higher payout threshold to minimize transaction fees.

Conclusion

Online surveys offer a flexible way to squeeze some extra cash or rewards out of your spare time.

They’re not a guaranteed path to riches, but they can be a valuable tool when used strategically. The key lies in finding platforms that align with your interests and time commitment, while offering decent payouts and a user-friendly experience.

So, are you ready to explore the world of online surveys? With the right approach, you might be surprised at what you can earn by simply sharing your opinions.

What are some of the creative ways you might use the extra cash or rewards you earn from surveys?