In today’s digital world, your smartphone can do more than help you stay connected—it can also help you make money. Whether you’re saving for a goal, trying to stretch your paycheck, or just looking for a bit of extra spending cash, money-making apps are a smart, flexible way to earn on the side.
These apps aren’t meant to replace a full-time income, but they can supplement what you already earn. And the best part? You can use them from anywhere—at home, during your commute, or while waiting in line for coffee.
Why Consider Money-Making Apps?
Money-making apps offer real value for people looking to boost their financial wellness without a lot of effort. Some reward you with cash-back for purchases you were already planning to make. Others let you earn by answering surveys, testing apps, or even playing games.
Most of these apps are free and available on both iOS and Android platforms, which makes trying them out low-risk and accessible to nearly everyone.
What Makes a Money-Making App Worth It?
A good money-making app should be:
- User-friendly: Easy to navigate and understand
- Reliable: Offers consistent and fair rewards
- Transparent: Clearly explains how rewards are earned and redeemed
- Flexible: Lets you earn in a way that fits your lifestyle (e.g., surveys, games, cash-back, etc.)
Different apps suit different preferences. If you enjoy gaming in your spare time, for example, you might choose an app that rewards you for playing. If you shop online frequently, a cash-back app could be ideal.
Top Money-Making Apps to Try in November 2025
Here are four highly-rated money-making apps that offer solid value and enjoyable ways to earn:
1. Big Time Cash – Best for Gamers
Love playing mobile games? Big Time Cash lets you earn real money just for doing what you enjoy. The more you play, the more tickets you collect, which are then entered into cash prize draws. It’s fun, engaging, and easy to use.
2. Play & Earn Cash – Best for Rewards Variety
This app combines gaming and offers with earning opportunities. Complete tasks, play games, and try new apps to rack up points you can convert into real cash or gift cards.
3. HeyCash – Best for Paid Surveys
If you like sharing your opinions, HeyCash is a great option. The app connects you with surveys from reputable companies and pays you for your insights. It’s a simple way to earn during breaks or downtime.
4. Cash Empire – Best All-Rounder
Cash Empire offers a little bit of everything: games, surveys, offers, and more. It’s a solid choice if you want to explore different ways of earning and see what works best for you.
Choosing the Right App for You
The “best” money-making app depends on how you want to earn:
- Love shopping? Go with cash-back apps.
- Enjoy games? Try a gaming rewards app.
- Like giving feedback? Survey-based apps are your best bet.
You may even want to try a few to see which one fits your routine best.
Start Earning Smarter
Adding a few of these apps to your phone won’t make you rich overnight, but they can provide meaningful support toward your savings goals, budgeting strategy, or personal treats. For best results, combine them with good money habits like using a budgeting app or investing for long-term growth.
Explore your options, stay consistent, and you’ll see how small actions—like playing a game or completing a survey—can lead to real rewards.
Here are the best apps for earning money as picked by Business Insider editors in 2025.
Best for Getting Cash-Back on Purchases Online: Rakuten
Best for getting cash back on purchases online
Rakuten
GadaPress Reviews
4.25/5
Fees
Free to download
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
N/A
Minimum Opening Deposit
None
When it comes to saving money while shopping online, cash-back apps have become a go-to for many budget-conscious consumers. Among them, Rakuten stands out as one of the most reliable and easy-to-use platforms available today. Whether you’re making regular online purchases or planning a big shopping spree, Rakuten offers a simple way to get a little something back—without changing your routine.
What Is Rakuten?
Rakuten is a cash-back and rewards app that partners with more than 3,500 retailers, including popular names like Walmart, Target, Macy’s, and Nike. By simply starting your shopping journey through Rakuten—either via their website or mobile app—you can earn real cash back on purchases you were going to make anyway.
It’s an effortless way to make your money go further, especially if you’re already shopping online for essentials, gifts, or even travel.
How Does Rakuten Work?
Using Rakuten is incredibly straightforward:
- Sign up for a free account on the Rakuten website or download the mobile app.
- Browse or search for a store you’re planning to shop at.
- Click on the store’s offer link in Rakuten to be redirected to the retailer’s site.
- Shop as usual, and Rakuten will automatically track your purchase and apply the cash-back reward to your account.
That’s it—no need for promo codes or complicated submissions. Rakuten does all the work in the background.
Getting Paid: How You Receive Your Cash Back
Rakuten pays out your accumulated rewards quarterly—either via PayPal or check, depending on your preference. This means you’ll receive your earnings every three months, assuming you’ve met the minimum threshold.
While some users may prefer more frequent payouts, Rakuten’s system is clear, consistent, and trustworthy.
In-Store Cash Back with Rakuten
Rakuten also allows for in-store cash-back, though it requires a few extra steps:
- Open the Rakuten app and go to the “In-Store” tab.
- Browse available in-store offers and tap “Link Offer.”
- Add your credit or debit card information to track the purchase.
- Use the linked card when shopping in-store to earn your cash back.
While this feature is a great bonus, it may not be as seamless as some other apps with direct in-store integration. Still, it’s a helpful option for shoppers who prefer to buy in person.
Why Rakuten Stands Out
- ✅ User-Friendly Interface: The app and website are easy to navigate, even for beginners.
- ✅ Reliable Payouts: Trusted payment schedule via PayPal or check.
- ✅ Massive Retail Network: Over 3,500 partner stores.
- ✅ Solid Customer Support: A helpful online help center answers common questions quickly.
Rakuten works well for anyone who shops online regularly and wants a no-fuss way to earn back a percentage of their spending.
Is Rakuten Right for You?
If you shop online frequently, Rakuten is one of the most legitimate and rewarding apps you can add to your financial toolkit. While it may not offer instant cash-outs like some newer apps, its strong track record and vast store network make it a trustworthy choice.
For those looking to save even more, consider pairing Rakuten with other budgeting tools or exploring apps that offer instant rewards or more frequent payouts.
Final Thoughts:
Rakuten doesn’t require you to change how you shop—it simply rewards you for what you already do. Whether you’re buying groceries, upgrading your wardrobe, or booking a hotel, Rakuten helps you stretch your dollars further, one purchase at a time.
Download: Google Play Store
Best for Getting Cash-Back on Purchases in Stores: Ibotta
Best for getting cash back on purchases in the store
Ibotta
GadaPress Reviews
4/5
Fees
Free to download
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
N/A
Minimum Opening Deposit
None
Ibotta is a free mobile app that helps you earn cash back on in-store and online purchases. While it works with select online retailers, it really shines when used in physical stores like Walmart, Kroger, Target, and CVS.
Ibotta partners with a wide range of brands—covering everything from pantry staples and toiletries to pet supplies and household cleaners. It’s a smart way to stretch your budget and make everyday purchases feel a little less routine.
How Ibotta Works
Ibotta offers a few different ways to earn cash back, making it a flexible tool for different types of shoppers:
1. Link Your Loyalty Account
If you shop at stores with loyalty or rewards programs (like Kroger or Safeway), you can link your store account to Ibotta. Once linked, your purchases will automatically be checked for eligible offers—no extra work required.
2. Upload Your Receipts
Prefer shopping the old-school way? Just scan your receipt after shopping, and Ibotta will automatically detect any qualifying purchases. It takes about 30 seconds and typically shows your cash-back balance within 24 hours.
3. Buy Gift Cards Through the App
You can also purchase store gift cards through Ibotta for immediate use—and you’ll earn cash back instantly. It’s a smart strategy if you already plan to spend at certain stores and want to lock in savings before you even shop.
How Much Can You Earn?
Your earnings will vary based on what and where you buy, but most users report solid returns when using the app consistently. You’ll typically earn anywhere from $0.25 to $5 per offer, depending on the product.
Unlike some apps that let you withdraw small amounts instantly, Ibotta requires a minimum of $20 before you can cash out. This is something to keep in mind if you prefer faster access to your money—some alternatives have a $5 minimum or offer daily payouts.
Ways to Redeem Your Cash
Once you hit the $20 mark, Ibotta gives you flexible options to withdraw your earnings:
- PayPal (fast and reliable)
- Bank transfer
- Gift cards to major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Starbucks, and more
All redemptions are secure, and most are processed within minutes to a few hours.
Pros and Cons of Using Ibotta
✅ Pros
- Works with over 1,500 well-known stores and brands
- Cash-back shows up quickly (within 24 hours)
- Multiple ways to earn (receipt scan, loyalty linking, gift cards)
- Easy-to-use interface with updated offers
⚠️ Cons
Receipt scanning can occasionally miss offers (though support can help)
$20 minimum required for payout
Best suited for shoppers who buy name-brand items
Best for Making Cash Through Surveys: Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie
On Survey Junkie’s website
GadaPress Reviews
4/5
Perks
Take surveys. Get paid. Be an influencer. Share your opinion to help brands deliver better products and services.
Fees
Free to download
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
N/A
Minimum Opening Deposit
None
What Makes Survey Junkie a Top Survey App?
One of the biggest frustrations with survey apps is the lack of available surveys or complicated redemption processes. Survey Junkie tackles both issues head-on.
More Surveys, More Chances to Earn
Survey Junkie consistently offers a healthy number of surveys, giving you more opportunities to earn points compared to many competitors. You won’t find yourself waiting days for new surveys to appear.
Simple and Fast Rewards
Once you earn just 500 points (equivalent to $5), you can redeem your earnings with ease. Whether you prefer cash via PayPal or online gift cards, Survey Junkie makes it straightforward. Plus, if you’re someone without a traditional bank account, this is a great option—no bank required.
Best of all, redemptions happen quickly. For gift cards, you often get the code delivered to your email the same day, so you can start using your rewards right away.
How the Survey Process Works
Not every survey you start will be a perfect fit. Survey Junkie uses a short pre-qualification quiz to check if you meet the survey’s target criteria. Sometimes this means answering a few questions only to be told you don’t qualify—but don’t worry, you’ll usually still earn a few points just for your time.
This process helps keep surveys relevant and makes sure your feedback is valuable to the companies running them.
Tips for Success with Survey Junkie
Check the app regularly. New surveys can appear throughout the day, so frequent visits mean more earning chances.
Be patient. It’s normal to see repeated questions or hit qualification dead ends. This is part of the process.
Complete your profile. Providing thorough and honest demographic info can help you get matched with more surveys.
Minimum amount needed to redeem cash: $5
Download: Google Play Store
Best for Earning Cash Through a Variety of Ways: Swagbucks
Best for earning cash through a variety of ways
Swagbucks
On Swagbucks’s website
GadaPress Reviews
3.75/5
Perks
Join for free, and earn a $10 bonus.
Fees
Free to download
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
N/A
Minimum Opening Deposit
None
If you’re looking for an app that offers multiple ways to earn money on your phone, Swagbucks is a popular choice worth considering. It’s a flexible platform that rewards you with points, called SB, for completing a wide range of simple tasks.
How Does Swagbucks Work?
Swagbucks lets you earn SB points through various activities including:
- Taking surveys
- Playing games
- Scanning receipts to get cash-back rewards
- Watching videos and completing other small tasks
This variety means you can pick the activities that best fit your interests and schedule, making it a fun and flexible way to earn some extra cash.
What Can You Get with Swagbucks?
When you accumulate 500 SB, it’s worth about $5. You can redeem your points for:
- Gift cards from popular retailers like Amazon, Starbucks, or Walmart
- Cash transfers via PayPal
This means whether you prefer cash or shopping credits, Swagbucks has you covered.
How Much Can You Earn?
The amount of SB you earn varies significantly based on the task. Smaller tasks might pay as little as 2 SB, while more involved offers or high-demand surveys can reward up to 250,000 SB.
Keep in mind that larger rewards usually require more effort, take longer to complete, or have stricter qualification criteria. Also, once you redeem your points, gift cards may take up to 10 business days to arrive via email, so a bit of patience is needed.
Why Choose Swagbucks?
- Flexibility: Choose tasks that suit your interests and time.
- Multiple earning methods: Surveys, games, receipt scanning, and more.
- Easy redemption: Cash out via PayPal or use gift cards at many retailers.
- User-friendly interface: Simple to navigate, even for beginners.
Final Thoughts
Swagbucks offers a versatile way to earn rewards in your free time. While it won’t replace a paycheck, it’s a reliable way to make a few extra dollars doing simple tasks on your phone or computer.
If you enjoy switching up activities and want a straightforward platform to reward your time, Swagbucks could be a great addition to your money-making app toolkit.
Minimum amount needed to redeem cash: $5
Download: Google Play Store
How to Choose the Best Money-Making App: Key Features and Smart Tips
With so many money-making apps available, finding the right one for you can feel overwhelming. Whether you want to earn a little extra cash, get rewards on purchases, or simply make better use of your spare time, choosing the best app depends on several important factors.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for in a money-making app, how to evaluate your options, and the pros and cons to keep in mind before you start.
Features to Look for in a Money-Making App
1. User-Friendly Interface
A smooth, easy-to-navigate app is essential. If you find yourself frustrated or confused every time you open the app, you probably won’t stick with it long enough to see real rewards. Look for apps that beginners praise for simplicity and clear instructions, especially regarding how to redeem your earnings.
2. Low Payout Threshold
How much money do you have to earn before you can withdraw it? The lower this minimum payout, the better—because it means you’ll actually get to use your money sooner. A $5 threshold is ideal, while apps that require $50 or $100 to cash out may be less practical.
3. Multiple Ways to Earn
Variety is the spice of life—and your money-making app should reflect that. Apps that offer several earning options (such as cash back, surveys, games, or receipt scanning) give you flexibility to pick what fits your lifestyle and interests. An app limited to just one method might not hold your attention.
4. Reliable Payment Methods
You want to be sure your hard-earned money actually makes it to you. Common payout options include PayPal transfers, gift cards, or prepaid debit cards. Some apps send money directly to your bank, though this is less common. Check the app’s payment schedules, processing times, and user reviews to avoid any surprises.
How to Choose the Best App for You
Assess Your Skills and Interests
Think about what you’ll enjoy and realistically stick with. If cash back appeals to you but you don’t want a credit card, a cash-back focused app is ideal. Students might look for apps tailored to their schedules and interests. Choosing an app that fits your habits increases your chances of consistent earnings.
Evaluate Features and Benefits
Before committing, explore what the app offers. Does it partner with brands you actually shop at? How many surveys or tasks can you do each day? Is it known to pay well, or are earnings mostly symbolic? Also, check the app’s privacy and security policies—your personal data is valuable, so make sure the app handles it responsibly.
Consider Payment Frequency and Methods
Some apps limit how often you can cash out or require a high minimum balance. Understand how and when you’ll receive your money to avoid frustration. For example, some apps process gift cards within days, while others might take a couple of weeks.
Pros and Cons of Money-Making Apps
Advantages
- Easy extra income: Usually free to use and accessible on your phone anytime.
- Flexible: Earn money wherever you are, fitting tasks into your schedule.
- No upfront costs: Most apps don’t require spending money, except some cash-back apps.
Drawbacks
- Data sharing: Many apps collect user data—if this concerns you, consider safer alternatives like cash-back debit cards from trusted banks.
- Limited earnings: These apps won’t replace a full-time income but can help with small extras.
- Time investment: Some tasks require patience and persistence, and rewards accumulate slowly.
Final Thoughts
Money-making apps can be a smart way to supplement your income, but success depends on picking the right app for your needs. Focus on ease of use, realistic payout thresholds, and trustworthy payment options. Most importantly, choose apps that suit your lifestyle and interests to keep your earning journey enjoyable and rewarding.