Who would say no to a few extra pounds each month? Even if you’re on track to achieve your financial goals, a little extra money in your pocket is always a positive. Whether you use this spare cash for fun, living expenses, or long-term investments, it can make a noticeable difference in your spending stress and overall quality of life.
But how can you bring in this trickle of income? Simple: Use your smartphone! Hey, we’re all on our phones anyway, so why not download an app or two that will pay you for your time?
Just be sure to set your expectations from the outset. You can’t earn a full-time wage from money-making apps in the UK. Although the best money-making apps in the UK will reward you with legit cash and gift cards, it will only ever be enough for some pocket change. As long as you go into these opportunities with the right mentality, you can earn some sweet side money with minimal effort.
From surveys and scanning receipts to driving and food delivery, there are many ways to earn cash with a smartphone app. Although the list of unique money-making apps is endless, there are a few distinct categories to help narrow down your quest for the perfect opportunity.
For ease of use, I’ve sorted the apps based on earnings potential. Also, keep in mind that while most of the apps listed will give you actual monetary compensation, several others provide more indirect benefits, such as cashback or gift cards. Lastly, you should always remember that there’s no such thing as a free lunch. Unless you put in the work, there is no serious amount of money to be made.
Best Micro-Task Apps
Clickworker – Click your way to some extra pocket money
If you’re looking for a ton of quick and quirky ways to earn side cash, Clickworker may be the right choice. This mobile and desktop platform allows you to complete a wide range of random tasks such as video and voice recordings, surveys, and photography to build up a few pounds in your account.
Clickworker also offers a way to bid on Universal Human Relevance System (UHRS) gigs with higher-paying rewards, but you’ll need extra time and the stamina to compete against other UK users. With its wide range of opportunities and convenient weekly payouts through PayPal or Payoneer, Clickworker is a solid choice for making money from micro-tasks.
Amazon Mechanical Turk – Work for Amazon to earn Amazon gift cards
Admittedly, Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) is a more attractive money-making app for Americans, but it does work in the UK. Operated by the eCommerce giant, this platform has a range of tasks for small payouts, including data entry, content creation, and image classification, but these tend to be tailored to the US market. Also, since you’re using MTurk in the UK, you’ll likely have to settle for getting paid in Amazon gift cards rather than cold hard cash. Still, if you already shop a lot on Amazon (and, honestly, who doesn’t nowadays?), perusing the micro-task possibilities on Amazon MTurk might be worthwhile.
TaskRabbit
Do you consider yourself handy and have a passion for DIY projects? If so, why not consider opening a TaskRabbit account? On this popular platform, you can connect with people in your area who need odd jobs taken care of and get paid for your services. While completing these micro-tasks isn’t as simplistic and requires more skill than those on sites like Clickworker, they could bring in more money and even kickstart a new business venture.
Just be sure to factor in costs like travel, equipment, and TaskRabbit’s fees when considering whether this UK money-making app is worth your while. Making quick cash on TaskRabbit may be more challenging, but there’s great potential for a lucrative side hustle if you know your niche and have some self-promotional savvy.
Best Investment Apps
Plum – A digital piggybank
Plum is a convenient and easy-to-use mobile app dedicated to helping UK investors make their money work for them. With a free Plum account, you can instantly transfer funds into an FSCS-protected savings account to earn interest or invest in over 1,200 stocks without commissions. Plum also offers features like spend trackers, a Cash ISA, and automated Round-Ups to help you put a few extra pence away with every purchase. If you opt for a premium tier Plum account, you could use opportunities like the Plum Visa debit card, investing goals, and multiple “pockets” to organise your funds. While you’ll have to pay to access all of Plum’s opportunities, this app offers a compelling investment suite.
Plum connects to your bank account and analyses your spending habits. Based on this data, it automatically sets aside small amounts of money you won’t miss, making saving painless and consistent. You can choose different saving modes, from “Normal” to “Beast Mode,” depending on how aggressively you want to save​.
Once you have savings, Plum offers various investment opportunities. You can invest in a selection of funds, including the high-performing “Tech Giants” fund, or opt for socially responsible investments with the “Clean & Green” fund​​. For those planning for retirement, Plum also provides a Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP), allowing you to benefit from tax relief​​.
The app’s clean, intuitive design makes it easy to navigate through its features, from setting up automatic savings to tracking your investments. Beyond saving and investing, Plum helps manage your bills, offers overdraft protection, and provides insights into your spending habits.
Nutmeg – Save and invest with the help of JPMorgan
Now a division of JP Morgan, Nutmeg offers a robo-advisor service focused on providing UK investors ISA and pension opportunities for tax-advantaged savings. The Nutmeg platform lets you choose from a host of different “investment styles,” including socially responsible investing (SRI), “smart alpha” for more aggressive positions, or fully managed accounts for ongoing active investing.
The stocks and ETFs in each portfolio fit an overarching investment theme and risk profile, each suited for different investor preferences. Just keep in mind Nutmeg charges different fees for each investment category, so be sure to review these details and factor in how they’ll fit your investment thesis. Also, Nutmeg is best suited for long-term retirement savings rather than a liquid savings fund. As long as you’re clear on your multi-year goals, Nutmeg may be an exciting choice for a tax-advantaged account.
Moneybox – Invests spare change from everyday purchases
Moneybox takes an approach similar to Plum in regards to investing. The app rounds up your everyday purchases to the nearest pound and investing the spare change. Every time you make a purchase, Moneybox rounds up the amount and invests the difference. This method allows you to start investing with minimal effort and without needing a large initial sum.
Moneybox offers a variety of investment options tailored to different risk levels. Depending on your financial goals and risk tolerance, you can choose from portfolios suitable to all risk appetites, including cautious, balanced, and adventurous.
Setting up Moneybox is straightforward. You link your bank account, choose your investment strategy, and the app handles the rest. It’s designed to make investing accessible to everyone, even those new to the concept.
Moneybox provides educational content to help you understand investing better. This is particularly beneficial for beginners looking to learn more about managing their finances.
Both Plum and Moneybox have transformed how we approach saving and investing. They use technology to simplify the process, making it easy to grow your wealth steadily and securely. Whether you prefer the automated savings and comprehensive financial management of Plum or the micro-investing approach of Moneybox, both apps offer valuable tools to help you achieve your financial goals.
Chip – Chip in and help your financial future
If you need help saving money, downloading the Chip mobile app might be the best decision for your financial life. On this user-friendly platform, you can choose between multiple saving and investing options, including a Cash ISA, a high-interest savings account, and access to financial assets like the S&P 500 Tech Fund.
Chip also scans your transaction history and uses AI-powered “Autosaves” to transfer spare funds into your account. Remember that you’ll pay extra fees (including transfers for every autosave) if you stick with the free Chip plan. Also, you can only access all of the investment funds in Chip if you pay for the premium subscription.
Best Gig Economy Apps
Fiverr – Offers services globally with set rates
Becoming a freelancer has a lot of perks, but it’s not simple to get started. While you could try to brave it on your own with self-promotion, it’s often easiest to begin building a portfolio on freelancer-friendly platforms like Fiverr. Thanks to its reputation in the freelancer market, Fiverr is a great place to offer services like writing, graphic design, and web development to a global community of clients. While the pay to start isn’t awesome — and Fiverr has a pesky fee for using its service — this is a great way to build a client pool and establish a solid reputation for your work.
Creating a “gig” on Fiverr involves setting up a profile and detailing the services you provide. You can offer multiple pricing packages to cater to different client needs. Fiverr’s system is intuitive, allowing clients to easily search and hire freelancers based on their expertise and reviews.
One of the key advantages of Fiverr is its simplicity and accessibility. It’s free to sign up, and you can set your rates and packages. However, Fiverr charges a 20% commission on each sale, which can add up but is often considered reasonable given the exposure and ease of use the platform provides. Payments are made through PayPal, Fiverr Revenue Card, or bank transfer, with a 14-day clearance period for funds (7 days for top-rated sellers)​.
Upwork – Connects freelancers with clients for various projects
Upwork connects freelancers with clients for a variety of projects, ranging from short-term tasks to long-term contracts. Unlike Fiverr’s gig-based system, Upwork operates on a proposal basis where freelancers bid on projects. This allows for more flexibility in pricing and project scope. Upwork covers numerous fields, including IT, creative arts, marketing, and customer service.
One of Upwork’s strengths is its detailed vetting process for freelancers, which includes skill tests and profile verification. This helps build trust with potential clients. Upwork also provides various payment methods and ensures secure transactions through an escrow system, where funds are held until the project milestones are met and approved by the client.
Upwork charges a sliding fee based on your earnings with a client: 20% for the first $500 billed, 10% for total billings between $500.01 and $10,000, and 5% for billings over $10,000. This fee structure can be more beneficial for long-term projects and ongoing client relationships.
Uber – Yes, driving people around for money still a thing
Uber is the ultimate emblem of the “gig economy,” and it remains a simple way for anyone in the UK to make some side change if they don’t mind driving people in their cars. The biggest benefit of working as an Uber driver is the flexibility of setting your schedule, and it offers potentially solid earnings as you gain a reputation and figure out the peak travel hours in your area.
However, there are some potential downsides to using the Uber app, including security risks, competition from other drivers, and insurance headaches if there are ever altercations or accidents. Plus, remember that you’re responsible for the upkeep of your vehicle, meaning it will cut into your profits. Still, given Uber’s reputation and ease-of-use, it’s a solid choice if you have a car and don’t mind driving for some extra dough.
Also, keep in mind that in order to drive on the Uber app, you’ll need a private-hire licence from a council that Uber is licensed by. All UK private-hire drivers need a licence from a licensing authority such as a council. Therefore, that’s an extra step to keep in mind.
Uber Eats
If you’d prefer to transport burritos rather than backseat drivers, consider signing up for Uber Eats rather than classic Uber. With this side hustle, you’ll be shuttling sushi, salads, and shawarma from hundreds of restaurants to hungry UK residents in your town or city. While this app has the potential to be lucrative during peak hours, you have to remember those pesky petrol expenses and the unreliability of tips. Plus, it can be a real pain if restaurants don’t have all their food prepared when you go there because “time is money!” Even with these inconveniences, using Uber Eats is one of the tastiest ways to enter the gig economy.
Deliveroo – A reliable side hustle
Although Uber Eats has a large pool of participating restaurants, it isn’t the only food delivery app in the UK. For example, Deliveroo is an alternative choice that focuses on connecting local restaurants to hungry foodies. Although Deliveroo works similarly to Uber Eats, some may find it offers a better payout ratio, and adding it to your smartphone gives you more options to reach monthly earnings goals. People serious about their side hustle game stack apps like Uber Eats and Deliveroo to find the most lucrative opportunities and make the most of their delivery time. Whether you use Uber Eats, Deliveroo, or both, they’re all legit ways to make money from delivering delicious meals.
Best Mystery Shopping Apps
Ever thought about turning your daily activities into a side hustle? With the right apps, you can earn money by simply sharing your experiences, taking photos, or giving your opinion. Let’s dive into some of the best shopping apps that can help you make some extra cash.
Streetbees – Pays for sharing consumer experiences
Streetbees is an app for sharing your daily experiences and getting paid for it. Founded in 2015, this UK-based platform allows users to participate in various “stories” or tasks. These can range from taking pictures of your lunch to sharing your thoughts on different products. The app is very user-friendly, making it feel like you’re just chatting with a friend. Payments are made promptly through PayPal, making it a reliable choice for earning some extra money in your spare time.
Each task comes with a pre-defined reward amount displayed upfront. Once you complete a task, the app verifies your submission, and the reward gets credited to your account. You can withdraw your earnings once you reach the minimum payout threshold, typically around £10.
Roamler – Offers tasks like checking in-store merchandise
Roamler is another excellent app that offers tasks such as mystery shopping and checking in-store merchandise. Users complete these tasks for payments that typically range from £5 to £10. Before accessing paid tasks, you’ll need to complete a few unpaid ones to get the hang of how the app works. This app is particularly great for those who enjoy exploring different stores and doing hands-on tasks.
Success on Roamler seems to depend largely on carefully following task instructions, especially regarding photo guidelines. The platform operates on an invite-only basis, requiring new users to obtain a code from existing members.
Users report varied experiences with the app, with some finding it an impressive way to earn more than traditional survey sites or other beermoney platforms. The tasks often involve taking pictures of products in stores, and some assignments even offer free products in addition to payment.
Field Agent – Mystery shopping tasks in supermarkets
When you’re running errands, be sure to take the Field Agent app with you! This convenient mobile app pays you for completing short, location-based services like in-store auditing, scavenger hunts, and taking pics of UPCs, all of which you could do on your regular shopping routine. Thanks to Field Agent’s frequent offers, you could even buy and try different items and earn a kickback for your honest opinions. Although the pay on Field Agent is pretty low — and the opportunities are sparse if you’re not in a big city — it can be a fun way to earn money on grocery day.
Field Agent is a mystery shopping app that pays you to visit stores and report on your experience. Tasks often involve taking photos of merchandise and completing audits. Each task generally takes about 30 minutes and pays between £5 and £10. This app is perfect if you enjoy being out and about and don’t mind taking a few photos along the way.
The app offers several types of tasks, including store audits, buy-and-try product reviews, and scavenger hunts. Many users advise against attempting the scavenger hunts, as these tasks often involve searching for hard-to-find or discontinued items and are generally considered not worth the effort.
The most popular tasks seem to be the store audits and buy-and-try assignments. These typically involve taking photos in stores, checking product availability, or purchasing and reviewing specific items. Users appreciate that many buy-and-try tasks reimburse the cost of the product in addition to providing payment for the review.
BeMyEye – Mystery shopping tasks with photos
BeMyEye offers a similar experience to Field Agent, focusing on mystery shopping tasks that require you to take photos and gather information from stores. The app provides a map of tasks available near you, with each task offering payments ranging from £2 to £20. It’s particularly user-friendly for beginners in the mystery shopping world.
dscout – Paid for sharing views and participating in video sessions
Fancy getting paid to explore your city and provide feedback? The dscout app might be just what you’re looking for. As a “Scout,” you can earn real cash by completing various missions, paying between £20 and £120. Users appreciate the variety and engaging nature of the tasks, which often involve giving feedback on products and services.
Known as “missions,” these tasks often require you to record your opinions and experiences, sometimes via video. It’s a great way to earn money if you enjoy sharing your thoughts and insights. Payments can be quite rewarding, depending on the complexity of the task. The app is not available in the UK.
Best Software Apps
There’s an app for everything these days, and companies will pay you small amounts to do pretty much anything! Whether you’re walking, watching ads, playing games, or simply using your smartphone, there’s an app out there that can help you earn some extra cash.
WeAre8 – Pays to watch online ads
WeAre8 pays you to watch online ads. Once you sign up, you’ll start receiving invites to watch ads, each paying around 20p. Additionally, the platform donates the same amount to charity. It’s a simple and effective way to earn money while supporting good causes.
Make Money – Points-for-cash for various tasks like playing games
Make Money offers a variety of tasks, from playing games to filling out surveys, all rewarding you with points that can be exchanged for cash via PayPal. The app is known for its straightforward interface and reliable payouts, making it a popular choice for those looking to earn a bit of extra income during their free time. The flexibility of tasks available means you can choose what suits you best and complete them at your convenience.
Best Survey Apps
Earning a little extra money through survey apps has become an appealing option for many people. Whether you want to use your downtime or just enjoy sharing your opinions, there are quite a few apps to make this possible.
Ipsos iSay – Surveys with points redeemable for rewards
Ipsos iSay is a prominent survey platform operated by Ipsos, a global market research company. Established in 1975, Ipsos has a strong reputation and a wide-reaching presence in over 80 countries. Ipsos iSay allows users to participate in surveys and earn points that can be redeemed for rewards such as gift cards, PayPal cash, or donations to charity.
Signing up is quick and easy, and the app offers a variety of surveys based on your profile. The points earned can be redeemed once you reach the minimum threshold, typically around 510 points for a £5 PayPal transfer. While it may not replace your main income, it’s a great way to earn a bit of extra cash in your spare time.​
Swagbucks – Surveys, videos, shopping, and more for points
With millions in cash rewards transferred since 2008, Swagbucks is one of the Internet’s oldest and largest survey apps. But this site is so much more than just a survey-taking platform. When you become a member of the Swagbucks community, you’ll get access to dozens of other earning opportunities, including watching videos, browsing the Internet, and cashback rewards at partner retailers.
Once you have enough points, Swagbucks lets you redeem them for gift cards or cash directly to your PayPal account. Given its size, diversity of options, and reputation, it’s easy to see why so many people are joining Swagbucks for side cash.
Swagbucks is particularly popular because of its wide range of earning opportunities and flexibility. The app has a user-friendly interface and provides numerous daily tasks that can add up to significant earnings over time. It’s an excellent choice if you want to diversify the ways you earn rewards​
Influence – Earn rewards for sharing opinions through surveys
Influence is another rewarding survey app that pays users for sharing their opinions on various topics. The app is straightforward and easy to use, providing surveys that match your profile. While it might not offer as many different ways to earn as Swagbucks, Influence focuses on delivering high-quality surveys with decent rewards.
YouGov – Another reputable UK platform for surveys
The publicly-listed UK market research firm YouGov has been around since the dawn of the 2000s, and it offers an easy way for anyone with Internet access to earn cash for sharing their opinions. From politics and sports to current events and entertainment, YouGov has plenty of trending topics to comment on and earn a little money. Like other survey sites, you can use your points to get gift cards or cash via PayPal once you meet YouGov’s threshold.
Branded Surveys – Surveys with points exchangeable for cash/gift cards
Branded Surveys is another well-known online survey platform that allows UK users to earn some cash for their opinions. One unique feature of using Branded Surveys is its loyalty program, where you can earn extra points for consistently taking a minimum threshold of surveys every week.
By remaining a loyal member of the Branded Surveys community, you can speed up your earnings to snag gift cards or cash via PayPal. While you still won’t be able to make tons of money with Branded Surveys, these extra features make it easier to bring in consistent side cash.
One of the appealing features is the Branded Elite program, which rewards you with bonus points as you climb through different membership tiers. Cashing out is flexible, with options to receive your earnings via PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards. The platform also recently lowered its payout threshold to £5, making it easier to access your earnings quickly.
Y Live – High-paying surveys but fewer opportunities
Previously known as PopulusLive, Y Live offers generous payouts for surveys, although the number of surveys available can vary. Each survey earns you points, with 50 points equating to a £50 automatic bank payment. This translates to an attractive hourly rate of approximately £12, although it may take time to accumulate enough points for a payout. Despite occasional delays in point validation, Y Live remains one of the UK’s top survey sites due to its high earning potential​.
Panelbase – Consistent survey invitations and product testing
Panelbase consistently offers a steady number of survey invitations, making it a reliable option for regular earnings. Surveys typically last between 5 to 10 minutes, with some paying up to £10. You may also receive invitations for extended studies or focus groups, which offer better pay. Panelbase provides opportunities for product testing, where you receive free samples and a paid follow-up survey. Earnings can be transferred directly to your UK bank account, with a minimum payout threshold of £10.
Survey Junkie – Share opinions through surveys for cash or gift cards
Survey Junkie is one of the most popular and trusted survey platforms available today. It connects users with various surveys from brands looking for consumer insights. The app is easy to use, and you can start earning points as soon as you create your account.
For each survey you complete, you earn points that can be redeemed for cash via PayPal or gift cards. A significant advantage of Survey Junkie is that you still earn a few points even if you get disqualified from a survey, which is not common among all survey platforms. Surveys typically pay between 10 to 100 points, with 500 points equating to £5.
Google Surveys – Quick surveys for $1 each, paid via PayPal
Google Opinion Rewards is a straightforward app where you can earn money by completing short surveys. The surveys usually take only a few minutes and pay approximately £0.75 to £1 each. The earnings are transferred directly to your PayPal account. Google Surveys stands out for its simplicity and reliability, as it is backed by Google, ensuring a smooth and trustworthy experience​.
Qmee – Earn cash rewards for surveys, shopping, and searching the web
Qmee is a versatile app that offers multiple ways to earn cash, including taking surveys, shopping, and even searching the web. It stands out with its browser extension, which provides additional earning opportunities by showing relevant offers and discounts while you browse. Qmee has no minimum cash out threshold, so you can withdraw your earnings to PayPal anytime you want, even if it’s just a few pence.
You can also opt to receive gift cards or donate your earnings to charity. The app is user-friendly and provides a consistent stream of surveys and other tasks, making it a solid choice for regular earners.
LifePoints – A Hassle Free Way to Earn From Surveys
Originally called MySurvey, LifePoints is another established platform that helps users in 40 countries — including the UK — earn rewards for taking online surveys. As long as you qualify for one of the current surveys offered on your LifePoints portal, you could receive a few pence for your responses and steadily build up your earnings for a gift card or cash. While it can take a frustratingly long time to qualify for a survey on LifePoints, this app is free to use and a legit way to earn side cash.
Best Receipt Scanning Apps
Looking for an easy way to earn some extra cash from your regular shopping? Receipt scanning apps can be a simple and effective solution.
CheckoutSmart – Cashback for supermarket shopping
CheckoutSmart is a great tool for earning cashback on your supermarket shopping. The app partners with major supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Asda to offer exclusive deals on a variety of products. It’s as simple as buying the featured products, taking a photo of your receipt, and uploading it to the app. You can withdraw your cashback to your PayPal account, although there is a small fee for withdrawals under £20.
One of the standout features of CheckoutSmart is the range of products and the cashback amounts available. The app is user-friendly and regularly updates with new offers, ensuring there are always opportunities to save. Payments can be withdrawn to your bank account or PayPal once you reach the minimum payout threshold, making it convenient to access your earnings.
Shopmium – Cashback for buying and scanning receipts
No matter how great a grocery’s sales are, no customer will pass on a few extra coupons, right? With the Shopmium app, you could add bonus savings to your supermarket trips without changing your monthly expenses. Once you download this free app, you can scan receipts and earn cashback rewards in your account.
After you hit the £10 payout threshold, request your money to a PayPal account, and you should see it there within a 48-hour window. Depending on the special offers on the Shopmium app, you might even be able to try a few products for free. Although snapping pics for Shopmium isn’t enough to pay your bills, it can take some of the financial strain out of your grocery shopping.
The app supports a variety of supermarkets including Tesco, Morrisons, and Waitrose. A unique feature of Shopmium is its barcode scanner, which ensures you’re purchasing the correct item eligible for cashback. Payments are processed quickly, typically within two to three days, and can be transferred to your PayPal or bank account. Additionally, Shopmium’s referral program allows users to earn extra cashback by inviting friends to join the app, further enhancing your savings potential​.
Storewards – Coins for scanning receipts, redeemable for vouchers
Storewards is a popular choice for those wanting to earn from their everyday purchases. By snapping a photo of your grocery receipts, you can earn coins that are redeemable for vouchers or PayPal credit.
Each receipt can net you around 600 coins, and you can also earn additional coins through daily bonuses and by linking your email or Amazon account. Keep in mind, though, that only recent receipts from accepted retailers are valid. Once you’ve accumulated enough coins, you can cash out for rewards like Amazon vouchers or prepaid MasterCard credit.​
Amazon Shopper Panel – Amazon vouchers for scanning receipts
Amazon Shopper Panel works similarly, allowing you to earn Amazon vouchers by submitting photos of your receipts. This app specifically aims to gather shopping data to help Amazon improve its services and recommendations. Users can earn £5 each month by uploading 10 eligible receipts, and there’s also an opportunity to participate in short surveys for additional rewards. This app is currently invite-only, but you can join the waitlist.
SnapMyEats – Pays for food receipts from various places
SnapMyEats is a nifty app where you can earn money by simply taking photos of your food and drink receipts. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, enjoying a meal at a restaurant, or picking up groceries, SnapMyEats is interested. To get started, download the app, create an account, and start snapping your receipts.
You’ll need to answer a few questions about your purchase, like where you bought it and who it was for. For every five receipts you upload, you’ll earn £1, with a maximum of £5 per month. Once you accumulate at least £10, you can redeem your rewards for various gift vouchers from retailers like Amazon and Tesco.
Ibotta – Cashback on groceries and other in-store purchases by scanning receipts or linking store loyalty cards
Ibotta, on the other hand, is a popular app in the US that offers cashback on groceries and other purchases. You can earn by either scanning your receipts after shopping or linking your store loyalty cards directly to the app. Ibotta provides offers for a wide range of products and stores, making it a versatile choice for many shoppers.
After completing your purchases, simply upload your receipts through the app or ensure your loyalty card is linked before you shop to automatically get cashback. The app also offers bonuses and promotions, increasing your earning potential. Once you reach a minimum threshold, you can transfer your earnings to PayPal or choose from various gift cards.
Receipt Hog – A Simple Way to Rack Up Points
Like Shopmium, Receipt Hog rewards users every time they upload images of their physical or digital receipts from partner brands and stores. As you rack up your points in the Receipt Hog “piggy bank,” you can redeem them for cash into a PayPal account or as a gift card for Amazon. Receipt Hog also gives users the option to spend their rewards on sweepstakes or slots to increase their earnings potential. Again, you won’t get a boatload of money using an app like Receipt Hog, but it’s a simple and free way to get a discount on items you already purchase.
Best Cashback Apps
Cashback apps are a good way to save money effortlessly on your everyday purchases. By using these apps, you essentially receive a rebate on your spending, making your regular shopping trips more rewarding.
Airtime Rewards – Cashback for shopping with linked cards
Airtime Rewards is an easy-to-use app that links directly to your bank cards. When you shop at participating retailers, the app tracks your spending and automatically gives you cashback. This cashback is then applied to your mobile phone bill, helping you save money each month. Airtime Rewards partners with a wide range of popular retailers, including Argos, Morrisons, and Boots.
The cashback rates vary but typically range from 1% to 15%, and you can even earn additional bonuses by purchasing gift cards through the app. One of the key advantages of Airtime Rewards is its passive nature; once set up, you simply shop as usual, and the rewards accumulate automatically.
TopCashback – Cashback for online shopping through the app
TopCashback is another option for earning cashback on your online purchases. The app partners with thousands of retailers, offering varying percentages of cashback on everything from electronics to clothing. To earn cashback, you just need to click through to the retailer’s website via the TopCashback app or website before making your purchase.
The cashback you earn can be withdrawn to your bank account, PayPal, or converted into gift cards. TopCashback is known for offering some of the highest cashback rates available, making it a favourite among savvy shoppers
Quidco – Cashback from partnered retailers
Quidco is one of the UK’s most popular cashback platforms. It partners with over 5,000 retailers, offering cashback on various products and services, from fashion and electronics to travel and insurance. Using Quidco is simple: you sign up, browse the offers, click through to the retailer’s site, and make your purchase. Your cashback will then be tracked and added to your Quidco account, though it can take a few months for the cashback to be confirmed and available for withdrawal​.
Quidco offers both free and premium memberships. The premium membership costs £1 per month, deducted from your cashback earnings, and provides benefits like higher cashback rates, payout bonuses, and an ad-free experience. You can withdraw your cashback via PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards, often with bonuses for choosing gift cards. For example, opting for an Amazon gift card can give you up to a 2% bonus on your cashback​.
Cheddar – Cashback for purchases with linked bank cards
Cheddar isn’t technically a receipt-scanning app, but you’ll still get rewarded through this platform for your purchase history. Some users might even argue that Cheddar is the most passive way to earn income since you don’t need to do all that manual scanning. With Cheddar installed, you’ll link your bank account and credit cards to automatically stream your payment data to the app and receive kickbacks.
You could also use the Cheddar app to buy gift cards and get a percentage discount at over 100 partner stores, including heavy-hitters like Starbucks, Amazon, and Airbnb. While there’s always a security risk in sharing personal financial details with third parties, Cheddar has a high reputation in its industry, and it’s swiftly becoming one of the most downloaded money-making apps in the UK.
Sprive – Cashback directed to mortgage payments
Sprive is an innovative app designed to simplify the process of making mortgage overpayments, potentially saving homeowners thousands in interest. Founded by Jinesh Vohra, a former Goldman Sachs banker, Sprive aims to tackle the complexities he encountered when overpaying his own mortgage. The app analyses users’ spending patterns to determine an affordable overpayment amount and facilitates these payments automatically.
By linking the app to your bank account, Sprive automatically calculates how much you can afford to overpay on your monthly mortgage. It then makes these overpayments directly to your lender. You can set limits on the amount transferred to ensure it fits within your budget.
The app also offers cashback rewards for purchases made at various retailers. For example, you can earn up to 6% cashback by buying gift cards for stores like M&S, Amazon, and Morrisons, and this cashback goes directly towards your mortgage. On average, users save £5,500 in interest and pay off their mortgage two years earlier using Sprive.
JamDoughnut – Cashback rewards for purchases made at specific bakeries, cafes, or stores
Unlike traditional cashback sites where users must navigate through affiliate links, JamDoughnut simplifies the process by allowing users to buy gift cards directly through the app and earn cashback instantly. These gift cards can be used at various bakeries, cafes, and other stores. The cashback rates vary, but they often range between 2% and 16%.
JamDoughnut’s cashback rates are competitive, with some notable examples including 2.75% cashback at Asda, 3.25% at Tesco, and up to 8% at Costa. By buying a gift card, you get immediate cashback, which you can convert into cash and transfer to your bank account once you accumulate enough points. The app also features a broad range of retailers, ensuring users can benefit from cashback on purchases they already make regularly. Users particularly appreciate the instant cashback feature, which is credited to their account immediately after the purchase, contrasting with other services that may take longer to process rewards
HeyPiggy – Automatically earn cash back on everyday purchases by linking your credit or debit card
Like all the other platforms I listed above, the primary way to earn from HeyPiggy is by answering paid surveys. Once logged into the member dashboard, you’ll see all the available surveys. HeyPiggy is user-friendly. Each survey shows how much you’ll earn and the estimated completion time. Upon signing up, surveys are available immediately, which is a pleasant surprise compared to some other survey sites where you might wait for opportunities.
To participate, click on a survey and review the qualifying questions to match you with relevant surveys. If you qualify, you proceed. If you still need to, you can simply move on to the next one. Occasionally, HeyPiggy offers a small compensation for disqualifications, which is a nice touch that we do not often see on other platforms. One of the notable features of HeyPiggy is its broad availability across various countries, catering to a global audience. This inclusivity extends to younger users as well, allowing individuals as young as 14 to participate with parental consent.
After completing a survey, you receive the promised compensation. It’s essential to answer honestly to avoid inconsistencies, as HeyPiggy’s system monitors for accuracy. The system also has a smart-matching mechanism that learns about you from your answers, ensuring better survey matches without needing a separate profile. A unique feature is the green badge indicating guaranteed qualification for certain surveys.
Best Delivery Apps
DoorDash – Food delivery with flexible hours
DoorDash is a food delivery service that allows you to work as a “Dasher” and deliver food from local restaurants to customers. One of the key advantages of DoorDash is the flexibility it offers. You can choose your own hours and work whenever it suits you, making it a great option for those looking for a side hustle to fund their investments that fits around other commitments. Whether you prefer to work mornings, evenings, or weekends, DoorDash lets you set your schedule.
As a Dasher, you earn base pay for each delivery, plus tips from customers and additional earnings from promotions like “Peak Pay” during busy hours. While earnings can vary based on location and demand, many Dashers find that DoorDash provides a reliable way to make extra income. Just remember to factor in fuel and vehicle maintenance costs, which can eat into your earnings.​
Instacart – Shopping and delivering groceries
Instacart connects you with customers who need groceries delivered. There are two main roles: full-service shoppers, who shop and deliver orders, and in-store shoppers, who prepare orders for pickup. Full-service shoppers work as independent contractors and need a car to complete deliveries, whereas in-store shoppers are part-time employees and don’t require a vehicle.
Instacart offers the flexibility to choose your own hours and the ability to earn through a combination of batch payments and tips. Full-service shoppers typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, though this can vary based on factors like location, order size, and time spent shopping. In-store shoppers usually earn an hourly wage of around $13. As with DoorDash, it’s important to account for expenses such as fuel, vehicle maintenance, and self-employment taxes when calculating your net earnings​.
Best Selling Apps
Poshmark.co.uk – Sell new or used clothing, shoes, and accessories
Having too many clothes is a real problem for many of us nowadays. Fast fashion is more prevalent than ever, and Poshmark.co.uk has quickly become a popular platform for buying and selling both new and used clothing, shoes, and accessories. Users appreciate the app’s intuitive interface and the ease of listing items, which makes it simple to manage transactions. The social elements, such as virtual Posh Parties and the ability to follow other users, create a vibrant community feel that many find engaging.
On the other hand, Poshmark’s high seller fees, which can reach up to 20% for sales above £15, have been a point of contention among users. While the platform is praised for its convenience and the protective measures it offers, such as the Posh Protect feature for high-value items, the commission structure can significantly reduce profits for sellers. There are also reports of occasional problems with listings being inaccurately described and instances of scams. Despite these drawbacks, many users still find Poshmark a valuable tool for clearing out wardrobes and finding unique items, but it is advisable to approach with caution and be prepared for potential issues that might arise.
Vinted – Sell clothes, accessories, and handmade items
Vinted offers a straightforward platform for selling clothes, accessories, and handmade items, with many users appreciating its user-friendly app and lack of seller fees. The listing process is quick and easy, making it accessible for casual sellers looking to declutter. However, there are frequent complaints about unreliable customer service and issues with transaction cancellations without explanation. Many users find the platform efficient for moving budget items but remain wary of purchasing high-value goods due to the risk of counterfeit products and inconsistent parcel tracking.
The platform’s strengths lie in its community of active buyers and sellers, who often highlight the ease of finding trendy items at reasonable prices. While the experience can be hit or miss, especially with regards to customer service and the quality of items, many users continue to find value in the platform for everyday clothing needs.
eBay – Sell almost anything online, the tried and true way
Although considered a dinosaur these days, eBay remains a versatile platform for selling almost anything, from electronics to collectibles, thanks to its broad reach and multiple selling formats. Users appreciate the ability to choose between fixed-price listings and auctions, catering to different sales strategies and inventory types. Many sellers find eBay’s global audience appealing, allowing them to tap into a vast market of potential buyers. However, there are notable downsides, particularly regarding seller fees and competition. eBay’s standard fees, including listing and final value fees, can reduce profit margins, making it crucial for sellers to price their items strategically to stay competitive​.
Customer reviews highlight mixed experiences with eBay’s customer service and policy restrictions. While some users have positive stories of successful transactions and responsive support, others report frustrations with automated responses and difficulties in resolving disputes. The platform’s policies often favour buyers, which can be a point of contention for sellers facing issues like returns and refunds. Despite these challenges, eBay continues to be a go-to for many due to its ease of use and substantial buyer protection measures. For those interested in maximising their sales, understanding eBay’s fee structure and competitive landscape is essential​
Best Passive Income Apps
Nielsen Computer & Mobile Panel – Earn rewards by tracking internet usage
Nielsen Panel is a market research tool from the renowned data analytics company Nielsen (the one with the TV ratings). Users install the app on their devices, which then runs unobtrusively in the background, collecting data on browsing habits and app usage. This data helps Nielsen provide valuable insights into the mobile industry. Participants can earn up to $50 annually, redeemable as gift cards from popular retailers like Amazon and Starbucks, or enter sweepstakes for additional rewards. While some users appreciate the effortless earnings, others have raised concerns about data privacy and occasional issues with reward redemption​.
Users generally find the panel easy to use and appreciate the passive income it provides. The rewards system is based on points, where you need about 800 points to cash out a £5 reward. While some users have reported issues with customer support and occasional technical glitches, most reviews highlight the panel’s legitimacy and the variety of available rewards. It’s a convenient option for those looking to earn small rewards without much (any) effort, as long as they are comfortable sharing their browsing data​.
MobileXpression – Passive income by tracking software usage
MobileXpression is an app designed to give you passive income by tracking your mobile usage. Once you install the app, it runs in the background and monitors your internet usage. In exchange, you receive points that can be redeemed for gift cards and other rewards. It’s an easy way to earn some beer money on the side with minimal effort, making it ideal for those who don’t want to spend extra time on their phones.
CashWalk – Earn money by walking or running
Can you really earn money just by walking? Apparently yes! CashWalk is an app designed to reward you for your physical activity. By tracking your steps and other activities, it allows you to earn coins, which can be exchanged for gift cards or transferred to PayPal. The idea of earning money while staying active is appealing to many, turning a simple daily task into a potential source of extra income.
With CashWalk, you earn coins for every 100 steps you take, up to a daily limit of 100 coins. This encourages regular activity, improving your health while offering financial rewards. For every 3750 coins, you can redeem a £5 gift voucher. This lower withdrawal threshold compared to other similar apps is motivating, as it keeps you engaged and striving to reach your step goals.
How Much Money Can You Make?
Sorry to burst your bubble, but you can’t make a living off of UK money-making apps. Think about it: If it were that simple to make money from a smartphone, why wouldn’t everyone do it all the time?
Although you can’t get rich using apps to make money in the UK, that doesn’t mean they’re all scams. Ultimately, how much you earn from a money-making app depends on your time commitment and the effort you put into your tasks. For example, you’ll earn less for taking surveys and watching videos than you could make from delivering food or selling freelance home repair services. While you shouldn’t expect to make more than a few pounds each month from these money-making apps, you could boost your earnings potential if you find opportunities that give you more chances to create a viable side business (e.g., TaskRabbit or Fiverr) or invest in assets with the potential for high long-term returns.
How To Find Money-Making Apps for You
Picking the best money-making apps in the UK depends on how much time and effort you’re willing to put into a platform and your expectations. Are you just looking for a survey app that’s easy to squeeze into your train commute, or are you looking for a platform that provides a more lucrative — but more demanding — gig opportunity. Be clear about your intentions with using a money-making app, and consider how much time you need to put in to see any reward for your efforts.
To help you better gauge different money-making opportunities, be sure to research sites like Trustpilot and Reddit for honest reviews of each app’s pros and cons, as well as the average earnings potential and expected time commitment. Armed with all of this knowledge, you should have a better idea of which apps best fit your lifestyle and offer the perfect balance of flexibility and earnings potential.
How To Make The Most Out of Money-Making Apps
Money-making apps won’t pay you enough to quit your job, but there are ways you can increase your earnings potential. You could add extra pounds to your monthly stash by putting a few additional strategies into place.
Capitalise On Referral Programs: Often, money-making apps will give you a prize boost for getting friends, family, or even online strangers to use a referral link and sign up for membership. By consistently getting people to sign up with your referrals, you could create a moderate passive income stream.
Combine Multiple Apps: Instead of relying on one mobile money maker, consider stacking your apps so you have more opportunities to earn rewards. For example, instead of only scanning receipts into Receipt Hog, download Shopmium to earn “double points.” You could also use multiple survey sites to check for the latest opportunities if you aren’t qualifying on one app.
Look Into Offers and Loyalty Programs: Money-making apps often issue special offers to drum up excitement or reward the most dedicated users with bonus opportunities. Always be sure to review the latest news about an app’s offerings on their official blog or social media pages so you’re taking full advantage of potentially higher-earning possibilities.
Redeem Points ASAP: While money-making apps often reward loyal users, there’s usually no reward for stacking your points on a platform. In fact, the longer you leave your rewards, the greater risk of issues like a hack or company bankruptcy. Remember, you don’t have insurance protections on money-making apps, so it’s best to cash out ASAP to ensure you make money for your time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which app gives real money in the UK?
If you’re looking for apps that pay real money in the UK, consider Swagbucks for earning through surveys, videos, and games, with PayPal cashouts. Streetbees pays for completing quick tasks like surveys and photo submissions, also via PayPal. For mystery shopping, BeMyEye and Field Agent offer tasks that pay £2 to £20, depending on complexity. These apps are flexible and reliable ways to earn extra cash.
Which game is best for earning money in the UK?
Mistplay is a popular choice for earning money by playing games in the UK. It rewards users with points for playing various mobile games, which can be exchanged for gift cards or PayPal cash. Another good option is Cash’em All, which pays you to play games and rewards you with coins that can be redeemed for cash. These apps offer a fun way to earn extra money while enjoying your favourite games.
Which app gives you real money?
Swagbucks is a top app that pays real money in the UK. You can earn by completing surveys, watching videos, shopping online, and playing games. Payments are made through PayPal or as gift cards. Another reliable app is Streetbees, which pays users for short tasks like surveys and photo submissions, directly to your PayPal account.
How to earn $100 a day UK?
To earn $100 a day in the UK, consider combining multiple income streams. Use Swagbucks and Streetbees for surveys and small tasks. Engage in mystery shopping with apps like BeMyEye and Field Agent for higher-paying tasks. Freelancing on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr can also help reach your goal. Maximising these apps and platforms can help you achieve a substantial daily income.
