Common Myths About Making Money With Survey Apps

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Sep 16, 2024

Common Myths About Making Money With Survey Apps

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Maybe you've heard the promises of easy money, where all you have to do is answer a few questions while sipping coffee, and you're set to make hundreds in no time. But is it really that simple?

There's a lot of buzz about making money with survey apps, but not all of it is accurate. In fact, many people get caught up in common myths that leave them frustrated or disappointed. Let's break down the truth about survey apps and clear up some of the biggest misconceptions.

In this article

What are survey apps?

Survey apps are platforms designed to gather consumer opinions and feedback for companies. By answering surveys on products, services, and trends, you help brands better understand customer behavior and preferences. In exchange, survey apps compensate you with cash, gift cards, or other rewards.

Unlike traditional jobs, survey apps don't require special skills or significant time investments. You can complete surveys at your convenience, and some apps even offer additional earning options, such as watching videos or completing small tasks.

However, while survey apps offer an easy way to earn some extra money, they aren't typically designed for large payouts.

Common myths

Survey apps have been around for a while, but many people still believe in myths about how they work.

1. You'll make a full-time income

Many people believe that survey apps can replace their jobs or provide a full-time income. The reality is that survey apps are meant to be side hustles, providing extra cash or gift cards, but they won't pay enough to replace your day job.

2. Surveys always pay a lot

While it's true that some surveys can pay up to $10 or more, most surveys offer between $0.50 to $2 for competition.

Higher-paying surveys are less frequent and often require you to meet specific demographic criteria.

3. Every survey qualifies

Another common myth is that you'll qualify for every survey you try. In reality, you may be disqualified from surveys if your profile doesn't match the target demographic. This is why filling out your profile accurately is essential, but even then, some surveys just won't be a fit.

4. Survey apps are a scam

While there are scam survey apps, many reputable ones provide real opportunities to earn money. Sticking to well-reviewed, popular apps like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and Inboxdollars, ensures you're not wasting your time.

5. All survey apps are the same

Not all survey apps operate the same way. Some apps pay cash directly, while others reward you with points or gift cards. It's worth experimenting with a few to find the best one that fits your goals.

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Pros and cons of survey apps

Pros

Flexibility
No experience required
Free to join
Multiple payout options

Cons

Low earning potential
Time-consuming
Disqualifications
Survey availability

Survey apps to try

If you're new to survey apps and want to explore the best platforms for earning cash, here are some reliable apps to get you started.

Swagbucks

Swagbucks is one of the most versatile survey platforms available, offering more than just surveys. In addition to completing surveys, you can earn Swagbucks (SB) by watching videos, shopping online, playing games, and even searching the web.

Best for: Users who want a variety of earning options, not just surveys.
Payout method: PayPal, gift cards
Minimum payout: 300 SB (equivalent to $3)

Read a full review on Swagbucks.

Survey Junkie

Survey Junkie focuses primarily on surveys, making it a straightforward option for users who prefer to earn money through sharing their opinions. It's one of the more reliable platforms with consistent survey availability. Survey Junkie pays users in points, which can be redeemed for PayPal cash or gift cards once the minimum payout threshold is met. Survey Junkie also offers higher payouts for longer or more targeted surveys, which increases earning potential.

Best for: Those looking for a simple, survey-only platform.
Payout method: PayPal, gift cards
Minimum payout: 10

Read a full review on Survey Junkie.

InboxDollars

InboxDollars is a popular platform for users who want to earn money through a combination of surveys, watching videos, reading emails, and participating in offers. Unlike many other apps that pay in points, InboxDollars pays in cash, making it a more appealing choice for users who want a tangible way to see their earnings grow. Though the payout threshold is higher than some competitors (at $30), InboxDollars compensates by offering multiple ways to earn. The platform also offers sign-up bonuses and referral bonuses, which can help boost your earnings.

Best for: Users who want cash payment and multiple ways to earn beyond surveys.
Payout method: PayPal, check, gift cards
Minimum payout: $30

Read a full review on InboxDollars.

Freecash

Freecash is rapidly gaining popularity for its high-paying surveys and offers. Users can earn money by completing surveys, downloading apps, or trying out various offers from partner companies. One of the standout features of Freecash is its diverse payout options and users can cash out quickly. Freecash also features a leaderboard system, where the top earners receive bonus payouts, making it an appealing choice for users who want to compete for additional rewards.

Best for: Users who want fast payouts and cryptocurrency options.
Payout method: PayPal, cryptocurrency, gift cards
Minimum payout: $5

Rewarded Play

Rewarded Play combines gaming with earning, allowing users to collect points by playing popular mobile games. In addition to surveys, users can engage with games like Solitaire or Wordscapes to earn rewards. Points can then be redeemed for gift cards to popular retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. While the app is more geared toward gamers, it's a fun way to earn if you enjoy playing games in your spare time. The more time you spend playing, the more you can earn.

Best for: Gamers who want to earn money while playing mobile games.
Payout method: Gift cards
Minimum payout: Varies by retailer

Read a full review on Rewarded Play.

Kashkick

Kashkick allows users to earn by completing surveys, watching videos and signing up for various offers. What sets Kashkick apart is its low minimum payout threshold of just $10. Kashkick's simple and user-friendly interface makes it a great choice for beginners who want to start earning right away.

Best for: Users who prefer quick payouts.
Payout method: PayPal
Minimum payout: 10

Read a full review on Kashkick.

FAQs

Can you really make money with survey apps?

Yes, but the amount you can make is typically small.

How do survey apps pay?

Most survey apps offer multiple payment options, including PayPal cash, gift cards, or direct deposits. Some apps may also pay in points, which can be converted into rewards.

How much time do survey apps take?

Surveys can range from 5 minutes to 20 minutes or more. The longer the higher the payout, but it's important to balance the time spent with the earnings.

Are survey apps safe?

Most reputable survey apps have privacy policies in place to protect your data. However, it's important to read user reviews and choose trusted apps to avoid scams.

Why do I get disqualified from surveys?

Survey apps disqualify users when their profile doesn't match the target demographic. This is common and can happen frequently.

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The bottom line

Survey apps can be a fun and easy way to make some extra money in your spare time, but it's important to approach them with realistic expectations. They won't make you rich and require time and effort to see any substantial return. By understanding the myths and truths about survey apps, you can decide whether they are right for you.

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Lissa Poirot is an award-winning journalist and editor with a focus on finance, travel and health. Her work has appeared online and in print, and she has often been cited as a source on both. She currently resides in Pennsylvania.

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