I’ve scoured the internet to bring you the best ways to pad your wallet without spending a dime. Whether you’re looking to earn a little extra cash or start a full-blown side hustle, I’ve got you covered with 20 websites that let you make money online for free.
1. Survey Sites for Earning Cash
Survey sites are a great way to earn a bit of extra cash in your spare time. Here are a couple of my top picks.
Swagbucks
I’ve found Swagbucks to be a fun way to earn money online. You can take surveys, watch videos, or shop online to earn points, which you can then redeem for gift cards or cash. It’s easy to sign up and start earning right away.
Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is another site I recommend for earning cash through surveys. They’ve got a straightforward interface and you’ll get points for each survey you complete. You can cash out once you hit a certain threshold, making it a solid option for quick earnings.
2. Platforms for Freelance Work
Freelancing’s a fantastic way to make money online. Let’s dive into two platforms that’ll help you kickstart your freelancing career.
Fiverr
I love Fiverr because it’s so easy to get started. You can offer services starting at just $5, which makes it approachable for beginners. Whether you’re into graphic design, writing, or even voice-overs, Fiverr’s got a spot for you. I’ve seen folks turn their gigs into full-time careers, so it’s definitely worth a shot.
3. Cashback and Rewards Apps
Cashback and rewards apps are a fun way to earn money while you shop. Here’s how you can start making money with these apps.
Rakuten
I love using Rakuten because it’s so easy to earn cash back on my everyday purchases. Just sign up, shop through their site at over 2,500 stores, and watch the cashback roll in. Plus, they offer a $10 welcome bonus for new members.
Ibotta
With Ibotta, I can get cash back on groceries and other items. It’s simple: choose offers before you shop, then upload your receipt to earn cash back. They also have a $20 welcome bonus for new users, which is a great way to start earning right away.
4. Microtask and Gig Websites
Microtask and gig websites are perfect for those quick, easy tasks you can do in your spare time. Let’s dive into a couple of my favorites.
Amazon Mechanical Turk
I’ve found Amazon Mechanical Turk to be a solid choice for small, quick tasks. You’ll find everything from surveys to data entry, and you can start earning right away. It’s free to sign up, and you can cash out once you hit the $1 threshold.
Clickworker
Clickworker’s another site I like for microtasks. They offer tasks like writing, data categorization, and even app testing. Signing up is free, and you can withdraw your earnings once you reach $5. It’s a great way to make some extra cash on the side.
5. Content Creation and Monetization
Dive into content creation and turn your passion into profit with these platforms.
YouTube
I’ve found YouTube to be a powerhouse for earning through content creation. You can monetize your videos once you hit 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the past year. It’s all about creating engaging content that attracts viewers and advertisers. Plus, you can explore additional revenue streams like Super Chat, channel memberships, and merchandise shelf.
Medium
On Medium, I’ve discovered a simple way to earn from my writing. You get paid based on the engagement your stories receive from Medium’s paying members. It’s easy to start; just sign up, write, and publish. The more claps and reads you get, the more you earn. It’s a great platform if you enjoy sharing your thoughts and insights.
6. Selling Handmade Goods and Crafts
If you’re crafty, selling your handmade items online can be a fun and profitable way to make money.
Etsy
I love Etsy because it’s the go-to platform for unique handmade goods. You can sell everything from jewelry to home decor. Setting up a shop is free, and you only pay a listing fee of $0.20 per item. Plus, Etsy’s community of buyers actively seeks out handmade products, making it easier to find customers who appreciate your craft.
eBay
eBay’s a great option if you want to reach a broader audience. It’s not just for second-hand items; you can list your handmade crafts here too. Listing items is free, but you’ll pay a final value fee of around 12.55% when your item sells. I find eBay’s auction format can be exciting, driving up the price of your unique creations.
7. Stock Photography and Design
If you’re into photography or graphic design, you can turn your skills into cash with these platforms.
Shutterstock
I love how Shutterstock lets me upload my photos and earn royalties. Every time someone downloads my image, I get paid. It’s a great way to monetize my hobby without any upfront costs.
Canva
Canva’s a cool spot for designers. I can create and sell custom templates and designs on their marketplace. It’s free to join, and I earn a commission on every sale. Plus, it’s super user-friendly, which makes it easy to get started.
8. Affiliate Marketing Opportunities
Affiliate marketing’s a solid way to earn some cash online by promoting products you love.
Amazon Associates
I’ve found Amazon Associates to be a powerhouse for affiliate marketing. You can earn up to 10% in referral fees on products across their vast catalog. It’s easy to sign up and start embedding links in your blog or social media posts.
ShareASale
ShareASale’s another gem in my affiliate marketing toolkit. It connects you with thousands of merchants, offering a diverse range of products to promote. I appreciate how straightforward it is to track sales and commissions through their dashboard.
9. Online Tutoring and Teaching
Online tutoring and teaching can be a rewarding way to share your knowledge and earn money.
VIPKid
I’ve found VIPKid to be a great platform for teaching English to kids in China. You can earn up to $22 per hour, and they provide all the lesson materials, so it’s easy to get started.
Udemy
On Udemy, I can create and sell courses on any topic I’m passionate about. It’s free to upload courses, and I earn money based on how many students enroll, with potential earnings up to 97% of the course revenue when it’s on sale.
10. Passive Income through Apps
Earning passive income through apps is a smart way to make money while you sleep. Let’s dive into a couple of my favorite apps that can help you do just that.
Acorns
I love how Acorns lets you invest your spare change automatically. Whenever you make a purchase, Acorns rounds up the amount to the nearest dollar and invests the difference into a diversified portfolio. It’s an easy way to start investing without needing a big chunk of cash upfront.
Foap
Foap’s a cool app if you’re into photography. You can upload your photos and sell them to brands and companies. Every time someone buys your photo, you earn 50% of the sale. It’s a fun way to turn your hobby into a source of passive income.
11. Cryptocurrency and Investment
Dive into the exciting world of crypto and investment with these platforms that let you earn money for free.
Coinbase Earn
I’ve found Coinbase Earn to be a cool way to learn about cryptocurrencies while earning them. You can watch educational videos and complete quizzes to get free crypto like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others. It’s a win-win since you gain knowledge and some coins to start your crypto journey.
StormGain
StormGain’s my go-to for cloud mining without any initial investment. They offer a free mining power bonus that lets you start mining Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies right away. It’s straightforward and a great way to dip your toes into the mining world without spending a dime.
12. Gaming and Esports
If you’re a gamer, you can turn your hobby into a money-making venture with these platforms.
Twitch
I’ve found that streaming on Twitch can be a fun way to earn money. You can get paid through subscriptions, donations, and ads once you hit the 50 follower mark. Plus, Twitch’s affiliate program lets you start monetizing your channel early on.
Mistplay
I’ve tried Mistplay, and it’s a cool app where you play games to earn units. These units can be exchanged for gift cards. It’s a straightforward way to make some extra cash just by playing games you enjoy.
13. Social Media and Influencer Marketing
Social media’s a goldmine for making money online. Let’s dive into how you can turn your social media presence into a profitable venture.
I’ve found Instagram to be a powerhouse for earning cash. You can partner with brands for sponsored posts, where I’ve seen influencers earn anywhere from $100 to $10,000 per post depending on their follower count and engagement rates. Plus, Instagram’s affiliate marketing features let you earn commissions by promoting products through your stories or posts. It’s all about building a strong, engaged audience that trusts your recommendations.
TikTok
On TikTok, I’ve discovered it’s all about creating viral content. If you can capture the platform’s attention, brands will come knocking. I’ve seen creators earn money through the TikTok Creator Fund, which pays based on video views, with some making up to $0.02 per 1,000 views. Plus, like Instagram, TikTok offers opportunities for brand partnerships and affiliate marketing. The key here is consistency and tapping into trending topics to boost your visibility and earnings.
14. Virtual Assistant Services
Virtual assistant gigs are a fantastic way to earn money online using your organizational and administrative skills.
Belay
I’ve found Belay to be a top-notch platform for virtual assistant work. They specialize in connecting skilled professionals with businesses that need help with tasks like bookkeeping, social media management, and executive assistance. It’s easy to sign up and start offering your services, making it a great choice for anyone looking to dive into the world of virtual assistance.
Time Etc
Time Etc is another solid option if you’re interested in becoming a virtual assistant. They focus on providing personalized assistance to entrepreneurs and business owners. What I like about Time Etc is their emphasis on flexibility and the ability to work from anywhere. You can choose tasks that fit your skills and schedule, making it a convenient way to earn money online.
15. Online Competitions and Contests
Dive into the exciting world of online competitions and contests where you can showcase your skills and win cash prizes or valuable rewards.
Skillshare
I’ve discovered Skillshare as a fantastic platform where you can enter contests and win prizes while learning new skills. It’s not just about the learning; it’s about competing in creative challenges that can boost your portfolio and earn you recognition or even cash rewards. I love how it combines education with the thrill of competition.
99designs
On 99designs, I’ve found a competitive arena for designers to showcase their talents. You can enter design contests where clients post briefs and you submit your work. The best part? You could win the project and get paid for your design. It’s a great way to build your portfolio and earn money while doing what you love.
16. User-Generated Content Platforms
User-generated content platforms are a great way to monetize your creativity and knowledge. Here are two platforms where you can share your insights and earn money.
I’ve found Pinterest to be a fantastic place to showcase your visual content. By creating boards and pins that attract a lot of engagement, you can earn through affiliate marketing. I link products in my pins and earn a commission whenever someone makes a purchase through my link. It’s a simple yet effective way to turn your Pinterest presence into a source of income.
Quora
On Quora, I share my expertise by answering questions in my field. The platform’s Partner Program allows me to earn money based on the engagement my answers receive. The more views and upvotes my answers get, the more I earn. It’s a great way to monetize your knowledge and help others at the same time.
17. Referral Programs and Networks
Referral programs are a cool way to make some extra cash by inviting friends to join services you already use.
Dropbox
I love Dropbox’s referral program because it’s super easy to use. You just share your unique link with friends, and when they sign up and install Dropbox, you both get extra storage space for free. If they keep using it, you can earn up to 16 GB of additional space, which is a sweet deal for something you’re probably using anyway.
PayPal
PayPal’s referral program is another favorite of mine. When I refer someone new to PayPal and they complete a qualifying transaction, we both get a cash bonus. It’s usually around $10 for each of us, which adds up if you refer a few people. It’s a straightforward way to earn a little extra money just by spreading the word about a service you trust.
18. Blogging and Website Monetization
Google AdSense
I’ve found Google AdSense to be a fantastic way to monetize my blog. It’s simple: I add ads to my site, and whenever someone clicks on them, I earn a bit of cash. Plus, it’s free to sign up and start earning.
Bluehost
When it comes to hosting my blog, I swear by Bluehost. They offer a free domain for the first year and their basic plan is budget-friendly. Setting up my site was a breeze, and their customer support has been top-notch whenever I’ve needed help.
19. Online Market Research
Participating in online market research can be a lucrative way to share your opinions and earn money from home.
UserTesting
I’ve found UserTesting to be a great platform where you can earn up to $60 per hour by testing websites and apps. All you need to do is record your screen and voice as you navigate through the tasks they assign.
Respondent
On Respondent, I can earn between $25 and $500 per study by participating in various research projects. It’s perfect for those who want to dive into different topics and share their insights.
20. Miscellaneous Opportunities
These are some unique ways to earn a bit of extra cash online without any upfront cost.
InboxDollars
I’ve found InboxDollars to be a cool way to make money by doing simple tasks like taking surveys, watching videos, and even reading emails. You get a $5 bonus just for signing up, which is a nice start. Plus, they pay out through PayPal or check once you hit the $30 threshold.
PrizeRebel
PrizeRebel is another site I like because it’s straightforward. You earn points by completing surveys, watching videos, and trying out free trials. What’s great is you can cash out for as little as $2 through PayPal or choose from a variety of gift cards. It’s a fun way to earn a little extra on the side.
Conclusion
I hope you’ve found this list of 20 websites helpful for making money online without spending a dime. Whether you’re into surveys, freelancing, or even gaming, there’s something here for everyone. Remember, the key is to find what suits you best and stick with it. Happy earning!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I start earning money online without any initial investment?
You can start earning money online through various platforms mentioned in the article. Begin with survey sites like Swagbucks and Survey Junkie, or try freelance work on Fiverr. Other options include cashback apps like Rakuten and Ibotta, microtask sites like Amazon Mechanical Turk and Clickworker, and content creation on YouTube and Medium.
What are some good survey sites to earn extra cash?
Swagbucks and Survey Junkie are excellent survey sites for earning extra cash. Swagbucks allows you to earn points through surveys, videos, and shopping, while Survey Junkie offers a user-friendly platform for cashing out points earned from surveys.
Can I really make money from freelance work on Fiverr?
Yes, you can make money on Fiverr by offering services starting at $5. It’s beginner-friendly and has the potential for your gigs to grow into a full-time career.
What are some effective cashback and rewards apps?
Rakuten and Ibotta are effective cashback and rewards apps. Rakuten offers cash back on purchases from over 2,500 stores, while Ibotta provides cash back on groceries and other items by uploading receipts.
Are microtask and gig websites worth trying?
Yes, microtask and gig websites like Amazon Mechanical Turk and Clickworker are worth trying. They offer quick, easy tasks like surveys and data entry, allowing you to earn money in your spare time.
How can I monetize content on YouTube and Medium?
On YouTube, you can monetize after reaching 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours through ads, Super Chat, and merchandise. On Medium, you earn based on the engagement your stories receive from paying members, with more claps and reads translating to higher earnings.
What platforms are good for selling handmade goods?
Etsy and eBay are great platforms for selling handmade goods. Etsy is ideal for unique handmade items with a minimal listing fee, while eBay offers a broader audience and free listings, though it charges a final value fee upon sale.
Can I earn money from stock photography and design?
Yes, you can earn money from stock photography and design through platforms like Shutterstock and Canva. Shutterstock allows you to upload photos and earn royalties, while Canva lets you create and sell custom templates and designs.
What are some affiliate marketing opportunities?
Amazon Associates and ShareASale are solid affiliate marketing opportunities. Amazon Associates offers up to 10% in referral fees, while ShareASale connects you with thousands of merchants and provides a straightforward dashboard for tracking sales and commissions.
How can I earn money through online tutoring and teaching?
VIPKid and Udemy are excellent platforms for online tutoring and teaching. VIPKid allows you to teach English to children in China, earning up to $22 per hour, while Udemy lets you create and sell courses, earning up to 97% of the revenue based on enrollment.
What are some apps for passive income?
Acorns and Foap are apps for passive income. Acorns automatically invests your spare change into a diversified portfolio, while Foap allows you to upload and sell photos, earning 50% of each sale.
How can I earn cryptocurrency without investing money?
Coinbase Earn and StormGain offer ways to earn cryptocurrency without investing money. Coinbase Earn lets you learn about cryptocurrencies and earn free crypto, while StormGain provides free mining power bonuses for cloud mining.
Can I make money from gaming and esports?
Yes, you can make money from gaming and esports through platforms like Twitch and Mistplay. Twitch allows you to stream games and earn through subscriptions, donations, and ads, while Mistplay rewards you with gift cards for playing games.
How can I earn money through social media and influencer marketing?
Instagram and TikTok are powerful platforms for earning money through social media and influencer marketing. Instagram allows monetization through sponsored posts and affiliate marketing, while TikTok offers earnings through the Creator Fund and brand partnerships.
What are some platforms for virtual assistant services?
Belay and Time Etc are excellent platforms for virtual assistant services. Belay connects you with businesses needing help with tasks like bookkeeping, while Time Etc offers personalized assistance for entrepreneurs with flexible task selection.
How can I earn money through online competitions and contests?
Skillshare and 99designs are platforms for earning money through online competitions and contests. Skillshare allows you to enter contests while learning new skills, and 99designs offers design contests with cash prizes and project opportunities.
What are some user-generated content platforms for earning money?
Pinterest and Quora are user-generated content platforms for earning money. Pinterest allows you to create engaging boards and pins to earn through affiliate marketing, while Quora lets you share expertise and earn through its Partner Program.
How can I earn money through referral programs?
Dropbox and PayPal offer referral programs for earning money. Dropbox rewards you with extra storage space for referring friends, while PayPal provides cash bonuses for successful referrals.
What are some ways to monetize a blog or website?
Google AdSense and Bluehost are ways to monetize a blog or website. Google AdSense allows you to earn money by placing ads on your blog, while Bluehost offers budget-friendly hosting plans to set up your site and start earning.
What platforms offer opportunities for online market research?
UserTesting and Respondent offer opportunities for online market research. UserTesting allows you to earn up to $60 per hour by testing websites and apps, while Respondent offers earnings between $25 and $500 per study.
What are some miscellaneous ways to earn extra cash online?
InboxDollars and PrizeRebel are miscellaneous ways to earn extra cash online. InboxDollars offers a $5 sign-up bonus for completing tasks like surveys and watching videos, while PrizeRebel allows you to earn points through surveys and videos with low cash-out thresholds.