9 Ways to Make Money From Your Phone Today
Your phone isn’t just for scrolling or streaming. It can also be a tool to help you earn money when you need it. From quick survey apps to side hustles you can manage on the go, there are plenty of ways to turn screen time into extra cash.
While all of that sounds positive, you also should be wary of influencers promoting ways to earn cash quickly. Earning money with little effort may sound tempting, but it could be a red flag since it’s rarely that simple. A more reliable approach is to start by using a budget calculator1 to see where you stand, and then try some new ideas to increase your income. Making money from your phone does require effort — and some options carry risks — but most ideas have a low barrier to entry and are practical. Plus, you can start with the device that's already in your pocket.
Here are 9 practical and legitimate ways to make money from your phone today.
1. Online survey and microtask apps — quick but low payout
Survey and microtask apps reward you for answering questions, testing products, or completing small online jobs. They can be a simple way to make a few extra dollars during downtime.
- Examples: Swagbucks, InboxDollars, SurveyJunkie
- Effort vs. reward: Very low effort, but typically only earn a few dollars per hour.
- Risk: Can require a substantial time investment for a relatively small payout. There’s also a risk of scam apps, so be sure to read reviews first.
2. Freelance gig platforms — skill-based income
If you’re trained in writing, design, editing, coding, or another service that can be done online, freelancing apps can help you earn from your phone. You can set your own rates and take on small jobs at first to build up your reviews and eventually establish a client base over time.
- Examples: Fiverr, Upwork, Freelancer
- Effort vs. reward: Higher effort, but the income potential is much greater than surveys.
- Risk: Competition can be high; payments may take time to process.
3. Selling unused items through resale apps — fast cash for clutter
You can simultaneously declutter your home and make money by selling stuff online, including clothes, electronics, or furniture you no longer need. Many resale apps make it easy to list, ship, or meet locally for quick cash.
- Examples: Poshmark, Mercari, Facebook Marketplace
- Effort vs. reward: Moderate effort for taking photos and creating listings for the things you sell but returns can be immediate.
- Risk: Meeting buyers in person. Always plan to meet in safe, public places.
4. Market research and focus groups — higher pay, limited slots
Some companies pay participants for joining focus groups or testing products. These opportunities usually pay more than survey apps, but availability is limited.
- Examples: Respondent.io, User Interviews
- Effort vs. reward: Medium effort; potentially high payout ($25–$100 per study).
- Risk: Beware of fake groups asking for upfront fees.
5. Social media content creation — build and monetize an audience
Social platforms let you create and share content, then monetize through sponsorships, ads, or affiliate links. This requires time to film and post content and consistency to keep with it for months or years. But it has the potential to grow into a long-term side income if you’re committed.
- Examples: TikTok Creator Fund, Instagram Reels Bonus, YouTube ads
- Effort vs. reward: High effort with delayed rewards; long-term potential.
- Risk: Income is unpredictable; algorithms constantly change.
Depending on the type of content you want to create, you may choose to make money on TikTok.
6. Remote customer service or chat support — flexible part-time work
Many companies now hire people for work-from-home jobs to answer calls, emails, or chats. Some of these roles may be manageable from your phone.
- Examples: Arise, LiveOps, ModSquad
- Effort vs. reward: Requires consistent availability, but steady pay.
- Risk: Requires reliable internet and patience to provide support to customers with various issues.
7. On-demand delivery sign-ups — instant pay options
Delivery platforms let you sign up, complete a few runs, and cash out quickly. With instant pay options, side hustles that pay daily (or almost daily) can be one of the fastest ways to earn money.
- Effort vs. reward: Requires a vehicle and time commitment; higher earning potential on busy days.
- Risk: Costs for gas and car wear-and-tear can eat into earnings.
8. App-testing and website feedback gigs — quick reviews for pay
Businesses need feedback on apps and websites, and many pay for short reviews or usability tests.
- Examples: UserTesting, TryMyUI, among other secret websites to make money.
- Effort vs. reward: Short tests (10–20 minutes) can pay $10–$20.
- Risk: Limited slots, so opportunities can fill quickly.
9. Teaching or tutoring via video apps — share your expertise
Tutoring apps let you teach English, math, or any other subjects you feel comfortable helping others learn from your phone. If you have expertise, you can become a trusted teacher for others online.
- Examples: VIPKid, Cambly, Wyzant
- Effort vs. reward: Requires preparation and teaching skills, plus your income varies based on hours taught.
- Risk: Payment depends on student demand and subject area.
Try earned wage access (EWA) to cover key expenses
If you’re a W-2 employee with a regular paycheck, EarnIn offers a way to access money you’ve already earned without borrowing.
- Access up to $150/day, with a max of $1,000 per pay period of your earned wages with Cash Out.2 No borrowing required.
- Zero mandatory fees. EarnIn provides an option to “tip” what you think is fair.3
- No credit check or impact on your credit score.
- Get cash in 1–3 business days at no cost. For faster transfers, Lightning Speed4 allows you to receive money in minutes for a small fee (starting at $3.99).
If you need $100 a day to cover financial surprises, bills, or other obligations until payday, EarnIn may be a good choice since it allows you to access money you’ve already earned. Cash Out2 is not a loan; it's simply a way to get your money when you need it, rather than waiting for the traditional payroll cycle.
How to stay safe and avoid scams
When money’s tight, it’s tempting to jump at any opportunity. To protect yourself from potential scams, be sure to:
- Check app reviews and ratings before signing up.
- Never pay upfront for “job opportunities.”
- Read privacy policies carefully to see how your data is handled.
- Use strong passwords and avoid sharing sensitive personal details unnecessarily.
Matching the right idea to your lifestyle
The best option to make money from your phone depends on what fits with your situation.
- Students may find survey apps or tutoring ideal.
- Full-time workers might prefer gig apps they can use in the evenings or on weekends.
- Stay-at-home parents may lean toward resale apps or remote customer service.
Think about your schedule, your skills, and how fast you need the money. These answers can help steer you in the right direction.
Money that moves with you, wherever you scroll
Making money from your phone combines convenience with flexibility, but also requires thought and effort. Start small, diversify your income streams, and be mindful of scams.
At EarnIn, we believe financial flexibility should move at the speed of your life. That’s why we built tools designed to help you access your money when you need it most — so you can focus on living, not waiting.
FAQs
What is the easiest way to make money from your phone?
Survey apps and resale platforms tend to be the easiest way to make money from your phone. But they also typically pay the least of all the money-making apps.
Can you really earn a full-time income from your phone?
It may be possible to earn a full-time income from your phone, but usually only through high-effort paths, like freelancing, delivery, or content creation. Most quick apps provide supplemental — not full-time — income.
Are money-making apps safe to use?
Most legitimate money-making apps are safe to use. But always check reviews, avoid paying for anything upfront, and be sure the app is secure to protect your personal information.
Please note, the material collected in this post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be relied upon as or construed as advice regarding any specific circumstances. Nor is it an endorsement of any organization or services.
This Blog was sponsored by EarnIn. While the author received compensation, the information shared is grounded in independent research and intended to provide helpful and accurate guidance to readers.
EarnIn is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by our bank partners on certain products other than Cash Out.
1
The calculations provided are based on estimates and should be used for informational purposes only. Please be aware that comparisons may not be 100% accurate. The insights and data presented do not constitute financial advice, and we recommend consulting with a qualified financial advisor for personalized guidance.2
A pay period is the time between your paychecks, such as weekly, biweekly, or monthly. EarnIn determines your daily and pay period limits (“Daily Max” and “Pay Period Max”) based on your income and financial risk factors as outlined in the Cash Out Maxes section of our Cash Out User Agreement. EarnIn reserves the right to adjust the Daily Max and Pay Period Max at its discretion. Your actual Daily Max will be displayed in your EarnIn account before each Cash Out.EarnIn does not charge interest on Cash Outs or mandatory fees for standard transfers, which usually take 1–2 business days. For faster transfers, you can choose the Lightning Speed option and pay a fee to receive funds within 30 minutes. Lightning Speed may not be available at all times and/or to all customers. Restrictions and terms apply; see the Lightning Speed Fee Table and Cash Out User Agreement for details and eligibility requirements. Tips are optional and do not affect the quality or availability of services.
3
Tips go to EarnIn and help us provide tools such as Credit Monitoring for free and keep Lightning Speed fees low. Your service quality and availability aren’t affected by whether you tip or not.4
Lightning Speed is an optional service that allows you to expedite the transfer of funds for a fee. Depending on the product, the fee may be charged by EarnIn or its banking partner. Lightning Speed may not be available to all customers. Actual transfer speeds depend on your bank. See the Lightning Speed Fee Table for details.Popular articles
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