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Participating in online paid surveys can be a convenient way to supplement your income during your free time.
Companies that conduct surveys collaborate with businesses seeking input on new concepts or products before they are launched in the market. By providing valuable feedback, survey participants can earn money while helping brands enhance their offerings.
Engaging in paid surveys can be lucrative if you choose reputable survey platforms and follow some effective strategies. All that’s required to begin is a computer or mobile device and an internet connection.
Best sites to take paid surveys
Registering with numerous companies can result in overwhelming contacts, making it challenging to identify the most suitable opportunities. Instead of sorting through countless options, it’s advisable to focus on those that align with your demographics and availability. This targeted approach can save time and energy while increasing the likelihood of finding the best opportunities.
1. Branded Surveys
Branded Surveys has garnered a stellar 4.1 out of 5-star rating on Trustpilot, backed by over 82,000 user reviews. The company’s parent, Branded Research, has a strong track record in market research, with operations dating back to 2012.
As a new member, you’ll be rewarded with 50 points upon registration and an additional 50 points for completing your profile, totaling a $1 sign-up bonus. Once your account is set up, you can dive into surveys immediately, with potential earnings of up to $5 per survey. Upon accumulating 500 points (equivalent to $5 USD), you can conveniently cash out your earnings in your local currency, such as USD, CAD, or GBP.
Branded Surveys offers a loyalty program called Branded Elite, which allows participants to earn bonus points on a weekly basis. The program features three tiers – Bronze, Silver, and Gold – each offering an opportunity to increase bonus amounts. Advancing through the tiers requires completing a certain number of approved surveys, and the bonus is determined by the badge level.
In addition to survey completion, members can earn Branded Survey points by inviting friends to join, participating in the daily poll, achieving high rankings on the leaderboard, and even being randomly selected for up to 1,000 points.
2. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a popular platform for completing paid surveys, and it is owned and operated by Prodege, LLC. It has gained widespread recognition and trust, as evidenced by its impressive 4.4 rating from over 112,000 reviews on the App Store and a 4.2 rating from an additional 139,000 reviews on Google Play.
When you complete surveys on Swagbucks, you can earn between 1 and 350 Swagbucks (also known as SBs), with the amount depending on the length and popularity of the survey’s topic. For every 100 SBs earned, you’ll receive an additional $1, which can be redeemed for PayPal cash or gift cards to popular retailers like Amazon, Lowe’s, and Target.
New members who sign up for Swagbucks will receive a $10 bonus after making a purchase of at least $25 from select retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, or Walmart.
In addition to taking paid online surveys, Swagbucks offers other ways to earn money, including earning SBs (Swagbucks’ points system) for shopping online, conducting web searches, and watching videos. Once you accumulate 100 points, you can start redeeming your earnings.
The more SBs you earn, the higher the value of the gift card you can redeem. As you accumulate more SBs, you can unlock more store options and find gift cards for places like Starbucks, Walmart, and iTunes.
3. InboxDollars
InboxDollars, a reputable online rewards platform, has been operating since 2006 and was acquired by Prodege, LLC in 2019. The company holds a commendable B rating with the Better Business Bureau. According to the information provided on its website, InboxDollars has disbursed over $80 million to its members.
One distinguishing feature of InboxDollars is that users accumulate earnings in cash rather than points, providing clarity on their potential earnings before engaging in any tasks. While most paid opportunities offer a modest amount of money, regular participation in surveys can significantly boost your overall earnings.
It’s free to sign up and get started with InboxDollars. When you activate your account, you will receive a $5 bonus. After signing up, you’ll be asked to answer a few simple questions about your income, race, education, and other demographic information. This initial screening is designed to help InboxDollars match you with relevant paid surveys.
In addition to taking surveys, you can earn money with InboxDollars by watching video ads, playing games, and shopping online at popular stores such as Target, Walmart, and eBay.
4. Ipsos i-Say
Ipsos i-Say is a reputable survey platform headquartered in Paris, France. It offers individuals worldwide the opportunity to earn money by participating in surveys. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and a remarkable 4.7-star rating on Google Play, based on over 32,000 reviews, it’s clear that Ipsos i-Say is a well-regarded platform.
To get started, you can sign up by creating an account using your email address or through your Facebook account. After registering, you’ll be asked to provide some demographic information so that the platform can match you with relevant survey opportunities. For instance, if you’re a new parent, you might be invited to participate in surveys related to baby products or parenting experiences.
After completing a survey, you will earn points. The amount of points varies but typically ranges from 45 to 90 points per survey, which is equivalent to $0.45 to $0.90. Additionally, you can earn up to five points if you are disqualified from taking a survey. Once you accumulate 500 points, you can redeem your earnings for PayPal cash and gift cards or choose to make charitable donations.
5. LifePoints
LifePoints, formerly National Family Opinion, has a rich history dating back to 1946 and boasts a global community of over 5 million members. The company has earned a commendable 4.1 out of 5-star rating on Trustpilot, backed by 38,000 genuine member reviews.
Joining LifePoints is free, and you can kickstart your earnings by participating in online surveys. Upon email verification and providing basic details such as your name, date of birth, and address, you’ll instantly receive 10 LifePoints credited to your account. By completing your profile, you can access surveys tailored to your demographic.
LifePoints surveys cover various topics, including technology, automobiles, household brands, and more. While some surveys offer as much as 600 points or $5, most opportunities pay between $0.50 and $1 upon completion.
6. Freecash
Freecash.com is not just a survey site; it’s a survey aggregator that partners with well-known survey providers like Pollfish and Bitlabs. Users can earn money by participating in online surveys, but that’s just the beginning. The platform offers a variety of other ways to make money, such as testing apps or websites, signing up for special offers, and taking quizzes. In fact, there are over 5,000 different offers available for users to complete and earn free cash.
New users who create an account and verify their email address will receive a complimentary $1. Additionally, they can open a “Free Case” for a chance to win an extra $250.
Although not all tasks may be relevant to every user, there are opportunities to earn $100 or more for completing specific criteria.
7. Pinecone Research
Pinecone Research has been in operation for 21 years and has established itself as one of the top-rated platforms for paid surveys. The company is a part of The Nielsen Company, which boasts an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Members of Pinecone Research play a direct role in shaping the development of future products and services by providing feedback through online surveys. For every survey completed, participants earn 300 points, equivalent to $3. The surveys are designed to be brief, typically taking only a few minutes to complete, as stated by the company.
As a Pinecone Research member, you can participate in product testing and get paid for your feedback. You can earn between $3 and $5 for each short report you complete, and in some cases, you may even be able to keep the product after the study is finished.
Pinecone Research is known for being a selective survey site that limits its membership based on specific demographics. If you’re interested, you can apply for membership to determine if you qualify to join.
8. Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is a well-established player in the survey industry, maintaining a BBB rating of B. The company has been operating since 2011 and has garnered a membership of over 20 million individuals. Survey Junkie primarily focuses on offering paid survey opportunities and is renowned for its straightforward approach. The platform rewards users with points, with every 100 points equating to $1.
To cash out, members must accumulate a minimum of 500 points, equivalent to $5, and can be redeemed via PayPal or e-gift cards. Additionally, the platform allows select users to earn money through product testing, participation in online or in-person focus groups, or via phone surveys.
The platform offers various tasks with payments ranging from $5 to $150, but the availability of these high-paying tasks is currently limited. You can earn money within five minutes after signing up and completing your profile. One great aspect is that you are not required to sign up for anything or make any purchases to complete a survey.
Even if you are disqualified from a survey, the platform awards you a small number of points, ensuring that your time does not go completely unrewarded. While you may not receive the full amount displayed for a survey, earning some points is still better than receiving no compensation, which is often the case with many other survey sites.
9. American Consumer Opinion
American Consumer Opinion (ACOP) is a survey panel owned by Decision Analyst, Inc., a company with over 41 years of experience. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has awarded the site an A+ rating, indicating its trustworthiness. Signing up for an account with ACOP is a quick process, and you can start participating in paid surveys in under two minutes. Your first survey will earn you five points and typically includes questions about your demographic information, such as your marital status and education level.
Once you have an account, available surveys will be listed for you to choose from. ACOP focuses solely on offering surveys for monetary compensation, making the process straightforward. Your earnings are accumulated in points, and you must accrue 1,000 points, equivalent to $10, to cash out.
10. MyPoints
MyPoints, owned by Prodege, LLC, has been operating since 1996 and currently holds a B rating with the Better Business Bureau. Over the years, it has paid out more than $236 million to its impressive 10 million members. MyPoints offers various ways to earn rewards, including taking paid online surveys.
Additionally, users can earn rewards by shopping online and in-store, printing and redeeming coupons, watching videos, playing games, and booking travel accommodations. Even if you don’t qualify for a particular survey, you can still earn five points, with a maximum of 25 disqualification points per day.
All of your earnings through MyPoints accumulate in points. You can claim a $3 gift card once your account reaches 480 points. Alternatively, for 15,800 points, you can get a $500 gift card.
It’s important to note that the value of points may vary depending on where you choose to redeem them. If you decide to redeem points for a prepaid Visa card, please note that a minimum of 1,500 points is required, and it’s worth 150 points per dollar, which is equivalent to a $10 value. Additionally, MyPoints offers a $10 Amazon or Visa gift card to new users, but to redeem this bonus, users are required to spend $20 or more using MyPoints shopping.
11. Toluna
Toluna is a well-established market research firm that has been operating since 1994. It has an excellent A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and boasts a 3.7-star rating on Trustpilot, based on 10,000 member reviews.
Upon signing up for a free account, you will receive a confirmation link via email. Clicking this link will finalize your registration and grant you access to start participating in surveys. Additionally, you will earn a generous 500 bonus points just for signing up.
Each survey offered by Toluna is valued between 15 and 50,000 points, with the value depending on the survey’s length and the time required for completion. Similar to other survey sites, you will need to qualify for surveys. If you do not qualify, you will not receive disqualification points. Instead, you will be entered into a sweepstakes. The minimum points required to redeem a reward is 10,000, which allows you to plant a tree in Peru, Thailand, or Uganda. You will need 30,000 points for gift card rewards to claim a $10 gift card from popular retailers such as Starbucks, Petco, and Kohl’s.
12. Survey Club
Survey Club, established in 2005, boasts an A- rating with the Better Business Bureau. With a user base exceeding 16 million members, it offers a platform where users can participate in paid studies after providing their demographic details. Moreover, Survey Club also directs members to other survey sites such as Survey Junkie, LifePoints, and Pinecone Research.
When you take surveys through Survey Club, your earnings are credited to your account as cash, and you can cash out once you reach a minimum of $25. Additionally, Survey Club presents opportunities for paid focus groups, with reported average earnings ranging from $50 to $200 per hour for participants.
13. KashKick
KashKick offers various ways for users to earn money, including taking surveys, watching videos, browsing the web, and signing up for deals.
Survey payouts are competitive, with opportunities to earn as much as $2 per completed questionnaire, in line with industry standards. Users receive payments every two weeks, and they must have at least $10 in earnings to cash out via PayPal.
However, one common complaint from former users is the risk of losing earnings due to inactivity. If users fail to verify their email address, provide incorrect contact information, or don’t log into their account for 60 days, their account may be deactivated, resulting in the forfeiture of any earnings. While it’s possible to reactivate a deactivated account within 60 months, any previous earnings cannot be recovered.
14. YouGov
YouGov is a widely respected survey platform that allows individuals to express their viewpoints on a wide range of subjects, including politics, public affairs, products, and brands. Notably, YouGov’s survey data has been featured in numerous high-profile outlets, covering various topics, such as CBS News, Politico, and Yahoo.
Participating in surveys allows members to accrue points that can be redeemable for various rewards, including cash and free gift cards. The length and complexity of each survey determine the amount of points earned. YouGov prides itself on offering a transparent and user-friendly platform that enables individuals to be heard while also earning rewards.
Additionally, new members are welcomed with a complimentary 1,500 bonus points upon signing up.
15. Crowdtap
Crowdtap is a well-known platform with over 2 million members. It offers various opportunities to earn rewards beyond just taking surveys. In addition to participating in surveys, members can also earn points by engaging in online discussions, testing products, submitting artwork and other content, joining research programs, and more.
To get started, simply sign up for a free account. Once you complete the registration process, you will receive a confirmation email. After that, you can earn points by participating in surveys matching your profile.
As stated on their homepage, most surveys available on Crowdtap typically offer compensation ranging from $0.25 to $0.75. However, there are opportunities to participate in higher-paying surveys, some of which may offer rewards of $25, $50, or even more. One of the appealing aspects of Crowdtap is its low minimum withdrawal threshold. Upon accumulating a minimum of 500 points, users can redeem their earnings for e-gift cards that can be used at popular retailers.
16. PrizeRebel
PrizeRebel, first introduced in 2007, has successfully distributed over $19 million to its 9 million members. The signup process for PrizeRebel is quick and easy, as it only requires basic information such as your name and email address. Once your email address is confirmed, you can immediately begin participating in paid online surveys.
The initial mandatory survey focuses on gathering your demographic information and rewards you with 10 points. You can request a cash out once you have amassed a minimum of 500 points, equivalent to $5. Typically, most surveys offer between 40 and 60 points and can take up to 15 minutes to complete.
PrizeRebel offers a unique rewards program that recognizes members based on their level of earnings. When you reach 4,500 points, you’ll attain Gold level status, entitling you to a 1% bonus on your earnings and a 1% discount on your prize. Achieving the Platinum level, which requires 10,000 points, will grant you a 2% bonus and a 2% discount. Finally, reaching Diamond level at 16,000 points will reward you with a 3% bonus and a 3% discount.
17. Opinion Outpost
To start getting paid for taking surveys with Opinion Outpost, you’ll first need to complete an initial screening process. During this process, you’ll be asked to provide information about your education level, employment status, and the number of children you have.
Following this, you’ll need to complete a questionnaire based on recent experiences, such as whether you’ve taken your pet to the vet or watched a movie in theaters. Opinion Outpost may ask duplicate questions at different points to ensure the accuracy and honesty of your responses.
Most surveys on this platform offer a point range of 3 to 30. Upon accumulating enough points, you can redeem them for various rewards, such as free Amazon gift cards, $10 iTunes or App Store gift cards, or a $10 PayPal credit. Additionally, with 30 points, you can unlock games on Alawar.com or become a part of the MileagePlus Program and use your points for travel credits. To receive 300 Award Miles, you’ll need a minimum of 105 points.
Although Opinion Outpost offers some of the highest-paying surveys available, we have found that the number of surveys users are eligible for is lower compared to other paid online survey sites we have used. It’s worth noting that Opinion Outpost makes a monthly donation to the American Red Cross as a token of appreciation for the time its users take to complete surveys, which is a nice philanthropic gesture.
18. Panda Research
Panda Research, which has been distributing payments to its members since 2005, has paid out over $2.2 million to date. The company, owned by A&A Marketing, Inc., holds a commendable B+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
To begin, individuals are required to complete their member profile and verify their email address. Additionally, providing a valid phone number is necessary to become a member. Subsequently, members can participate in surveys that offer potential earnings of up to $50 each. Moreover, they can earn up to $25 every time they cash out for reading paid emails.
Members receive at least $50 in earnings on the 1st and 15th of each month via PayPal. However, payments are only issued in increments of $50. For instance, if a member has accumulated total earnings of $110, they can cash out $100, and the remaining balance will roll over to a future payment request.
19. MySurvey
MySurvey is a platform that compensates its members for participating in online surveys. When users complete a survey, they earn points that can be redeemed for cash via PayPal, gift cards, or store certificates. To join MySurvey, you need to be at least 16 years old.
20. MindSwarms
MindSwarms is a platform that offers compensation to its members for participating in research studies. In addition to completing online surveys using their mobile app, users can take part in webcam studies that pay $50 each. Payments are made in cash via PayPal. To qualify for participation, you must be at least 18 years old and reside in the United States.
21. Vindale Research
Vindale Research is a platform where users are compensated for participating in surveys related to products, companies, and general market research. Members can earn cash directly by completing surveys and collecting survey credits, which are paid out via PayPal.
Additionally, Vindale Research provides a sign-up bonus of $1 for new members and $5 for referring others to the platform. To be eligible to work for Vindale Research, individuals must be at least 18 years old and residents of the United States, the United Kingdom, or Australia.
22. Paid Viewpoint
Paid Viewpoint is a platform that offers short surveys for individuals to complete and earn money. The company employs a unique system that assigns users a “trait score” based on the surveys they complete.
Once a user’s score surpasses 7,000, their earnings potential can increase. Paid Viewpoint compensates users with cash through PayPal. To be eligible to work with Paid Viewpoint, individuals must be at least 13 years old and reside in a country where PayPal operates its services.
23. Survey Savvy
Survey Savvy is a platform that compensates users for participating in online surveys about consumer opinions. Users are invited via email to take surveys tailored to their specific interests.
Survey Savvy provides monetary compensation for completing surveys and issues payments via check. Individuals as young as 13 years old are eligible to work for Survey Savvy.
24. iPoll
iPoll is a platform that rewards users for sharing their opinions on products or services they have tried. The system uses individual interests to suggest relevant surveys and offers a $5 bonus upon signing up. iPoll compensates users with cash through PayPal, as well as with e-vouchers and gift codes.
Additionally, individuals as young as 13 years old can participate in iPoll surveys.
25. Survey Spot
Survey Spot is a platform where members can earn money by participating in surveys and giving feedback on products they have tested. Users accumulate points for each task they complete, which can be redeemed for cash via PayPal or for gift cards. To be eligible to work for Survey Spot, you need to be at least 18 years old and reside in the United States.
When to avoid a survey site
When considering survey sites, it’s important to exercise caution and be discerning. While many trustworthy sites exist, it’s crucial to be aware of red flags that may indicate potentially unscrupulous platforms. Here are some warning signs to watch out for:
- Requesting payment: Legitimate survey sites will never ask for payment to join. If a site requires a fee to participate, it’s best to steer clear.
- Soliciting private information: Be cautious if a survey site requests sensitive personal details upfront, such as your Social Security number, especially if you haven’t earned a substantial amount from the site.
- Lack of history or ratings: Established companies with positive user feedback and a track record of prompt payments and varied survey opportunities are generally more reliable. It’s advisable to research a site’s reputation before getting involved.
- Low compensation: Legitimate survey companies typically offer higher-paying opportunities besides standard surveys. If a site consistently provides low compensation, it may not be worthwhile.
- Poor website quality: A glitchy or outdated website may reflect poorly on a company’s commitment to its members. It’s essential to choose platforms that prioritize user experience.
- Difficulty qualifying for surveys: If a survey site frequently disqualifies you from surveys after you’ve invested time and effort, it may not be worth your while.
Even if a survey site appears legitimate, trusting your instincts is important. If a site raises doubts or inundates you with unsolicited emails, it’s advisable to opt out and explore other reputable survey opportunities. With numerous quality survey platforms available, you can afford to be selective and avoid those that don’t align with your preferences.
Tips for earning the most money
Surveys can be a great way to bring in some extra cash, but there are strategies to boost your income. Here are some tips to get the most out of your survey taking:
Stick with a few trusted sites: It’s important to be selective about the survey sites you sign up for. Instead of joining numerous sites, focus on a few trusted options that offer the best and highest-paying opportunities. This approach can help you maximize your earnings without spreading yourself too thin.
Fill out your profile completely: Remember to ensure that your profile is filled out. Taking the time to complete all sections of your profile on each survey site is important as it enables the company to match you with relevant offers. Additionally, it’s essential to update your profile whenever there is a significant change in your life, such as having a baby, getting a pet, or quitting smoking. By keeping your profile up to date, you increase your chances of being eligible for new and different surveys that may be of interest to you.
Be mindful of time: It’s important to keep an eye on the time when completing surveys. Since easy surveys may not offer a high hourly rate, it’s best to tackle them during short pockets of free time, such as when you’re waiting in line at the pharmacy or before a meeting begins. Tracking the time spent on surveys can help you maximize your schedule.
Answer consistently: When participating in surveys, it’s important to answer consistently. Take the time to carefully read each question and provide honest and consistent responses across different survey sites. Survey platforms often compare answers and may disqualify users who appear inconsistent in their responses. So, it’s essential to maintain consistency in your answers to ensure you can fully participate in the surveys.
Check for free offers: Many survey sites provide a “free offers” section where you can accumulate points by signing up for free trials or subscribing to newsletters. Additionally, watch for special bonus opportunities on social media platforms, and consider referring your friends to your preferred sites to earn free money or bonus points.
Take the highest-paying surveys first: You may face numerous survey opportunities when signing up for multiple survey websites. Before diving in, take a moment to assess the potential earnings from each survey in relation to the time it will take to complete. By prioritizing the highest-paying surveys, you can maximize your earning potential and make the most of your time.
Best practice for taking paid online surveys
While reputable survey sites offer a legitimate way to earn extra cash, vigilance goes a long way. Here’s how to be a savvy participant and maximize your online survey experience:
1. Use a separate email address
It’s a good idea to use a separate email address for survey offers. By creating a dedicated email address for surveys, you can keep your work and personal inboxes clear of clutter.
This also allows you to easily manage your survey-related emails and stop checking that email account if you no longer wish to participate in surveys, without unsubscribing from multiple sites.
2. Be mindful of what you share
It’s important to be cautious about the information you share. While reputable survey companies will keep your details confidential, it’s still not advisable to provide them with sensitive information such as your Social Security number, driver’s license number, or bank account numbers.
Legitimate survey companies typically do not require this type of information, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid sharing it.
3. Use anti-malware software
It’s important to use anti-malware software to keep your laptop free from viruses. When you frequently visit multiple survey sites, your computer risks being exposed to malicious spyware and viruses.
Using anti-malware software protects your computer and safeguards your personal information from potential security threats.
4. Take frequent breaks
Remember to take frequent breaks while completing surveys. Surveys can be quite tedious, so it’s important to step away from your screen regularly. By taking breaks, you can avoid feeling rushed and ensure that you provide accurate and consistent answers.
5. Fees and false promises
Be cautious of survey sites that make unrealistic promises about potential earnings. If a site claims you can make thousands of dollars monthly, it’s likely a scam or at least misleading. Prioritize joining survey sites that provide accurate information about potential earnings and the time required to complete surveys.
How much can I make taking surveys?
The amount you can earn from participating in surveys can vary based on the platforms you choose and the time you dedicate to completing surveys. Certain platforms provide certifications, allowing you to access special surveys that offer higher compensation.
Additionally, some platforms offer better-paid surveys to users who have completed many surveys or have dedicated a significant amount of time to survey participation.
What kind of questions do survey sites ask?
Survey sites typically ask a wide range of questions about daily activities, lifestyle choices, and spending habits. These questions gather valuable data for businesses to make informed decisions and improve their products or services.
The inquiries can cover various topics such as shopping preferences, entertainment choices, travel habits, and more. Essentially, survey sites aim to collect data that can help companies better understand consumer behavior and preferences.
The bottom line
If you’re searching for a flexible way to earn extra money from the comfort of your own home or while on the go, consider participating in paid online surveys. Remember that some surveys may require sharing personal demographic information, so if you’re uncomfortable with this, you may want to explore other earning options.
Additionally, if you’re looking for high hourly rates, it’s important to manage your expectations. When diving into online surveys, it’s crucial to be realistic about the potential earnings.
To maximize your earnings from online surveys, it’s important to manage your time efficiently. Signing up with multiple survey sites can increase your opportunities to participate in surveys and earn rewards. Before registering with any survey company, it’s wise to conduct thorough research to ensure that they are reputable and trustworthy.